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The RAAF has linked up with the Philippine Air Force (PAF) for Exercise Havoc Strike, which aims to build interoperability across training systems and air-land integration procedures.
The close air support exercise, led by RAAF’s 4 Squadron, was conducted in locations around the Hunter Region and RAAF Base Williamtown in NSW.
The activities involved the deployment of both aircrew and Joint Terminal Attack Controllers.
The first week focused on close air support academics and simulated scenarios, which included capability briefs from RAAF aircrew on a multitude of aircraft types.
This was followed by live close air support training at Oyster Cove during the second week involving the 4 Squadron PC-21, followed by the 76 Squadron Hawk 127 at the Salt Ash Air Weapons Range utilising live ordnance.
Exercise Havoc Strike then moved to the Singleton military training area for integration of training with the School of Infantry, focusing on urban scenarios.
The exercise wrapped up with a full mission profile at Bulahdelah, which involved deploying F-35A Lightning II and PC-21 aircraft in support of a ground manoeuvre.
PAF Combat Air Controllers also conducted the urban scenario, supported by RAAF F-35s.
Flight Commander 4 Squadron, Squadron Leader J, noted the importance of linking up with the PAF as part of Exercise Havoc Strike.
“The PAF sent six Combat Air Controllers to participate in the exercise which provided an opportunity to impact their training directly through a train-the-trainer continuum as well as exposure to ADF training processes, facilities and aircraft,” Squadron Leader J said.
“…This exercise is the first of its type between the RAAF and PAF and is aimed at strengthening international engagement and interoperability across the region.”
Earlier this month, Australian Aviation reported how a RAAF Poseidon has made its longest-ever trip to Sicily as part of Operation Sea Guardian 22.
The training exercise aims to deter terrorism and enhance capacity building in the region. The P-8A will be based in Italy, operating in the western and central Mediterranean until mid-October.
A RAAF contingent of 60 personnel is supporting the mission, including aircrews, technicians, security force, communications specialists, and logisticians.
