The Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) convened on Tuesday for their fourth bilateral Air Force-to-Air Force meeting to discuss a wide range of defense cooperation initiatives. The talks aimed to deepen strategic ties between the two allied nations.
Among the topics covered were mutual observation of military exercises and training, expert exchanges in operations and maintenance, and collaboration on military logistics, particularly on the upkeep of the FA-50 fighter jets used by the Philippines. These initiatives are seen as vital to enhancing interoperability and defense readiness.
The meeting was held at the ROKAF Headquarters in Gyeryongdae and was led by ROKAF Policy Office Director Major General Koo Sang-mo and PAF Deputy Commander Major General Aristotel Gonzalez. Since its inception in 2018, the annual bilateral meeting has alternated between the two countries, serving as a cornerstone for enhanced defense relations. Rex Espiritu
South Korea invited the PAF to participate in two major upcoming events: the 2025 Seoul International Aerospace and Defense Exhibition (ADEX) and “Soaring Eagle,” a large-scale aerial exercise in October. In return, the PAF invited ROKAF to observe “Cope Thunder,” a joint air exercise with the United States.
Ahead of the meeting, the Philippine delegation paid a courtesy call on ROKAF Vice Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Park Ki-wan. Park emphasized the historic bond between the two countries, recalling the Philippines’ role as the third nation to send troops during the Korean War. He called for continued friendship and trust between the two air forces.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “Philippines, South Korea air forces expand training, maintenance cooperation”
