Advanced Fighters to Deploy to Philippines

April 18, 2016 | By Brian W. Everstine

The Air Force will deploy “advanced fighter jets,” possibly F-22s, to the Philippines following the extended rotation of A-10s and other aircraft, Pentagon spokesman Navy Capt. Jeff Davis said during a Friday briefing. Defense Secretary Ash Carter announced on April 14 that A-10s, HH-60s, and an MC-130 would continue to operate from the former US installation Clark Air Base through the end of April, where they will launch patrols of the South China Sea and continue to train with their Filipono counterparts. There is no timetable for the follow-on deployment, but part of the agreement Carter made during his visit guarantees US access to five installations in the Philippines and the rotation is “something you’ll see more of,” Davis said.

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