Defense chief reaffirms commitment to acquire fighter jets after China’s flare use

Manila’s Defense department reaffirmed the government’s commitment to acquire multi-role fighter jets following China’s recent air harassment in the West Philippine Sea.

Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro said the government is committed to strengthening the country’s air defense system.

The Defense chief made the remark during the welcome ceremony for the Philippine Air Force (PAF) contingent who participated in the Pitch Black Exercise in Darwin, Australia. This is Manila’s first involvement in the multinational exercise with both aircraft and personnel.

“This is game-changing, once again, and it is a success of the whole government,” Teodoro said of the PAF’s historic participation.

“[T]he challenge for you is we need to sustain these kinds of operations. We have to make this the new normal. Year in, year out, more joint and combined exercises with like-minded partners.”

Teodoro also expressed his gratitude to the Australian Government for hosting Exercise Pitch Black 2024, which provided an invaluable learning experience for the Filipino troops.

“Again, we thank the Australian Government also for the opportunity once again to expand our skills and horizons. I’m sure it’s a very valuable learning experience and a confidence-building experience, more than anything,” he said.

Ambassador of Australia to the Philippines Hae Kyong Yu, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner, Jr., PAF Commanding General Lt. Gen. Stephen Parreño, and other senior officials attended the event.

Brawner said the experience from the exercise would be instrumental in the continued development of the AFP’s operational readiness and strategic defense initiatives.

“Our involvement in this multinational exercise is a testament to our commitment to elevating our air combat capabilities and aligning with global standards. It also reflects our dedication to being a reliable partner in ensuring peace and security not only within our region but also on a global scale,” Brawner said.

“As we continue to modernize our forces, participating in exercises like Pitch Black enables us to refine our tactics, enhance our interoperability with international forces, and fortify our role as a key player in upholding peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region,” he added.

Exercise Pitch Black 2024, hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force in the Northern Territory, concluded on August 2, 2024, after three weeks of intense air combat training. The exercise, which began on July 12, included around 4,400 personnel and 140 aircraft from 20 nations, making it the largest in its 43-year history.

The PAF participated with four FA-50PH Fighting Eagle jets and around 162 personnel, marking a significant leap forward in the country’s defense history.