Palayan City: Two High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) platforms, alongside four AH-64 "Apache" attack helicopters from the United States, will participate in "Operation Lightning Strike," a joint military exercise between the Philippine Army (PA) and US Army Pacific (USARPAC) in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija on June 30.

According to Philippines News Agency, this exercise is part of the ongoing "Salaknib" Phase 2 exercises between Filipino and American soldiers. Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala shared in an advisory that the PA's Artillery Regiment and USARPAC's 25th Infantry Division will conduct a coordinated deep attack as part of the operation. The training aims to enhance interoperability and tactical proficiency between the two armies by utilizing the Apache helicopters and HIMARS systems in a controlled environment.

The AH-64 Apache is a twin-engine attack helicopter capable of speeds up to 158 knots. It is equipped with a 30mm chain gun and various rockets and missiles, making it well-suited for close-air support missions. The helicopter boasts a combat range of 260 nautical miles.

HIMARS, on the other hand, is a wheeled precision strike weapons system known for being combat-proven and responsive. It supports joint early and forced entry expeditionary operations by providing high-volume destructive, suppressive, and counter-battery fires.

The closing ceremony for "Salaknib" Phase 2 is scheduled for July 7 at Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija, where Army chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido is expected to attend. The "Salaknib" Phase 2 kicked off on May 19.

"Salaknib," meaning 'shield' in Ilocano, symbolizes the historical alliance between the Philippines and the United States, which dates back to World War II when troops from both nations fought together to uphold freedom and democracy. The first phase of "Salaknib," carried out from March 24 to April 11, marked the 10th iteration of these annual joint military maneuvers.