The US Air Force has kicked off one of the largest combat training exercises with the launch of the second Red Flag event of 2021 at Nellis Air Force Base.
Running from March 8 to 19, Red Flag 21-2 will host 2,500 US and international participants from a dozen states, including Singapore, Sweden and seven NATO member nations.
The 20th Fighter Wing from Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, will take the lead wing position as nearly 100 aircraft, such as the F-35, F-16, EA-18G, B-1, KC-135, AWACs, and HH-60 participate in complex mission scenarios against aggressor forces.
The 57th Wing’s 414th Combat Training Squadron (CTS) conducts Red Flag exercises to provide mission commanders, maintenance personnel, ground controllers, and air, space and cyber operators the opportunity to experience realistic combat scenarios in preparation for future warfare.
Red Flag exercises strive to increase the interoperability of US and allied forces with the aim of creating agile problem-solvers with the ability to correct decision-making under incredible pressure.
“Red Flag Nellis 21-2 is an advanced coalition exercise with key Allies and coalition partners. Working together as integrated teams, they will fight as a single, coherent team, forging partnerships and cementing relationships we need for future mission success,” said Col. William Reese, 414th CTS commander.
The inclusion of coalition members on all levels at Red Flag serves to galvanize the warfighting force and offers Shaw AFB and other US Air Force members the opportunity to integrate with its allies.
“Nellis is where we practice the advanced integrated tactics needed to prevail in combat against peer adversaries. We train like we will fight—as joint and coalition forces,” said Raymond. “This exercise will focus on advanced counter-air tactics, dynamic air-to-ground targeting and real-time risk analysis for personnel recovery. Our ability to integrate, plan and debrief at Red Flag will be instrumental to our success in the next fight.”
