“We are expeditionary by nature, and training on the Batanes with our Philippine allies and the precision fires capabilities of the NMESIS advances our mutual maritime defence in an austere and geographically dispersed environment,” said U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Michael Cederholm, the U.S. Joint Task Force commander. “Today marks a significant day for the Marine Corps and an important step in our Force Design journey. The training we conduct during Exercise Balikatan continues to validate our modernisation efforts and improves our ability to defend our shared interests within the region.”
U.S. Air Force C-130s from the 39th Airlift Squadron transported the NMESIS during the Maritime Key Terrain Security Operations event. The NMESIS and U.S. Marines from the 3d Littoral Combat Team’s Medium-Range Missile Battery (MMSL) established an operating position on Batan Island, while U.S. and Philippine formations exercised across Batanes.
The NMESIS combines a Naval Strike Missile (NSM) launcher with a Remotely Operated Ground Unit for Expeditionary (ROGUE) Fires vehicle, produced by Oshkosh Defense. This configuration provides a mobile and flexible platform capable of launching precision anti-ship strikes from remote locations.
“Every country big or small has an absolute and inalienable right to defend itself. Maritime Key Terrain Security Operations training increases our combined ability to secure and defend our territories,” said Philippine Army Brig. Gen. Mike Logico, Exercise Balikatan spokesperson.
In addition to U.S. Air Force aircraft, the U.S. Army’s 25th Combat Aviation Brigade provided air assault support for servicemembers from the Philippine Army and Marine Corps, the U.S. Army’s 25th Infantry Division, and the U.S. Marine Corps’ 3d MLR. The NMESIS improves interoperability and strengthens combined deterrence by enhancing maritime security.
