WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- Five A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft, five pilots, and 11 maintenance personnel from the 442d Fighter Wing recently participated in a training exercise with F-35 Lightning II fighter jets from the 115th Fighter Wing in Madison, Wis. The exercise focused on validating tactics for integrated air operations.
The exercise, dubbed TROJAN CHEDDAR, took place June 16-18 and provided a valuable opportunity for the A-10s and their crews to integrate with the fifth-generation F-35s.
Led by Lt. Col. Justin Ledvina, the 442nd Fighter Wing personnel worked alongside eight F-35s. The training included dissimilar air-to-air combat scenarios, allowing pilots to practice engagements against a variety of threats.
The exercise also featured a large force engagement, where all 13 aircraft worked together to defeat a simulated adversary. This scenario honed the A-10's ability to coordinate with other aircraft and deliver precision strikes in a complex environment. The A-10's ability to loiter over a battlefield for extended periods, providing constant vigilance and immediate firepower, was a key element of the training.
The training validated advanced tactics, techniques and procedures, emphasizing the A-10's continued relevance in modern air warfare. The 442d Fighter Wing frequently conducts training exercises to improve readiness and interoperability between different units and aircraft, ensuring the A-10 remains a vital component of the nation's defense.