The Michigan National Guard recently hosted members of Headquarters U.S. Air Force and the Swedish air force at the National All Domain Warfighting Center (NADWC) to bolster transatlantic military collaboration. This visit took place following Sweden’s accession into NATO, marking a significant moment in the expansion of the alliance. The NADWC, located at the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center, offers cutting-edge facilities for international partners to test personnel and equipment in various environments, similar to those found in Northern Europe.
The terrain and climate of the NADWC provide opportunities for fifth-generation fighters to train with allies and conduct combined training exercises in support of common defense security goals. Sweden’s primary fighter platform, the SAAB JAS 39 Gripen aircraft, is a key component of its air force capabilities, and the country is actively pursuing the transition to a next-generation fighter. The partnership between Michigan and Sweden’s air forces has the potential to enhance capabilities and readiness by leveraging each other’s expertise and resources.
Sweden’s emphasis on agile combat employment (ACE) aligns with Michigan’s innovative ACE training approach, advancing NATO’s objectives and enhancing rapid response capabilities. The MING’s 127th Wing has been focusing on operationalizing ACE concepts by landing A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft on highways during exercises and quickly launching them back into the air. Sweden’s proven track record in conducting highway landings and takeoffs, as well as its deployment of mobile infrastructure, demonstrates its ability to deploy and operate from dispersed locations swiftly.
The collaboration between the MING and the Swedish Air Force represents a significant stride towards enhancing transatlantic military cooperation and readiness. By capitalizing on each other’s strengths and capabilities, both organizations can benefit greatly, ensuring a more secure and resilient alliance in the face of evolving security challenges. Michigan has a history of participating in exercises alongside NATO allies and has been a key partner in the National Guard State Partnership Program, celebrating 31 years of partnership with Latvia in 2024. Strengthening partnerships and the NATO alliance through initiatives like the State Partnership Program is essential for enhancing collective defense and upholding democratic ideals.
