Allied airborne commanders tackle emerging threats in Indo-Pacific

Airborne commanders from participating Indo-Pacific nations link hands for a photo opportunity during the International Airborne Commanders Conference at the 1st Airborne Brigade, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force at Camp Narashino in Chiba Prefecture, Japan on Jan. 10, 2025. —PHOTO COURTESY OF JGSDF

MANILA – Military leaders from various Indo-Pacific countries discussed emerging threats in the region during the International Airborne Commanders Conference (IACC) in Japan.

The Philippine Army (PA), headed by vice commander Maj. Gen. Leodevic Guinid and Special Forces Regiment (Airborne) chief Brig. Gen. Rosendo Abad Jr., joined delegates from allied countries to discuss “strategic plans and exchange relevant information,” according to a belated news release issued Friday.

Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala said the IACC was held at the 1st Airborne Brigade, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) in Camp Narashino at Chiba Prefecture, Japan on Jan. 10.

“The conference also served as the avenue for initiating talks on establishing more and enhanced comprehensive cooperation and military-to-military agreements between the Indo-Pacific nations,” Dema-ala said.

The 1st Airborne Brigade, JGSDF also simultaneously held the International Airborne Chief Sergeants Major Conference and facilitated the exchange of information regarding human resource development, leader-subordinate relations, and non-commissioned officers’ empowerment and training.

Dema-ala said the conferences are part of the significant activities in the New Year Jump in Indo-Pacific 2025 and served as the opportunity to foster collaborations among the participating nations. Following the meeting, airborne jump demonstrations and technical exchanges were held on Jan. 12.