Philippine Air Force's 15th Strike Wing Marks 52nd Year

By Mona Lagbas

November 24,2025, Lumbia, Cagayan de Oro City_No less than the Commanding General of the Philippine Air Force Monday graced the 52nd year anniversary of the 15th Strike Wing. 15th Strike Wing Commander, BGen. Joel A. Inacay, welcomed Philippine Air Force Commander, Lt. General Arthur M. Cordura, who gave an inspirational message as guest of honor during the event.

Activated in the 1970s, the 15th Strike Wing, also known as the "Trojans", plays a critical role in counter-terrorism operations in the Visayas and Mindanao regions.

Ably equipped, the 15th Strike Wing provides air support to naval and ground forces and has been in the forefront of intense combat and liberation operations especially in attack missions and has hugely contributed to the country's defense.

Its airfield has been named after Major Danilo S. Atienza, a hero-pilot who perished in a mission.

Based at Sangley Point, the 15th Strike Wing operates various aircraft such as T-28D, SF-260W, SF260TP, AW109AH helicopters, MDA-520MG and OV-10Bronco aircraft, which were very effective during operations against both the Abu Sayyaf and ISIS-inspired groups in Mindanao.

The current organization of the 15th Strike Wing of the Philippine Air Force includes several tactical attack squadrons and support units. The main squadrons under the wing are:16th Attack Squadron named as the Eagles, which provides close air support and flies Embraer A-29B Super Tucano and Aermacchi SF-260TP Warrior aircraft, the 17th Attack Squadron or Jaguars which operates the OV-10 Bronco aircraft, also involved in close air support, the 18th Attack Squadron20th Attack Squadron aka Firebirds— uses the McDonnell Douglas MD-520MG Defender and AH-1F Cobra helicopters, the 25th Composite Attack Squadron called Lobos, carries out close air support and attack missions. The wing is supported by maintenance and base groups to ensure operational readiness.

Local stakeholders and benefactors were acknowledged and honored in this year's anniversary with the theme which is MVP - Trojans @52-" Adherent to the Mission, Re-Invigorated by Capability and Transcendingwith Values".