PH Navy Participates in the Naval Gunfire Accuracy Competition for RIMPAC 2026

18 Juli 2026

BRP Miguel Malvar FFG-8 during live fire at RIMPAC 2026 (photos: PN)

The Philippine Navy, through BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG6), demonstrates its gunnery skills alongside 14 allied Navy warships during the Naval Surface Fire Support (NSFS) Rodeo, a live-fire competition of the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2026 held on July 14, 2026, off the coast of Hawaii.

As the fourth ship on the firing line, FFG6 tested the system performance and accuracy of its Oto Melara 76mm Super Rapid Multi-Feeding (SRMF) Main Gun. It accurately landed shells on a virtual, two-dimensional land target more than 3.5 Miles away during the practice run and record firing. 

Performance reports will be provided later by the Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF), and ships that have the smallest average distance from the target using five salvos shall be declared as winners. Top performers will be awarded with trophies during the RIMPAC Closing Ceremony on July 31, 2026.

Aside from the competition, the exercise focused on standard procedures for targeting, range safety, and communications between a spotter and firing ship in accordance with a joint fire plan. NSFS is also a critical enabler for amphibious operations to suppress enemy coastal defenses, destroy enemy fortified positions, and protect amphibious landing forces.

The Philippine Navy continues to advance its tactical proficiency and operational readiness as it works toward maintaining a modern and capable naval force.

(Philippine Navy)