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Members of the U.S. and Philippine Air Forces (PAF) conducted various Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs) throughout exercise Cope Thunder - Philippines (CT-PH) 25-1, engaging an array of career fields to share defensive tactics and strategic insights.
The tailored sessions are a key component to bilateral training, increasing operational integration by reducing tactical barriers and significantly enhancing coalition effectiveness and agility in the case of a crisis.
“The Subject Matter Expert Exchange is a flexible approach to strengthening partnerships within the Indo-Pacific region,” said Chris Veazie, Pacific Air Forces Cope Thunder - Philippines 25-1 lead, “It encompasses a range of opportunities for the United States Air Force and allied and partner air forces to exchange knowledge and best practices.”
The SMEE concept has existed for as long as PACAF has conducted exercises, reflecting a longstanding commitment to continuously increase interoperability within the theater.
SMEEs also serve as a catalyst for collective innovation between partner nations. During the Medical SMEE, U.S. Air Force Maj. Robert Pluneda, 35th Operations Support Squadron aerospace physiologist, partnered with PAF Col. Roberto Mara, PAF’s lead aerospace physiologist, to identify key modernization priorities to maximize safe and efficient PAF pilot production.
“By helping cultivate our partner’s cutting-edge programs, these exchanges help prepare current and future warfighters for the full spectrum of mission threats- physiological and otherwise- while reinforcing collective readiness,” said Pluneda.
As PACAF supports U.S.-Philippines military cooperation enhancements in line with INDOPACOM objectives, we continue to advance strength, security, and stability in the region with our allies and partners in our shared commitment to deterrence and a free and open Indo-Pacific for all.
| Date Taken: | 04.17.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 04.29.2025 20:04 |
| Story ID: | 495632 |
| Location: | CLARK AIR BASE, PH |
| Web Views: | 19 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, PACAF and Philippine Air Force Conduct Comprehensive Subject Matter Expert Exchanges throughout Cope Thunder 25-1, by 2nd Lt. Lauren Niemi, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
