The 17th annual Emerald Warrior exercise, conducted by Air Force Special Operations Command, recently concluded after training in three extreme cold weather environments in the midwestern U.S. This exercise, supported by U.S. Special Operations Command, aligned with Special Operations Command-Europe’s Trojan Footprint exercise to demonstrate special operations forces’ value and strengthen military relationships with U.S. and partner forces. Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind emphasized the importance of innovation and transformation to maintain the Air Force’s capabilities in the evolving global competition.
During the exercise, air commandos focused on chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear readiness, utilizing new decontamination systems like the CBRN MRZR for decontamination during infiltration, exfiltration, and tactical movement. Mission command autonomy was also emphasized to ensure special operations task groups and units are trained to operate effectively in dynamic environments. Lt. Col. David Allen, the exercise director, highlighted the development of the Agile Combat Employment concept, including successfully relocating special operations task groups to multiple locations and conducting various missions such as strategic fires, air-to-ground integration, and non-kinetic effects to deter aggression.
In addition to kinetic effects, Emerald Warrior also exercised non-kinetic capabilities such as space, cyber, public affairs, and information operations. Participants engaged in technical and deceptive activities to enhance overall combat operability and achieve exercise objectives. The exercise aimed to showcase the adaptability and transformative abilities of air commandos in creating dilemmas for adversaries, from military free fall to strategic messaging.
Emerald Warrior serves as a crucial training opportunity for special operations forces, conventional force enablers, partner forces, and interagency elements to enhance readiness through realistic and relevant pre-deployment training in multiple joint operating areas. The exercise allows participants to practice a wide range of skills and capabilities, from calling in air support to drafting strategic messages, to ensure they are prepared for the challenges of modern warfare. Overall, Emerald Warrior reinforces the importance of continuous improvement and readiness to meet the evolving demands of the national security landscape.
