Annual Review 2020 Annual Review 2020

European Air Group - Improved Capability through Interoperability www.euroairgroup.org Air Warfare begins on the ground. After its past achievements towards Personnel Recovery, the European Air Group is currently conducting several projects of interoperability related to Force Protection. (© R.Nicolas-Nelson/Armée de l'air)

EAW HQ in a deployed setting, fast jets (UK Typhoon and French Rafale) and ground close combat (Force Protection comprising RAF and French units). (MOD Crown copyright) Annual Review 2020

Contents 4 Foreword The European Air Group – From Theory into 5 Practice to Improve Interoperability 4 Interoperability – 6 Working Towards a Brighter Future 6 Stand-off Targeting in Highly 8 Contested Environments 8 EUROFIGHT Technical Arrangement – EAG Project 10 with Continuing Relevance to Air Defence Units Advanced Training and Exercises Master Plan (ATMP) – 11 Seizing Opportunities for Multi-National Training 10 HERMES – Harnessing Red Forces Capabilities 12 to Enhance Air Combat Training Synthetic Training: Opportunities for Multi-National 14 Interoperability in the Virtual Environment IMRIT: New Steps towards Remotely Piloted 16 Aircraft Systems' Interoperability STOX TA Coordination Board – Driving forward 18 Force Protection Interoperability Sahrani Island Challenges – VOLCANEX Force 16 20 Protection C2 CPX Making a Difference – 20 22 The EAG FP C2 Handbook Air Force Protection and Countering 24 small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Common Terminology to 22 25 improve Interoperability EAG Aviation Medicine Project: An Enduring and 26 Essential Cooperation Tool serving all Airmen FARP Interoperability – A Force Multiplier for 26 28 Rotary Wing Operations An Agile Approach to CSS Modules for 30 Deployed Operating Airbases 32 Communication and Information Systems – 32 An Interoperability Challenge for the EAG Cyber Domain Awareness – A Challenge for 34 Multinational Operations The Combined Air Interoperability Programme – 36 Where are we now? Standing EAG 38 Technical Arrangements EAG Project 39 Activities 2021 34

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Image shows from top to bottom: French Rafale, Mirage 2000, two RAF Typhoon aircraft. (Dec 2020)

Typhoons from RAF Coningsby met with Armée de l'Air Rafale and Mirage 2000 to meet a simulated Non-NATO entering the UK Airspace and was supported by RAF Voyager from RAF Brize Norton providing Air-to-Air Refuelling. (MOD Crown copyright)

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Foreword

the origins of both the European Air Transport Command (EATC) and the European Personnel Recovery Centre (EPRC), with notable successes across Aviation Medicine (AvMed), Force Protection (FP) and Communications and Information Systems (CIS), also conducting field exercises, known within the EAG as VOLCANEX.

I have now witnessed where the EAG is most effective, when it focusses on generating tangible, tactical and operational-level outputs. These promote and improve the interoperability of our Air Forces in the short term. The unique aspect of the EAG is its ability to produce the theory (Standard Operating Procedures or Tactics, Techniques and Procedures) and then put theory into practice with field trials and exercises, all in a multi-national environment – no other organisation does this in the same way.

In more recent times, our successes have focussed on areas such as the system to exchange Red Air forces, known as HERMES, an Air-Launched Cruise Missile Planning Guide, an FP Technical Arrangement that now has expanded to include as a Partner Nation, and the FP Command and Control (C2) Handbook, which has been published not only for use by EAG Nations, but had the great pleasure of taking over as Director also is now recognised across NATO as an FP standard. I of the European Air Group (EAG) on 18 Sep 20 at This demonstrates how a small number of determined the start of my appointment as the Belgian Air Nations can forge ahead with agility and provide essential Component Commander. tactical detail that underpins true interoperability, laying the foundation for operations across Europe and NATO. We live in challenging times, not only reacting to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, but also recognising This has been a challenging year for all of us; however, the increasing instability across the World and the I am confident in the high quality of personnel in the EAG proliferating threats both from international terrorist groups and in their ability to work through temporary restrictions using asymmetric tactics, but also witnessing the return of and build momentum for 2021 to deliver tangible results. State competition, widening the threat spectrum to include the newest domains of space and cyber. As technological progress accelerates, making advanced systems more accessible and affordable, it is ever more important that we become fully interoperable - and across all domains. Within that framework, the EAG can add value by ensuring that our 7 Nations’ Air Forces can operate seamlessly together across the full spectrum of activity and provide the touchstone for others to build on with confidence.

I am particularly drawn to the core mission of the EAG: ‘to improve operational capabilities of the Parties’ Air Forces, primarily through the mechanisms which enhance Thierry Dupont interoperability’. Founded in 1998 and now a 7 Nation Commander organisation, significant progress has been made, including Director EAG

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The European Air Group – From Theory into Practice to Improve Interoperability

he EAG is an independent organisation consisting of Tseven Member nations – , , , , the , and the – whose aim is to improve interoperability between the Member Air Forces under the umbrella of an Inter- Governmental Agreement. The EAG aims to improve interoperability within a short timescale, at the tactical and operational levels.

Located at RAF High Wycombe in the United Kingdom, the EAG Permanent Staff consists of 3 staff officers and one SNCO from each Nation plus a Deputy Director and Chief of Staff, whose appointments are rotational.

One key aspect of the EAG and its effectiveness, is that we have a direct link to the Chiefs of Staff of the Member Nations’ Air Forces. This year, owing to COVID-19 restrictions, the annual meeting of Chiefs was held by VTC (see picture below). This enabled us to receive guidance directly from the Chiefs on their priorities for multinational operations, which ensures that EAG projects are directly relevant to Nations’ Air Forces outputs. by producing outputs such as Technical Arrangements or Standard Operating Procedures, then putting this into ‘practice’ in field trials and exercises to be tested and adjusted in a safe environment, before finally delivering outcomes that directly contribute to interoperability across our Nations’ Air Forces.

This year has seen the major impact of COVID-19, restricting our ability to meet face-to-face or conduct exercises. However, we have been able to move forward by installing a video-conferencing facility that permits projects to be taken forward, although some areas still suffer from a lack of face-to-face interaction. The use of video conferencing will permanently change our way of working and enable projects to be progressed without the need for travel; however, meetings and symposiums, as well as field trials, will still need to take place face-to-face.

We look forward to working with all EAG Nations and partner organisations for a successful 2021.

The following articles highlight the progress being made across a wide field of activities, all designed to increase interoperability in areas such as Air Ops, FP, Logs, and CIS. The EAG has seen particular success where we are able Air Commodore Hugh Smith to get to the tactical detail, firstly looking at the ‘theory’ Deputy Director EAG

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Eurofighter Typhoon Interoperability – Working Towards a Brighter Future

“The desire to fly is an idea handed down to us by our ancestors who, in their gruelling travels across trackless lands in prehistoric times, looked enviously on the birds soaring freely through”. – Orville Wright

urofighter Typhoon is an advanced multi-role combat aircraft which interoperability, durability, resilience, safety Erecord, reliability and enhancements of the platform ensure that both performance and value are delivered without compromise. The Eurofighter Typhoon project presented its partner nations (Germany, Italy, Spain and UK) with an opportunity to collaborate end-to-end in a 4th Generation multi-role fighter aircraft. However, in the years following its introduction to service, several factors have led to the original four partner nations working more in isolation rather than as a collaborative partnership. Unlike the Lockheed Martin F-35 programme, which has a government-led central co-ordinating office, the NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency (NETMA) has allowed nations to take greater control and enter into contractual agreements with their respective industry partners (BAE Systems (UK), Airbus (Germany), Leonardo (Italy) and Airbus (Spain)). Unfortunately, this has become a barrier to interoperability, especially in maintenance and logistics as parts become scarcer, fleets diversify with national modifications, and nations become risk-averse following the introduction of more robust, but necessary, airworthiness regulations.

