Air Defender 2023

Air Defender 2023 was a major multinational air force exercise led by the German Air Force and United States Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa. Held across multiple bases in Germany from 12 to 23 June 2023, it was the largest air deployment exercise in NATO's history. The exercise aimed to demonstrate allied solidarity and enhance readiness for collective defense under the framework of the NATO Alliance.

Overview

Conceived in 2018, the planning for this large-scale exercise accelerated following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, underscoring its strategic relevance to European security. Primary operations were coordinated from the Luftwaffe's National Air Operations Center in Kalkar, with flying activities centered on three main hubs: Jagdgeschwader 73 "Steinhoff" at Rostock–Laage Airport, Jagdgeschwader 74 at Neuburg Air Base, and Schleswig Air Base. The exercise was explicitly defensive in nature, designed to integrate allied air power and protect critical infrastructure like the SuedLink power transmission project.

Participating forces

A total of 25 nations contributed forces, with 10,000 personnel and 250 aircraft involved. The lead nations were Germany and the United States, with the US Air National Guard deploying a significant contingent from states like Alabama, Alaska, and California. Other major participants included the French Air and Space Force, Royal Air Force, Italian Air Force, and Spanish Air and Space Force. Japanese Air Self-Defense Force observers were also present, highlighting the exercise's importance to global partners. Key command elements involved the Allied Air Command and United States European Command.

Exercise objectives and scenarios

The primary objective was to improve interoperability among NATO allies and partners under a single integrated air command structure. Scenarios simulated the defense of allied airspace against a sophisticated peer adversary, involving large-force employment, air-to-air refueling, and complex Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses missions. Training emphasized the seamless coordination between fourth-generation and fifth-generation aircraft, as well as integration with AWACS and ground-based Surface-to-air missile systems. A key focus was protecting the Baltic region and reinforcing the Enhanced Forward Presence battlegroups.

Aircraft and equipment

The exercise featured a wide array of aircraft representing multiple domains. Fighter and attack aircraft included the Eurofighter Typhoon, F-35 Lightning II, F-15 Eagle, F-16 Fighting Falcon, Panavia Tornado, and Dassault Rafale. Aerial refueling was provided by aircraft such as the A330 MRTT and KC-135 Stratotanker. Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance assets included the E-3 AWACS, G550 CAEW, and MQ-9 Reaper. Strategic airlift was conducted by the C-130 Hercules and C-17 Globemaster III, while Luftwaffe Patriot batteries provided simulated ground-based air defense.

Operational impact and analysis

Analysts from institutions like the Royal United Services Institute noted the exercise sent a strong signal of deterrence to potential adversaries, particularly Russia. The scale tested German Air Force command and control capabilities and European air traffic management, involving coordination with Eurocontrol and national authorities like Deutsche Flugsicherung. Lessons learned were integrated into NATO's Deterrence and defence of the Euro-Atlantic area plans. The successful execution was seen as a milestone for the Luftwaffe's role as a framework nation and strengthened the credibility of Article 5 collective defense commitments.