Ang Pahayagan

PAMPANGA — Around 2,800 service members and support personnel from the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the United States Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) are participating in Exercise Cope Thunder 26-1, a bilateral military exercise aimed at enhancing interoperability and operational readiness between the two allied forces.

The joint exercise, which runs from April 6 to 17, 2026, brings together airmen, pilots, and support units from both countries in a series of coordinated training activities and subject matter expert exchanges designed to strengthen defense cooperation and regional security.

On Tuesday, April 7, Secretary of National Defense Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. visited Basa Air Base in Pampanga, one of the primary flight operation sites of the exercise, where he witnessed bilateral flight training involving the PAF’s FA-50 fighter jets and PACAF’s F-22 Raptors.

Joining Secretary Teodoro during the visit were Brigadier General Phillip L. Mallory III, Commander of the Hawaii Air National Guard, and Colonel Rex D. Templonuevo, Wing Commander of the PAF’s 5th Fighter Wing.

Exercise Cope Thunder underscores the shared commitment of the Philippines and the United States to foster stronger defense partnerships while advancing mutual capabilities in addressing regional security challenges.

Military officials said the training highlights the enduring alliance between the two nations and reinforces their dedication to maintaining peace, stability, and readiness in the Indo-Pacific region.

📸 DND