The Australian Defence Force (ADF) and the Philippine Army have participated in a combined defensive cyber activity to enhance regional cybersecurity.
Conducted in Manila, Philippines, the bilateral activity brought together Australian cyber warfare officers and specialists from the ADF’s Cyber Command and members from the Philippines Army Cyber and Network Enterprise Battalions to strengthen cyber defence, incident response, and network protection.
Chief of Joint Operations, Vice Admiral Justin Jones, AO CSC RAN, said the activity strengthened Australia and the Philippines’ strategic relationship across the cyber domain, building on the enduring relationships of land, air and maritime domains.
“This is the first defensive cyber activity where ADF cyber domain forces collaborated side-by-side with the Philippines. This enhances our ability to protect critical systems and maintain operational continuity in the face of evolving threats,” Vice Admiral Jones said.
“The 2024 National Defence Strategy outlined that grey-zone activities have expanded in the Indo-Pacific, and threats posed by state and non-state actors in the cyber domain are also multiplying.
“Working with key partners, such as the Philippine Army, to protect our collective cyber terrain enhances regional security and stability.”
Collaboration underscores the shared commitment of the Philippine and Australian governments to advancing cybersecurity and cyber cooperation.
Australian contingent leader Lieutenant Brandon Fletcher, Royal Australian Navy said the activity allowed the ADF to build people-to-people links with their counterparts in the Philippine Army.
“Our ability to operate together and overcome complex cyber threats – whether we’re in the same room or working from our respective countries – depends on trust, shared knowledge, and strong operational foundations,” Lieutenant Fletcher said.
“This engagement deepens our partnership with the Philippines, and serves as a practical example of how Australia works alongside regional partners to meet shared challenges in the cyber domain.
“The collaboration between our forces will continue to deliver tangible outcomes and knowledge-sharing for our cyber capabilities.”
Image courtesy of ADF: Australian Cyber Warfare Officers and Specialists from the Australian Defence Force’s Cyber Command, and members from the Philippines Army Cyber and Network Enterprise Battalions conduct training during a Defence Cyber Activity in May 2025, in Manilla, Philippines.
