AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy -- U.S. Airmen and F-16 Fighting Falcons assigned to the 31st Fighter Wing, Aviano Air Base, Italy, are participating in exercise Thracian Star 21 at Graf Ignatievo Air Base, Bulgaria, from July 9-23, 2021.
The 555th Fighter Squadron is participating in the multilateral exercise alongside Bulgarian air force partners and Airmen from the 435th Combat Training Squadron, and the 4th Combat Training Squadron, Detachment 1, Ramstein AB, Germany.
Training will include offensive and defensive counter air missions, protection of high value assets, and close air support in a contested environment.
This training aims to maximize interoperability, combat effectiveness and survival awareness while operating in a dynamic high-threat environment. It also enhances our ability to rapidly deploy to remote locations and provide a credible force to assure stability for the region.
Participation in multinational exercises such as Thracian Star 21 enhances our professional relationships and improves overall coordination with allies and partner militaries during times of crisis.
Please contact the 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs office at 31FW.PA2@us.af.mil for more information.