Checkered Flag, hosted by the 325th Fighter Wing, is one of the DoD’s largest air-to-air exercises and is designed to integrate 4th- and 5th-generation airframes to enhance mobility and employment capabilities of aviators and maintainers. The exercise directly supports the Air Combat Command Commander’s plan to train the Immediate Response Force and aligns with the Air Force Chief of Staff’s objective of developing Mission Ready Airmen with training that emphasizes diverse skills required for operational readiness in contested environments. The 53rd Wing’s Weapons System Evaluation-East is normally held in conjunction with Checkered Flag. Combining these events allowed the force to collaborate and channel efforts, thus increasing the training value.

Checkered Flag provides the Joint Force with the skills needed to excel in any environment and ensures the delivery of decisive combat airpower to combatant commanders worldwide, strengthening partnerships between units to ensure a more lethal force in combat. Tyndall’s large airspace provides all participants with a unique training opportunity. Tyndall adjoins the Gulf Range Complex, one of the few ranges in the U.S. capable of supporting large-scale air combat training. Direct access to this range is essential for 5th-generation fighter readiness and for live-fire testing and training. During the combined WSEP/CKF event, visiting units get the chance to participate in two large force training events in a joint venue that fosters interoperability and optimizes air-to-air capabilities. The data received from events like this help refine the tactical application of our weapons systems and benefit our emerging joint platforms. Integrating the DoD’s most advanced aircraft, from 4th-generation fighters to the F-35A Lightning II, builds a dynamic force that provides decisive air dominance in a combat environment.