Meeting Paper 10th AACC

10th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (10th ADMM) and Related Meetings hosted and chaired by the Lao People's Army in 2016 Promoting Defence Cooperation for a Dynamic ASEAN Community

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Keynote Address by:
MajGen. Chansamone CHANYALATH
Deputy Minister of the Ministry of National Defence
Vientiane capital, Lao PDR, 03/11/2013 ASEAN Air Chiefs! Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen! On behalf the Ministry of National Defence and the Lao People’s Army, May I extend a very warm welcome and cordial friendship to all ASEAN Air Chiefs and delegates to the land of the Lao PDR. I do hope that you will all enjoy your stay in the Lao PDR. If you need any assistance, please feel free to let me know. Dear ASEAN Air Chiefs! Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen! Today, I am very honored to be invited and presided as the Guest Speaker of the 10th AACC, the first regional conference in which the Lao People’s Army has ever organised in its history. On this auspicious occasion, I would like to express my sincere thanks to the ASEAN Air Chiefs, your governments as well as your people for supporting and trusting the Air Force Department, Ministry of National Defence to host this significant conference. Hosting the 10th AACC in the Lao PDR indicates the duty and responsibility of membership of the Lao PDR as a member of ASEAN. It is also an intention of building understandings, confidence and mutual trust within the ASEAN Air Forces, in order to move toward to a new quality, to handle with challenges, to promote peace and development for the sake of the ASEAN, and to accomplish the target of building the ASEAN Community through the three pillars: the ASEAN Political-Security Community, the ASEAN Economic Community and the ASEAN Cultural-Social Community. The realization of the ASEAN Community by 2015 shares similar visions, that of possessing its own uniqueness, having similar concerns and mutual interests. Besides, holding the 10th AACC in the Lao PDR is an ideal opportunity for all of you to get to know with each other and to also get familiar with historical backgrounds, tradition, culture and way of life of the Lao people. The respective ASEAN Air Chiefs
Distinguished guests, and ladies and gentlemen I would like to take this opportunity to notify that the Lao PDR pursues a comprehensive defence and security policy. That is, the field of defence and security is the duty and contribution of all Lao citizens. This is in order to safeguard independence, sovereignty and all territorial integrity and maintaining stability and social orders of the nation. Such a responsibility is regarded as a critical factor for the socio-economic development process of the Lao PDR in eradicating poverty as well as bringing the country out of a least developed status by the year 2020. The Defence and Security Forces are the key leading force in defending and securing the nation. Of these, the Defence Force or the Army plays a role to defend external invasion, while the Security Force or the Police has a role in maintaining security and social orders. The two forces always work collaboratively; provide mutual support and assistance in accordance with the Comprehensive Defence and Security Policy. Besides, the Lao PDR encompasses local militia to help support and reinforce the Defence and Security Forces in local areas. Regarding to the organizational structure, the Lao People’s Army differs from other countries’. The Lao PDR is comprise of only the Army and the Air Force, while there is no Navy Force since Laos is a landlocked country. In times of peace, the Lao People’s Army has a duty to educate and to be trained, to improve itself and to be alert to any external invasions in times of war. In order to accomplish such an intention, the Lao People’s Army must persevere with its efforts to carry out some of the following strategic tasks: Safeguard the independence, sovereignty and all territorial integrity of the nation.
Maintain the political stability and social orders.
Demonstrate a strong commitment to development for the sake of the country and its people.
Safeguard the territory as the land for friendship, cooperation, trade and development.
Build and upgrade capacities of the Defence Force to develop combat readiness and to handle with any so-called challenges and threats. Contribute to the socio-economic development.
Support and make a contribution to international cooperation in order to promote and maintain peace and stability in the region and the world. In order to pursue the Foreign Policy of the Lao PDR, the Lao People’s Army continues to widen and strengthen relations and cooperation with defence forces of other countries, regardless of political differences; respect for independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations; non-interference in the internal affairs of one another; and respect for equality and mutual benefits afforded by cooperation. The Lao PDR does not authorise any military forces of other foreign countries to deploy their troops in the country -The Lao PDR has its own military forces to only defend itself. The Lao PDR recognizes cooperation in the fields of defence and security in the region, particularly within the framework of the ASEAN Political-Security Cooperation. In recent times, the Lao People’s Army has made an active commitment and contribution to participating in ASEAN Defence activities such as the ASEAN Defence Minister’s Meetings, the ASEAN Defence Minister Plus Meetings, Asia Security Summits, the ASEAN Chiefs of Defence Informal Meetings, and other ASEAN military meetings. The Air Force Department of the Lao People’s Army, in particular, has also participated in the ASEAN Air Chiefs Conferences since the introduction of the first AACC. In this special year, the Lao Air Force of the Ministry of National Defence of the Lao PDR organises the 10th AACC. In addition to this, from 2014 – 2017, the Ministries of the Lao National Defence and Japanese Defence will co-chair the Working Group Meeting on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief of the ASEAN Defence Ministers Plus Meeting. In 2016, we will be the host of the 10th ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting, the ASEAN Chiefs of Defence Informal Meeting and other follow-up meetings of the conferences. Regarding to the relation and cooperation in the defence and security between the Lao PDR and the neighbouring countries, we have generally made positive transitions in many certain areas such as maintaining orders and border security and the establishment of the Joint Committee for the Border and Order Protection. The Committee organises meetings, holds discussions and exchanges information in a regular practice, in order to limit and deter illegal movements on the borders, particularly, the issues of transnational crime, human trafficking, money laundering, illegal trade and so forth. This is in order to build the borders for peace, friendship, cooperation, trade and development. Dear respective ASEAN Air Chiefs Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen The 10th AACC will not only adopt the Terms and Reference of the ASEAN Air Forces Education and Training Working Group of the ASEAN Air Force, but it will also discuss the Proposal of the Lao Air Force on the establishment of Standard Operating Procedures of the ASEAN Air Forces Cooperation on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief. Such a new initiative aims to disseminate and implement the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response, including the use of the Air Forces’ assets and capacities of the ASEAN Member States on HADR Operations that was adopted at the 3rd ADMM, and other ASEAN Agreements on the issue. The proposal of the Lao Air Force, in addition, is to ensure that all operations on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief can be carried out in an effective, appropriate and standardised manner. The respective ASEAN Air Chiefs
Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen Once again, I would like to express a deep thank to you all for your support and trust to make this ASEAN Air Chiefs Conference happen, and I believe that this meeting will be concluded with a good success. Finally, May I wish you a good health and success in your noble tasks. Please have a great time during your stay in the Lao PDR. THANK YOU!

