PAF fighter pilots undergo air combat training for 'Balikatan'

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16, 2024): PAF fighter pilots undergo air combat training for 'Balikatan' (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AIR COMBAT DRILLS. A United States Air Force F-16 jet fighter aircraft captured on air during air combat maneuver exercise alongside the PAF's FA-50 aircraft in this undated photo. The PAF on Tuesday (April 16, 2024) said the drills are in preparation for the upcoming large force employment missions for this year's "Balikatan" exercises. (Photo courtesy of the PAF)

MANILA – Philippine Air Force (PAF) fighter pilots are now undergoing "air combat maneuvering" (ACM) training in the ongoing Cope Thunder Philippines (CT PH 24-1), its spokesperson said on Tuesday.

In a statement, PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said the ACM is a critical component of the flight integration training (FTI) exercise in preparation for the upcoming large force employment (LFE) missions for this year's "Balikatan" exercises.

"This rigorous training in Cope Thunder 24-1 goes beyond individual skill, as it also provides a platform to improve teamwork and communication, which are essential for mission success in a joint environment," she added.

Castillo said PAF pilots and their United States Air Force counterparts are honing their ACM skills through their FA-50PH and F-16 jet fighters over a military training area located west of Zambales province, as part of CT PH 24-1.

Earlier, Castillo said the initial phase of CT PH 24-1 will concentrate on subject matter expert exchanges and field exercises in air and ground operations. CT-PH 24 -1 is scheduled from April 8 to 19.

This includes logistics and mission support planning and execution which are necessary in large force deployment.

This will also prepare the PAF in its anticipated participation in Pitch Black Exercise 2024 in Australia this coming July.

The exercise is part of the Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board activities for this year.

The CT PH 24-1 is tentatively scheduled to have a second iteration in June.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1222697