Signed in 2012, the EAG’s Eurofighter Typhoon of the Aircraft Ground Equipment (AGE) Compatibility Interoperability Project (ETIP) is an activity that looks Matrix from their respective national Military Aviation to bridge the divide in the programme, encouraging Authorities (MAA). Once in place this development will Nations to share lessons learned and where possible allow member nations to share and use specific national resources. The activity includes a series of ‘Permanent ground equipment, which could allow for greater fleet Forum’ meetings every six months, and participation interoperability and potentially reduce deployable in live exercises, aimed at exploring cooperation, logistics footprints. interoperability and standardisation between them. Cooperation is orientated to the development of Following a virtual Permanent Forum meeting in commonly agreed procedures, training activities, November 2020, it is hoped that there will be a number operational enhancements, logistical and maintenance of opportunities for integrated training, and observation initiatives, as well as exchanges about Flight Safety. of procedures during 2021, which may offer a much- needed boost to the inroads that were being made, The last Permanent Forum meeting, prior to the COVID-19 especially in ground maintenance, temporarily stalled due pandemic, was held in Cologne, Germany in December to COVID-19. Over the course of 2018 and 2019, at the 2019. Over the two-day meeting, pilots and engineers tactical level, nations had brought engineers briefed their colleagues on their operational experiences, together in order to learn from one another’s experiences, worked closely to discuss progress on ETIP Standard review pre- and post-flight procedures and assess Operating Procedures, and the gradual recognition the compatibility of each other’s ground equipment.

The arrival of German Air Force Eurofighters at Siauliai Air Base, SAC(T) Jones is pictured here working on the typhoon aircraft and he 15th Jul 2020. (MOD Crown copyright) is responsible for all the aircraft electrical and avionics. (MOD Crown copyright)

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At Exercise COBRA WARRIOR in 2019 at RAF Waddington, the UK successfully charged a German Typhoon with a ground power unit from RAF Coningsby, whilst engineers from both nations, and Italy, discussed future options. These collaborations were popular at the tactical level and have led to nations improving their ground activities, including interest in the German wireless helmet communication system between ground crew and aircrew.

Typhoon maintenance interoperability is not just limited to ground equipment. At the EAG Working Group Meeting in November 2018, Germany stated that there would be significant benefits and synergies if a mutual recognition process regarding quality control and verification procedures for spare parts could be established. Good news was received in early 2019 with the Within each nation, the definition of quality control announcement of the UK / German joint Baltic Air standards, and validation of other nations’ engineering, Policing initiative, supported by the development of an is done by the respective Military Aviation Authority interoperability handbook. The handbook attempts to (the national organisation responsible for military analyse and solve many of the barriers to cooperative airworthiness). At the present time, each ETIP nation working, whilst laying out Standard Operating Procedures works to a national and unique military airworthiness which will remain in place for years to come. Several trials policy. ETIP nations do not currently recognise each took place in ground engineering over the course of the other’s engineering procedures. This inhibits the sharing of UK’s deployment of two aircraft and a small number of spare parts as engineering records cannot be verified and engineers to the German Baltic mission and then the aircraft cannot be signed off as serviceable and airworthy if reverse three months later. Success was that ‘foreign’ sharing takes place. There has unfortunately never been a engineers worked under supervision of the home nation’s global Eurofighter spares network. Nations can only share personnel on each other’s aircraft. However, there is a parts that were designated in the NETMA’s Mutual Supply long hard road ahead to real interoperability. The hope is System from the outset of the contract. NETMA previously that this bilateral initiative can be spread to encompass all had visibility of each nation’s holdings under their legacy four ETIP nations. One potential solution for this would be contracts. However, when NETMA changed these contracts the drafting of a Technical Arrangement or Memorandum at the nations’ behest, it was prevented from having full of Understanding. This would underpin the handbook with visibility of supply chain orders. These contracts prevent the requisite legal and financial framework to allow the the sharing of parts and equipment as the industry partner nations to work collaboratively. either owns the stock (UK and Germany) or controls the stock (Italy and Spain). The underlying reason behind this There is no doubt that the EAG, through its ETIP project, situation is that there is no incentive to share parts as there offers the most comprehensive forum for this work to be is marginal financial gain from doing so and the industry achieved. The expertise and knowledge combined with partners control the supply of the parts they manufacture. the vast network of contacts means we are ideally placed to facilitate this work and ensure a coherent joined up Notwithstanding these current hurdles, it may be possible approach going forward. The future of the Eurofighter to set up a mutual recognition procedure of quality Typhoon is bright; perhaps through necessity, nations control standards among the ETIP nations. It would require are more willing to come together, but regardless of the consultation with the four Air Forces, the four industry underlying reasons, barriers are being overcome and partners and the four national MAAs. It would also be progress is being made. advisable to consult NETMA at this stage. It would not be a quick-win process as each nation would be required For any information, feel free to contact: to validate each of the other nations’ quality control [email protected] standards independently. Success could solve spare part shortages, reduce time aircraft spend unserviceable, improve interoperability, and potentially reduce costs in the long term.

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Stand-off Targeting in Highly Contested Environments

tand-off weapons provide campaign planners with a great tool to penetrate highly contested enemy areas. SIf modern, networked Integrated Air Defence Systems (IADS) are in place, and especially if they are linked with long range Coastal Defence Missile systems, the acceptable risk level for most air forces will suggest stand-off weapons as primary effectors to contribute in a first decisive wave.

Five of the seven EAG nations carry and employ GOAL: A seamless integration of ALCM planning into Conventional Air-Launched Cruise Missiles (CALCM). the NATO/combined battle rhythm While Germany and Spain use the TAURUS missile, France, the United Kingdom and Italy employ the MBDA SCALP While, at the beginning of this project in 2017, the main EG / Storm Shadow system. focus was set to establish a network amongst EAG stand-off missile planners, it soon shifted to air campaign planners within NATO Combined Air Operation Centres and Joint Force Air Components (JFAC). Together with the USAFE Joint Effects Team based at Ramstein Airbase, Germany, the EAG project team built a ‘Planning Guide for Conventional Air-Launched Cruise Missiles’ (PGCALCM), addressing planning considerations involved in stand-off weapon planning. Through the conduct of an EAG-led trial exercise at the Spanish Air Combat Command, the visits to multiple NATO Joint Force Command and NATO Joint Force Air Component exercises and a specific AIRCOM symposium addressing the complexity of Standoff Weapons along the years, the project advanced even more.

Since the planning of those missile systems includes on the one hand the final attack portion, but also the autonomous flight path from release to the final attack phase, and on the other hand the preparation of system-specific imagery, the planning process is very complex and completed as a national responsibility.

However, recent history has proven that combined offensive missions could be required sometimes at short notice, following the political decision of some governments, and that the pre-existence of agreed procedures would ease the multinational planning process. With the developing focus on Multi- By collecting Lessons Identified in NATO Joint Force Domain Operations in recent years, Command and JFAC exercises, the Planning Guide became the coordinated and integrated use not only a comprehensive collection of considerations of stand-off weapons becomes even addressing issues in all phases of the battle rhythm, more complex - but more important including specifics on national weapons and their as well. employment, but also expanded to some considerations and suggestions concerning the relationship between In order to synchronise the Multi-Domain Operations and stand-off weapons. national planning cycles with the campaign design, the EAG While the main work on the Planning Guide is now established a project named complete, during the drafting process an unrelated major ‘Air-Launched Cruise Missiles’ lesson was identified: in order to exercise properly, and (ALCM). build coherent training scenarios, JFAC planners need

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to be knowledgeable about basic data regarding the a stand-out success for this project, a perfect example of weapons and the aircraft that carry them to the release the most effective level of action, and the best added value point. However, despite the fact that most of the stand-off from EAG. weapons deployed by the participating nations have been in service for a long time, and therefore general knowledge For any information, feel free to contact: about them is available on open sources, nations are [email protected] currently unwilling, or unable, to declassify basic data to share between the nations, potentially hindering the effective education of allied planners involved in campaign planning.

Way Ahead Due to the importance for NATO to effectively integrate and maximise the potential effect generated by the use of stand-off weapons, the EAG project has attracted NATO Air Command’s interest.

