FOR RELEASE: Wednesday, June 21, 2023
CONTACT: U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Chance Johnson, 720-847-9435, 140wg.pa.org@us.af.mil
BUCKLEY SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. – The Colorado Air National Guard is participating alongside partner wings and units from 43 U.S. states and 25 partner nations in Exercise Air Defender 2023, June 12-23, 2023, at various sites in Germany and locations in the Netherlands and the Czech Republic.
The joint military drill, under the command of the German Air Force, aims to strengthen cooperation and showcase the alliance's capabilities. AD23 will provide a training opportunity for participating air forces to simulate and respond to a hypothetical NATO Article 5 scenario that requires a collective response from the alliance when one member comes under attack.
Training in these scenarios allows participating nations to enhance their preparedness and reinforce their commitment to collective defense.
“We’re extremely confident that our Airmen will stand out amongst the many organizations also participating in this year’s Exercise Air Defender,” 140th Wing Commander U.S Air Force Col. Jeremiah “Weed” Tucker said. “This invaluable training opportunity not only allows us to integrate with the exceptional military might the United States has to offer, but to share and exchange our skills with our allies around the world.”
With an estimated 10,000 service members expected to take part, AD23 will witness the deployment of approximately 220 aircraft, representing a diverse range of 23 different types. Among the 220 aircraft involved, 100 alone will originate from Air National Guard units within the United States.
This historic event will bring together the air forces of the United States and Germany, alongside the air forces of Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Norway, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. The collaboration among these nations demonstrates their shared commitment to regional security and collective defense.
“I have tremendous faith in our Red Eyes leading the charge in this exercise in which the 140th will stand out above the rest when it comes to the COANG’s ever-expanding reputation in the dominions of air, space, and cyber superiority," Tucker said.
AD23 marks a significant milestone in NATO's history, representing the largest air force redeployment exercise ever conducted. It showcases the dedication and strength of the participating nations as they work together to enhance their preparedness.