BALTOPS 14 kicks-off

Photo By Gina Randall | A KC-135 Stratotanker with the 100th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron departs from RAF Mildenhall, England, June 9, 2014, and heads toward Powidz Air Base, Poland, participate in the 42nd annual Baltic Operations Exercise. The 100th EARS will provide aerial refueling for approximately 50 aircraft that are participating in BALTOPS, the largest multinational maritime exercise this year in the Baltic Sea. (U.S. Air Force photo/Gina Randall/Released)  

POLAND

06.09.2014

Story by Airman 1st Class Kyla Gifford 

100th Air Refueling Wing   

POLAND - The 351st Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron-Poland began its participation in the 42nd annual Baltic Operations Exercise June 9, 2014, as it traveled here from RAF Mildenhall, England.

During the journey in their KC-135 Stratotanker, the members of the 351st EARS-Poland refueled four F-16 C/D Fighting Falcons while on their way to Poland, which is where the 351st EARS-Poland will operate from for the remainder of the exercise.

The U.S. Navy-hosted exercise, known as BALTOPS, aims to improve maritime security in the Baltic Sea through cooperation among regional allies. Military forces from 12 countries and NATO will participate in BALTOPS - the largest multinational maritime exercise this year in the Baltic Sea.

In addition, the U.S. Air Force will provide fighter aircraft for maritime interdiction and dissimilar air combat training.

"The 351st EARS-Poland will provide aerial refueling to approximately 50 aircraft participating in BALTOPS throughout the exercise," said Capt. Jonathan Edwards, 351st EARS-Poland detachment commander.

The exercise provides the opportunity for personnel to engage in realistic air combat training to build experience, teamwork and strengthen NATO interoperability as the participating nations work towards mutual goals.

"By participating in BALTOPS we are contributing to a safe and stable future for the Baltics while our Airmen gain important training in a unique operating area," said Edwards. "It demonstrates that we share a commitment with our NATO allies and partners to promote peace and stability in the region."

• Date Taken: 06.09.2014
• Date Posted: 06.10.2014 06:19
• Story ID: 132642
• Location: PL