PGCALCM is currently in its final review. It will soon be released to the EAG’s national JFACs and Air Operation Centres, will hopefully be accepted into NATO doctrine or an Air Command Operating Procedure, and accordingly will be available to not only HQ personnel, at Air Force or Joint-level, but also to all interested SMEs. This will mark SCALP-EG missile. (© L.merlin / armée de l'air)

One of three Spanish EF-18s carrying an inert Taurus missile deployed to Manching, Germany. (Image credit: SpAF)

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EUROFIGHT Technical Arrangement – EAG Project with Continuing Relevance to Air Defence Units

he Technical Arrangement (TA) on Air Defence Training, more commonly known as the EUROFIGHT TA, was Tdeveloped in the very early years of the EAG’s life, and was originally signed in 2000 by France, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom, and then joined by Germany and the Netherlands in 2003 and by Belgium in 2006.

The arrangement was created with the purpose of disadvantages of their own platform. Pilots can learn providing training opportunities to the EAG Nations from that, and build up their confidence in their own through a simple and flexible process, with reduced weapon system and related tactics. The opportunity of scheduling times, without the need for further paperwork being controlled by foreign Ground Controlled Intercept or legal arrangements. (GCI) controllers also allows aircrew to increase their experience in preparation for working in more complex The use of this tool complements the fulfilment of the multinational environments. GCI and Air Traffic Services Air Defence training requirements of the EAG Nations’ air (ATS) units themselves get clear benefits from working forces and it is frequently put into practice. It facilitates with different types of aircraft from various countries. the participation of assets from all 7 of the EAG Nations in a variety of scenarios, from basic to more advanced The number of sorties flown by nations per year (e.g. Practice Intercepts, Air Combat Training or Dissimilar has stabilised at over 400 since 2015, proving that Air Combat Training and Mixed Force Fighter Operations) the EUROFIGHT TA has continued relevance, and and provides a single multilateral framework within demonstrating the desire of the EAG fighter community which aircraft from participating nations can train to keep on collaborating and training together, using together to improve operational capabilities and mutual this long-lasting and successful “training-proven” understanding in Air Defence. During these exercises, environment. aircrew are provided with a unique opportunity to exploit known differences in aircraft performance to For any information, feel free to contact: maximise their own advantages, while minimising any [email protected]

A Typhoon of 1(F) Squadron (top) and a French Air Force Mirage 2000N. (MOD Crown copyright)

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Advanced Training and Exercises Master Plan (ATMP) – Seizing Opportunities for Multi-National Training

“A goal without a plan is just a wish.” – Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

raining and exercises are some of the fundamental and most effective tools that the EAG has at its disposal Tto enhance interoperability between the member Nations, and thus contribute to increasing the operational capabilities of the seven Air Forces. Synchronisation of training and exercise activities creates opportunities for multinational engagement and has synergistic effects at the tactical level. To achieve this, an Advanced Training and Exercises Master Plan (ATMP) has been developed as a collaborative tool, overseen by the EAG Permanent Staff (PS) and managed by the Nations through the ATMP Coordination Board (CB), together with the support of other stakeholders. Its principles and outcomes are endorsed by the EAG Steering Group, which is in overall control of EAG and ATMP policy. The ATMP is intended as a means to enable exercise planners in all EAG Air Forces and partner organisations to cooperate and exploit opportunities for combined exercises that will improve mutual interoperability and serve own-training requirements, via a two-step approach. Firstly, nations exchange all of the national exercises and training opportunities open to multilateral collaboration, which they organise or attend; then, their representatives discuss and identify possible common training opportunities during CB meetings. However, the ATMP can only be successful when it is fully supported by EAG Nations and other participating stakeholders in both phases, and when the information provided is relevant, accurate and up-to-date.

The EAG’s ATMP was a concept first initiated in 2001. However, after almost two years of trials, all national CB Until 2017, the first step of the ATMP process, aimed at members finally came to the conclusion that eMTEP was collating the national exercise plans, was managed and primarily intended for large-scale exercises, and was coordinated using a straightforward Microsoft Excel therefore not a useful tool for the purpose of ATMP. spreadsheet, which was developed by the EAG PS and In addition, within several nations, eMTEP was only used updated on a quarterly basis. This format was effectively and could only be accessed at the Joint level. Consequently, a ‘shop window’ that displayed scheduled exercises of the EAG Air Forces were open to the resumption of an ATMP seven EAG Air Forces and other stakeholders; however, database as the main tool for the project, utilising the EAG it had distinct limitations and was assessed as labour- PS as a facilitator, rather than utilising NATO’s eMTEP tool. intensive for some stakeholders. Therefore, during the meeting of the ATMP Coordination Board in November Therefore, the EAG PS have begun developing a new way 2017, the EAG Nations agreed to adopt NATO’s electronic of working to make the EAG spreadsheet more accessible Military Training and Exercise Programme (eMTEP) as the through its Extranet page, and visually more intuitive, central information tool. aiming to make the ATMP tool easier to use and exploit. After all, its purpose to collect all available exercise data, is only to serve as a basis for the second step of the activity, which is to identify and exploit opportunities in order to synchronise, or, where necessary, deconflict multinational training and exercise efforts, and contribute to existing exercise opportunities. The final aim is to reinforce interoperability, optimise national training and increase combat effectiveness. In addition, this “sharpening of the procedural tool” should also make the ATMP and its CB more effective in meeting future needs, by exploring additional exercise opportunities beyond pure flying operations, towards other critical supporting aspects such as C2, CIS, or Logistics.

For any information, feel free to contact: [email protected] (Credit: Markus Kroth/Luftwaffe)

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HERMES – Harnessing Red Forces Capabilities to Enhance Air Combat Training

rom basic to advanced tactical-level live flying training, all Air Forces demand the availability of credible opposing Fforces to reach the standard level of preparation they require. However, Allied countries are currently lacking sufficient opposing forces, whose flying assets are also known as a ´Red Air´, ´Aggressor´ or ´Adversary Air´ capability. This capability will become increasingly scarce as fleets shrink, costs rise, and demand increases, especially for those nations operating 5th Generation aircraft.

In close cooperation with other 4th Generation), but also extends to Electronic Warfare/ military entities, the EAG developed Electronic Attack assets, Surface Based Air Defence Units an exchange system, baptised as (real or simulated emitters), air assets for Joint Terminal HERMES (Harmonised European Red Attack Control (JTAC) Teams training, and specific training air Means Exchange System) to allow ranges and their associated services. nations to lend and borrow training enablers from each other. The aim of Nevertheless, HERMES has boundaries. These exchanges HERMES is to increase the combat are designed to provide support to limited national training training capabilities of a nation events, ranging from basic training at Unit/Squadron level in need, through the use of the (e.g. Operational Conversion Training, Fighter Weapon unexpended training resources Schools, tactical Continuation Training) up to limited and/or the spare capacity that national exercises. Therefore, HERMES is specifically excluded another nation may have. from major NATO training events or Flag-type exercises.

HERMES facilitates the exchange When looking for a framework to sustain this new of services, including aircraft providing ´Red exchange system, the EAG identified the well-established Air´ replication (from basic air assets to “high end” Air Transport, Air-to-Air Refuelling and Other Exchanges

The examples displayed above and right are aimed at illustrating some of the many potential uses of the HERMES protocol by the participating nations.

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of Services Technical Arrangement (ATARES TA), that schemes beyond bilateral exchanges, such a rolling plans also originated from the EAG and is now handled by the between three Air Forces. Movement Coordination Centre Europe (MCCE), as a suitable solution rather than having to build an additional Although HERMES does not completely solve the lack of arrangement from scratch. adequate Combat Air Training opportunities, it should be recognised as an excellent instrument in a nation´s toolbox The idea of ATARES is to exchange services without the to fight capability gaps and training shortfalls … and it is requirement for direct financial reimbursement. It is a ready to be used! reciprocal capability exchange compensation scheme, where nations providing support will get a positive balance For any information, feel free to contact: on their national account, while nations receiving the [email protected] support accept a negative balance on theirs. In January 2020, the inclusion of HERMES in the ATARES TA as a new means of exchange was approved, widening the benefits of the use of this tool from the 7 EAG Nations to all 28 ATARES- member Air Forces.

In the same way as for other categories inside ATARES, Nations fill in their national appendix, identify POCs with responsibility to organise the exchanges, and calculate Equivalent Factors (EF) to set the ‘value’ of the asset proposed for the exchange.

