PAF, PACAF start Cope Thunder Philippines 25-1 at Clark Air Base

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the United States Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) commenced Cope Thunder Philippines 25-1 on Monday, April 7, at Clark Air Base in Mabalacat City, Pampanga.

Led by Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura of the PAF and Maj. Gen. Christopher Sheppard from PACAF, the drills will run until April 18 across various locations in Northern Luzon, including Basa Air Base and Colonel Ernesto Ravina Air Base.

PAF is deploying 729 personnel with aircraft such as FA-50PH fighters, A-29B Super Tucano trainers, S-76A, and S70i Black Hawk helicopters, while PACAF provided 250 personnel and 12 F-16 fighter jets.

The Air Defense Command of the PAF advised residents near Clark Air Base of increased jet flying operations due to Exercise Cope Thunder 2025, with elevated noise levels expected during air operations.

For the first time, PAF is hosting an International Observer Program with representatives from Malaysia, Thailand, Australia, Japan, and Indonesia participating to observe SMEEs covering various domains including cybersecurity, communications, maintenance, logistics, security, and medical services.

Cope Thunder Philippines 25-1 marks a significant milestone in enhancing joint operational readiness and deepening defense ties between the Philippines and the United States.