"The AWACS brings its ability to control an air policing mission anywhere in Europe," said Captain James Storm, Air Training Squadron Instructor Weapons Controller. "This exercise allows all assets to practice and develop the air policing mission, with different agencies being involved each time."
The E-3A AWACS plays a vital role in air policing throughout NATO using its powerful airborne radar and command and control capabilities. The exercise is a great way to showcase NATO's Air policing commitment to the local population, which makes its presence vital to achieving the AIRCOM exercise goals.
"The NATO AWACS is a central player in collective defence of European airspace, responding to both military and civilian aircraft that aren't complying with international fight regulations in or approaching Allied airspace, said Storm."
Air policing is a critical as it can happen anywhere in Europe at any minute of the day. Training is effective in helping to prepare for air policing success during an operational mission.
Along with air policing, the E-3A AWACS will also be participating in a media day at Amari Air Base, Estonia. The mission of the media day is to provide a Strategic Communication message to the Baltic Sea region.
"The theme for the media day is 60 years of NATO air policing," said Storm. "Air policing is a peacetime mission, aiming to preserve security of the alliance airspace 24/7, 365 days a year."
With the opportunity to showcase the E-3A mission and its involvement in NATO air policing, the local community will get to see firsthand how this aircraft has helped since air policing was established.