There are many scenarios which can be supported HERMES will help tackle the challenges of modern fighter training by by a HERMES exchange: a basic course, a national air optimising the use of legacy training enablers. (© Sébastien Lafargue/Armée de l'air et de l'espace/Armées) exercise, JFAC training, an EW unit-level training event, or multinational courses. It can even support more complex

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Synthetic Training: Opportunities for Multi-National Interoperability in the Virtual Environment

“Technology... the knack of so arranging the world that we don't have to experience it”. – Max Frisch

ncreasingly, training and exercises will be executed in a synthetic environment, ranging from part-task trainers Iand flight simulators, to mission simulators and Live, Virtual and Constructive (LVC) training.

LVC is defined as a combination of three training categories significant increase in interconnectivity between synthetic in an integrated, secure, dynamically adaptable network to training systems of the EAG Nations. In order to develop augment scenario complexity: this subject area, the EAG Permanent Staff (PS) advised the EAG Steering Group (SG) in July 2017 that a shared • Live Environment (L): Warfighters operating their multinational vision of synthetic training was needed. The respective operational system in a real-world SG subsequently endorsed an initiative to develop an EAG application; inventory of opportunities and requirements, which could lead to the development of a common vision. The subject of • Virtual Environment (V): Warfighters operating fielded Synthetic Training Networking had also been identified as simulators or trainers; a challenge within the EAG’s Combined Air Interoperability Programme (CAIP) and the previous initiative had therefore • Constructive Environment (C): Computer Generated been merged with this CAIP Project. With the closure of Forces (CGFs) used to augment and force multiply the CAIP programme mid-2020, this project has now been Live and/or Virtual scenario development. taken up separately again.

Additionally, such synthetic systems potentially provide The EAG’s work, however, has synergies with work optimum opportunities for future multinational undertaken by NATO in this domain, and therefore the interoperability training, and the development of common EAG decided to merge its efforts with ongoing work in procedures. However, exploiting this potential will require a NATO. Synthetic3 capability has become an essential tool

As part of the Synthetic Training project, the EAG Permanent Staff associates with and attends the NATO MSG-165 meetings.

3 The MSG-165 Vision Statement states that term ‘synthetic’ is used throughout to describe the training medium, alongside ‘live’ and ‘blended’. These are used over other terms such as Live, Virtual and Constructive (LVC) as virtual and constructive elements can both be employed as part of blended or synthetic exercise delivery mediums, risking confusion in training delivery.

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to meet the operational training needs of NATO military will be proposed to discuss the transition from the current forces. Improvements in technical capabilities and reduced situation of multiple national simulators with different cost, coupled with adversaries’ monitoring of live activity interoperability protocols, towards a joint multinational and increasing airspace restrictions, have made the use distributed simulation capability implemented according to of synthetic training more attractive. Collective Training4 the recommendations of the MTDS Reference Architecture. (CT) enabled by Mission Training through Distributed The desired end state of the effort is to establish persistent Simulation5 (MTDS) is therefore becoming increasingly and routine synthetic Collective Training of NATO coalition important to NATO’s, and member nations’ readiness. warfighting air elements, in order to enable preparation Many NATO-member nations are moving towards a greater and rehearsal for NATO contingency operations. use of advanced simulation for mission training, and are developing national MTDS capabilities; yet NATO does not On the EAG side, training and exercises organised within currently have a collective MTDS capability to leverage this effort will also be included in the EAG’s Advanced these developments for Coalition CT. Training & Exercises Master Plan (ATMP), for nations to exploit and participate in. The NATO Modelling and Simulation Group (MSG) of NATO’s Science and Technology Organisation (NATO During the transition from STO to ACT, EAG will assist MSG- STO) oversees a series of task groups, addressing different 165 to coordinate its work with the EAG Nations and address aspects of modelling and simulation. Its mission is to any points requiring attention. Nations are advised to start develop and exploit Modelling & Simulation (M&S) for the gaining knowledge about the principles of multinational benefit of the Alliance and its partners. Specifically, the synthetic training at an early stage, even if they have no MSG-165 addresses the incremental implementation of systems yet that they can connect, in order to be in a better MTDS for Joint and Combined Air Operations. MSG-165 position towards a smooth integration with allied systems, started its activities in January 2018 and is planned to end once they acquire this capability. its activities in 2021. It will most probably be followed-up by a more permanent organisation under the auspices of For any information, feel free to contact: Allied Command Transformation (ACT). Current MSG-165 [email protected] participants are USA, CAN, NOR, TUR and thanks to the effort of the EAG, also all of the 7 EAG Nations: BEL, DEU, ESP, FRA, GBR, ITA, NLD, as well as the Centre of Excellence (CoE) CASPOA6 and NIAG7.

The MSG-165 works with 4 subgroups, each addressing a specific part of the challenge:

• The Reference Architecture (RA) Subgroup, which has published an RA Document;

• The Live-Virtual-Constructive (LVC) Subgroup, which is drafting an LVC Report;

• The Cross-Domain Security (CDS) Subgroup, which will produce a CDS Reference Manual;

The CFBLNet is an international initiative, aiming at • The Ops Subgroup, which drafts an MTDS Concept connecting its participant nations with a synthetic capability, Paper and key messages and methods. as this has become an essential tool to meet the operational training needs of (NATO) military forces. The EAG participates with PS representation in the Ops Subgroup. In addition to the reports mentioned above, a final overall report will provide an overview of the work done. In parallel, a transition and implementation path

4 As defined by the Bi-Sc 75-2. 5 Mission Training through Distributed Simulation (MTDS) is directed at training aircrew for combined air missions in a virtual environment. 6 Centre d’Analyse et de Simulation Pour les Opérations Aériennes- CASPOA is a FRA AF’s Air C2 CoE. 7 NATO Industry and Armament Group.

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IMRIT: New Steps towards Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems' Interoperability

“Great discoveries and improvements invariably involve the cooperation of many minds”. – Alexander Graham Bell

n most EAG Nations’ Air Forces, Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) are relatively new assets. Yet, in less than Itwo decades, they have grown to become an essential piece of modern air warfare.

Today, virtually every European Air Force employs RPASs in are dictated by national prerogatives, by the systems’ own a broad range of missions. Typically, the missions executed characteristics and limitations and, subsequently, by the crews’ experience.

Given the huge variety of “drones” in service and the numbers and diversity of missions conducted, European nations have all, individually, gathered their own unique operational know-how. However, initiatives to share this experience amongst European partners remains scarce, and often limited to the users of the same platform, through dedicated Users’ Groups.

Therefore, with a similar goal in mind to EAG’s achievements in other domains such as Personnel Recovery or Force Protection, the EAG is committed to exploring the interests of our Air Forces to get together and build an RPAS

The RTTD, (RPAS Training Technology Demonstrator) has been deployed to all ten participating nations of the IMRIT programme.

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community, eager to exchange and discuss their tactics, demonstrator, it was meant to trigger the interest of allied Standard Operating Procedures and training challenges. countries for collaborative and networked RPAS training. However, this will not mean the end of EAG RPAS Following an acquisition initiative by the European collaboration, currently vested in the IMRIT project, but on Defence Agency (EDA), the EAG has been, for the the contrary, will signal the beginning of a new phase. last four years, conducting the ISR MALE RPAS Interoperability Training programme (IMRIT programme). In order to explore and discuss the future of collaborative The EDA initially financed the deployment of a MALE training and RPAS interoperability, the EAG is planning RPAS training demonstrator, called RTTD (see picture to invite all IMRIT participating nations to a MALE RPAS on previous page) and designed and leased by Interoperability Symposium, starting with a series of Diginext (a subsidiary of CS Group), to ten participating short LAN-based multinational simulation exercises and nations8. This generic, yet realistic and versatile, concluding with a seminar. RPAS procedures trainer allows RPAS pilots and sensor operators from all of these countries to join remotely This event will aim to strengthen our blossoming RPAS in a networked simulated training environment. community, allow the exchange of national views on ways In all participating units, RPAS crews were trained to become more interoperable, and provide nations with to use the simulator and to be able to design their feedback that may help them refine their own procurement own scenarios to better match their training needs, and training strategies. individually, as well as in a combined or joint environment. This event should take place in Salon-de-Provence, in the last quarter of 2021, although many factors may still With the support of the EAG and the EDA, access to affect the details (location, dates and schedule). The EAG multinational training simulations has been available will be very keen to share all the details of this upcoming since the beginning of the programme, helping our event with European partners or units that wish to seize nations improve their interoperability, by exercising and the opportunity to join us. comparing handover, takeover procedures, phraseology and tactics. For further information, please contact: [email protected] The RTTD trial programme will be coming to an end in its current form, and support by the EDA will cease, in 2021. As the system deployed was only a time-limited

The RPAS Training Technology Demonstrator interface can be adapted to replicate various types of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems.