As of 2 November 2013
12:10 PM THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES FOR ASEAN AIR FORCES' COOPERATION ON HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE AND DISASTER RELIEF (DRAFT CONCEPT PAPER) I. Introduction 1. The proposal on the establishment of the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the ASEAN Air Forces’ Cooperation on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) derives from the need to timely and effectively respond to natural disasters that occur frequently in the region such as earthquakes, typhoons, floods, drought, landslides, and volcano eruptions, among others. These natural disasters cause, among others, illness, deaths, displacement of affected people, disruption of agricultural and industrial productions, transport and communication and damage to other economic infrastructures. The effects of large-scale natural disasters can be devastating which no country alone can handle effectively. II. Proposal on the Establishment of the SOP for the ASEAN Air Forces’ Cooperation on HADR
2. Military forces are recognized as an effective tool for HADR operations, especially for emergency relief. In this regard, Air Forces play an important role in searching and rescuing, and delivering aids to victims in affected areas in a timely manner. However, their participation in HADR operations could sometimes lead to misunderstandings, and also encounter many constraints due to lack of proper operating procedure. Therefore, there is a need to explore ways and means to overcome this challenge. One of possible approaches is to establish the SOP for the ASEAN Air Forces’ Cooperation on HADR. 3. The Proposal on the Establishment of the SOP for the ASEAN Air Forces’ Cooperation on HADR is drawn upon from several ASEAN documents such as: 3.1 The ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER) signed on 26 July 2005 in Vientiane, Lao PDR and entered into force on 24 December 2009. 3.2 Standard Operating Procedure for Regional Standby Arrangements and Coordination of Joint Disaster Relief and Emergency Response Operations (SASOP) adopted at the 11th ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management Meeting in March 2008 calls for joint disaster relief and emergency response operations, facilitation and utilization of military and civilian assets and capacities on HADR. 3.3 The Concept Paper on the Use of ASEAN Military Assets and Capacities in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief adopted at the 3rd ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting held in Pattaya, Thailand on 29 February 2009. The Concept Paper aims to enhance effective cooperation of the militaries of the ASEAN Member States on HADR operations to minimize the loss of lives and properties caused by natural and man-made disasters. 3.4 The Concept Paper on the Establishment of Logistics Support Framework adopted at the 7th ADMM in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam on 7 May 2013. The Concept Paper aims to promote and achieve effective cooperation among militaries of the ASEAN Member States through joint response and collective action on issues of mutual interest. 3.5 The ADMM Three-Year Work Program of 2011 – 2013 adopted at the fifth ADMM in Jakarta, Indonesia on 19 May 2011 stipulates the development of the existing cooperation on issues of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. 3.6 The outcome of the 12th ASEAN Chiefs of Armies Multilateral Meeting (12th ACAMM) in Jakarta, Indonesia on 26 October 2012, calling for a common SOP among Armies of ASEAN Member States for HADR operations. 3.7 The Use of ASEAN Military Assets and Capacity in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief concept paper approved at the 10th ACDFIM. This mechanism aids in identifying and mobilizing available assets and capacities for disaster management, which Parties shall earmark on a voluntary basis. III. Objectives of the Establishment of the SOP for the ASEAN Air Forces’ Cooperation on HADR 4. The establishment of the SOP for the ASEAN Air Forces’ Cooperation on HADR aims to provide guidelines in planning and conducting cooperation of Air Forces of ASEAN Member States in HADR operations in an effective and timely manner and to avoid misperceptions on the use of the Air Forces’ assets and capacities of the ASEAN Member States in HADR operations. 5. The establishment and the application of the SOP for the ASEAN Air Forces’ Cooperation on HADR would enhance the ASEAN Member States’ efforts in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, thus contributing to the realization of the ASEAN Community. 6. A working group may be established to draft the SOP for ASEAN Air Forces’ Cooperation on HADR. The SOP may include, among others, the following elements: 6.1 Principles for cooperation in HADR, including the principles of request by or consent of affected country, among others. 6.2 Areas of assistance. 6.3 Inventory of assets and capacities of the Air Forces of the ASEAN Member States. 6.4 Establishment of points of contact of the Air Forces of the ASEAN Member States. 6.5 Deployment and conduct of the HADR operations. 6.6 Operational safety. 6.7 The administration and logistic support. 6.8 Command and control. 6.9 Communication. 6.10 Force integration training. 6.11 Management of the donated supply. IV. Adoption of the Proposal on the Establishment of the SOP for ASEAN Air Forces’ Cooperation on HADR 7. The proposal on the establishment of the SOP for the ASEAN Air Forces Cooperation on HADR, based on consensus, would be submitted for consideration and adoption at the 10th ASEAN Air Chiefs Conference to be held on 3 November 2013 in Vientiane, Lao PDR before submitting it to the ASEAN Chiefs of Defense Forces Informal Meeting (ACDFIM) for endorsement. This proposal should adhere to the existing SOPs, procedures and processes within ASEAN. V. Conclusion 8. The Establishment of the SOP for the ASEAN Air Forces’ Cooperation on HADR provides the guidelines/principles for the ASEAN Air Forces cooperation in supporting HADR operations timely and effectively. ******* (Draft) TERMS OF REFERENCE
ASEAN AIR FORCE EDUCATION AND TRAINING - WORKING GROUP
(AAFET-WG) Aim: To promote, develop and provide education and training collaboration for the ASEAN Air Forces.
Objectives: The objectives of the AAFET-WG are as follows:
a. To share knowledge, experience, expertise and best practices of training system among the ASEAN Air Forces. b. To promote understanding of each other cultures, tradition and values so as to improve relationship.
c. To increase mutual trust and confidence building to improve interoperability among the ASEAN Air Forces. d. To maximize the use of existing infrastructures of the ASEAN Air Forces and achieve the optimization of resources among members. e. To enhance cooperation and professionalism amongst the ASEAN Air Forces at all levels. 3. Name and Organization. The ASEAN Air Forces Education and Training Working Group (AAFET-WG). 4. Scope: The AAFET-WG will only focus on the ASEAN Air Force Education and Training for all levels of the Air Force Personnel. 5. Tasks: The AAFET-WG will focus on the following task: a. To explore opportunities on education and training, both bilaterally and multilaterally. b. To identify suitable education and training activities and facilities that can be shared. c. To discuss possible avenues for training cooperation. d. Member of countries conducting education and training will present the report to the AAFET-WG for discussion. e. To advise respective Chief of Air Forces on the proposed and undertaken activities. f. Chairman of the AAFET-WG will compile and present the report to the AACC. 6. Membership. The AAFET-WG will consist of: a. Permanent Members – maximum of 3 personnel from each country. b. In attendance – maximum of 3 personnel. c. Chairman and secretariat – by host country. 7. Meeting Arrangement a. Meeting Frequency- The meeting shall be chaired by the Chairman of AAFET-WG and be conducted once annually, preferably three months before the AACC or when deem necessary. b. Chairmanship – The chairman of the AAFET-WG should follow the country of the AACC Chairmanship. c. Invitation – The host nation needs to send out invitation, agenda and administrative arrangement programme and activities with reference to the date and venue of activities. d. Meeting span – A meeting span is two days minimum not inclusive travelling day. e. Documentation: (1) Administrative/secretariat services shall be provided by the host country. (2) Minutes of the discussion shall be signed by all members. (3) Secretariat shall provide copies of all meeting documents to all members. 8. Responsibilities/Financial Implication a. Financial arrangement of the AAFET-WG meeting (host country). (1) Hotel accommodation, Meals & local Transportation (Except travel arrangement to and from the host country). (2) Only for 3 Permanent Members of Visiting Delegation (Extra members are welcomed but to be self-funded). b. The financial arrangement for other related education and training will be discussed during the AAFET-WG meeting. *******************

9th ASEAN AIR CHIEFS CONFERENCE 10 – 13 September 2012 Strengthening Security Cooperation of ASEAN Air Forces towards ASEAN Community 2015: Education & Training "Partners in Air Force Education & Training" INTRODUCTION 1. Air Force Education and Training– the RMAF chooses to explore the possibilities of having collaboration on specialized military skill and professional military education (PME) within ASEAN Air Forces. The importance of PME and specific military skill of Air Force personnel are crucial as most of our assets, tools and systems are now becoming more complex and sophisticated hence demand specialization in their application. Furthermore, the current threats and scenarios which are changing and evolving dynamically compare to the conventional threats that we once faced contributed to the need of advanced knowledge and ability. Analysing the way we run our Air Force, undoubtedly we are in need of highly trained and qualified airmen. 2. The RMAF is proposing that all members of ASEAN Air Forces support each other in a ‘partnership’ in education and military training for the benefit of the South East Asian region. The feasible collaboration that could be established are enhancing exchange of best practices in education and training amongst ASEAN Air Forces, conducting courses and training in various specialization, providing subject matter expert in the areas of common interest, having a discussion/seminar or forum to re-look at the current educational and training approach, demonstrating best practices in training and education, sharing facilities and infrastructure; and many more. 3. Collectively, such collaboration will further strengthen the existing relation within ASEAN and promote security and peace in the region. In future, Air Forces of ASEAN will be at par and operating in resonance to one another in terms of knowledge, skills, specialization and technique. OBJECTIVES 4. With this clear direction and approach the objectives are as follows: a. To build mutual understanding in the aspect of education and training. b. To create opportunities and reap mutual benefits. c. To promote and enhance direct and indirect cooperation. d. To share knowledge, experience and related information. e. To learn from each other in all aspects. f. To narrow existing capacity gaps. SCOPE 5. On the basis of common interest and mutual benefits, the scope of this partnership although not exhaustive shall among others include the followings: a. Best practices in training and education (Untrained to skilled, trainer to leader). b. Innovative curriculum (syllabus, evaluation, auditing). c. Automation: Computer Aided Training & Online. d. Sharing of facilities and infrastructure. e. Exchange of courses. CONCLUSION 6. The ASEAN Air Chiefs Conference being the premier forum for the ASEAN Chiefs and Commanders of Air Force has proven itself to be one of the most effective platform towards achieving closer cooperation. 7. Consequently, this opportunity for interactions shall also be maximised to build rapport for both present and future leaders. Ultimately, this is with the aim of raising the ASEAN Air Forces level of professionalism to be at par with one another as stipulated within the ASEAN Community 2015

Speech ,H E, Lt Gen Soeung Samnang, Commander of Royal Cambodian Air Force for 10th ASEAN Air Chiefs Conference My respects to: His Excellency Chairman of the Conference!
