The Special Operations Forces of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) conducted an airfield seizure exercise at Paredes Airfield on Sunday, showcasing the capabilities of the military’s elite operators.

The exercise was part of the recently concluded AFP Joint Exercise (AJEX) DAGIT-PA.

AFP Public Affairs Chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said that operators were inserted into the objective area via Military Freefall to carry out special reconnaissance and identify targets ahead of the main assault.

Personnel from the Philippine Army and Philippine Navy supported the operation using heli-sniping techniques to provide aerial fire support. The integration of air and ground teams enhanced coordination and allowed sniper units to engage time-sensitive threats during the seizure phase.

Following the seizure of key positions, participating forces conducted a Combat Search and Rescue mission to demonstrate rapid-response capabilities for personnel recovery.

The exercise concluded with a coordinated air and ground exfiltration, completing the full cycle of the airfield seizure operation.

Trinidad said the activity highlights the AFP’s growing special operations capabilities, including reconnaissance, rescue operations, and rapid extraction, aimed at strengthening joint force readiness for high-risk scenarios nationwide.