US Air Force prepares for massive REFORPAC exercise involving nearly 300 aircraft

Policy

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By Sky Industry News

Jan 14, 2025

The United States Air Force is preparing for the 2025 Return of Forces to the Pacific exercise, known as REFORPAC. This large-scale military event will involve nearly 300 aircraft and thousands of personnel in a theater-spanning deployment. Months of planning are required to refine air traffic procedures and integrated communications protocols.

The exercise aims to enhance collective security and interoperability in the Indo-Pacific region. The Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlights that such drills indicate an adaptation to evolving environments through sustained partnerships.

USAF Chief of Staff General David W Allvin shared insights with the Air Force Association Mitchell Institute: “Reforpac will draw large forces from fewer units, to provide more intensive and realistic training.” He noted that lessons learned from reinforcing Middle East strength after the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel have influenced this approach.

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Air and Space Forces Magazine reports that REFORPAC builds on decades of operational methodologies, incorporating lessons from prior exercises. The focus remains on flexible capabilities requiring quick adaptation and real-time coordination.

Scenarios include maritime patrol operations, humanitarian missions, long-range strikes, and rapid redeployment between dispersed bases. Fighter squadrons equipped with fifth-generation aircraft will practice confronting sophisticated threat systems in simulated contested airspace.

Cyber resilience is emphasized, with communication nodes facing simulated breaches to build trust among partner nations. The legacy of REFORPAC draws inspiration from Cold War-era REFORGER wargames aimed at preparing for potential conflicts with major powers like China.

Aviationist notes that the integration of fifth-generation platforms alongside legacy fighters reflects a shift toward complex mission profiles. Prominent examples include the F-35A Joint Strike Fighter and F-16 Block 50, both crucial for multi-role air operations.

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