On March 13, 2023, the Philippine Air Force held a Mutual Defense Board – Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) Activity for CY 2023 which includes a Bilateral Fighter Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE) and PAF Engagement Opportunity together with Pacific Air Forces at Clark Air Base Mabalacat City, Pampanga.
The PACAF delegates were welcomed by PAF Commanders led by Commander, Air Defense Command, MGEN AUGUSTINE S MALINIT PAF.
PAF personnel composed of PAF Fighter pilots, and other PAF personnel from 5th Fighter Wing, Air Defense Command participated in the Bilateral Fighter SMEE.
Notably the United States Air Force, Pacific Air Forces brought in two F-22s and one KC-135 aircraft which were placed on static display for the appreciation of PAF commanders and aircrew.
On March 14, 2023, a capability demonstration on air-to-air refueling between an F-22 and KC-135 aircraft was done before escort-out of the US air assets out of Philippine air space by our three FA 50 PH aircraft.
The bilateral exchanges focused on the capabilities of fighter aircraft operated by the two air forces as a prelude to other upcoming engagements to promote air domain awareness, agile combat employment, interoperability and other bilateral air objectives. (VICTOR BALDEMOR RUIZ)
