Philippine and U.S. Navies Launch Thrilling Sama Sama 2024 Exercise

SUBIC BAY, Philippines – A dynamic maritime exercise commenced on October 7 as the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and allied forces began the eighth iteration of Exercise Sama Sama near Subic Bay, Philippines. This two-week event is designed to enhance tactical interoperability and reinforce strategic security alliances among regional partners.

The exercise, known as Sama Sama 2024, is part of the Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) series and extends beyond its original United States-Philippines bilateral framework. The initiative now includes complex shore and sea-phase operations, focusing on diversified training areas such as medicine, legal operations, engineering, logistics, and public affairs.

Rear Adm. Todd Cimicata, U.S. Head of Delegation and Commander of Logistics Western Pacific, described Sama Sama’s evolution from a bilateral to a multilateral operation. “This development highlights the strength of our alliances and our shared commitment to peace, security, and cooperation in the maritime domain,” he stated.

High-intensity drills will be conducted by specialized teams, comprising diving and explosive ordnance disposal units, focusing on anti-submarine, anti-surface, and anti-air warfare, alongside maritime domain awareness. The exercise theme, “Sama Sama,” meaning “togetherness” in Tagalog, underscores the enduring partnership within the region.

In 2024, the participation has broadened to include military forces from Australia, Japan, Canada, France, and the UK, all demonstrating a unified commitment to Indo-Pacific stability and security.

“Today we witness the deepening of ties between the Philippine Navy and the U.S. Navy along with our partners,” remarked Rear Adm. Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta, Vice Commander of the Philippine Navy. “This exercise is a powerful investment for our collective movement and an opportunity to address regional challenges together.”

Significant naval assets from the United States in this exercise include the guided-missile destroyer USS Howard and a P-8A Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft, alongside personnel from various command task forces and Marine Corps units. The Philippines contributes the BRP Jose Rizal and other key naval and special operations units. Partner nations, including Canada and Japan, are also deploying vessels and aircraft to support the exercise.

Rear Adm. Cimicata emphasized that such exercises enhance interoperability and readiness while deepening mutual understanding. “Together, we will refine our ability to respond to natural disasters, maritime threats, and humanitarian crises, ensuring the safety and security of this vital region,” he affirmed.

This year’s event marks the 30th iteration of CARAT, aiming to enhance collaborative maritime operations amidst varying security challenges. The U.S. 7th Fleet, as the largest forward-deployed fleet, continues its crucial role in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific.