Japanese F-15s deploy to the Philippines

Two Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF)-operated Boeing F-15J Eagles along with 60 personnel have deployed to the Philippines to undertake exercises with the Philippine Air Force (PAF) between November 27 and December 11.

The exercises – which are being conducted as part of the JASDF-PAF exchange programme – will take place primarily at Clark Air Base Pampanga, and the surrounding airspace.

**A Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) Boeing F-15J Eagle thunders into Alaskan skies from Eielson AFB during Exercise Red Flag-Alaska 15-3 on August 20, 2015.** USAF/Staff Sgt Joshua Turner

The JASDF-PAF exchange programme is aimed at promoting mutual understanding and defence co-operation and exchanges, according to a statement from the Japanese Embassy in Manilla on November 22.

The JASDF and PAF have previously conducted bilateral exercises that focused on humanitarian assistance/disaster relief (HA/DR) operations in July 2021 and in June 2022. These exercises were aimed at improving JASDF and PAF HA/DR capabilities, particularly in the delivery of supplies to people affected by severe emergencies.