More than 80 US, partner, and coalition aircraft began 2008’s first Red Flag air combat exercise on Jan. 12 at Nellis AFB, Nev., and will continue with the realistic training activities through Jan. 26. Participating aircraft include F-22A Raptors (acting as the Blue force), F-16s (in the role of the aggressor force), B-1B bombers, Navy EA-6B Prowlers, Singaporean Air Force F-16s out of Luke AFB, Ariz., a Canadian C-130, and a Royal Air Force E-3D AWACS. The next Red Flag is scheduled for Feb. 4 to Feb. 15.
The B-2 Spirit remains grounded due to safety issues—and the plane’s stand-down is beginning to disrupt planned operations. According to information provided to the media, the stealth strategic bomber from the 509th Bomb Wing at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., was originally scheduled to participate in the latest iteration of…