Helsinki (Agencies): In a groundbreaking event, the US Air Force (USAF) successfully conducted the first roadway operations of its Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II combat aircraft in Europe on September 4th. This milestone was achieved during Exercise ‘Baana 2024’ in Finland, where two F-35As from the 48th Fighter Wing at Royal Air Force (RAF) Lakenheath in the UK landed and departed from a dedicated roadway.
This event marks the first time the USAF has performed roadway operations with its F-35As anywhere in the world. The operation highlights significant advancements in the NATO alliance’s ability to execute the Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concept, which aims to enhance rapid deployment and operational flexibility among allied forces.
“The austere landing demonstrates advancements in the NATO alliance’s ability to perform operations under the US Air Force’s Agile Combat Employment [ACE] concept, and promotes closer integration among allied forces,” stated US Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa (USAFE – AFA).
The ACE concept, which was prevalent during the Cold War, has seen a resurgence due to increased tensions with Russia and its renewed invasion of Ukraine in 2022. This concept allows for rapid deployment between dispersed operating locations without sacrificing combat capabilities, ensuring NATO forces remain agile and ready for any scenario.