MANILA, Philippines – In today’s environment of increasingly complex security challenges, the importance of allied partnerships in intelligence have become even more critical to national defense.
The 655th Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) Wing answered that call, recently deploying two members as part of a Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) Mobile Training Team (MTT) to the Philippines Sept. 8 to 11 to collaborate with the Philippine Air Force (PAF). The mission not only reinforces vital ties with a key PACAF ally, but also underscores the contributions of the Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC) Reserve Allies and Partners Program (RAPP) in building critical international security cooperation objectives.
Maj. Jessica Jamous, RAPP coordinator, and Senior Master Sgt. Jan Gawaran-Guinto, Operations Superintendent, 655th ISR Wing ISR Directorate, represented the 655 ISRW as U.S. ISR subject matter experts to train PAF members on Air Domain Awareness and effective operation of the Air Operations Center (AOC) ISR Division. The intensive four-day course has been instrumental to building critical intelligence capabilities and fostering a growing military partnership between the U.S. and the Philippines.
“It was an incredible opportunity to work alongside our PAF counterparts," Gawaran-Guinto said. "Their dedication to modernizing their air operations and integrating advanced intelligence capabilities was truly impressive.”
“Being able to leverage the support of the Reserves further enhances the regional message of air domain awareness as truly collaborative effort,” said Lt Col Kari Benson, PACAF A5IR 333 Programs Branch Chief. “The success of developing air domain awareness capabilities with our Allies and Partners is made possible with the support of our Reserve force and the expertise they bring to the mission.”
The MTT’s curriculum focused on the intricacies of the ISR Division structure, processes, and products, demonstrating how these functions support overall AOC operational effectiveness. Beyond training, the team also played a crucial advisory role, assisting the PAF in tailoring an ISR Division to meet their unique requirements and advocating for seamless incorporation of the AOC within the PAF system.
AFRC launched the RAPP program in summer 2024 to support Department of the Air Force international engagement objectives, including bolstering interoperability, enhancing readiness, and building strategic depth within the alliance network – all critical components to integrated deterrence. Through joint training, leadership exchanges and information sharing, RAPP fosters mutually beneficial relationships that strengthen global security.
“The 655 ISRW’s participation in this MTT supports RAPP and PACAF objectives by leveraging the deep expertise and experience of our Air Force Reservists," Jamous said. "Advising partners not only strengthens their capabilities, but enhances interoperability, which is crucial for addressing future global challenges."
The 655 ISRW stands ready to support future PACAF MTTs in the coming fiscal year, further expanding collaboration with the PAF and PACAF through RAPP. These future engagements will provide opportunities to showcase AFRC ISR capabilities, deepen partnerships with key PACAF allies, and explore new avenues for cooperation.
“We are grateful for the 655th ISRW’s and the broader RAPP partnership with PACAF on this mobile training team to ensure the highest degree of training and expertise is provided to our Philippine allies,” Benson said.
In an era where global power relies on collaboration and shared security, the 655 ISRW is at the forefront of forging vital international alliances. By fostering engagement, building critical capabilities for the Philippine Air Force, and establishing a unique U.S.-Philippines Reserve-to-Reserve partnership, the wing is making significant contributions to national defense and ensuring a more secure future for all.
| Date Taken: | 01.10.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 01.13.2026 08:30 |
| Story ID: | 555972 |
| Location: | MANILA, PH |
| Hometown: | WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, OHIO, US |
| Web Views: | 40 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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