WUNSTORF, Germany – Airmen with our local Air National Guard unit are in Germany leading some important military exercises.
A spokesperson with the 182nd Airlift Wing says they’ve deployed to Germany for at least the next ten days.
They’re taking part in what’s called “Air Defender 2023” in Wunstorf, Germany.
A number of other militaries in NATO countries are also taking part in the exercises.
“Specifically, the 182nd is tasked as the lead C-130 unit in the exercise, supporting 9 other U.S. Air Force C-130 units from across the country. 182nd leadership, including Colonel Rusty Ballard, 182nd Airlift Wing Commander, are tasked with leading the units in C-130 operations throughout the region,” said Maj. Shane Hill, Chief of Public Affairs, 182nd Airlift Wing, in an e-mail to WMBD Radio News.
Officials say 100 U.S. aircraft from 35 states are taking part in the exercise — the largest such participation since NATO was founded.