NATO’s Tactical Leadership Programme (TLP) concluded its final Flying Course of 2024 on November 29, following three weeks of rigorous training.
The course, held at Albacete Air Base in Spain, aimed to enhance the tactical leadership and flying capabilities of frontline fighter Mission Commanders (MCs) while improving the interoperability of NATO Air Forces.
In total, approximately 900 personnel participated in the course, with 37 graduates, including aircrew, intelligence officers, and tactical air controllers. These graduates will now contribute to NATO’s operational readiness and focus on integrating fourth- and fifth-generation aircraft capabilities.
“For over four decades, the TLP has been pivotal in developing Allied aircrew expertise in Composite Air Operations (COMAO),” said Colonel César Óscar Acebes Puertas, TLP Commandant. “This session demonstrated our continued commitment to adapting to emerging technologies and modern aircraft, ensuring NATO’s tactical air operations remain unmatched.”
The course featured live operations combined with advanced synthetic training, utilising tools like the MACE simulator to simulate high-stakes scenarios. Allied nations including Italy, Germany, the United Kingdom, Greece, and France deployed 22 aircraft to simulate friendly forces, while opposing forces (Red Air) fielded ten aircraft. Critical air battle management support was provided by NATO’s Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS), and additional complexity was added by Spanish MQ-9 Predator B drones and German electronic warfare systems.
The integration of fifth-generation aircraft, such as the F-35, was a key focus of the training, reflecting NATO’s commitment to incorporating cutting-edge technology into its operational frameworks.
In recognition of the programme’s success and its role in fostering multinational collaboration, Portugal also acceded to the TLP on November 26, 2024, becoming the eleventh member nation to contribute to the programme.
