NATO launches Ramstein Flag 2025 to boost interoperability, combat readiness

NATO's Allied Air Command, in collaboration with the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF), is set to launch the highly anticipated Ramstein Flag 2025 (RAFL25) exercise from March 31 to April 11, 2025.

The multi-national, tactical-level training event will involve over 90 aircraft from more than 15 Allied nations, operating from 12 air bases across Europe. This large-scale exercise aims to enhance NATO's multi-domain operations, interoperability, and rapid response capabilities, Caliber.Az reports per the Alliance.

RAFL25, running concurrently with the Dutch-led Frisian Flag exercise, will focus on refining critical operational tactics, including Counter Anti-Access/Area Denial (C-A2/AD), Integrated Air and Missile Defence (IAMD), and Agile Combat Employment (ACE). These elements are designed to ensure NATO’s ability to effectively operate in increasingly complex and contested environments.

Air Marshal Jonny Stringer, Deputy Commander of Allied Air Command, emphasized the strategic importance of the exercise, stating, “NATO air power is fundamental to alliance deterrence in the defence of all NATO nations, probably now more than ever.” Stringer highlighted that RAFL25 offers some of the highest-level training NATO can conduct in Europe, supported by all 32 Allied nations.

A key element of the exercise is the deployment of the Deployable Air Control Centre, Recognized Air Picture Production Centre, and Sensor Fusion Post (DARS). These systems, which have already been deployed in advance of the exercise, will provide real-time airspace monitoring, coordination, and a recognized air picture, ensuring seamless integration between air and ground-based assets.

The exercise will feature a wide range of aircraft, including fighter jets, surveillance planes, refueling tankers, and electronic warfare assets. These assets will integrate with land and maritime forces, creating a highly sophisticated multi-domain exercise designed to test NATO's ability to operate effectively across all domains. The exercise will present realistic challenges in a complex operational environment, fostering cooperation and honing the skills of participating forces.

Lieutenant General Andre Steur, Commander of the Royal Netherlands Air Force, also participated in the media roundtable and emphasized the comprehensive nature of the exercise. “Ramstein Flag provides a unique opportunity to train the entire air power team in a multinational setting—from our crews on the ground and in the air to our maintenance and logistics teams,” Steur explained. “This exercise is not just about interoperability and training towards a specific target or adversary; it’s about exposure at all levels.”

As RAFL25 approaches, it stands as a critical demonstration of NATO’s air power, resilience, and unwavering commitment to collective defence. The exercise will ensure that NATO air forces are fully prepared to face the evolving security challenges of the modern world, reinforcing the alliance’s capability to respond rapidly and effectively to emerging threats.

By Vafa Guliyeva