Global Alliance: Uniting the US, Australia, Canada, and UK

In a world marked by profound technological advancements and intense global competition, the Distributed Mission Operations Center at Kirtland Air Force Base recently hosted the Virtual Flag: Coalition (VFC) exercise from October 21 to November 4. This significant event demonstrated the vital role of coalition partnerships and highlighted the coordinated efforts among allies.

The VFC is recognized as one of the U.S. Department of Defense’s largest virtual exercises. It takes place within a theater-level joint combat environment focused on the Indo-Pacific region. The exercise is designed to enhance collaboration and readiness among allied and joint forces, ensuring preparedness to respond to emerging threats.

Participating in this extensive training were operational and tactical warfighters from multiple military branches, including the U.S. Air Force, Army, Marines, Navy, Space Force, and various National Guard units. Allied forces such as the Royal Australian Air Force, Australian Army, Royal Canadian Air Force, Canadian forces, U.K. Space Agency, and Royal Navy also took part. Together, they faced simulated real-world threats reflective of current adversaries.

“This exercise is key!” declared RCAF Maj. Gary Stone, representing the Canadian delegation. “It’s all about coalition partnerships; partners and allies. We are a proud part of that warfighting integration team. This exercise is a testament to that idea.”

Each year, more than 400 coalition and joint warfighters engage in simulated combat scenarios encompassing air, land, space, cyber, and maritime operations. “Our DOD policy is, if we were to go to war- we are not going alone,” remarked U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. David Jones, commander of the 705th Combat Training Squadron and DMOC. “We are going to go with our allies and partners, and we have got to make sure that we can communicate through the right systems, have the same operational mindset, and tactical vernacular.”

Jones further emphasized the importance of these exercises for testing communication and strategic efforts with international allies. By understanding the roles and capabilities of each branch, the exercise enhances coordination to respond effectively when necessary.

VFC has consistently grown since its inception, incorporating scenarios that reflect modern-day adversary tactics and strategies. “Canada has participated in this exercise since 2009,” Stone noted. “Every year, it has continued to evolve and develop to accurately reflect who our present adversaries are and what tactics or types of battle we are facing.”

The VFC represents the commitment of the U.S. and its allies to prepare for future conflicts by fostering strong partnerships. Such collaborations play a crucial role in maintaining security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.