Organized byAllied air command of NATO, the Ramstein Flag 2025 (RAFL25) involves over 90 aircraft, 15 nations and 12 air bases strategically located in Europe, including the main ones of Leeuwarden and Eindhoven (Netherlands), and allied operational locations such as Skrydstrup (Denmark), where the Italian Air Force F-35A and E-550A CAEW assets are deployed.
The NATO exercise, one of the most advanced and complex in the training panorama, is structured to provide a realistic and gradually complex context, developing operational capabilities in non-permissive and multi-domain scenarios, with a strong emphasis on C-A2/AD (Counter-Anti Access/Area Denial), the integration of 4th and 5th generation weapon systems, and interoperability with naval, land and air defense assets. The KC-767A of the 14th Wing is operating from its own Main Operating Base, ensuring constant support for in-flight refueling, day and night.
Among the main training objectives: the planning and execution of COMAO missions (composite air operations) in IADS environments (integrated air defense system) semi-permissive, the exercise of the F2T2EA cycle (find fix target – track engage access) in high intensity operations, the consolidation of capabilities in support of information superiority, data sharing and C2 integration (command and control) in real time between Allied air forces as well as consolidate the defense capacity of Alliance countries.
“Participation in the Ramstein Flag represents a fundamental test for us and our F-35As,” declared Major Giuseppe P., head of the 6th Wing of Ghedi. “Operating in highly complex scenarios with 4th and 5th generation aircraft allows us to refine our integration capabilities with NATO partners, confirming the effectiveness of the weapon system.”
Similarly, the 14th Wing's CAEW asset played a crucial role in managing the battle space by offering a mobile and interoperable command platform. “Our contribution is essential to ensure situational awareness, real-time command and control,” explained Lieutenant Colonel Maximiliano D., commander of the CAEW deployment. “Participation in this exercise allows us to consolidate ABM (Air Battle Management) and C2 capabilities in joint and multinational environments, while strengthening interoperability and coordination with allied forces.”
The exercise also features assets from the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Canada, Sweden, Finland, Greece, Czech Republic, Romania, Turkey, Hungary, Belgium and Spain.
Through participation in RAFL25, the Italian Air Force confirms the full operability of its weapon systems and the high professionalism of its personnel, consolidating Italy's role as a credible and interoperable player in the NATO integrated Air Defense landscape.
La Ramstein Flag 2025 represents a valuable opportunity for the Air Force to consolidate interoperability with partner countries, refine operational procedures in hostile environments and enhance the effectiveness of national weapon systems in multinational scenarios.
