Published in its print edition on March 29 – April 4, 2025
AS the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has been performing joint exercises for “strategic deterrence,” the country is seen having a boosted security and operational coordinative measures in cases of conflict.7
More than a mere practice, the series of drills would enhance combat readiness and elevating joint mission effectiveness across the nation.
This would make the Philippines ever ready following months of skirmishes with China over the disputed areas of the South China Sea.
With the looming military beefing of aircraft and expansive air, land and sea drills for the US-Philippine forces late April this year, this could be preparatory moves.
Field training exercises on aircraft maneuvers and tactics would help the country’s security protectors.
Readied for the exercises are 729 Philippine Air Force personnel and various types of aircraft, including FA-50PH, A-29B Super Tucano, S-76A and S70i Blackhawk helicopters while the US Pacific Air Forces (Pafac) have 250 personnel and 12 F-16 fighter jets.
An International Observer Program (IOP), which will also be hosted, would further help the country.
Much more, the best practices from the representatives of the Royal Malaysian Air Force, Royal Thai Air Force, Royal Australian Air Force, Japan Air Self-Defense Force, and Indonesian Air Force will also be of help.
The exercises have a long-lasting effect as the Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs) covering a wide range of domains including fighter and close air support operations, helicopter operations, cybersecurity, communications, aircraft maintenance, logistics, security and medical services will be implemented.
Much more have been expected for these US-Philippine drills.#
