Will Conduct Training Exercises With Other European-Based Aircraft

F-22 Raptors, Airmen and associated equipment were deployed to Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, on April 11 to conduct air training with other Europe-based aircraft.

The F-22s come from the 95th Fighter Squadron at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, and will continue training until May.

"This F-22 training deployment is the perfect opportunity for these advanced aircraft to train alongside other U.S. Air Force aircraft, joint partners and NATO allies," said Gen. Frank Gorenc, the commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa.

The fifth-generation, multirole fighter aircraft will also forward deploy from the U.K. to NATO bases to maximize training opportunities, affirm enduring commitments to NATO allies, and deter any actions that destabilize regional security.

The training marks the second time the U.S. European Command has hosted a deployment of F-22s in its area of responsibility.

"It's important we test our infrastructure, aircraft capabilities, and the talented Airmen and allies who will host these aircraft in Europe," Gorenc said. "This deployment advances our airpower evolution and demonstrates our resolve and commitment to European safety and security."

(Image provided with USAF news release)

FMI: www.af.mil