Philippines-US 'Shield Exercise' Sets New Participation Record; Japan Fully Participates for First Time

AI Summary (NQ-processed)

The 'Shield Exercise' between the Philippines and the United States has reached a record high in participation, with over 4,000 Philippine Army personnel, 2,600 US Army personnel, 400 Japan Ground Self-Defense Force personnel, and 90 Australian Army personnel. Thanks to the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) that took effect in 2025, Japan is fully participating in all aspects of the exercise for the first time, signifying deepening defense cooperation. The exercise focuses on maritime and territorial defense, humanitarian assistance, and amphibious operations.