The RAAF has wrapped up the primary trilateral iteration of Train Bushido Guardian in Japan.
Bushido Guardian 25, historically held as a joint train between the RAAF and Japan Air Self-Protection Power (JASDF), this yr included the US Air Power (USAF) for the primary time, beginning on the finish of September and concluding on 10 October.
In response to RAAF Wing Commander Mark Biele, Commanding Officer No. 3 Squadron, the train was centered on interoperability and integrating fifth-generation fighter capabilities “confidently, capably and cohesively” between nations.
“Bushido Guardian 25 presents distinctive fifth-generation fighter integration and collaboration. Getting our F-35A Lightning II’s to work collectively helps us to know how the Indo-Pacific appears in a fifth-generation surroundings,” he mentioned.
“The very nature of the exercise was integration. Bushido Guardian 25 is all about bringing our aviators collectively, on the bottom and within the air, to make our property work collectively to realize a typical intention – a free and open Pacific.”
Supported by a 33 Squadron KC-30A multi-role tanker transport, Bushido Guardian 25 noticed eight RAAF F-35A Lightning II fighter jets from No. 3 Squadron prepare alongside JASDF and USAF plane.
“The train ensures that aircrews, maintainers and assist personnel are ready to function seamlessly collectively in a posh, multi-domain surroundings,” the USAF mentioned in a press release final month.
“By leveraging the newest applied sciences throughout real looking fight coaching eventualities, navy members are furthering [Pacific Air Forces’] goals within the Indo-Pacific, making certain fast responses to any challenges alongside allies and companions.”
Round 130 RAAF personnel participated within the train, alongside 350 USAF and 300 JASDF service members.
“Train Bushido Guardian 25 has allowed us to function in very actual circumstances over the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan,” mentioned Wing Commander Biele.
“The F-35A Lightning II interoperability that’s on the coronary heart of the exercise allowed all three nations to show their operational functionality.
“The F-35A Lightning II’s efficiency at Bushido Guardian 25 is assembly or exceeding all our expectations.”
