The 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division of the Philippine Army has concluded its Army Aviation Operations Seminar (AAOS) Class 01-2026, aimed at strengthening ground-air interoperability for troops operating in Sulu.
Held at the headquarters of the 104th Infantry “Para sa Bayan” Battalion in Siasi, Sulu, the nine-day training was conducted by the 11th Division “Mastal” Training School in partnership with the Special Mission Aviation Company (SMAC) of the Armor Division. A total of 20 soldiers from the 104th Infantry Battalion completed the course.
The seminar focused on improving coordination between infantry and aviation units, particularly in island environments where air support is critical for security operations, disaster response, and humanitarian missions. Siasi’s strategic location and existing airport infrastructure were cited as key considerations for the training.
Participants underwent instruction on aircraft capabilities and limitations, air-ground coordination, aviation communications, marshalling procedures, meteorology, air traffic control basics, aviation safety, and practical field exercises.
Maj. Al-Qatar A. Kamlian, G8 education and training officer of 11ID, said the program is intended to equip troops with the technical knowledge needed to effectively integrate aviation assets into ground operations.
Closing the seminar, Maj. Ronald Albert R. Tumasis, executive officer of the 104th Infantry Battalion, said the training enhances the unit’s operational readiness in supporting joint air-ground missions.
Maj. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña, commander of the 11th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Orion, said continuous specialization is essential to adapting to evolving operational demands.
“Through initiatives like the AAOS, we strengthen our ability to integrate ground and air assets, enabling faster and more effective responses to security and humanitarian requirements,” Peña said.
The 11ID said the program will be expanded to other units as part of ongoing efforts to improve joint operational capability and readiness across its area of responsibility.