Excellencies Commanders of all ASEAN Air Forces!
Ladies and gentlemen! It is undeniably the great pride and honour for the Royal Cambodian Air Forces as well as for me that I can stand here at the today’s 10th ASEAN Air Chiefs Conference. I would on this occassion like to extend my profound thanks to His Excellency Lao PDR’s Air Forces Commander, also as Chairman of this Conference, for inviting me to participate in this significant meeting. As you have been aware of, the primary purpose of the today’s conference is to discuss the draft Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the ASEAN Air Forces’ Cooperation on Humanitarian Assitance and Disaster Relief (HADR), which will be served as a crucial instrument for the ASEAN Air Forces’ operations to timely and effectively respond to natural disasters that frequently occur in our ASEAN region, including among others earthquakes, storms, floods, draughts, landslides, volcano eruptions and Tsunami. These natural disasters cause, among others,epidemic, illnesses, deaths, displacement of affected people and destruction to areas such as agriculture, industry, economy, road network and infrastructures. The effects of natural disasters can be devasting which no one country can handle effectively by its own. In this context, it is important to maintain a regional cooperation, particularly among the air forces. Military forces are known as an effective tool to implement the HADR, and, based on this, the air forces play an essential role in timely locating, searching and rescuing and delivering aid to vicitims in affected areas caused by natural disasters. However, the air forces counter during certain circumstances a number of challenges due to the absence of a SOP. To assure successful completion of the missions, the establishment of a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the ASEAN Air Forces’ Cooperation on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) is a must. In my capacity as a commander of the Kingdom of Cambodia’s Air Forces, I delightedly express my full support for the proposed creation of the SOP and would like to take this opportunity to raise some opinions for consideration to better contribute to the production of this paper as follows: Principles for Cooperation in HADR While some countries in the Southeast Asian region have encountered frequent natural disasters, it is indispensable that following principles are to be set up to respond to the need of cooperation in the delivery of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief for the ASEAN Air Forces’ response to disasters: - To adopt a mechanism within the framework of ASEAN Air Forces, which is designed to provide coordination for the cooperation in the humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations,
- To provide diplomatic facilitation to enable visa and tax exemption for members of the mission for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations,
- To provide reciprocal cooperation save the victims in natural disaster relief within the ASEAN and Indo-Pacific regions, - To strengthen cooperation and enhance the capacity of the ASEAN Air Forces responsible in HADR, and especially to build ability in strength to provide training for young officers of the Air Forces to respond the obligation on humanitarian assistance disaster relief. - To ensure the assignment of relief work is in line with proper and precise standard procedures to make sure that means and resources are effectively employed in targeted areas in order to minimize operating costs and time. Areas of Assistance ASEAN Air Forces could engage in the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations in certain areas as follows: - Help ASEAN members countries upon request for assistance of affected countries caused by natural disasters,
- Help countries in the Indo-Pacific region upon request for assistance in such circumstance of natural disasters, - Help other affected countries caused by natural disasters upon request of the United Nations . Inventory of Assets and capacities of the Air Force of the ASEAN Member States The Air Forces of the 10 ASEAN member countries differ potentially in terms of their resources and air transportation. The countries with more potentials and resources should contribute them more significantly for better results of the operations while their counterparts should provide forces and means according to their respective ability. Thus, it is necessary that we clearly determine the quantity of transportation and forces required for the emergency operations. Similarly, the capacity of each air forces of the ASEAN member countries also varies from one country to another. For effective and timely operations, therefore, the Air Forces of the ASEAN member countries should develop a mechanism for training the Air Forces, sharing their experiences and enhancing their capacities to assure success in the field of the Cooperation on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief. In this regard,only for the volunteer country should be organized the relief exercise bi-annually among the Air Forces of the ASEAN member countries, classifying it into Command Post Exercise (CPX) and Field Training Exercise (FTX). Establishment of Points of Contact (POC) Cambodia has a department in charge of the ASEAN affairs which is an arm of the Ministry of National Defense. The function of the department is to facilitate the conduct of ASEAN affairs for the three forces of the Cambodian Armed Forces, and a POC is also available in the Royal Cambodian Air Forces. In conclusion, I firmly believe that the establishment of SOP for the ASEAN Air Forces’ Cooperation on HADR will be undoubtedly helpful in the timely and effective delivery of the relief interventions. Once again, I would like to convey my heartfelt thanks to H.E. Commander of Lao PDR’s Air Forces and his colleagues for their warm welcome, and, in particular, for their affable hospitality offered to our delegates. Last but not least, I wish this conference a success in achieving an effective SOP and may I wish excellencies commanders of Air Forces of the ASEAN member countries and your delegates and those who are present at this conference good health and success in every task assigned. Thanks you for your attention

INDONESIAN AIR FORCE CHIEF OF STAFF DRAFT
ON THE 10TH ASEAN AIR CHIEFS CONFERENCE 2013
ABOUT
THE INDONESIAN AIR FORCE ROLE OF ENGAGEMENT IN TERMS OF MANAGEMENT OF NATURAL DISASTERS IN INDONESIA The Honorable, Chiefs of Air Force Department, Ministry of National Defence Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Colonel Khamphat Phimmahaxay as the host of the ASEAN Air Chiefs Conference 2013 Respected ASEAN Air Force Chiefs of Staff,
Senior Officers, Ladies and Gentlemen. First of all, let us offer our thanks to God almighty because of his grace and bless, we can gather here to conduct THE 10TH ASEAN AIR CHIEFS CONFERENCE 2013. It is a truly honor for me to be here and have a great opportunity to join with all the participants of the ASEAN AIR CHIEFS CONFERENCE. Furthermore, I would also like to convey my deepest gratitude to the Chief of Staff of the Air Force Lao People's Democratic Republic, Colonel Khamphat Phimmahaxay, for his invitation to this conference, as well as his hospitality given to us. According to the theme “Partners for Peace and Development” that the partnership cooperation particularly in implementing mitigation of natural disasters is very important and necessary for countries in the ASEAN region by providing adequate assistance to ease the burden on countries that are experiencing a disaster. Some experience prove that the Air Force has a very important role in carrying out the humanitarian assistance and handling of natural disasters. ASEAN Air Forces need to have a Standard Operating Procedures that regulate the cooperation and involvement of the Air Force strength to handle a disaster in a state. I hope this forum can be a mean to continue to build friendship and exchange experiences in conducting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. On this occasion I will present the Indonesian Air Force experiences that play a role in the response to natural disasters. Ladies and Gentlemen, As