NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. - Members of the 366th Fighter Wing arrived at Nellis Air Force Base Jan. 21 to begin preparations for Red Flag 14-1.
Red Flag is a realistic combat training exercise involving the air forces of the United States and its allies.
"We are excited to be here to participate in Red Flag and have the opportunity to work with other branches of service and partner nations," said Senior Master Sgt. Thomas Mattern, 366th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron first sergeant. "As part of the advanced group, we are here to ensure everything is ready when the main body arrives tomorrow. This will help us be more prepared once the exercise officially begins in a few days."
The exercise is just one of a series of advanced training programs administered at Nellis AFB on the Nevada Test and Training Range by organizations assigned to the U.S. Air Force Warfare Center.
For the men and women on the ground, Red Flag is a chance to give less-experienced airmen and command leaders realistic mission training in a simulated war. It's one of the few places they can receive realistic combat training with other countries and different branches of military.
"This will be an extremely challenging few weeks for us; however, it will simultaneously be a whole lot of fun," said Mattern.
At this Red Flag, which officially begins Jan. 27 and ends Feb. 14, there are more than 1,000 military personnel participating. There are also units from Great Britain's Royal Air Force and the Australian Air Force.