Ministry of National Defense Republic of Korea

ROK/US Air Force conduct large-scale combined air drill

- ROKAF F-35A/F-15K and USAF F-35B/F-16 are participating to enhance combined operation capability

The ROK Air Force and US Air Force are currently conducting a large-scale joint air exercise at Gwangju Air Base from April 17 to April 28. The main purpose of the exercise is to enhance their combined operational capability and wartime performance.

The ROK and US Air Forces are conducting a large-scale combined aerial exercise at Gwangju Air Base from April 17 to 28, which involves 110 warplanes and 1,400 troops. The ROK Air Force is mobilizing 60 fighters such as the F-35A, F-15K, KF-16, FA-50, and KC-330 MRTT, while the US Air Force is deploying the F-16, A-10, and KC-135 tanker as well as 40 US Marine fighters such as the F-35B and FA-18. The majority of the participating forces arrived at Gwangju Air Base on April 14 to finalize preparations. The exercise is aimed at enhancing the combined operation capability and wartime operational performance of both air forces.

The purpose of this exercise is to enhance the interoperability and integrated operational capability of both fourth- and fifth-generation fighters. The ROKAF and USAF will engage in a variety of combined training exercises such as strike packages, defensive counter air, immediate air interdiction, and close air support.