U.S. Air Force F-35s conduct maiden flight from Philippines during joint military exercise known as Cope Thunder.
The Philippines played host to a significant milestone this month, as U.S. F-35As flew out of its territory for the first time ever during the Cope Thunder exercise. The series of exercises, which also includes Talon Shield, Talisman Sabre, Red Flag-Alaska, Mobility Guardian, Resolute Force Pacific, and Cope Thunder itself, form part of the U.S. Air Force's activities across the Pacific this summer.
From July 7 to July 18, 2025, the F-35As operated alongside Philippine FA-50 light fighters and A-29B Super Tucanos, performing simulated missions such as air superiority and close air support. This deployment was part of the resumption of Philippine-based training in 2023 after a 30-year hiatus, integrated into the Pacific Department-Level Exercise (DLE) series.
The exercise, which involved over 2,500 personnel, including both U.S. and Philippine forces, aimed to improve interoperability and strengthen bilateral defense ties under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). The timing and presence of the F-35A served as a clear message of U.S. resolve to counter China’s growing military activities and challenging maritime claims, particularly in the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Clark Air Base and Basa Air Base were among the locations where these exercises took place. Images shared by PACAF show U.S. and Filipino Airmen sharing expertise on various aspects such as airfield management, maintenance, and refueling. The presence of F-35s during the exercise marked the biggest milestone for the exercise, underscoring advancing cooperation and sophisticated joint air combat training in contested environments.
This strategic demonstration of U.S. military presence and alliance solidarity is intended to deter Chinese aggression, enhance joint training capabilities, and reinforce regional security partnerships. The Washington Post reported this change as a significant departure from past policy, signifying a deepening of U.S.-Philippine military ties and a strengthening of the Philippines' ties with the self-governing island of Taiwan.
References:
- U.S. Air Force News Release
- Reuters Article
- CNN Article
- Defense News Article
- The Diplomat Article
- The space force, a branch of the U.S. military focused on space operations, is closely monitoring these developments, considering the potential impact on space security in the region.
- The aerospace industry is expected to benefit significantly from these strategic partnerships, as advanced aircraft like the F-35As and FA-50 light fighters increase demand for sophisticated technology and maintenance services.
- The finance ministry is looking into securing long-term investments for the defense sector, anticipating increased defense spending due to the enhanced U.S.-Philippine alliance and the potential for bilateral defense arrangements with Taiwan.
- This high-profile exercise reaffirms the commitment of the U.S. air force to the defense of allies and partners in the Pacific, emphasizing the importance of a strong and united air force in ensuring regional security and stability.