we all know that the position of Indonesia is geologically located on the line of Ring of Fire. It is a zone where there are a lot of seismic activities which consists of a volcanic arc and trenches in the bottom of the seas. Moreover, the Indonesian position is also located at the intersection of four plates, the Eurasian plate, the Indo Australian, Pacific and Philipine plates as well as lies in the tropical climate. Such conditions are not only beneficial but also potentially prone to disasters such as volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, landslides, forest fires and drought. One of the natural disasters effecting huge casualties was the Tsunami in Aceh and north Sumatera that was caused by an earthquake or volcanic eruption on the sea. Like Tsunami in Aceh and North Sumatra on December 26th, 2004 at 7:58:53 pm, it was a devastating earthquake which occurred in the Indian Ocean, off the west coast of Aceh. The epicenter was located at 3.316° N longitude 95 854° E, approximately 160 km west of Aceh as deep as 10 kilometers. The magnitude was 9.3 on Richter scale, and it was the worst earthquake ever happened in the last 40 years that hit Aceh, North Sumatra, even to the West Coast of Malaysia Peninsular, Thailand, East Coast of India, Sri Lanka, and the East Coast of Africa which caused approximately 230,000 deaths in 8 states. The casualties in Indonesia have reached approximately 126,000 people. Likewise the earthquake that occurred in Yogyakarta and Central Java on May 27th, 2006 at 5:53 pm, the earthquake measured 5.9 Richter scale hit the southern side of Java island. The quake was centered in the Indian Ocean, approximately 33 kilometers South of Bantul District, Yogyakarta Province. The main quake lasted for approximately 52 seconds and was followed by several smaller scale quakes causing the lives of 5,716 people killed, 37,927 people were injured and destroyed hundred thousands of homes. Similarly happened in West Sumatera on Wednesday, September 30th, 2009 at 17:16:10 pm, an earthquake measuring 7.6 on Richter Scale with its epicenter 57 km to the southwest of Pariaman City (00,84 South Latitude 99.65 East Longitude) on depth (hiposentrum) 71 km caused severe damage in several areas in West Sumatra. At least 1,117 people were killed, seriously injured reached 1,214 people, 1,688 people were lightly injured, one lost victim, 135,448 homes were severely damaged, 65,380 houses were medium damaged, and 78,604 homes with minor damage. There are still many other natural disasters that occurred in Indonesia over the last ten years as Nias earthquake in 2005, floods in Aceh in 2006, the disaster caused by Mount Merapi in Yogyakarta in 2010, the Earthquake and Tsunami in Mentawai in 2010, Floods that occurred in Wasior, Papua in 2010 and many more natural disasters that happened in Indonesia which has resulted in substantial losses. In the event of a natural disaster in the Indonesian region, hence allowing for humanitarian disaster relief from foreign or Indonesian state can provide assistance in case of natural disasters in other countries. For the implementation of foreign aid receipts must be preceded by a request for assistance (declare) from the government of Indonesia to foreign countries after getting national policy political decision or in accordance with laws and regulations. ASEAN Air Force Chiefs of Staff, Ladies and Gentlemen, Seeing the number of natural disasters in Indonesia, the natural disaster that occurred in accordance with the mandate of Republic of Indonesia Act No. 24 of 2007 on disaster management, the response will be coordinated by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) as the agency directly responsible to the president. Whereas disaster management in the province/district/city, organized by the Regional Disaster Management Agencies (BPDB), chaired by the governor/regent/ mayor. As the implementation of preparedness to cope with natural disasters are extreme, which can not be overcome by local government, then rapid reaction unit of disaster management (SRC-PB) was formed with the aim of helping local governments to act quickly and emergency response in disaster areas, such as technical assistance, equipment, and logistical support. SRC-PB is a joint unit of various agencies or related agencies (including the Air Force in it) that are driven to take action early on emergency response activities. SRC-PB sources consist of 75 personnel on ALERT status, 550 CORE personnel and 3,000 STRENGTHENING personnel. In the implementation, SRC-PB divided into two headquarters, Rapid Response Disaster Relief Unit (SRC-PB) based in Halim PK Air Force Base, Jakarta to respond to natural disasters in the western region of Indonesia and SRC-PB based in Abdulrachman Saleh Air Force Base in Malang to respond to natural disasters occurred in eastern Indonesia. Natural disaster management is a shared responsibility of all components and Indonesian society, including the involvement of the Indonesian Defence Force (TNI) as mentioned in our law, set out in Article 7 of Law No. 34 of 2004 about TNI (Indonesian Armed Forces), one of the main tasks that TNI is to protect all people and the entire homeland of Indonesia from any disorders or threats that wants to disturb the integrity of our nation. One of the main tasks is carried with Military Operations Other Than War, that is by Humanitarian aid and disaster relief, assisting the refugees, and helping with the search and rescue in an accident. The Indonesian Air Force is an integral part of the Indonesian Defence Armed Force is to be prepared to carry out the tasks. The Indonesian Air Force roles in disaster management are: First, deploy Indonesian Air Force assets in the form of its equipment, namely air transport, Communication Equipment/Mobile Communication, Air Base Depo Ligistic, Air Medical Equipment, and Air Traffic Control. Second, deploy a personnel team on the field, equipment Operator Team, Community Empowerment Team, Medical Team, Search and Rescue Team, Aerial Photography Team, Aircraft Crew and Logistics Team. The role of the above, implemented with the following principles: 1. Universal, include neutrality, impartiality, humanity, regulations and requirements that are standard and universally applicable with respect to fairness, equality before the law and government, balance and harmony, order and the rule of law, solidarity, environmental sustainability science and technology. 2. Quick Response in evacuation and humanitarian aid. Should be implemented as soon as possible to help victims in the field in a timely manner, the right amount, and the right support. 3. Interoperability. To achieve unity of direction, uniformity of action and the effective-ness of interoperability required for policy making, planning, implementation, evaluation and development. 4. Underlying national interests of national defense, developed based on the principles of democracy, human rights, public welfare, the environment, national laws, international laws and customs international and principles of peaceful coexistence with respect to geographical condition of Indonesia as an archipelago. ASEAN Air Force Chiefs of Staff, Ladies and Gentlemen, In this opportunity I would like to convey the mechanism of disaster response in Indonesia. Mechanisms in disaster response begins since the BNPB receive a report from the Geology, Meteorologi and Klimatotologi Agency (BMKG) as an element of disaster early-detection in Indonesia.
Disaster Rapid Response Unit (SRC PB) BNPB then ordered to perform emergency response by performing duties and functions which include : assessment, initial aid and reporting.
The result of the Assessment is information on the extent of damage, the impact of disasters, and the ability of local governments to cope the impact of disasters that will be used by BNPB to determine the levels of disaster.
If the disaster is considered as a local level, which means that the level of damage and the impact of disasters can be addressed by the local/district government, BNPB will form an Incident Command System (ICS) in district level. The Incident Commander (IC) will officially be appointed by BNPB. It can be the head of district or other designated official.
