During this edition of Frisian Flag at Leeuwarden there were like always again aggressors involved. The missions are daily separated in a red air and blue air section. Every participant has to fly missions in both camps during the complete exercise. Flying in red air means that participants are flying sometimes in the role of aggressors. Aggressors are groups of planes which are engaging the planes of blue air during their mission. On average these missions are flown by the most experienced pilots during the missions. The Volkel F-16’s of the no 312 Squadron are already for many years known for their excellent aggressor skills during these kinds of missions. The most experienced F-16 pilot of the Royal Netherland Air Force are flying in this unit which makes them a very tough opponent during this exercise. In real life the Dutch Viper Drivers have a lot of experience when it comes to intercepting Russian planes over the North Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. The knowledge about these planes is therefore also present in these units. In the past the Volkel F-16s were already used as red air during the WIC (Weapon Instructor Course) at Leeuwarden. The F-16’s flew straight from Volkel in their own role during these missions. During Frisian Flag missions the Volkel Vipers were also regularly assigned as red air. During these missions the F-16’s fly with callsigns like “MiG”, “Flanker” or “Ivan”. Usage of aggressors is vital for the RNLAF and its partners. During missions mainly the younger pilots are trained in engaging planes which are using the tactics of the common enemy. The is a very important lesson for every participant.
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