GIESENKIRCHEN, Germany - The E-3A AWACS is participating in Ramstein Alloy, June 29 to 30, an air policing exercise hosted by Estonia. The exercise gives NATO and Partners the opportunity to train its quick reaction capabilities in the Baltic Sea region.
The AWACS brings its ability to control an air policing mission anywhere in Europe
"The AWACS brings its ability to control an air policing mission anywhere in Europe," said Captain James Storm, Air Training Squadron Instructor Weapons Controller. "This exercise allows all assets to practice and develop the air policing mission, with different agencies being involved each time."

NATO E3-A weapons controllers direct NATO fighters to intercept aircraft during Exercise Ramstein Alloy. Photo courtesy of SHAPE PAO.

E3-A component engineer service the aircraft between sorties during Ex Ramstein Alloy. Photo courtesy of SHAPE PAO.
The E-3A AWACS plays a vital role in air policing throughout NATO territory using its powerful airborne radar and command and control capabilities. The exercise brings together regional Allies and Partners to practice simulated scenarios such as communications loss and slow mover intercepts. The E-3A weapons controllers carry out air command and control during the air-to-air combat training. This capability is bolstered by a Turkish Air Force E-7T Peace Eagle which is flying from Turkey to take part in the exercise.
The NATO AWACS is a central player in the collective defence of European airspace, responding to both military and civilian aircraft that aren't complying with international flight regulations in or approaching Allied airspace
"The NATO AWACS is a central player in collective defence of European airspace, responding to both military and civilian aircraft that aren't complying with international flight regulations in or approaching Allied airspace, said Storm."
Air policing is critical as it can happen anywhere in Europe at any minute of the day. Training is effective in helping to prepare for air policing success during an operational mission.
"This year's exercise coincides with the 60th anniversary of the NATO air policing mission," said Storm. "Air policing is a peacetime mission, aiming to preserve security of the alliance airspace 24/7, 365 days a year."
The E-3A AWACS also participated in a media day at Amari Air Base, Estonia. Giving the opportunity to showcase the E-3A mission and its involvement in NATO air policing, the local community will get to see first hand how this aircraft has helped since air policing was established.
This iteration of the Ramstein Alloy exercise series is hosted by Estonia, with Allies Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, Turkey and NATO Partner Finland as well as NATO E-3A AWACS scheduled to participate in the training drills with more than 20 aircraft.