combat aircraft

where we focus not only on integration,

but also on integration of the diferent

service components,’ explained Milne. It is

smaller than ‘Red Flag’ and is speciically

focused on opposed air interdiction

against a highly integrated air defense

network composed of relevant

surface-to-air and air-to-air threats.

Additionally, the CRTC solicits input from

participating units to build complex,

challenging, scenarios that meet the

desired learning objectives (DLOs) of the

squadrons involved.

Volk CRTC and

exercise construct

The Air National Guard (ANG) operates

four CRTCs in the US. Volk Field CRTC

lies 80 miles north-west of the state

capital, Madison, at Camp Douglas,

Wisconsin, on 2,300 acres shared with

the Army National Guard. A single 9,000ft

runway and ample ramp space allow

Volk to support 50 or more ighters and

accompanying heavy airlift platforms.

The station’s CRTC assets include the

Volk Field Special Activity Airspace

(VFSAA), an expansive, FAA-approved area

of training airspace up to 50,000ft with

supersonic operations approved above

30,000ft. Volk Field actually lies beneath

the VFSAA, so transit time to the exercise

airspace is minimal, resulting in the

maximum training time being available for

each sortie. The CRTC uses an electronic

warfare range comprising integrated

stationary and mobile threat emitters

capable of replicating enemy air defense

systems. The Hardwood air-to-ground

weapons range near Finley, Wisconsin,

includes moving and stationary targets

for live, laser, and GPS-guided munitions,

strafe, and synthetic aperture radar

(SAR) targets.

The 128th Air Control Squadron, a

tenant unit of Volk Field Air National

Guard Base, provides command and

control of the exercise airspace, taking

advantage of multiple military operating

areas (MOAs) within Wisconsin and

over Lake Superior and Lake Michigan.

The airspace and ranges surrounding

Volk Field CRTC are fully instrumented,

providing real-time, scenario-based

training utilizing live-virtual construct

(LVC), and enhanced debrief capabilities.

Above: Wisconsin

ANG ‘Viper’ drivers

get ready for the

morning ‘go’.

Below: Exercise

director Col

Milne addresses

reporters.

Scott Wolff

EXERCISE REPORT // ’NORTHERN LIGHTNING’

46 December 2018 //^ http://www.combataircraft.net