U.S.-Malaysia Air Forces conclude live-flying exercise

  • Published
  • 13th Air Force
HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii --  The United States and Malaysia recently completed bilateral training over the Pacific skies to sharpen combat skills and promote closer relations. 

From March 3-14, pilots, maintainers and support personnel from the two nations participated in air-to-air training during Cope Taufan 2008--the only scheduled field training exercise between the U.S. and Royal Malaysian air forces. Nine F-16s and more than 120 Airmen from Misawa Air Base, Japan, joined Malaysian MiG-29, F/A-18 and Hawk 108 and 208 units from Kuantan and Butterworth Air Bases for the two-week event.
"This exercise provides the chance for individual interaction at every level of airpower employment," said Lt. Col. Stephen Williams, commander of Misawa's 13th Fighter Squadron. "The ability to plan, fly and debrief daily in a face-to-face environment helps facilitate discussions and learning for both nations." 

Pacific Air Forces has conducted exercises with Malaysia since the early 1980s. Meaning "big storm" in Maylay, Cope Taufan exercises are held biennially and the 2008 iteration commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Royal Malaysian Air Force. The exercise provides quality training and generates an exchange of techniques and procedures to enhance cooperation and understanding between U.S. and Malaysian Airmen.

"The exchange of ideas hasn't been limited to the flying," Colonel Williams said. "We've had the opportunity to work and exchange processes to improve our maintenance and logistic support. Working closely with professionals that take the same pride in work we do has been a pleasure." 

During the exercise's closing ceremonies March 14, Maj. Gen. Larry James, 13th Air Force deputy commander, highlighted how Cope Taufan's success provides a strong foundation for peace and security in the Asia-Pacific region. 

"Cooperation, learning, partnerships and friendships are the key take-aways from Cope Taufan," the general said. "The relationships developed throughout the exercise will foster even greater interoperability, which is and will continue to be critical in maintaining regional stability."