If the disaster could not be overcome by the district level, and it can be addressed by the provincial government, the BNPB will establish an ICS at provincial level, the IC can be local governor or other designated official.
Similarly, if the disaster cannot be addressed by the provincial government, the BNPB will report to the President and the president shall declare the disaster as a national disaster. BNPB then form an ICS in national level. In extreme situations, in which the Indonesian government overwhelmed in dealing with the disasters itself, the President will acknowledge receipt of foreign aid in the national disaster management.
To support and coordinate foreign assistance to Indonesia, then BNPB will set up the Multi Agency Center (MAC). MAC serves to regulate and determine the mechanism of entry of foreign aid which includes the delivery of information about everything that is needed by the affected areas and the relief available of countries helpers to the ICS.
There is an ASEAN Humanitarian Assistance Center (AHA - C) which will coordinate all the aids come from ASEAN countries. While foreign aid that comes from other than ASEAN members, in addition to using the AHA Center, can take advantage from the existing bilateral relations, or the use of military relations between the defense attache. Operations that have been conducted by the Indonesian Air Force in a natural disaster are Rapid Damage Assessment (Air Mapping), Air dropping, Air Lift, Air Search and Rescue, Air Medical Evacuation, Air Evacuation, Air command & control, Communication, Air Base Logistic, Air Transport, Air Observation and Flight clearance/protocols. In support of the implementation of such operations, the Air Force deployed great air power, an overview is when the Tsunami disaster in Aceh was noted that the use of air power is as many as 23 aircraft consisting of B-737 transport aircraft, C-130, F-27, CN-235, C-212, SA-330/NAS-332 helicopter and fighter aircraft OV-10 as observers. 8 involving air base, 3 radar units and 2,740 Air Force personnel. Recapitulation of the Air Force aircraft flight activity on December 27 until March 27, 2005 was as much as 1,316 sorties, the number of aircraft flying hours as much as 2,911 hours, with as many as 26.963.894 kg carrying as many as 23,638 people and personnel. In humanitarian assistance activities carried out in Aceh, the Indonesian Air Force has been carrying out cooperation with other countries, involving 123 aircraft from several countries, including ASEAN countries, with the number of sortie as many as 6,013 sorties, transporting goods and personnel as much as 2,429,634 kg 20 864 people. Ladies and Gentlemen, Of experience in organizing humanitarian relief and mitigation of natural disasters that occurred in Indonesia and in other countries, there are several things to note, namely: 1. That in any event of natural disaster will involve a number of aircraft and sortie so great that need to be observed in the handling and management arrangements to be implemented well, smooth, and safe. 2. To anticipate a similar incident in the future and in order to be able to provide personnel manning the main equipment weapon system used, the education and training needs to be implemented on a regular basis by involving the air forces of ASEAN countries, so that personnel directly involved in disaster management possess the qualifications national and or international standards. 3. Air Force other countries will provide assistance should convey what support will be provided and coordinated by the state to be assisted. 4. Affected countries can apply the necessary assistance needs. 5. Granting relief from ASEAN air forces can not be separated from the coordination of humanitarian and disaster relief assistance already established ASEAN and individual ASEAN countries form the Air Force Cooperation. 6. Particularly for aircraft that ASEAN countries that will provide assistance in disaster relief, are to be permitted across any airspace of the country in the ASEAN region with the requisite prior notice. 7. Local Air Force will set up help and support in the form of Ground Handling and Parking for each aircraft of ASEAN air forces and assist to prepare for the state licensing passing. ASEAN Air Force Chiefs of Staff, Ladies and Gentlemen. Before concluding my remarks, I hope that we all can dedicateour efforts in realizing ASEAN Air Forces cooperation in implementing the Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief by always promoting the spirit of solidarity, balanced interests, shared respect and not intervening each other. I also look forward to realizing the Standard Operating Procedures for HADR that can be used as a foundation for the implementation. I hope this conference will also be able to immediately realized a document that can serve as the basis for cooperation in the field of education and training for ASEAN Air Force personnel. Hopefully, this ASEAN Air Chiefs Conference 2013 can run smoothly and the ASEAN Air Forces cooperation will be more improved. God bless us all. Amen. Thank you. Vientiane, November 2013 Chief of Staff, Indonesian Air Force IB Putu Dunia Air Chief Marshal

ASEAN AIR FORCES COOPERATION IN HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE AND DISASTER RELIEF OPERATION (HADR)
BY GENERAL TAN SRI DATO’ SRI RODZALI BIN DAUD RMAF
10TH AACC LAO PDR ON 3 NOVEMBER 2013 INTRODUCTION 1. I take this opportunity to congratulate the Chief of Air Force of Lao PDR for hosting the 10th ASEAN Air Chief Conference and I would also like to thank you for extending an invitation to the RMAF. I am grateful to be able to attend this annual conference of the ASEAN Air Force Chiefs. 2. Air Forces possess the attributes of speed and range. They can reach disaster-hit areas in the region within short period of time. Coupled with a suitable platform, goods and services can be air lifted into the affected areas, reaching the victims of any disaster that race against time for their survival. As ASEAN region lies within the natural disaster prone area, the Air Forces in the region have important roles to play in the HADR operations. 3. In this regard I hope to share with all of you the RMAF experiences in our involvement of HADR operations. RMAF EXPERIENCES 4. RMAF has had numerous opportunities in the HADR operation be it nationally, regionally as well as globally. Although Malaysia is not situated within the disaster prone areas, nevertheless we do experienced natural disasters such as tsunami, floods, landslide, and other man-made crises such as structural collapses, fire outbreaks and haze. In all those disasters, RMAF had been involved in providing the air support that is crucially needed through various air missions. The RMAF has been consistently providing flood relief operation for regions that are affected by flood during monsoon season. 5. At the regional front, the RMAF involves in delivering aid and supplies to our neighbouring countries. Examples are as shown in slide. The latest was the earthquake relief mission to Negros of Philippines on 18 Oct 13 which involved 2 x C130H aircrafts, airlifting the payload of 24,500 kg, includes tents, family kit and clothing provided by the World Food Program based in Subang. 6. At the global front RMAF also involved in such operation including providing the airlift to Muzafarabad, Pakistan in 2005 for the victims of earthquake, cyclone Sidr in Bangladesh in 2007, earthquake in Sichuan, China in 2008, and earthquake in Haiti in 2010. In February 2011, the RMAF involved in the evacuation of Malaysian citizens in Egypt that succeeded in flying home of 3,482 persons. In September 2011, the RMAF was also involved in HADR to Somalia. These experiences prove that the RMAF has the capability to contribute and participate in HADR operation when called upon to do so. LESSONS AND CHALLENGES FOR RMAF / MALAYSIA 7. Rapid Response. RMAF puts in place the desired assets to respond to any HADR missions. Relevant assets such as C130H and S61 helicopters can be tasked between 1 to 2 hours. However, other issues outside our control have been our main hindrance to provide near rapid response to HADR missions. Among the issues identified would be the delay of instruction received from the requesting agency relative to the actual time of disaster. This could be due to late request by the affected countries and unclear support requirement needed. While the RMAF can preliminary prepare flight mission on receiving disaster news, the exact information required for filing flight diplomatic clearance is still needed. This information includes route to be flown, destination airfield information, loads and passengers declaration etc. 8. Coordination. In ensuring the success in the HADR operations, the coordination factor is an important feature. In Malaysian context, the National Security Council is responsible in providing the details of information about the operation. At the armed forces level, requirement for military deployment is coordinated through MAF Defence Operation Centre which coordinates, among others, the diplomatic clearances, the assemble of loads including personnel and equipment to be deployed. Then, all those information will be channelled through the Air Force Operation Centre (AFOC) for the respective unit to execute the mission. Coordination at various levels is time consuming, besides differing requirements of individual agencies involved and accommodating their priorities are of great challenge. In addition, timely information is also crucial for the deployment of air asset. Hence, a closer coordination among agencies is a key to the smooth deployment of RMAF assets. 