A contingent from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), including 17 personnel from the Philippine Air Force (PAF), has arrived in Australia to participate in Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 (TS25), one of the largest multinational military drills in the Indo-Pacific.
The Philippine troops—composed of both participants and observers—are deployed to Rockhampton, Townsville, Brisbane, and Sydney in preparation for the exercise, which runs until August 4.
Led by Contingent Commander Carlo M. Bermas, the AFP joins TS25 as active participants for the first time, working alongside Australia, the United States, and 15 other countries, including Japan, Germany, and Indonesia.
Now on its 11th round, Talisman Sabre highlights regional cooperation and defense interoperability. The PAF will join in live-fire exercises, space operations, civil-military activities, and information operations.
The deployment marks a milestone in the Philippines’ defense diplomacy. Officials say the exercise reinforces the country’s commitment to a rules-based order and strengthens regional peace and stability.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “PH troops join wargames in Australia”







