USAFE integrates with Arctic fighters during exercise Baltic Operations > Air Force > Article Display

Exercise Baltic Operations 2022, referred to as BALTOPS, is US-European Commandfrom 5th to 17th June 2018 the most important annual exercise with a maritime focus in the Baltic Sea region. The exercise provides a unique training opportunity to strengthen combined responsiveness, which is critical to maintaining freedom of navigation and security in the Baltic Sea. This is the 51st iteration of the exercise series that began in 1972.

US Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa provides close air support in various capacities throughout the exercise, including air refueling capabilities during Thursday’s mission.

US Air Force KC-135 aerial refueling platforms RAF Mildenhall‘s 100th Air Refueling Wing provided tanker support to the Finnish F-18 Hornets and the Swedish JAS-39 Gripens, German Eurofighter Typhoon and US Navy F/A-18 Hornets.

The KC-135’s unique ability to refuel both probe and drogue aircraft allows the US to integrate into a variety of coalitions Partner. The air refueling capability extends aircraft range and range, giving them the ability to fly longer, faster, and further to meet mission and training objectives.

USAFE-AFAFRICA aircraft routinely operate in the Baltic region to reassure NATO allies and partners of our shared commitment to peace and security in the region.