Norwegian F-35 fighter aircraft operated with NATO AWACS and U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy assets in a multi-domain exercise off the Norwegian coast this week.
In a news release, NATO say that one of their E-3A AWACS provided airborne command and control for the pre-planned training event in the Arctic region, which enabled Norwegian F-35 fighters to integrate with maritime forces and Allied Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance aircraft.
“The exercise trained Alliance forces to integrate, operate, and communicate in the unique conditions of the High North. Data links and other communication systems between land, maritime, space, and airborne command and control assets were tested during the exercise.
This training allows Allies to identify and overcome barriers to operating in the High North, contributing to NATO joint readiness and 360˚ vigilance. Progressive exercises enhance the ability of the Alliance to conduct long-range information passage and conduct distributed decision-making in challenging Arctic conditions.”
General Jeff Harrigian, Commander Allied Air Command, was quoted as saying:
“Rapid and resilient communications help us make better decisions faster. Exercising multinational and multi-platform data sharing processes between NATO and Allies is essential to maintaining a decisive advantage and ensuring peace and stability in the region.”