8 the seven EAG Nations, plus , the Czech Republic and Greece.

17 European Air Group

STOX TA Coordination Board – Driving forward Force Protection Interoperability

he Survive to Operate and Force Protection (STOX) TA Coordination Board is the body where the EAG Nations T(plus Partner Nations and Sweden) collaborate to promote and facilitate Force Protection (FP) training, as well as discuss personnel and information exchanges. The last of the “face-to-face” biannual meetings was conducted in December 2019 at the EAG building at RAF High Wycombe, and discussed the preparation of the EAG FP Seminar 2020, FP Master Plan opportunities and status of all other FP-related projects including future options for VOLCANEX FP exercises.

Unfortunately, throughout 2020, several activities due short-term training opportunities among the STOX TA to be conducted under the STOX TA arrangements had participants. This is an extra option offered to the Nations, to be cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, e.g. the to be used outside the FP Master Plan construct which is VOLCANEX FP C2 CPX exercise and the FP Seminar 2020. focussed on generating an outlook for planned activities Additionally, the July iteration of the STOX TA Coordination for the coming one to two years. Board meeting was cancelled due to the travel restrictions imposed by the crisis. Due to the ongoing travel restrictions, the STOX TA Coordination Board meeting in December 2020 was However, besides the activities that required physical held using video teleconferencing. This was a first for attendance and had to be cancelled, other work was the EAG FP community, and although it proved to be a continued, and progress was made in the process of good way of keeping connected in times where travel ratifying Sweden’s request to become an EAG Partner is not permitted, it is not a replacement for the biannual Nation within the STOX TA, the same status which Norway “face-to-face” meetings, where the EAG FP community has held since 2003. An amending protocol was drafted, can meet in person, share ideas and generate new initiatives and has been agreed upon by all EAG Nations. The final more fruitfully. signature of the Air Chiefs took place on 6 November 2020, and Sweden is now a STOX-TA partner. For any information, feel free to contact: [email protected] In addition, a new standardised FP Training Opportunities procedure has been established to facilitate exchanging

The birth of a new project? – Before a proposal for a new project is finally submitted to EAG governing bodies, challenges and special FP topics originating from STOX TA Coordination Board meetings are further discussed with Subject Matter Experts in dedicated forums. (Jozef Vanden Broeck © Belgian Air Force)

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Displays of a nation’s capabilities are a valuable part of FP forums and seminars. Here an Explosive Detection Dog (EDD) with its dog handler. (Jozef Vanden Broeck © Belgian Air Force)

19 European Air Group

Sahrani Island Challenges – VOLCANEX Force Protection C2 CPX

“Every airfield should be a stronghold of fighting air-ground men and not be the abode of uniformed civilians in the prime of life protected by detachments of soldiers. It must be clearly understood by all ranks that they are expected to fight and die in the defence of their airfields.” – Winston Churchill

hen soldiers find themselves deployed on a virtual small island, Sahrani, off the coast of with the task to Wcommand and control Force Protection (FP) manoeuvre elements to protect and secure an airfield from which the NATO Baltic Air Policing mission is supported, then they can be sure they are part of the training audiences in one of the recent years’ EAG exercises called “VOLCANEX for Force Protection Command and Control, Command Post Exercise (VOLCANEX FP C2 CPX)”.

outstanding support and hospitality, at the Royal Air Force – Force Protection Centre (RAF FP Centre) at RAF Honington, using its excellent Command Post training facility featuring a Synthetic Complex Air Ground Environment (S-CAGE) – similar to the environment that gaming enthusiasts would find in modern computer games.

In this facility and with the operational scenario set, as described earlier, EAG Nations and partner nations in FP are given the chance to train, test, introduce and familiarise In general, ‘VOLCANEX’ relates to the EAG’s exercise series junior officers and junior non-commissioned officers with designed to introduce, test and refine EAG products in functions, responsibilities, as well as tactics, techniques a multinational environment. It is based on EAG and and procedures (TTPs) of a combined FP Command NATO directives and documents, providing the required Post. The driving objective behind the exercise is to build direction, guidance and procedures for the Exercise confidence among the junior staff by allowing them – or planners. But first and foremost, VOLCANEX is used to rather forcing them (!) – to make mistakes in this artificial promote interoperability and standardisation amongst the environment, to best prepare them to perform related tasks EAG Nations, together with their main partners. in a real operational environment. Many of the assessment reports filed by the nations reveal that personnel who went In recent years (2017, 2018, 2019, and also initially through this exercise find their way much more easily in planned for 2020) VOLCANEX FP C2 CPXs were held, with international environments. This is a high-quality seal of

A Successful Collaboration Over Many Years

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Participants in EAG VOLCANEX FP C2 CPX 2019. approval for VOLCANEX FP C2 CPXs, and demonstrates that was left open until the moment it was clear that “normal” such exercises provide a noticeable contribution towards business, particularly allowing for travel to the exercise enhanced interoperability. location, would not resume in 2020.

Although the training audiences are the primary focus of the In the spirit of a hopefully improving situation in the new exercise, the exercise has another positive spinoff. Especially year ahead, the EAG FP Team has started the initial planning during the last two iterations (2018 and 2019), EAG FP CP- for VOLCANEX FP C2 CPX 2021, which will be hosted by related products (Job descriptions, SOPs, matrixes, etc.) France at the Centre de Préparation Opérationnelle des were tested and their shortfalls identified which, as a result, Combattants de l'Armée de l'Air (CPOCAA) in Orange, offering greatly benefited and accelerated the production process a new environment for a diversified training opportunity for of the consolidated EAG FP C2 Handbook (cf. next article). the EAG and its partners.

Unfortunately, but not a huge surprise, the 2020 iteration For any information, feel free to contact: of VOLCANEX FP C2 CPX at the RAF FP Centre had to be [email protected] cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Europe. As all major preparation had been done, the decision to cancel

Participants of the EAG FP Seminar 2018 were introduced to the French FP Command and Control training facility, the location for VOLCANEX FP C2 CPX 21.

21 European Air Group

Making a Difference – The EAG FP C2 Handbook

“It [the EAG FP C2 Handbook] provides a common starting point for the build-up of a combined Force Protection Command Post, and will provide the lead nation with a head start, especially in the early phase when the multinational Force Protection operation needs to be defined, set-up and refined. Consequently, it increases the interoperability between the Nations.” – Major General Frederik Vansina, BEL AF, then Director EAG)

any of the EAG projects and tasks are born from the EAG’s exercise series VOLCANEX. Through it, shortfalls in Moperating together, understanding each other or making best use of each other’s capabilities and resources, simply expressed as shortfalls in interoperability, are often revealed. This is particularly true for the Force Protection (FP) domain. Therefore, it is unsurprising that a major project of the EAG’s FP Team, with a huge potential for boosting interoperability in FP among the EAG Nations and partner nations, was born during a VOLCANEX FP Command Post Exercise in 2015.

