The South Korean and United States air forces have begun a joint aerial exercise at Osan Air Base in Pyeongtaek. The Buddy Squadron drill will continue till Friday and is designed to improve interoperability, tactical coordination and combined operational readiness between the two allies. This year’s edition has expanded in scale, with more aircraft taking part in each session and a sharp rise in sorties.
Exercise Objective
The Buddy Squadron exercise focuses on strengthening integrated air operations. It aims to improve the ability of the two air forces to operate together in complex combat situations. The drill also supports the exchange of air-to-air tactics and joint mission planning.
Scale and Participation
The current exercise has seen increase in participation compared with previous years. The number of aircraft per session has more than doubled. Sorties have also increased substantially, reflecting a wider training scope and greater operational intensity.
Training Focus
- The drill is conducted as a battalion-level exercise in rotation between the two forces.
- It includes integrated tactical training involving fourth- and fifth-generation fighter jets.
- The exercise is intended to improve combined response capabilities in the region.
- It helps both air forces refine shared tactics and operational procedures.
Strategic Significance
The exercise underlines the continuing military partnership between South Korea and the United States. Such drills are important for maintaining readiness, enhancing deterrence and ensuring coordinated air power in the Indo-Pacific security environment.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026