Philippine jet fighters and US bomber planes recently joined forces in a joint patrol, showcasing the strong alliance between the two nations. On January 19, 2024, the Philippine Air Force and the US Air Force carried out a Maritime Cooperative Activity, which involved a fly-by in the West Philippine Sea.
According to Colonel Ma Consuelo Castillo, the spokesperson for the Philippine Air Force, the patrol covered areas 90 nautical miles west of Candon, Ilocos Sur, and 50 nautical miles northwest of Lubang Island in Mindoro. The activity showcased the commitment of both countries to enhancing their cooperation and interoperability between their respective air forces.
This joint patrol involved two US B52H bomber planes and three Philippine FA-50 jet fighters. By conducting this cooperative activity, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and their US counterparts aimed to strengthen their partnership and demonstrate their commitment to maintaining a free and secure Indo-Pacific region.
Colonel Castillo emphasized that the Philippine Air Force’s participation in this joint patrol highlighted their dedication to safeguarding the nation’s territory and sovereign rights, as well as upholding regional peace and security. This collaboration between the Philippine and US forces serves as a testament to their shared commitment to maintaining stability in the West Philippine Sea.
It is worth noting that this recent joint patrol is not the first time that the Philippines and the United States have conducted maritime activities together. On February 9, both nations successfully sailed their ships in the West Philippine Sea, marking the third such activity of the year.
During this particular event, the US Navy’s USS Gabrielle Giffords, an independence-class littoral combat ship, and the Philippine Navy’s BRP Gregorio del Pilar navigated the West Philippine Sea without any obstacles. These joint maritime activities further solidify the bond between the two nations and showcase their determination to protect their shared interests in the region.
The collaboration between the Philippine and US forces in the West Philippine Sea is significant, especially considering the ongoing territorial disputes in the area. The joint patrols serve as a demonstration of the strong partnership between the two countries and their collective commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
In conclusion, the recent joint patrol between Philippine jet fighters and US bomber planes in the West Philippine Sea highlights the close cooperation between the two nations. By conducting these activities, both countries aim to enhance their interoperability and demonstrate their commitment to a free and secure Indo-Pacific. These joint patrols serve as a testament to their shared dedication to safeguarding their national territories and upholding regional peace and security.
Source: The Manila Times
