KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- Thousands of 18th Wing Airmen strengthened their warfighting capabilities during a routine week-long readiness exercise March 13 – 17.
The exercise tested the Airmen’s ability to rapidly deploy forces and sustain base operations under simulated combat conditions.
"This exercise showcases our commitment to the safety and security of this base, the mission and our allies," said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Robert Bouffard, 18th Civil Engineer Squadron commander and Emergency Operations Center director. "While I enjoy the opportunity to see Airmen test their capabilities, the focus is on the importance of the mission we are training to execute.”
During the initial stage of the exercise, the 18th WG simulated deploying hundreds of personnel, tons of cargo and numerous aircraft in response to a simulated regional crisis.
Later in the week, the exercise transitioned to training scenarios that verified the team’s ability to deliver airpower while responding to a variety of simulated threats.
Amid these exercise scenarios, the 18th WG maintained uninterrupted real-world operational support to joint and allied forces in the region, ensuring accomplishment of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and Pacific Air Forces objectives.
"It takes a diverse and innovative team of Airmen to deliver the solid results we saw this week," said U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Ronnie Woods, 18th WG command chief. "The talent, professionalism and motivation of our Shogun Warriors never fails to impress me."
As the U.S. Air Force’s largest combat wing, the 18th WG plays a pivotal role in maintaining regional security for the U.S. and its allies.
Through rigorous daily training and exercises like this week’s drills, the 18th WG continuously strengthens its ability to respond to demanding contingency situations and prevail in a high-end fight against any potential adversary.
"I’m proud of the wing’s performance throughout the week," said U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. David Eaglin, 18th WG commander. "We serve on the frontline of a dynamic theater that demands absolute readiness. Training events like this sharpen our skills and build our credibility as a deterrent to anyone who threatens the stability of the Indo-Pacific region.”