BALTOPS 14 kicks-off

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Kyla Gifford
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
POWIDZ AIR BASE, Poland --  The 351st Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron began its participation in the 42nd annual Baltic Operations Exercise June 9, 2014, as it traveled from RAF Mildenhall, England, to Powidz Air Base, Poland.

During the journey in their KC-135 Stratotanker, the members of the 351st EARS refueled F-16 C/D Fighting Falcons while on their way to Poland, where they 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 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 will provide aerial refueling to the approximately 50 aircraft participating in BALTOPS throughout the exercise," said Capt. Jonathan Edwards, 351st EARS.

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."