Philippine and American soldiers performed air assault exercises in an annual joint military drill.

Footage shows troops disembarking from an aircraft and moving into formation at the Calayan Airstrip in Cagayan, northern Philippines, on May 24.

Philippine army spokesman Colonel Louie Dema-ala said: 'The drill focused on enhancing joint operational capabilities and rapid airfield security response. Utilizing CH-47 and 'Black Hawk' helicopters, both forces conducted mission planning, detailed rehearsals, and airfield security at the Calayan Airstrip.'

The bilateral training was part of the Salaknib exercises held yearly between the two nations.

The United States and the Philippines are treaty allies under the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty, pledging mutual support in case of an armed attack in the Pacific.

The significance of the alliance has been underscored amid escalating territorial tensions between the Philippines and neighbouring China over parts of the South China Sea.