The Philippine Navy on Tuesday announced it would hold a live-fire exercise using Spike non-line-of-sight (NLOS) missile weapon systems aboard two of its fast attack interdiction crafts (FAICs) on April 21 in Mariveles, Bataan.

In a press conference, Navy Flag Officer in Command, Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta, said the service will particularly utilize the FAICs with bow numbers PG908 and PG909.

“These live missile firings represent a significant in our operational capabilities and mark a step  in refining shaping realistic and combat-ready military doctrines,” Ezpeleta told reporters. 

The two FAICS arrived in Manila last 17 September 2024. 

These naval assets will serve as the seventh and eighth fast boats under the Acero-class patrol vessels, designed for high-speed operations, featuring advanced missile systems and sophisticated onboard technology, which enhances the Philippine Navy's capability to conduct rapid and effective maritime interdiction operations.

Ezpeleta also reported the Navy’s participation in the annual Balikatan Exercise in April, where the service will showcase its capability in maritime strike during the multilateral maritime drills.

The Navy will launch its naval assets, including C-Star surface-to-surface, Spike NLOS, and Mistral surface-to-air missiles.

“Our involvement in this combined exercise is instrumental in strengthening interoperability, enhancing our collective response to regional challenges, and ensuring that we remain ready to confront emerging threats,” Ezpeleta pointed out. 

On the other hand, the Navy chief discussed their intensified maritime security operations and continuous development of naval bases and facilities. 

He said the Philippine Navy is also improving its maritime domain awareness in promotion of a “holistic and credible defense posture.”