The exercise revealed that, although formalised. The project aims were: to define a standardised many EAG and Partner Nations FP C2 layout, including clear job descriptions for all FP C2 operated alongside each other in personnel; to provide Standard Operating Procedures to FP, there were still eight different increase the interoperability between the EAG Nations; and approaches to set up and run to support FP Commanders and FP Personnel when being a “combined” Command Post deployed to exercises or operations. responsible for the Command and Control (C2) of an airfield’s With this project being started and worked at in close protection and security coordination with the Joint Air Power Competence Centre manoeuvre elements. (JAPCC), it became clear that the formulated aim was hard After some intense and to achieve within the given timeframe, as fundamentals fruitful talks during the Post Exercise had to be looked at first, worked through, and then discussion, as well as during FP meetings results coordinated. But this first work strand led, in 2017, throughout 2016, a project for the EAG FP Team was to the release of the widely-recognised joint EAG / JAPCC

The Handbook’s anticipated “battlefield”: an FP C2 cell in a deployed operation or exercise. (MOD Crown copyright)

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publication “Think-Piece on Force Protection Command brought the “EAG FP C2 Handbook” project to completion, and Control (FPC2)”, which served as an important by delivering a comprehensive document within only framework document for the follow-on work. A generic 16 months. This Handbook is an easily accessible, up-to- set of Job Descriptions and SOPs were created, ready to date set of documents that supports FP Commanders and be tested during the 2018 iteration of the FP VOLCANEX FP Personnel at the operational-tactical level in FP HQs and Command Post Exercise. FP CPs during exercises and operations. Such is the success of the Handbook, that the NATO School at Oberammergau This first set of Job Descriptions and SOPs immediately have requested distribution of this product on their proved its value during the exercise, but participating FP Course. Nations and EAG FP exercise planners were well aware that this was only the starting point until a full set of Now, the Handbook enters its biennial revision phase, standardised documents could be made available. in which new developments in the field of Air FP are Consequently, the work continued with new inputs, followed, assessed, and then prepared as updates, ensuring leading to an update of the overall project. Now refined that the product stays useful and relevant to all users. as the “EAG FP C2 Handbook” project, it aimed to upgrade and adapt what had been produced thus far, but also For any information, feel free to contact: to create completely new documents such as: detailed [email protected] job descriptions for FP HQ personnel; reporting formats; FP status boards for overall situational awareness; tactical force management boards (personnel/materiel/vehicles); as well as a risk assessment tool, and checklists for the most common FP incidents. A final test run followed during VOLCANEX FP 19, when the updated set was highly welcomed and appreciated by the training audience. A huge step forward to a more effective and efficient task execution in a combined FP Command Post was achieved, and a final product was then within close range.

After some final adjustments in the aftermath of the exercise, intensive work undertaken by the EAG FP Team

The EAG FP C2 Handbook is also a tool helping to manage own forces in complex situations. 'Air Power Enabled' (Image courtesy of Stuart Brown)

23 European Air Group

Air Force Protection and Countering small Unmanned Aircraft Systems

ver 100,000 travellers were stranded for days at Gatwick airport in December 2018 when “drones” were sighted Oin the area, and air traffic to and from the airport came to a grinding halt. For sure, that specific event was a nightmare for the travellers, but more generally the legitimate or malicious use of these flying robots has far-reaching consequences for our daily life, and even more for the protection of forces and infrastructure.

securely. On a multinational airbase, it is imperative that different national military forces dealing with security and protection act together in a coordinated way when facing an incident. This interoperability can be enhanced by exchanging information, and through the use of standardised documentation and reaction drills.

Since 2016, the EAG has organised several “C-UAS Information Exchange” workshops. The scope of these workshops allows participants to engage with other specialists, to create a larger professional network, and sUAS have become an increasingly serious threat against both aircraft to share relevant information and knowledge. One of and personnel. (© Benoit.Arcizet/Armée de l'air/EMACOM) the outcomes is the creation of a standardised reporting format, known as the “UAS 8-Liner Report”. This format can The idea to investigate Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) be used by the Command Post as a checklist and gathers matters linked with Force Protection (FP) was first born all significant information regarding a sUAS incident. during the 2015 EAG FP Seminar in Zaragoza, Spain, The gathered information can then easily be exploited to and was primarily inspired by the international context. formulate recommendations and perhaps prevent a similar Over the last few years, the technology has developed situation in the future. even more. Drones, especially small ones, often designated as “mini” or “micro”-drones, are now faster, more reliable, Last year, the EAG collaborated with the Joint Air Power affordable and are freely and commercially available. Competence Centre (JAPCC) on the writing of the think- Therefore, they present a credible gateway for malicious piece “The Implications for Force Protection Practitioners intent and could easily cause harm to deployed forces. of Having to Counter Unmanned Systems”. This document sets out a conceptual framework at the strategic and Better awareness and clear regulations could partly solve operational level. It is air-centric, but offers principles which the issue, and would definitely reduce the risk caused by are applicable for all military domains. any ‘clueless’ drone operators. Most of the national regulations already prohibit the use of small drones in This year, the writing continues, aiming to develop a the vicinity of critical infrastructure or public places. comprehensive approach when dealing with a sUAS threat But still, a mini-drone poses a significant challenge for the at, or in the vicinity of an airbase. This EAG document will conduct of military operations, especially during deployed include tactics, techniques and procedures (TTPs) and air operations in areas where regulations are not yet in should fill the gap for the Air Force Protection practitioners place. And even if there are regulations, success is only at the tactical level. The cornerstone for these TTPs is the guaranteed when the law enforcement forces are able to immediate action drills, which were compiled during one respond swiftly and efficiently to an incident. of the EAG workshops. This document is not a silver bullet for that recently-emerged technological threat, but the On the other hand, a determined operator with criminal approach may eventually help to overcome some of the intent does not flinch from ignoring the restrictions trickiest challenges being faced by deployed troops. imposed by law enforcement on the use of a small UAS (sUAS). Therefore, the adversarial intent to use a sUAS For any information, feel free to contact: is classified as a risk towards air operations, and should [email protected] be addressed accordingly. It is the key mission of Force Protection units to provide an environment where aircraft can land and take off safely and personnel can work

24 Annual Review 2020

Common Terminology to improve Interoperability

oethe once said that “whoever has clear terms can give orders”. So, it was a writer and statesman with an early Geducation in law who points out the importance of clear language and terms. In the military, we are trained to use precise language to avoid ambiguity in the message. But the evolving world presents new opportunities and challenges, and sometimes we need to agree on the terms that describe new issues.

The introduction of the new capabilities that come with This official database is used to promulgate terminology 5th Generation platforms, and the need to achieve the within NATO Members and Organisations. Once highest level of interoperability in future combined air terminology becomes “NATO-agreed”, it becomes operations, was one of those situations where new effects, compulsory throughout NATO documents. NTO has the facts and concepts were not adequately defined nor responsibility to assure quality of proposed terminology commonly agreed. Effective communication is only before initiating the NATO approval process. possible when there is an agreement on the meaning of terms that are being used. Specialist groups tend to use So far, seven terms have been identified and published in and develop their own terminology and may cause the EAG Glossary. The process of becoming “NATO Agreed” confusion with other groups. Furthermore, certain is in progress, and meanwhile a new terminology cycle ambiguities in the use of terminology between nations has started. are likely as well. With the emergence of 5th Generation technologies, new terminology is to be introduced For any information or contribution, feel free gradually, requiring common definitions and abbreviations. to contact: With this in mind, the challenge to have a common [email protected] understanding of terminology specific to 5th Generation weapon systems was addressed under the umbrella of the EAG’s Combined Air Interoperability Programme (CAIP) in mid-2017. Although work within CAIP at the programme level has been terminated in October 2020, this terminology challenge continues as a separate project. The scope has been broadened and the project is now managed in a yearly cycle, divided into three phases: collection, commenting and approval.

During the first phase, the EAG Nations can nominate and discuss the meaning of new terms and propose amendments to already existing terms. The second phase gives the EAG Nations the chance to comment on the proposals. In addition, the NATO Terminology Office (NTO) acts as referee for the form, style and quality of the proposed definitions, and to ensure coherence with existing NATO terminology. Good cooperation with NTO has been established, and their expertise is greatly appreciated. The third and last phase allows the EAG Nations to agree, or disagree, with the final proposal and, once consensus is reached, the newly approved terms will be added to the EAG Glossary and published on the EAG website after the initial round of collection and synchronisation.

The final aim of this project is to submit terms to the NATO Term database (https://nso.nato.int/natoterm) and improve interoperability in a broader community. Graphic by Tony Jones (AMC)

25 European Air Group

EAG Aviation Medicine Project: An Enduring and Essential Cooperation Tool serving all Airmen

viation Medicine is one of the longest running and actively successful interoperability activities that the EAG has been conducting, having started in 2001. It has constantly evolved, and brings the expertise of senior physicians from the seven EAG Nations together, with an open and frank approach, to deal with any matter related to Aviation Medicine.

