German air force units training at base

Members of the German air force from the German Air Force Training Center, Holloman Air Force Base, N.M., arrived here Oct. 1 to participate in a training exercise with the base's fighter squadrons. (Air Force photo/ Airman 1st Class Stephany Miller)

American and German aircrews are expanding their horizons during a two and a half week training exercise here beginning Oct. 1.

The exercise is the final stage of training for Tornado Interdiction Strike aircraft weapons instructors with the German Air Force Training Center at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico.

MSgt. John Prudente, 366th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron production supervisor, said they are not coming alone, as several other units are also participating in the exercise, including F-16CJ fighter aircraft from Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, and EA-6B Prowlers from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash.

"The joint exercise is a good chance for us to train with the Germans so we're better prepared when it's time to go to war." said Sgt. Prudente "They come here to learn to deploy and employ strike package aircraft."

The exercise was traditionally done with the USAF Weapons School at Nellis AFB, Nev., until 2004 when the host squadron for the GAF-TC inactivated.

"Mountain Home AFB was chosen as a premier location to host the German air force because of its proven success in providing world-class ranges for fighter training," said Capt. Danny Lee, 366th Fighter Wing Plans and Programs, during a previous visit by the German air force to Mountain Home.

The exercise is scheduled to wrap up Oct. 17.