Virtual war: RAF and UK Space Command join allies for multinational exercise
The RAF and UK Space Command have taken part in a multinational exercise to strengthen joint warfighting capability.
Exercise Virtual Flag: Coalition saw UK personnel, joined by US, Canadian and Australian forces, take part in training hosted by the US Air Force.
The aim of the exercise was to enhance cooperation between the nations when it comes to modern warfare.
Over 300 people took part in the exercise, which was hosted by the 705th Combat Training Squadron at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico.
The personnel took on several virtual scenarios to refine their ability to fight and win together.
US Marine Corps personnel were also included to add an extra dimension of integrating ground troops into air and space operations.
The computer-generated threats aimed to simulate real-world combat conditions – some with a focus on the Indo-Pacific region, which the UK Carrier Strike Group was deployed to this year.
The exercise also allowed the allies to share their methods with each other to allow them to counter threats posed to their joint security.
Exercise director Major Rikki Antaramian-Feightner said: "Each nation brings a unique set of tools, protocols, and decision-making processes to the table.
"We saw first-hand how effective we can be when these diverse systems integrate seamlessly.
"But it takes practice.
"Exercises like VFC are crucial, allowing us to refine communication and interoperability in ways that live combat cannot.
"Even with obstacles, such as limited communications or asymmetric tactics, we were able to maintain coordination and execute operations effectively."
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