The bomber deployments “demonstrate lethality and interoperability in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific and enhance the readiness and training necessary to respond to any contingency or challenge,” Cmdr. Comer told The Washington Times in a statement.
The joint flights also showed increased coordination between the U.S. and Philippines forces, he said.
“This exercise demonstrates the strong relationship between the Armed Force of the Philippines and IndoPacom as well as our collective commitment to maintaining regional security and stability,” Cmdr. Comer said. “Evaluating readiness and forward positioning of bombers ensures the Department of Defense can maintain operational and support capabilities to meet our security obligations.”