US’ most advanced spy plane flies with PH pilots near South China Sea
THE United States flew its most advanced surveillance plane near the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea) days before Japan and US have started its separate naval drills with the Philippines also held near the disputed waters.
“The “Pelicans” of Patrol Squadron (VP) 45 demonstrated the advanced capabilities of the navy’s newest maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft, the P-8A Poseidon, on June 19, to members of the Philippine Air Force on a Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) flight in the waters off of Luzon Island, Philippines,” the US 7th Fleet said in a statement on Tuesday.
The US Navy pilots flew with Filipino pilots in the waters off Clark Air Base, near the disputed waterway.
Both the US Navy and the Philippine Air Force aimed to enhance joint interoperability “by demonstrating the operational capabilities of the P-8A Poseidon in a maritime capacity.”
The P-8A, as described by the US 7th Fleet, is the most advanced long-range anti-submarine and anti-surface aircraft in the world. It provides superior maritime intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance and rebalance.
The deployment of the newest spy plane to the US 7th Fleet is part of the US Navy’s commitment to rebalance in Asia Pacific.
“We really appreciate everything you do, all of you care so much and my country is truly grateful for what you do,” First Lieutenant Mario Mendoza, a Philippine Air Force pilot was quoted as saying.
“We recognize the impact that our presence has in the Philippines and understand the importance in fostering our bilateral relationship,” said Lt. Justin Rogers, CAC-8’s detachment officer in charge.
“Our sailors exert a great deal of hard work and dedication, and it means a tremendous amount when we get to work side-by-side with our Philippine host nation,” he added.
The Philippines started doing separate naval drills with Japan and US this week in Palawan. US and Japan also used P3-C, another type of spy plane, in the naval exercises.
The disputed maritime superhighway is mostly claimed by China, and has been doing rapid reclamation activities there in recent months. AC/TVJ