9. Receiving Airfield Facilities. For the smooth delivery of rescue personnel, equipment, food and medical supplies, the receiving airfield/airport should be as near as possible to the disaster affected areas. However, this may not be always the case. In contrast, the closest airfield may not have the necessary landing aid, ample parking space, loading and unloading as well as cargo storage facilities. Case in point was tsunami operation in Aceh. In order to facilitate smooth air operation and cargo handling the assisting nation had to deploy receiving teams to help coordinate ground activities and deliver goods and equipment to the needy victims. Additional assets such as helicopters were then deployed to facilitate faster delivery of aid to the affected areas. WAY FORWARD 10. We the Air Chiefs of Air Forces in our region are recommended to chart our way forward in addressing the disasters that may happen in the future. By this, there is a need for us to work out and put our thoughts together in finding effective cooperation mechanism in dealing with HADR operations. Our closeness and understanding of each other may help reducing some of our national bureaucracies, besides streamlining our actions in addressing the disasters when they occur. 11. Basing on the document of Standard Operating Procedures for Regional Standby Arrangement and Coordination of Joint Disaster Relief and Emergency Response Operations (SASOP) adopted at 11th ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management Meeting in March 2008, there is a need for ASEAN Air Forces to formulate a SOP on utilization of air assets and respond to HADR operations. In this regard, RMAF would like to offer some ideas on the development of Air Operations SOP. a. SASOP-Chapter VI provides the framework, which may include utilization of air asset in HADR. The elements proposed on the draft concept paper are certainly useful for consideration such as equipment listing, capability listing as well as point of contact. In addition, ASEAN Air Forces should be opened to direct communication so as to enhance understanding and facilitate air operations among member countries. b. Capacity building. ASEAN Air Forces would require enhancing their capacity in HADR operation. One area that needs attention is the listing of assets, which can be deployed for HADR missions. This is in line with the requirements of SASOP – Annex C. RMAF would like to propose that a join exercise on HADR among member states to be formulated and conducted so as to facilitate inter-operability and enhance coordination and understanding. c. Emergency Response/Search and Rescue Directory requires the listing of key agencies, roles and functions and more importantly contact details of personnel should be provided in the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA) website. d. The bureaucracy needs to be reduced through the Air Staff Channel so that the decision-making processes can be made faster. e. The system of distributions of aid and supplies are required to be studied into to improve the work processes. The aiding nations in the disaster relief must build on the self-sufficiency with disaster relief teams at affected location to help enhance coordination. WHAT MALAYSIA/RMAF CAN OFFER 12. The RMAF is scheduled to take delivery of Airbus A400M in 2015. This aircraft is capable to uplift with a maximum payload of up to 81,600 Ib. The range is virtually unlimited with its air-to-air refuelling capability. This aircraft is able to operate from unpaved airstrips with short take-off capabilities as well as to carry the outsize cargo such as EC-725 helicopters. With the inclusion of this aircraft type, the RMAF shall have more capability and capacity to conduct HADR missions more effectively. 13. As for Malaysia, the Subang Air Base is on its way of becoming the hub for HADR operations in the region. This is because this base is the home of C130H and A400M aircrafts. It also provides the ground handling facilities for transport aircraft staging or transiting to and from the disaster affected areas. Subang is also able to provide storage facilities for cargoes in transition. 14. World Food Programme (WFP) (United Nations Humanitarian Response Depot {UNHRD}). In Malaysia, we have the UNHRD, an establishment that comes under the United Nations and one of five World Food Program organizations in the world. This UNHRD has the capability in responding quickly towards humanitarian aid with its strategic partners. In fact, this organization is situated within the Subang Air Base compound. 15. In Malaysia, we have the Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART). It is an establishment comes directly under the National Security Council of the Prime Minister’s Department. The mission of the SMART is to establish, maintain and advance a highly proficient and specialized SAR team that is capable of responding to various disaster situations. Beside the SAR operations, SMART is ready to respond to any complicated rescue operation that require special equipment or expertise. CONCLUSION 16. In conclusion, the success and effectiveness of disaster management effort depend on the cooperation, understanding and ability of all agencies/departments to carry out their responsibilities. Later on, the existence the SOP will enhance the effectiveness of the operations especially for the ASEAN Air Forces. The RMAF is proudly representing Malaysia in executing the HADR operation regionally and globally. It has proven capability to successfully carry out its assigned mission. The past experiences in HADR missions have enriched the organisation in facing future operation more effectively.

STRENGTHENING SECURITY COOPERATION OF ASEAN AIR CHIEFS TOWARDS ASEAN COMMUNITY 2015: HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE AND DISASTER RELIEF Presentation of Lt. Gen. Lauro Catalino G. Dela Cruz AFP Commanding General, Philippine Air Force
10th ASEAN Air Chiefs Conference
03 November 2013, Sunday, Vientiane, Lao PDR (Slide 1) My counterpart Air Chiefs in the region, distinguished delegates, good morning. At the outset, allow me (Click CG name) to express my gratitude and appreciation to our gracious host, Col Khampat Phimmahaxay, the Chief of the Air Force Department of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, for hosting this 10th ASEAN Air Chiefs Conference here at Vientiane. (Slide 2) This year’s topic of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief truly reflects the call of the times. (Slide 3) Last August, a sea tragedy occurred in Central Philippines where a passenger ship collided with a cargo vessel that resulted in the loss of (Click) 116 lives and an estimated Php 6.5 million damages in the environment. Barely three days after, the Philippines was hit (Slide 4) by Typhoon Maring which left (Click) 25 people dead, affected 2.9 million people and damaged infrastructure and agriculture worth more than Php 633 million. (Slide 5) A month later, in September, our country was battered by another typhoon named “Odette,” which left (Click) 30 people dead, affected 167,367 others and destroyed crops and properties worth Php 59.54 million. These recent events underline (Slide 6) once more the truth (Click) that in disasters no preparation is sufficient, but (Click), cooperation for disaster response can spell the difference in the lives of many. Our exchange, therefore (Slide 7), provides an excellent opportunity for us not only to share HADR approaches but also to shape