Goal is to train the troops to control the country's airspace

The Air Forces of the country of Ecuador are holding exercises on the country's border with Colombia. Among the maneuvers taking place are "aerial interdictions, close air support, air defense and combat rescue, as well as airborne troop parachuting," according to a press release issued by the Office of the President.

The base of operations for the training exercise will be the 31st Combat Wing, located in the city of Nueva Loja, capital of the province of Sucumbios in the Amazon. The province shares borders the Colombian state of Putumayo.

The FAE is seeking to "maintain the training of the pilots, air traffic controllers and aviation technicians" of the organization. Several fighter aircraft squadrons will join the maneuvers, including A-37B Dragonfly jets and TH-57 helicopters. There will also be operations by parachute squadrons and infantry units.

"These maneuvers are part of the activities of positive airspace control, a task delegated to the Armed Forces" in the region, according to the press release. The province of Sucumbios is located on the other side of the scene of combat between Colombian armed forces and armed opposition groups.

FMI: www.fuerzasarmadasecuador.org/faerea