An international exercise led by Belgian F-16s.

On August 24, a "BOMBER TASK FORCE" exercise took place above Ramstein Air Base in Germany. This type of operation is carried out regularly in Europe to demonstrate NATO's unique ability to rapidly deploy its strategic forces at all times.

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The purpose of these exercises is to enhance cooperation and integration of all Allied countries in order to provide a uniform response and ensure the integrity of NATO airspace (Picture source: Belgian Defence)

This mission brought together the means of different nations in the form of a composite air operation (COMAO). It is a device composed of different missions, brought together under the command of a Mission Commander, so as to be able to face a wide variety of threats and obtain air superiority. The primary objective of a COMAO is to allow air-ground means to exploit their targets. Careful and detailed planning is necessary for the success of such an operation.

The following means were used:

· 2 B-52 from Minot Air Base (USA), deployed in Fairford (Great Britain)

· 2 Eurofighters EF-2000 from Nörvenich Air Base (Germany)

· 2 Tornado IDS deployed at Nörvenich Air Base (Germany)

· 4 F-16 from Florennes Air Base (Belgium)

· 6 F-16 from Kleine-Brogel airbase (Belgium)

German air traffic controllers, German JTACs (Joint Tactical Air Controllers) from the Baumholder range and some command and control units were also involved to support this mission.

To work in this international environment, the Belgian Mission Commander had to develop his interoperability through complex scenarios and operate in formations different from those to which he is accustomed. The main objective of this mission was to improve communication and standardize tactics, techniques and procedures among NATO allies.

The purpose of these exercises is to enhance cooperation and integration of all Allied countries in order to provide a uniform response and ensure the integrity of NATO airspace.

To work in this international environment, the Belgian Mission Commander had to develop his interoperability through complex scenarios and operate in formations different from those to which he is accustomed. The main objective of this mission was to improve communication and standardize tactics, techniques and procedures among NATO allies (Picture source: Belgian Defence)