our HADR cooperative efforts. And as the Chief of the Philippine Air Force, it is indeed my pleasure to present our HADR practices covering the following points. (Slide 8) The Philippines, being situated in the Pacific ring of fire (Click) and Pacific belt of typhoons is one of the most hazard-prone countries in the world with twenty (20) earthquakes recorded per day. (Slide 9) Annually, 20 typhoons/cyclones hit our Area of Responsibility (AOR). Flooding is also a normal occurrence, usually with heavy damages to life and property. (Slide 10) Among ASEAN countries, we rank number one in typhoon/cyclones, (Click) number 3 in earthquakes, (Click) and number 5 in floods. (Slide 11) And in terms of average annual economic losses (Click), we are the 2nd highest in the region. Given our inherent vulnerabilities, our government passed into law (Slide 12) Republic Act 10121 in 2010, better known as the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act. (Slide 13) The policy framework for the Philippine DRRM covers four operational areas, namely, (Click) disaster prevention and mitigation, (Click) disaster preparedness, (Click) disaster response and (Click) disaster rehabilitation and recovery. (Click) The ultimate goal is to achieve a “safer, adaptive and disaster-resilient Philippines.” (Slide 14) The primary implementing body is the (Click), National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), and execution of our disaster response rests with (Click) the Office of Civil Defense (OCD). Both are chaired (Click) by the Secretary of National Defense. At the level (Click) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the structure for HADR looks as shown on this slide. (Slide 15) As part of this setup, the Philippine Air Force is organized with its own Disaster Response Units (DRUs) as shown. (Slide 16) Principally because of our dedicated mission aircraft, the government counts on the Philippine Air Force for aerial (Click) search and rescue, (Click) among others, particularly in the aftermath of a typhoon or major calamity. (Slide 17) Our planes likewise deliver big relief cargoes to remote or inaccessible areas. In December last year, when typhoon Pablo (Click) vented its fury across Northeastern Mindanao in Southern Philippines, our C-130 aircraft, together with other air assets, (Click) completed 155 sorties and delivered critically-needed relief goods amidst inclement weather. (Slide 18) Incidentally, the massive destruction wrought by Typhoon Pablo turned the Philippines into the most disaster-affected country in the world in 2012. (Slide 19) In this regard, on behalf of our people, I express our sincerest gratitude to our ASEAN neighbors, for providing assorted goods and medical supplies during our time of need. (Slide 20) Normally employed for combat utility missions, our helicopters, also play a crucial role in times of calamities, particularly enabling relief workers to access remote, hard-to-reach places, or when roads get cut off by floods. (Click) On the ground, our Disaster Response Units (DRU’s) provide lifesaving assistance through the various Tactical Operations Groups, as well as the air base wings all over the country. (Slide 21)While the Philippine Air Force maintains first response capabilities for any disaster within our country, (Click) we are also always ready and willing to assist neighbors during disasters and calamities. (Slide 22 - Way Ahead) My fellow Air Chiefs, we all know that coping with the challenge of natural disasters goes beyond the capacity of any single country. (Slide 23) We are therefore fortunate that the ASEAN has already spearheaded HADR initiatives such as the establishment of an ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response, or AADMER and the ASEAN Coordinating Center for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management, or AHA Center. At the Philippine Air Force, we have actually started a practical mechanism (Slide 24) for undertaking any agreed activity with a sister air force. (Click) It is called Airman-to-Airman talks as a means to enhance bilateral relations among Air Forces at the staff level. (Slide 25) We are also running a (Click) Junior Officer Exchange Program designed to build closer relations among young officers in our region early on. (Slide 26) In 2010, we began a search and rescue training activity (SARTA) with the Royal Malaysian Air Force consisting of search and rescue for downed aircraft where one country will play as unit in distress and the other country will provide the search and rescue personnel and equipment. (Slide 27) The success of this activity, done every two years, has led to a similar undertaking with the Indonesian Air Force. A planning conference is scheduled between the two countries by January next year, and we expect its execution by March of 2014. (Slide 28) Only last 17-20 June 2013, the first ever Joint HADR and Military Medicine Exercise, co-hosted by Brunei and Singapore, brought together all ASEAN members and eight (8) ADMM Dialogue Partners. The Philippines is proud to have been an active participant in this historic event with our (Click) 17-man contingent composed of planners, water and rescue team, and medical team. (Slide 29) It is indeed apparent that HADR is our shared commitment. To work towards that, (Slide 30) we need to agree to the SOP of ASEAN Air Forces Cooperation on HADR. (Click) We also need to adopt the Terms of Reference of the ASEAN Air Forces Education and Training Working Group so our officers at various levels could progressively interact and build on our common values. (Slide 31) HADR is likewise our collective responsibility. (Slide 32) After all, rich or poor, big or small, we are all vulnerable to disasters, and where our survival is at stake, never doubt that collaboration and understanding lay the foundation for a better future. (Click) At this point, allow me to thank all of you, particularly the ranking members who ushered and welcomed me last year into this privileged circle of ASEAN Air Chiefs. I appreciate especially those with whom I shared precious times in other official and personal engagements, in Manila or elsewhere. (Click) With you, I learned and gained a personal wealth of insight as I shared as much of my own views about our Air Forces. (Slide 33)As this marks my last official engagement here at the ASEAN Air Chiefs Conference (Click), I bid our Air Forces the warmest of winds and strongest of ties that bind us all at the ASEAN. (Slide 34) Khawp jai lai lai (Thank you very much in Lao).Maraming Salamat at Mabuhay.

Presentation of the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Air Force
10th ASEAN Air Chiefs’ Conference in Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic 3 November 2013 Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, It is my honour to attend the ASEAN Air Chiefs’ Conference two-thousand thirteen in Vientiane. / I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the Lao People's Democratic Republic / and all staff officers for the warm welcome / and hospitality extended to us since our arrival. / Today, / on behalf of the Royal Thai Air Force, / I would like to give a presentation on “ASEAN Air Forces’ Cooperation on HADR.” / You might have already known that / at present, / natural disasters occur more and more often / and tend to be more severe, / whether they are caused by global warming or whatever reasons. / It can be said that there is a tendency / that natural disasters can occur in every part of the world. / The following presentation briefly shows the impacts of major natural disasters / in the Asia-Pacific region / and their consequence / on mankind these recent years.
- The Philippines: / Typhoons and depressions cause floods and casualties among civilians / of at least one-hundred thousand to three-hundred thousand people each year. / And sometimes, / the country faces volcano eruptions / resulting in an evacuation of around ten-thousand people. /
- Indonesia: / In two-thousand four, / an earthquake created a tsunami / affecting two-hundred thousand people, / with tens of thousands of people reported missing. / In two-thousand thirteen, / a volcano eruption caused an evacuation of four thousand people. /
- Vietnam: / Flood from annual typhoons and depressions affects around one-hundred thousand people. /
- Laos: / The country was struck by typhoon, / affecting one-hundred thousand people. /
- Cambodia: In two-thousand eleven, / there were casualties from flood among civilians of one point five million people, / leaving twenty thousand people homeless.
