As recent events unfold, we’ve learnt that the U.S. Air Force has had to make a significant adjustment to their schedule due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Most notably, they have cancelled Phase-I of the Pacific Air Forces-sponsored exercise, Red Flag. This move is significant as it represents the USA’s prime multilateral air exercise, designed to offer practical education in a simulated combat environment using the Joint Pacific Alaska range complex.
Red Flag Alaska 20-1: An Exercise Cancelled
The inaugural schedule for the Red Flag Alaska 20-1 had initially positioned the exercise to take place in Alaska from 30th April to 15th May, 2020. This timeframe was chosen prior to the outbreak of the global pandemic and its subsequent restrictions. However, in light of new travel regulations instated by the U.S. Department of Defence in response to the spread of COVID-19, the event has been cancelled.
Indian Air Force’s Participation
Notably, the Indian Air Force (IAF) was set to participate in the exercise using its Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets. This was to be another milestone in the history of the IAF’s involvement with Red Flag exercises, which began in 2008 when the IAF took part for the first time in Nevada. During these exercises, the IAF has successfully deployed various aircraft such as the Su-30MKI, Jaguar strike aircraft, the Il-78 tankers and the C-17 strategic airlift aircraft.
The Cost of Participation
Despite the evident benefits of participation, the cost of involvement often proves challenging. The IAF has previously stated that it would not be able to participate in every edition of the biennial exercise. This decision arises from the steep financial expenditure these drills require, which can put a strain on the participating country’s defense budget.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Military Exercises
The cancellation of Red Flag Alaska 20-1 is symptomatic of wider changes happening across the global military landscape. The COVID-19 pandemic has enforced unexpected adjustments to operations and training exercises. International travel restrictions and the importance of safeguarding the health and safety of military personnel have led to the postponement or cancellation of many scheduled events.
The exact toll that the pandemic will impose on military preparedness remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain – it’s crucial to adapt and adjust training programs and operations to this new reality while ensuring that readiness and defensive capabilities are not compromised. This includes exploring alternate methods of training and potentially moving towards virtual, distance-learning based combat preparation.
As we adapt to this new reality, it’s essential to keep the focus on maintaining the integrity and functionality of military forces worldwide, despite the challenges posed by this unprecedented global event.
