Canadian Air Force flys south

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Lou Burton
  • 482nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. --  Air force units from Canada, Oklahoma and Florida converged at Homestead ARB to participate in an international air-to-air exercise from Feb. 1 to Feb. 17.

Representing the Canadian Air Force flying F-18s was the 425th Tactical Fighter Squadron assigned at Bagotville Quebec.  Also from Canada flying Dornier Alpha Jet's: The Top Aces, a Canadian contractor that provides combat airborne training services to the CAF.

The U.S. units included an E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft from Tinker Air Force Base, Okla., F-15's from the Florida Air National Guard and Homestead's own 93rd Fighter Squadron "Makos" flying F-16's.

"We are here to participate in dissimilar air combat tactics," said Capt. Tom Lawrence, 425th TFS F-18 pilot.

In total, 18 realistic training missions were accomplished giving everyone a chance to hone their skills, critique each other and to share techniques and experiences.

"My first time flying with F-16's has shown me how easily we can operate together," said Lawrence. "This is a great opportunity for junior officers to gain valuable experience."

Along with the educational benefits of training with different aircraft, Homestead ARB offers the advantageous climate not found this time of year in Canada.

"Our weather greatly affects our air-to-ground training missions. Inclement weather causes us to miss out on training, so being here at Homestead in February is a great benefit to us," said Capt. Greg Myers, 425 TFS long term plans officer.

The benefits are not one sided, the Mako pilots gain valuable knowledge during this mission too.

"Other aircraft bring different radar, shooting, jamming, and flying capabilities," said Capt. Miriam Krieger, 93rd FS F-16 pilot. "Being able to train with aircraft that posses different capabilities and maneuvers makes us better pilots."

In addition, developing international ties helps the United States as a whole.

"Building positive relationships with other forces strengthens American ties to its allies," said Krieger. "This is a great opportunity to train with our NATO allies."