US and South Korean forces have successfully completed a bilateral exercise, Exercise Pacific Thunder 15-02, which involved combat search-and-rescue drills.
The exercise, which involved units from the Air Force, Marines and South Korean air force, practiced air combat and CSAR to improve interoperability and combat readiness of the military alliance across the Korean Peninsula.
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The 25th Fighter Squadron flight safety officer captain Jerrod Dillon said: "This exercise helps us bring together assets who would be involved and integrated into a real world CSAR mission.
"It also gives US forces a chance to integrate and execute with our Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) counterparts, further building the combined force proficiency and readiness, while simultaneously improving relations between our two militaries."
The exercise incorporated nearly all aspects of communication, coordination, command and control, mission planning, and execution, the US Air Force stated.
In addition, Exercise Pacific Thunder saw the participation of ten different organisations and squadrons.
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By GlobalData"In size and scope, it’s rapidly approaching large-force-exercise levels, but I think it’s unique in that it’s primarily planned and executed on a squadron or tactical level.
The knowledge and experience gained while participating in this exercise is spread throughout the rest of the Air Force as people move on from Korea, carrying that knowledge with them," Dillon added.
Recently, the air forces of the US and Israel commenced the bi-annual Blue Flag joint Air Force exercise at the Ovdat Air Force Base in the northwest of Eilat.
The two-week air force drill, which also includes other allies, is aimed at strengthening the military ties between the countries.
Image: Members of the 33rd Rescue Squadron prepare for takeoff inside their HH-60G Pave Hawk as part of Exercise Pacific Thunder 15-02. Photo: courtesy of US Air Force photo / Staff Sgt. Benjamin Sutton.
