The Sailors of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 133, the Wizards, got a change of pace in April as they left the temperate climate of Whidbey Island and traveled to Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska to participate in US Pacific Air Forces premier training exercise, Red Flag Alaska.

Debarking from the plane, Sailors encountered mild temperatures similar to what they would find back home. 

“This isn’t so bad. My bedroom is colder than this,” said Information System Technician 2nd Class Matthew Flora.

During the two week exercise, Sailors would weather two major snow storms and temperatures hovering around zero degrees, all the while managing an intense operations tempo.

Red Flag Alaska is held deep within interior Alaska. Encompassing over 67,000 square miles of airspace and two Air Force bases, the exercise accommodates up to 70 aircraft during a single sortie. 

This year, the Wizards integrated with many US Air Force participants, including F-22 Raptors, as well as allies from Great Britain, Australia and Canada. 

“This is my first large force exercise and it’s pretty intimidating,” said Lt.j.g. Danial Sherman. “That’s why we train. We learn to work together and get those lessons taken care of now, instead of in the field.”

Analysis has shown that most combat losses happen during an aircrew’s first eight to 10 missions. Red Flag Alaska, and other exercises of its kind are designed to simulate these first challenging missions and provide aircrew with the necessary tools needed to survive in a hostile environment. 

The exercise not only simulates combat conditions for aircrew, but also provides vital preparation for intelligence departments and maintenance crews.

Prowlers were an essential element in every Red Flag mission. Sailors worked long hours in bone-chilling conditions to keep their Prowlers in the air. Their efforts contributed to an impressive 100 percent sortie completion rate, resulting in several important aircrew mission qualifications. 

With another deployment forthcoming, the Wizards appreciate every training opportunity, no matter how extreme.

“It was an opportunity to work not only with other services, but also with other countries. As an expeditionary squadron, these are some of the biggest lessons we’re going to take away from this exercise,” said Intelligence Specialist 2nd Class Erica Avery.