PH, US air forces end Cope Thunder Exercise 2025

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the United States Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) officially concluded their joint exercise Cope Thunder Philippines 25-1 (CT PH 25-1) in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Wednesday.

In a statement, the PAF said PAF’s 5th Fighter Wing commander Brigadier General Leo Fontanilla led the closing ceremony as well as the debriefing after the exercise.

“The Hotwash session served as a post-exercise review, enabling participants to analyze operational outcomes, share key lessons learned, and refine strategies for future joint exercises,” the PAF said.

“CT PH 25-1, a preparatory exercise for the upcoming large-scale Balikatan Exercise, laid a strong foundation for sustained multinational cooperation and enhanced operational synergy,” it added.

Started on April 7, CT PH 25-1 involved over 700 PAF personnel and a diverse fleet of aircraft, including FA-50PH fighter jets, A-29B Super Tucano aircraft, and S-76A and S-70i Black Hawk helicopters. T

On the US side, 750 PACAF personnel and 12 F-16 fighter jets participated in the exercise.

CT PH 25-1 covers a comprehensive program of Subject Matter Expert Exchanges, as well as Flight and Field Training exercises.

“Notably, this exercise marked the PAF’s inaugural hosting of an International Observer Program (IOP), participated in by representatives from Malaysia, Thailand, Australia, Japan, and Indonesia,” the PAF said.

According to the PAF, the exercise is a key milestone in boosting joint operational readiness and deepening defense ties between the Philippines and US.

It also contributed to the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ ongoing modernization and capability development efforts, the PAF added.

“We have gained valuable experiences and learnings in developing asymmetric warfare capabilities; enhanced our air and combat operation skills; strengthened cooperation with our PACAF counterparts leading to a more improved operational coordination and readiness; and identified key areas for improvement in our sustainment systems to boost mission effectiveness,” PAF spokesperson Colonel Ma. Consuelo Castillo told GMA News Online in a message.

“This exercise served as a vital platform for continuous improvement and ensures the PAF remains a capable reliable force, responsive to national and regional security and development,” she added. —VAL, GMA Integrated News