PH Air Force to send personnel as observers for Talisman Sabre 2025

A missile is launched from a United States military HIMARS system during joint military drills at a firing range in northern Australia as part of Exercise Talisman Sabre, the largest combined training activity between the Australian Defense Force and the United States military, in Shoalwater Bay on July 22, 2023. FILE PHOTO/Agence France-Presse

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Air Force (PAF) will participate by sending officers and personnel as observers in this year’s Talisman Sabre, a multinational military exercise led by Australia and the United States, scheduled from March 29 to April 5.

PAF spokesperson Col. Maria Consuelo Castillo said this would be the largest and 11th iteration of the exercise.

“This exercise involves live drills, amphibious landings, ground force maneuvers, air combat, and maritime operations providing a comprehensive training environment for participating forces,” Castillo said in a press briefing on Tuesday.

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“The exercise also aims to enhance interoperability, coordination, and operational readiness among allied forces. Nineteen Philippine Air Force officers and enlisted personnel will be present as spectators, allowing them to observe and gain valuable insights into large-scale multinational operations,”  she added.

PAF said the participation of their officers and personnel will help it “improve doctrinal knowledge, strategic planning, and coordination skills,” for future joint exercises.

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“The Philippine Air Force’s involvement in Talisman Sabre 2025 aligns with the Philippines’ defense cooperation agreements with the United States and Australia,” Castillo said.