The project is supported by the Aviation Medicine Technical protocols, military aviation operational capabilities and Arrangement (AvMed TA), signed in 2005, and has created readiness within the EAG countries was not compromised, an active framework within which senior medical specialists and procedures and safeguards were effectively and from the EAG Nations convene in a Coordination Board efficiently put in place to provide a safe and secure twice yearly to share their knowledge and the respective Air environment for aircrews and support personnel. Forces’ policies and procedures in various matters related to Aviation Medicine.

This year has been characterised by the COVID-19 global pandemic, and many activities, including military flying operations, had to be adjusted to take into account the new, and potentially fatal, risks associated with the spread of the virus. As the Armed Forces were soon involved in COVID-related aerial evacuations for the transfer of patients, the members of the Aviation Medicine Coordination Board have used this forum to share their own Nation’s approach to risk assessment, and to provide new procedures and safeguards to mitigate risks in the operational environment. As a result of this close coordination and open sharing Because of the pandemic, this year the Coordination Board convened formally only once, and in a virtual format. The Board discussed the effectiveness of the new COVID- related safety procedures and the coping mechanisms the Air Forces had adopted to continue Air Operations, without impact to the health of the aircrews and passengers, as well as to detail the different procedures when transporting patients during medical flights. Another shortfall caused by this global pandemic has been the cancellation of the Advanced Aviation Medicine Course, scheduled for September-October 2020. The Board agreed to reschedule a new Course to be held during the Autumn of 2021, and which will follow the same format as the previous ones.

The Course itself is reserved for active-duty senior medical personnel, serving in one of the EAG Air Forces. Invitation may be extended to other Nations’ Air Force physicians at the discretion of the Board. The course runs over six weeks, and across six Nations, comprises theoretical seminars and practical activities, and it is designed to provide senior medical officers with up-to-date knowledge and hands-on experience. It fosters new personal interactions, increases interoperability, promotes information sharing and keeps the network alive and interactive. Numbers of graduate students will thus further increase, having already gone (© Aeronautica militare italiana) over the 100-student milestone last year.

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Some of the topics developed during this high level For any information, feel free to contact: course are: space and operational medicine, policy and [email protected] legal issues, clinical aviation medicine, human factors, aircraft accident investigation, spatial disorientation, night vision, aeromedical evacuation and aviation physiology.

Finally, the EAG facilitates the interaction of the Aviation Medicine community by managing a SharePoint-based webpage, where the accredited physicians can upload and consult documents, start discussions and promote sub-projects. Ideally, this virtual space could become one of the means to enrich the medical community, by granting easy and free access to all personnel involved in Aviation Medicine.

As one of the EAG’s most prominent successes, the Aviation Medicine project has, for sure, many promising years of cooperation still ahead.

27 European Air Group

FARP Interoperability – A Force Multiplier for Rotary Wing Operations

“Victory smiles upon those who anticipate the change in the character of war, not upon those who wait to adapt themselves after the changes occur.” – Giulio Douhet

The Changing Face of Basing Strategy ince man first took to the skies in a meaningful way at the beginning of the 20th Century, military air power has Shad numerous advantages over its surface-based counterparts, not least of these are its flexibility, reach, and versatility. In modern warfare, Air Power plays a key role in shaping the battlespace, be that with combat air, transport or rotary wing assets. As technological advances become a reality, and more capabilities are invested in a smaller number of assets, so the logistics support to these assets is even more essential than previously. To offer longer range and greater flexibility, one of the key advances in logistics support was the implementation of the idea of a Forward Arming and Refuelling Point (FARP).

FARP exercises and includes both Bulk Fuel Installation (BFI) and FARPs offer ‘safe’ locations for any air assets to be refuelled FARP SOPs. The TA allows for the exchange of information and rearmed, and if necessary, the swap-out of fatigued in the fuel area among the participants, in order to facilitate crew members, before returning to the battlespace or home and improve cross-training activities, and provides a locations. Within the EAG, the focus of FARP has primarily framework to enable arrangements for the logistic support been in support to rotary-wing aircraft. One of the unifying to be provided to sending Nations, to participate in fuel factors across all EAG Nations is the use of , and support activities for training purposes. what they offer with their adaptability, flexibility, ubiquity and speed. Normally, rotary-wing FARP sites are at remote, Under the umbrella of this TA, the Permanent Staff dispersed, often austere locations – generally camouflaged and Nations’ representatives developed concrete and operating under tactical conditions. They also offer the interoperability documents. The FARP SOPs were agreed advantage of being much smaller and far less manpower- by the EAG Fuel Committee (Belgium, Germany, France, heavy than their fixed-wing equivalents as they deal United Kingdom, Italy and the Netherlands), and are for exclusively with vertical take-off assets and do not need a use by the EAG FARP community whilst undertaking runway or landing pad to be constructed. The intent is that joint combined training or operations. The aim of these remote refuelling stations can support all coalition these SOPs is to standardise Rapid Refuelling Operations helicopters that require fuel in the most expeditious for multinational deployed operations. Additionally, they manner. Refuelling at a FARP site would also preferably take provide the details and procedures to be used whenever place under Hot Refuel conditions with engines running these functions are provided by personnel from 2 or and rotors turning. more EAG Nations.

FARP Force Integration Training (FIT) As there are a wide variety of types and many different types of fuel equipment, the EAG looks to conduct familiarisation training for both aircrew and ground personnel, to ensure that refuelling can be carried out safely and speedily. Safety is one of the key elements of the EAG’s FARP training syllabus, which is now well established as a benchmark in the field. The aims of the FARP FIT course are to provide practical, multinational knowledge, standardisation of procedures, and enable ground and aircrew from EAG Nations to prepare for exercises and operations. This training The EAG Fuel Technical Arrangement is specifically designed for force integration of FARP Underpinning all of the EAG fuel activity is the EAG “Fuel personnel and operators. It increases awareness and Projects Training and Exchange of Personnel” Technical trust by improving the knowledge and skills of FARP Arrangement (“Fuel TA”). It provides a regulatory agreement personnel and air platform operators, providing general to facilitate multinational fuels training activities and familiarisation on other nations’ fuel equipment, and

28 Annual Review 2020

teaches the tactical movement and planning procedures necessary to operate with a range of platforms during live helicopter flights.

The EAG Fuel Committee Meeting To cement all of this interaction, there is no substitute for face-to-face meetings with Nations’ representatives, and, in this project, this is provided by the EAG Fuel Committee Meeting, which brings together, once a year, the national Fuel Committee members. The scope of Villafranca - FARP. (© Aeronautica militare italiana) this meeting is to address interoperability issues in the Fuel Ops area, with a specific focus on the operational on exercises and operations, in order to identify possible Fuel Supply Chain through cooperation with NATO, for new areas of interest. We will continue to engage with the benefit of EAG Nations and to improve networking other stakeholders that organise live rotary-wing training and strengthen communication. Its objectives are to events, like the (EDA) or the discuss the EAG Fuel SOPs, to exchange information European Personnel Recovery Centre (EPRC), in order to between national Fuel SMEs, to identify common seize all FARP FIT opportunities, ensure the enhancement of tactical fuel-related interoperability issues, to discuss our operators’ skills, and enable successful interoperability possible training opportunities, and to provide of the EAG Air Forces. recommendations and opportunities for future EAG fuel-related interoperability projects. For any information, feel free to contact: [email protected] Way Ahead The Fuel Support activity has been one of the recent successful developments within the EAG portfolio, allowing Nations to discuss a critical topic for coalition operations, develop concrete tools to increase interoperability between them, and provide opportunities to train operators in the field. The EAG will strive to get lessons identified from recent deployments

(© M.Bastien/Armée de l'air/Etat Major des Armées)

Fuel trucks and inflatable tanks on Niamey airbase, Niger. (© Malaury BUIS/Armée de l'air/Défense)

29 European Air Group

An Agile Approach to CSS Modules for Deployed Operating Airbases

“Logistics comprises the means and arrangements which work out the plans of strategy and tactics. Strategy decides where to act; logistics brings the troops to this point.” – Antoine-Henri Jomini

s we move into the 3rd decade of the 21st Century, air assets of all types are becoming more expensive and, as a result, scarcer and more valuable to their owners. Basing these assets is more critical now than ever, but nations are loath to put all their expensive eggs in one basket. This brings a concept of multiple and agile basing into sharper focus for all nations – large and small – and support to these multiple bases will stretch nations’ logistics resources to the limits. An ever-decreasing number of nations are capable of working in isolation, and fewer still have all of the Combat Service Support (CSS) modules in their order of battle to support large multi- functional bases.

