The US is deepening its commitment to regional security and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific through collaborative military exercises like KAMANDAG 8 and humanitarian initiatives, strengthening partnerships with allies while addressing emerging threats and fostering stability and prosperity in the region.
Building Partnerships Through Action
In the face of rising tensions in the South China Sea and the broader Indo-Pacific region, the United States has doubled down on its commitment to strengthen alliances through dynamic military exercises, while also engaging in humanitarian work. Initiatives such as KAMANDAG 8 and the largest-ever Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center (JPMRC) rotation, which took place from October 5th-18th across Hawaii, Alaska, and Palau, reflect this strategy.
KAMANDAG 8: Cooperation of the Warriors of the Sea
KAMANDAG 8, an annual exercise involving US and Philippine forces alongside allies like Japan, South Korea, Australia, and the United Kingdom, focused on interoperability and maritime security. Held across the Philippine archipelago, the exercise emphasized coastal defense and humanitarian assistance, key elements in preparing for regional threats and natural disasters.
“This year’s iteration is a testament to the Philippine Marine Corps’ commitment to fostering high-quality amphibious operations,” said Col. Stuart Glenn, commander of Marine Rotational Force – Southeast Asia (MRF-SEA). Activities included joint humanitarian drills, a simulated coastal defense against an amphibious invasion, and advanced logistical coordination among multinational forces.
The exercise also spotlighted the Philippines’ strategic shift towards territorial defense amid escalating maritime disputes with China. This alignment with US force modernization goals highlights the growing synergy between the two nations in countering shared security challenges.
JPMRC 25-01: The Largest Indo-Pacific Army Exercise Yet
While KAMANDAG showcases naval and amphibious collaboration, the U.S. Army’s JPMRC 25-01 offers a demonstration of multi-domain operational readiness. Spanning the Indo-Pacific region, this exercise involves forces from Malaysia, Indonesia, New Zealand, Japan, and several other nations.
Centered on live, virtual, and constructive training scenarios, the rotation is designed to tackle diverse environments, from jungles to volcanic terrain. Participants will test cutting-edge technologies, refine command structures, and validate the 2nd Light Brigade Combat Team’s "Transformation in Contact" construct, a strategy focused on adapting and evolving tactics, equipment, and decision-making processes in real-time during combat scenarios, under high-pressure conditions. This training is designed to improve speed and adaptability in delivering equipment to forces, with advancements in unmanned aerial systems (UAS), counter-UAS, and electronic warfare capabilities to maintain an edge in countering adversary tactics.
The 101st Airborne Brigade aided in forming the JPMRC's strategies such as using camouflage and deploying decoy command posts with fake antennas to mislead opponents. Additionally, the deployment of Infantry Squad Vehicles was highlighted as a critical mobility enhancement, allowing units to cover long distances quickly. These tactics aim to disrupt enemy decision-making processes and force adversaries to allocate resources to verify or dismiss perceived threats, ultimately providing a strategic advantage.
“This exercise is more than a test of military capabilities; it’s a testament to the enduring strength of our alliances,” said U.S. Army Capt. Christopher Onorato. “JPMRC ensures that we, alongside our partners, are prepared to meet any challenge.”
A Unified Vision for Regional Stability
Both KAMANDAG 8 and JPMRC 25-01 reflect a shared commitment to upholding regional security and addressing the complexities of modern warfare. From integrating advanced logistics and technology to reinforcing partnerships through shared goals, these exercises exemplify the power of collaboration.
Samantha Garcia participates in the Young Professionals Program at the East-West Center in Washington, DC. She is also a student at Ewha Womens University, acquiring her M.A. in Development Cooperation with concentrations in East Asia and Womens Studies.