U.S. Navy Enhances Wartime Repair Capabilities in the Philippines

In January 2025, the USS Benfold (DDG-65), a U.S. Navy Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, conducted a significant shipboard wartime repair and maintenance exercise (SWARM-EX) at Subic Bay, Philippines. This initiative was part of a broader logistics strategy to enhance the fleet’s operational readiness during port visits. The exercise marked the third iteration of such drills in the region, following similar operations conducted in Guam in the previous fall and spring.

The SWARM-EX involved a collaboration with the Naval Information Warfare Systems Command (NAVWAR), which provided vital technical support and assistance to sailors aboard the USS Benfold. According to NAVWAR's press release, the command's watch center was operational around the clock to address any emerging threats to the ship's onboard information systems and to deploy technical assistance as needed.

Kristin Brimager, Assistant Director for Wartime Readiness at NAVWAR, remarked, “During SWARM-EXs, we are able to maintain situational awareness of everything that’s happening in the Fleet, particularly in areas of interest.” The exercises are designed to evaluate ship capabilities and vulnerabilities under controlled conditions, ensuring that the fleet remains capable of responding to operational challenges.

Recent advancements in technology have been integrated into these wartime maintenance drills. Notably, the introduction of augmented reality maintenance systems (ARMS) has streamlined repair processes. Sailors can now utilize augmented reality glasses to communicate visual challenges directly to engineers and logistical staff. This innovative approach was first implemented aboard the USS Spruance (DDG-111) in February 2025 and is expected to enhance the efficiency of repairs across the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group.

“ARMS will allow NAVWAR In-Service Engineering Agents (ISEA) to work more efficiently, ensuring that ships can return to operational capability more quickly,” stated NAVWAR in their announcement regarding the deployment of this technology.

The strategic importance of Washington’s forward-based repair and maintenance capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region has grown amid increasing tensions with the Chinese Navy. The Subic Bay area, historically significant as the largest U.S. naval base before its closure in 1992, has recently regained attention as a vital hub for naval operations. The U.S.-Philippine defense partnership has revitalized activities at Subic Bay, particularly in the face of perceived threats in the South China Sea.

The Subic Drydock Corporation, the only shipyard in the Philippines with a master ship repair agreement with the U.S. Navy, has facilitated repairs for various military vessels since its acquisition in 2008. The yard has hosted numerous military sealift command ships and has become a crucial player in the U.S. Navy’s logistics operations in the region.

Despite the positive developments, concerns have emerged regarding security in the area. In an alarming incident earlier this year, suspected Chinese spies were arrested in Subic Bay while surveilling U.S. Navy vessels, further highlighting the geopolitical tensions in the region.

As the U.S. Navy continues to strengthen its presence and capabilities in the Indo-Pacific, the developments at Subic Bay exemplify a strategic response to evolving maritime threats, ensuring that the fleet remains prepared and operationally ready in a complex security environment.