by John Waters
The U.S. Air Force recently conducted one of its largest combat training exercises, Red Flag 23-3, to prepare for potential near-peer threats.
Red Flag 23-3 expanded the fight airspace normally confined to the military airspace areas north of Nellis Air Force Base.
However, this Red Flag tied airspace between Nellis, Edwards, and Hill Air Force Bases. Providing more challenging training scenarios as threat capabilities continue to increase, such as China’s Chengdu J-20 Stealth Fighter. U.S. Air Force Aggressor Squadrons flew F-35’s, F-16’s, F-22’s, F/A-18’s, and B-1’s to replicate Chinese Tactics. (Podcast with Col William “Bif” Mott F-15C/F-22 Pilot)
Aviation map showing airspace used for Red Flag 23-2 airspace which covers nearly three times as much.
Red Flag 23-3’s Airspace The increased ranges provide more realistic training based on missile and other threat countries known and assumed performance capabilities.Stars and Stripes
Col Wiliam "BIF" Mott is a former F-15C and F-22 Instructor Pilot and Weapons Officer Instructor (Top Gun for the Air Force). He provides a unique perspective on air combat and air dominance. Check out his podcast on the Afterburn.
Red Flag is an advanced aerial combat training exercise initiated by the United States Air Force. It was established to provide realistic air-combat training for military pilots and other flight crew members from the U.S. and its allied countries. The exercise was first held on 29 November 1975, in response to the U.S. Air Force's performance in air-to-air combat during the Vietnam War. The aim was to improve the combat readiness and survivability of pilots by simulating real combat situations. Over the years, Red Flag exercises have been conducted at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, and have seen participation from various branches of the U.S. military as well as numerous NATO and allied nations' air forces
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