Max Thunder

Airmen from the South Korean Air Force units are participating in a bilateral training exercise, code-named Max Thunder 16, with members of the US Air Force (USAF), Marine Corps at Kunsan Air Base, South Korea.

The two-week exercise will witness participation from approximately 1,200 US personnel in support of various aircraft including F-16 Fighting Falcons, F-18 Hornets and EA-18G Growlers.

Additionally, 640 South Korean personnel will participate in the exercise.

USAF Seventh Air Force commander lieutenant general Terrence J. O’Shaughnessy said: "Every year, Max Thunder serves as an excellent opportunity for US and (South Korean air force) fighter pilots to train side by side and gain valuable experience they will need if the Korea airpower team is required to go into aerial combat together.

"The US’s commitment to the security of (South) Korea is ironclad.

"The US’s commitment to the security of (South) Korea is ironclad."

"The US military aircraft come to Korea from across the Pacific to participate in this exercise, making a tremendous display of the capabilities the US brings to this alliance."

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The large-scale employment aims at strengthening the US and South Korea interoperability with dissimilar aircraft, enabling aircrew members to be battle-ready for any potential situation.

Held twice a year, once on Gwangju AB hosted by the South Korean Air Force and on Kunsan AB by the USAF, Max Thunder aims to sharpen the US and Korean Forces’ responsive skills and their ability to work together against a hostile force during combat operations.

The exercise represents the air component-led portion of Exercise Foal Eagle, and fosters bilateral aerial training by simulating dog fights, quick alerts, close air support missions, and the overall theme of employing and deploying a joint coalition and overcoming obstacles.


Image: A pre-flight inspection on an EA-18 Growler during Max Thunder 16 at Kunsan Air Base, South Korea. Photo: courtesy of US Air Force photo / Staff Sgt. Nick Wilson.