Five A-10s to remain in Philippines for flight operations over South China Sea

U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter announced during his visit to the Philippines that five A-10s, three HH-60Gs and one MC-130H will remain in the country after Exercise Balikatan 2016 has concluded.

A-10’s from the 25th Fighter Group out of Osan Korea sit on the flight line of Clark Air Base, Philippines  after flying missions for Balikatan 2016, April 14 2016. (US Air Force Photo by Tech. Sgt. Andrew Jackson)
A-10’s from the 25th Fighter Group out of Osan Korea sit on the flight line of Clark Air Base, Philippines after flying missions for Balikatan 2016, April 14 2016. (US Air Force Photo by Tech. Sgt. Andrew Jackson)


Carter said the military aircraft will “conduct flight operations in the area, including the South China Sea, and lay the foundation for joint air patrols to complement ongoing maritime patrols.”