- Myanmar: / In two-thousand thirteen, / the Myanmese government had to evacuate thirty thousand people as a result of typhoon. /
- Japan: / In two-thousand eleven, / a tsunami affected hundreds of thousand people, with around four thousand people reported missing. /
- Thailand: / In two-thousand and four, / a tsunami in Southern part of the country affected hundred thousand people, / with around three thousand people reported missing. / During the past several years, / there have been major natural disasters causing damages to millions of people in the Asia-Pacific region. / These are considered a great loss of mankind. / The Royal Thai Air Force has potential and readiness / to provide the assistance in disaster relief overseas / both in the ASEAN framework / and the UN framework. / I will give you some examples of the Royal Thai Air Force missions / including aircraft used. /
1. Air Transport Mission mainly by C-130 /
2. Cargo Airdrop Mission by C-130 /
3. Medical Air Transport Mission by C-130, / Air Bus, / Bell-412 / and UH-1H /
4. Wildfire Control Mission by C-130 / and BT-67 /
5. Medical Services Mission by Mobile Hospital / The following slides show examples of the assistance in disaster relief / provided by the Royal Thai Air Force, / both domestically and internationally. / This slide shows the air transport mission to Myanmar in the aftermath of Cyclone Nargis. /
This slide shows the air transport mission in the aftermath of the tsunami in Thailand. /
This slide shows the medical assistance in the aftermath of the earthquake in Iran. /
This slide shows the air transport mission to Japan in the aftermath of the tsunami. / The abovementioned examples of disaster relief missions done by the Royal Thai Air Force / have given us opportunities to learn lessons / on HADR and share them with the next generations, / so that they can study, / develop, / and practice / to be ready for any kind of disasters. / I would like to give you some examples of the lesson learned as follow. / Lesson 1: / There are no operations tackling major global disasters without the use of aircraft. / For the Royal Thai Air Force, / we have a small number of aircraft to handle disaster relief missions. / However, / if we pay attention to the cooperation among the ten ASEAN members or other countries willing to give assistance,/ the number of aircraft will increase automatically./ Moreover,/ it is important to use those aircraft up to their full potentials. / Lesson 2: / A destination airport is an important factor. / Countries wishing to provide assistance must check all information in details / and assess the situation precisely. / If the aircraft is not able to take off due to the airport being unready, / we will become the victims of the disaster ourselves. / Therefore, / we have to make sure that the airport is operational properly, / so that the aircraft can take off and land safely. / Lesson 3: / It is necessary to maintain an ability to communicate, / including coordination with other staffs and local people. / Therefore, / language skill is important for the efficiency of the mission. / I think that we should have exchange visits of coordinating staff / in the field of disaster relief actively and regularly. / Lesson 4: / One of the lessons learned / is the management of donated supplies. / Often, / when we bring supplies to help countries suffered from disasters, / there is no agency to contact, / facilitate, or coordinate / on how to transfer the supplies from the aircraft, / or where to put them in. / Even Thailand has this problem. / Therefore, / we should pay more attention to the logistics. / In preparation of RTAF Search & Rescue / as well as its role and missions, / the Royal Thai Air Force has developed the system of complete search and rescue in risk areas. / There are regular exercises to test the command system plan and equipments presently employed, / and to practice on search and rescue. / In every exercise, / the chief of search and rescue planning will deploy risk area search and rescue helicopters, / search helicopters, / and other search and rescue aircraft / to work collectively in order to search and rescue survivors as soon as possible. / Moreover, / the Royal Thai Air Force coordinates with National Search & Rescue Centre / which has been founded following the resolution of the Thai government. / As a search and rescue coordinating centre / for aircraft and vessel accidents / overseen by Department of Civil Aviation, / it facilitates the fast and systematic search and rescue missions. / The agencies in charge of search and rescue and precaution / are Ministry of Defence, / Ministry of Interior, / Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, / and Ministry of Transport. / We have performed exercises of the abovementioned missions / to the extent that we can perform these missions on standard. / Mostly, / we perform exercises with other countries regularly. / For example, / - Joint Combine Exercise between Thailand and Malaysia / under the exercise codename “JCEX THAMAL two-thousand eleven” /
- Joint Combine Exercise between Thailand and Cambodia / under the exercise codename “JCEX THA-CAM two-thousand twelve” /
- Joint Combine Exercise between Thailand and Brunei Darussalam / under the exercise codename “AHX two-thousand thirteen” / We also perform multinational exercises beyond ASEAN regularly. / For example, / - Cobra Gold, / which includes the exercise in the field of disaster relief /
- ARF DiREx two-thousand thirteen, / co-hosted by Thailand and the Republic of Korea / with twenty-one participating countries. / In principle, / the Royal Thai Air Force foresees the possibility of the use of military assets, / especially the resources of ASEAN Air Forces, / to exchange and cooperate on HADR in order to relief and respond to any incoming disaster / in the ASEAN Community in the future. / The Royal Thai Air Force would like to propose the idea of founding the ASEAN Search & Rescue Centre, / beginning with setting up a meeting committee / and a workshop to draft a roadmap of ASEAN Air Force, / Search & Rescue Centre / to integrate potential among Air Forces on ASEAN level accordingly. / In conclusion, / from the experience and lessons learned, / it can be seen that major disasters / are a new threat affecting mankind inevitably. / We must join forces to help each other / in preventing and relieving difficulties / as much as possible. / A road map should be drafted to be prepared for major disasters effectively. / Besides the cooperation between state governments, / it is necessary to perform exercises regularly. / The factor of the success is coordinating staff. / Therefore, / if possible, / I would like to propose exchange visits of international coordinating staff annually to learn, / gather information, / and follow the situation closely / to increase the readiness of disaster relief missions, / lower the risk, / and increase potential in future disaster relief assistance, / corresponding with the founding of ASEAN Community in two-thousand fifteen. / Lastly, / I would like to thank you all for your attention, / and I hope that this Conference helps create awareness on disaster relief to the extent / that they coordinate with each other to respond to global disasters as effectively as possible. /

SPEECH OF COMMANDER IN CHIEF OF VIETNAM’S PEOPLE AIR FORCE &AIR DEFENSE Ladies and gentlemen! First of all, I would like to express my gratitude to Colonel Khamphat Phimmahaxay, Chief of Laos Air Force and Organization Board of the 10th ASEAN Air Chiefs Conference for giving me a chance to attend this solemn conference. I am honored to see Air Chiefs of ASEAN countries today. Wish you and our conference the best success. Ladies and gentlemen! For the last ten years, ASEAN Air Chiefs Conference became one of the most expected event in the year for the our ASEAN Air Forces. With title “Partnership for Peace and Development”, I strongly believe that the tenth ASEAN Air Chiefs Conference will make positive contributions to conserving peace, stability and development in our region as well as in the world. As we know, situation of the world and our region becomes more complicated, unforeseen and hidden with unstable factors. Strains in Middle East, recent conflict in Syria as well as situation in North Korea peninsula and especially strains, sovereignty disputes in the East China Sea originating from groundless requests, actions against international laws with nature of imposing and violent politics that have been threatening peace, stability in the region and the world. Being a people undergoing many fierce wars to gain national independence, Vietnamese people deeply understand value of peace and always pursue the peace preservation target for national development. Vietnamese people also understand that peace conservation involves joint actions of peoples and the whole international community. To hold firm to peace, Vietnam always is patient and consistent with an view of settling disputes, conflicts by diplomatic methods on basis of Charter of the United Nations, international laws and principles, code of conduct in common which became value of entire mankind. Vietnam expects all the nations over the world to intensify cooperation, build reliance, reinforce solidarity, help each other in a peaceful world for prosperous development. With long coast in the South China Sea, Vietnam always takes care, want and aware of conserving peace, stability in our region. Government of Vietnam is committed and kindly requests the regional countries to settle any dispute via peaceful dialogs on open, explicit basis, respecting the international and regional conventions, including United Nations Conventions on Sea Law 1982, Declaration on the Conduct of the Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), ASEAN’s Six point Principles on the South China Sea 2012 and together making efforts to reach to Code of Conduct on South China Sea. Ladies and gentlemen, Reviewing outcomes of cooperation of ASEAN Air Forces since the 9th Air Chiefs Conference in Malaysia, we implemented specific, practical contents of cooperation. In February 2013, we met in Malaysia to discuss about cooperation in training and instruction among the armed forces of ASEAN countries, in framework of ASEAN Armed Force we have successfully organized the Disaster Emergency Response Simulation Exercise ARDEX in October 2013 in Vietnam with participation of ASEAN countries’ arms and observer countries. Ladies and gentlemen! Vietnam Air Defence and Air Force is always aware that only intensifying cooperation, building reliance, strengthening solidarity among nations, peoples are the best way to preserve peace, stability and development. With such spirit, Vietnam Air Defence and Air Force has recently implemented cooperation with Air Defence and Air Force of Laos, Cambodia, Air Forces of Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippine in respect of delegate exchange, experience sharing in education and training, exploration and utilization of technical equipment, flight safety control, seek and rescue, young soldiers exchanges. In coming time, we are desired to continue extensive cooperation with Air Forces of ASEAN countries in the aforesaid aspects and other potentials in order to develop our Air Forces of ASEAN countries contributing to preservation of peace, stability, development in our region. On this occasion, I would like to suggest to make a hotline among Air Forces of regional countries in order to timely inform each other on any information related to climate, weather, earthquake, tsunami, rescue within our ASEAN countries. Finally, I would like to finish my speech here Thank you for listening.

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