The Philippine Air Force (PAF) and Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) are set to conduct a joint Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise, demonstrating increased bilateral cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
Dubbed “Doshin-Bayanihan 4-24,” the exercise will take place from Oct. 2-7, 2024, at Brigadier General Benito N. Ebuen Air Base in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, Philippines, according to PAF sources. The JASDF press release, issued Sept. 27, 2024, confirms the exercise dates and location, adding that training will extend to the airspace vicinity of the air base.
The exercise aims to enhance interoperability and HADR capabilities between the two air forces. “Doshin-Bayanihan allows our pilots to train for critical HADR missions alongside our Japanese counterparts,” a PAF spokesperson stated.
Over 150 personnel will participate, with the JASDF contingent comprising about 30 members from the 1st Tactical Airlift Group based at Komaki Air Base, as per the JASDF release. Both forces will deploy one C-130H cargo aircraft each for the exercise.
Training activities include:
- Simulated airdrop flight operations
- Cargo load and offload procedures
- Aeromedical evacuation exercises
- Medical training for mass casualties
The JASDF release emphasizes that these activities are designed to “improve capabilities of HADR and strengthen cooperation between the Philippine Air Force.”
This bilateral exercise represents a significant step in enhancing regional HADR preparedness. By combining resources and expertise, the PAF and JASDF are positioning themselves to respond more effectively to natural disasters and humanitarian crises in the Indo-Pacific region.
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