The Brazilian Air Force’s (FAB) F-39E Gripen fighters excelled at all the planned training exercises undertaken in Brazil as part of Operation CRUZEX 2024.
Among the activities conducted by F-39E Gripens from the 1st Air Defence Group (1st GDA) during the first week of Operation CRUZEX 2024 were familiarisation flights carried out within the operational scenario, integration with foreign military air forces and participation in Composite Air Operations (COMAO).
“The squadron participated in and completed all the missions planned by the Exercise Directorate, serving as both the Allied and the Opposing Force,” explained Major Aviator Vitor Bombonato, Operations Officer of the 1st GDA.
During this first week, two COMAO missions were conducted which are the most complex operations at CRUZEX. These flights took place in the morning, while other less complex training sessions were also held in the afternoon.
“Throughout the week we began with COMAO flights which involve approximately 60 aircraft taking off in a short time frame to operate in the same scenario. Additionally, we conducted a few flights with a smaller number of aircraft to practise outbound and return routes to the training area, as well as the first Beyond Visual Range (BVR) combat flights, where we applied tactics and used long-range missiles in simulated conditions,” added Major Aviator Raphael Kersul, fighter pilot with the 1st GDA.
The CRUZEX training flights, organised and led by the FAB at the Natal Air Base, will continue until 15 November.
