Philippine Air Force (PAF) pilots were engaged in a simulation exercise focused on counter air mechanics with the United States Air Force (USAF) to increase their interoperability in combat operations.   (An FA-50PH aircraft from the Philippine Air Force and an F-16 aircraft from United States Air Force are seen in flight training during the Cope Thunder Exercise on May 9, 2023. / Photo courtesy of PAF) Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo, PAF spokesperson, said that personnel from the PAF’s 5^th Fighter Wing trained together with the 14^th Fighter Squadron of USAF on Tuesday, May 9, at the Clark Air Base in Mabalacat City, Pampanga as part of the Cope Thunder – Philippines 23-1 Exercise. Fighter jet pilots from both air forces showcased their expertise in executing both defensive and offensive counter air drills utilizing four FA-50PH aircraft from PAF and six F-16 fighter jets from USAF over “intensive military training areas” (IMTAs) in Luzon. “The whole goal was to teach them how we do our briefing, execution, and debriefs so that we can increase our interoperability throughout the region as well as build a relationship with their pilots on the ground,” Capt. Frank Martin, a USAF fighter pilot, said. The air-to-air combat training enabled the pilots from both air forces “to simulate multiple threats, react effectively as a coalition, and prepare themselves for any possible contingency,” said PAF pilot Capt. Ferdinand Jose. “Air power is critical in modern warfare, and these training exercises are vital in improving the forces' readiness and interoperability,” he added. The [Cope Thunder Exercise](https://mb.com.ph/2023/4/28/after-balikatan-comes-cope-thunder) will conclude on May 12.