AFP Joins Exercise Keen Sword 2026 to Strengthen Interoperability, Regional Security The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) joined the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) and United States Forces in the opening ceremony of Exercise Keen Sword 27 on October 19 in Japan, reaffirming its commitment to international cooperation and regional peace and security. Scheduled from October 19 to 29 at the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s Ishigaki Garrison in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, the exercise includes personnel from the AFP, alongside forces from Japan, the United States, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and New Zealand. The exercise provides an opportunity to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and strengthen professional relationships among participating nations. Joint training activities include air and missile defense, facility protection and repair, logistics and resupply, casualty evacuation, and maritime operations. Through these activities, the AFP aims to gain valuable insights into joint planning, coordination, information sharing, and combined military operations that can contribute to developing its capabilities and operational readiness. The AFP’s participation underscores the importance of cooperation, mutual understanding, and shared responsibility in addressing evolving security challenges. By strengthening partnerships and interoperability with allied and partner forces, the AFP contributes to collective efforts to promote a peaceful, stable, and secure Indo-Pacific region. Photos by AFP #AFPyoucanTRUST #OneAFPOnePhilippines #StrongAFPStrongPhilippines #OurSeasOurRightsOurFuture #MatatagNaSandigan 🫡🇵🇭