In a display of military prowess and cooperation, the Arctic Challenge Exercise (ACE) is set to soar across the Nordic region later this month. With an anticipated participation of approximately 150 aircraft, ACE is hailed as Europe’s biggest exercise of the year, attracting attention from military forces and aviation enthusiasts worldwide.
ACE, which occurs every two years, originated from the Nordic Defense Cooperation (NORDEFCO) and the Cross Border Training (CBT) initiative established in 2008. Designed to foster joint exercises among Sweden, Norway, and Finland within their respective airspace, the concept has evolved into the biennial ACE, showcasing the region’s exceptional capabilities.
Colonel Martin Tesli, stationed at Ørland Airbase, one of the four host bases, expressed enthusiasm for the exercise, stating, “This is the biggest and best exercise for us and our allied air forces.” He highlighted the advantages of the Nordic airspace, including its vast size, minimal civilian traffic, and access to live-firing ranges, making it an unparalleled setting for training and collaboration.
With the participation of 13 nations, including NATO AWACS planes, ACE 2023 will operate from four bases: Ørland in Norway, Kallax in Sweden, and Rovaniemi and Pirkkala in Finland. Over 2,700 personnel and more than 150 aircraft are expected to take part in the exercise.
It is essential to note that although several NATO members are involved, ACE is not a NATO exercise. Colonel Tesli emphasized that this long-planned activity is unrelated to the current European situation, underlining the exercise’s significance in strengthening alliances and enhancing operational capabilities.
Colonel Henrik Elo, from the Finnish Air Force and one of the exercise commanders, emphasized the value of ACE, stating, “The ACE 23 exercise provides a valuable experience for the Finnish Air Force in planning, command and control, and the implementation of large-scale air operations.” The exercise aims to promote safe and effective multinational combat operations, improve air combat methods and tactics, and enhance interoperability among different aircraft types.
Scheduled to take place during weeks 22 and 23, ACE will primarily unfold over the expansive northern regions of Finland, Norway, and Sweden. Two flight periods are planned daily to facilitate a wide range of missions and tactically challenging scenarios.
Notably, ACE 2023 will mark the first major European exercise involving the fifth-generation fighter jets, F-35 Lightning II. These advanced aircraft, operated by Great Britain, Italy, the Netherlands, the United States, and Norway, will participate in the exercise, showcasing the collaborative efforts and operational capabilities of F-35 operators.
Colonel Tesli expressed his excitement about the F-35’s integration, stating, “This is truly a testimony to all the hard work being done within the different nations getting operational with the F-35s.” He emphasized the importance of operating jointly, further enhancing their collective preparedness and ability to respond effectively when required.
ACE 2023 is poised to captivate audiences and demonstrate the commitment of Nordic countries and their allies to maintaining regional security and fostering collaborative defense efforts. A designated media day is scheduled for May 31 in Norway and Finland, and May 30 in Sweden, offering a closer look at the impressive capabilities on display during this remarkable exercise.