Exercise RED FLAG

In January 2023, personnel from 2 (Field Communication) Squadron, 90 Signals Unit deployed to Nevada, USA to provide Communications and Information Services in support of Exercise RED FLAG; enabling the largest air combat exercise in the world.

Exercise RED FLAG is an annual commitment for the RAF, working in partnership with the United States and Royal Australian Air Force. The exercise provides the RAF with unparalleled training and prepares its personnel for operations against near peer adversaries, across the Air, Space and cyber domains.

With participating Typhoon aircraft from 2 (Fighter) Squadron based at RAF Lossiemouth and Voyager aircraft from 10 and 101 Squadrons based at RAF Brize Norton, a combined effort of 100 aircraft and 3,000 coalition service members descended on Nellis Air Force Base to practice high end warfighting scenarios across

12,000 square miles of airspace. Enabling Offensive and Defensive Counter Air and air-to-air refuelling operations, 90 Signals Unit deployed resilient OFFICIAL and SECRET communications, supporting over 300 multinational operational planning staff. Also on show was 90 Signals Unit’s innovative network distribution capability, RAVEN, a step change in modern communications capability with a reduced size, weight and power footprint. Equally as impressive, and the first demonstration of its type in recent years, 90 Signals Unit personnel were able to successfully pass data back to the UK via the US Wideband Global Satellite (WGS) system. This level of interoperability between UK and US partner nations will extend the reach of RAF communications and, subsequently, its ability to project Air Power.

Commenting on a successful demonstration, the 90SU Det Cdr Sgt Ant Rothery said, “This demonstration presented many challenges, both for the 90 Signals Unit Cyberspace specialists and the UK-US Satellite Communication (SATCOM) professionals. Working collaboratively saw a successful outcome and has undoubtably ensured this capability is available for future UK-US SATCOM requirements.”

As Exercise RED FLAG concluded, the 90 Signals Unit team were also able to complete an Adventurous Training expedition to the Grand Canyon, completing a 12-mile hike and appropriately named Exercise GRAND WALK. This arduous trip over rough and snowy terrain helped enhance the physical and mental resilience of the team in a challenging environment.