Four EA-18G Growler aircraft and crews from Number 6 Squadron at RAAF Base Amberley will deploy on their first international exercise, participating in the annual Exercise Red Flag 18-1 in Nevada from 29 January–16 February.
The RAAF personnel will support and participate in missions during the premier air combat exercise alongside counterparts from the US and the UK, reconstructing a modern and complex battlespace.
Deputy Exercise Director and RAAF Task Group Headquarters Commander, Group Captain Tim Alsop, said Red Flag is the pinnacle of advanced air warfare training and the Growlers’ overseas deployment, a mere year after having been transferred to No. 6 Squadron, is an important milestone for both Air Combat Group and RAAF.
“During the exercise, participants will practice planning and executing day- and night-time missions, using large numbers of aircraft and ground systems, coordinated to overcome a considerable simulated adversary,” GPCAPT Alsop said.
“This includes a range of air power roles for RAAF personnel, from Air Superiority and Strike; and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance to Electronic Warfare. It provides a comprehensive training environment for aircrew, maintenance and support personnel alike.”
An AP-3C Orion and an E-7A Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft will also participate in Red Flag, along with a Control and Reporting Centre from 41 Wing to support airborne personnel and aircraft.
Established in 1980 by the US Air Force, Exercise Red Flag provides personnel with an opportunity to experience a complex, modern and dynamic combat landscape.
“This exercise is about understanding our international partners, how we train and communicate together and further strengthening our interoperability and preparedness for real-time operations,” Group Captain Alsop said.