Pasay City: The Philippine Air Force (PAF) announced plans for increased high-level interactions with the US Pacific Air Force (PACAF) on Wednesday. This development follows a visit by PACAF commander Gen. Kevin Schneider to PAF chief Arthur Cordura at Villamor Air Base, Pasay City, as stated by Air Force spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo.

According to Philippines News Agency, during the meeting, Gen. Schneider and Lt. Gen. Cordura discussed strategies to bolster interoperability and excellence in combined operations between the two Air Forces. The discussions highlighted the significance of joint exercises and training programs in enhancing the operational capabilities of both forces.

The meeting also addressed critical areas such as information sharing, airman-to-airman dialogues, and routine maritime cooperative activities. Additionally, Cordura and Schneider reviewed ongoing projects under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). These projects aim to enhance cooperation in humanitarian assistance, disaster relief operations, strengthen defense capabilities, and promote regional security.

As part of the visit, Gen. Schneider and his delegation are scheduled to tour PAF Air Bases and EDCA project sites in Pampanga, Palawan, Cebu, and Lumbia Airport in Cagayan de Oro. This activity underscores the commitment of the PAF and PACAF to enhance interoperability, promote operational excellence, strengthen bilateral relations, boost defense capabilities, and support peace and security in the Indo-Pacific Region.