U.S. Air Force F-16s assigned to the 51st Fighter Wing participated in combined “Airborne Alert Interdiction” flying training with F-35As from the Republic of Korea Air Force’s 17th Fighter Wing, Aug. 26-29.
Air interdiction training is designed to enhance U.S. and partner nation capabilities to provide persistent reconnaissance and attack airpower capabilities where targeting is expected to be highly dynamic or unpredictable.
During the training missions, U.S. and ROK air assets worked together to identify, track, and destroy simulated enemy ground threats while simultaneously working to counter enemy aircraft.
The combined flying not only bolstered the U.S.-ROK Alliance, but also provided valuable integration training, enhancing U.S. 4th generation air asset capabilities to operate and work alongside 5th generation assets from the Republic of Korea.
“Combined training like this is extremely important for us at the tactical level, especially here at Osan,” said Capt Christopher Brown, 36th Fighter Squadron pilot. “Learning how each of our Air Forces conducts flying operations helps both sides rapidly integrate with each other for future joint operations. It’s always a great opportunity getting to fly with our ROK wingmen and let them know we stand with them.”