Support to future operations requires an innovative and develop interoperability in deployable logistics among the comprehensive approach to cooperation, due to the EAG Nations started even before the current NATO work ongoing necessity to reduce costs and save resources. strand, with the signature in 2006 of the EAG Deployable NATO are developing the Deployable Airbase Activation Multinational Air Wing (DMAW) Technical Arrangement, Modules (DAAM) initiative as part of the NATO Smart and continues now in the Expeditionary Combat Service Defence Project 1.16, intended to enable the rapid Support Modules Integration and Training (ECMI&T) generation of combined deployed operating bases by project which is under development (formally known as using a multinational approach to CSS. The development the Multinational Deployed Air Base (MDAB) concept). of the DAAM project is intended to lead to the creation of a mechanism that will minimise the gap between the This project is aimed at bridging the interoperability planning and force generation phases of a deployed gap between CSS modules, as well as offering training air operation. But the NATO concept sits at the higher opportunities to the expeditionary logistics communities operational level and invites nations to take on specific within the EAG Nations, reducing costs and delays in their roles in airbase activation for its operations. It does not activation and optimising the logistic capabilities already address key deficiencies in interoperability, as experienced developed. Working at the tactical level, this project will in several campaigns in the latter part of the last century be complementary to the NATO work. In addition to NATO and the beginning of this one. Operations, this project could also be employed in support of Common Security and Defence Policy Operations, especially within a framework of the European Union Permanent Structured Cooperation.

CSS modules are not currently trained under a combined framework and therefore there is a lack of interoperability within NATO and EAG Nations when employed in an international environment (e.g. Exercise ‘Trident Juncture’ or live operations). The EAG offers the best framework for combined small-scale training opportunities (within the ‘VOLCANEX’ series) and for rapid Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) development in order to fill these gaps. Nations’ joint CSS modules could be incorporated and trained alongside their single service colleagues, if they contribute to nations’ standard air base activation. The EAG Nations’ Air Forces are currently deployed in However, each nation would maintain full command of its several operations, and it would greatly benefit them if they assets and determine which to contribute to training, and could pool their CSS capabilities and share their resources. on a case-by-case basis for operations. Accordingly, the EAG has taken a tactical-level approach, tackling issues such as logistics command and control, As the project has the potential to be too large to manage, the integration of CSS modules, interoperability and the it has been agreed by the EAG Nations that the investigatory use of common policies and procedures. The process to study should initially focus on the following areas only:

30 Annual Review 2020

Real Life Support/Base Support (including: catering, faced in recent operations. The EAG offers the network of accommodation, cleaning, ablutions and utilities); Aviation contacts and subject matter expertise to ensure that the and Ground Fuel (including bulk fuel holding and supply); future of logistics support to operations is interoperable Supply, Movements and Transportation. and cohesive.

Multinational basing presents a number of challenges. For any information, feel free to contact: All of these challenges can be addressed, and indeed it is [email protected] imperative that they are, if nations are to avoid the issues

(© C.Guerdin/Armée de l'Air/Défense)

(© Etat Major des Armées/Armée de l'air)

31 European Air Group

Communication and Information Systems – An Interoperability Challenge for the EAG What is the CIS interoperability challenge? owadays, each country defends its homeland in all domains such as Land, Maritime, Cyber, Space and Air. NTherefore, most of the countries set up forces associated with each of those five domains, and are using them to protect their respective governments, populations and territories.

In addition to this obvious protection of the homeland coalition, it is highly possible that DCIS may be provided itself, it is sometimes necessary to move the frontline from some, or from all, of the participating nations. far away from the national borders and, because of the Therefore, it is necessary to insert CIS Subject Matter Experts difficulty associated with deploying and maintaining forces (SME) within the list of people deploying to the Area of far away for a long time, it is almost certain that the nations Operation. Therefore, the EAG addresses interoperability will set up a multinational coalition, exemplified by the issues for both fixed infrastructure and Deployable Comms counter-terrorism operations in Africa or in the Levant. and Information Systems.

In order to defend our homelands, Communication and What CIS interoperability improvement has been Information Systems (CIS) are permanently installed achieved in 2019 and 2020? and maintained in our Nations’ own territories. When When deploying CIS, SMEs must be sufficiently skilled deployed, keeping this frontline as far as possible from and experienced to work in a multinational environment. national borders, CIS will be temporarily deployed and Therefore, it is necessary to regularly train those CIS SMEs maintained at range so that the Command and Control link to deploy and then connect and use various national between Headquarters and the Area of Operation can be CIS devices and systems. This is precisely the aim of equally effective. the EAG annual exercise, VOLCANEX CIS. During this one- week event, CIS SMEs from the seven EAG Nations train Therefore, the EAG is addressing this CIS interoperability to work in a multinational environment, and set up the challenge through writing and delivering CIS DCIS necessary to deliver all the services that may be interoperability manuals, and also training CIS Subject required on the Deployed Operating Base (DOB) during Matter Experts (SMEs) who come from the seven EAG a coalition operation. Complementary to national CIS- Nations to work together during live exercise opportunities. dedicated training, this exercise is an ideal opportunity to utilise and prove EAG CIS manuals, and to improve What CIS interoperability activities are being the interoperability of CIS assets provided by the seven conducted by the EAG? EAG countries and used within the CIS architecture of a None of the operational deployments are conducted multinational DOB. by one of the five domains in isolation. Most of the time, the air domain is the main actor, or one of the main The EAG organised its annual exercise dedicated to the contributors to the success of the operation. Whatever CIS domain, VOLCANEX CIS, in 2019 and in 2020. Thanks to the permanent location of the Air Forces’ assets, Deployed excellent engagement by EAG Nations, the 2019 iteration Air Bases are required in the Area of Operation. When was successfully conducted all the way from the planning deployed, these Air Bases require Combat Service Support phase, through the execution, to the reporting phase. such as Medical, Catering, and Housing, but also Deployable Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 Communication and Information Systems (DCIS). Within a execution phase was cancelled. However, the outcomes of both the planning phase and the reporting phase will be used as a basis for the exercise planned in 2021. From one year to the next, the EAG schedules VOLCANEX CIS to first enhance interoperability, then to train CIS technicians in a multinational environment, and finally to update the CIS manuals.

What is planned to improve CIS interoperability in 2021? In addition to the services deliverable by DCIS inside the An operational IT specialist in action. (Credit: ©L.Marzin/armée de l'air) DOB, other services are also requested beyond the fence of

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the DOB, such as Special Operations Forces (SOF) or Joint commitment of EAG Nations participating in this edition Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) Teams. Those categories of VOLCANEX CIS, there could be an opportunity to increase of users require reliable communication assets, either the number of services delivered by DCIS within the using Satellite Communications (SATCOM) or HF radio, confines of the DOB, and also it might be the time to jump especially when operating in a very remote area. over the fence and test CIS interoperability when delivering Once again, the EAG annual VOLCANEX CIS exercise is services which are crucial for airmen and airwomen the venue to train CIS SMEs to deploy and test this working as SOF Units (air or ground) or JTAC Teams. kind of CIS assets, or to test them from their respective homeland and communicating with the deployment For any information, feel free to contact: location. In 2021, depending on the number and [email protected]

(© Jean-Luc BRUNET/Armée de l'air/Défense)

(© Richard NICOLAS-NELSON/Armée de l'air/Défense)

33 European Air Group

Cyber Domain Awareness – A Challenge for Multinational Operations What is the Cyber interoperability challenge? s a human being, it is easier for us to think about things which are visible, such as the land, the sea and the sky. Beyond the sky we can imagine space. But cyberspace is more difficult to imagine, as it is a network of networks with connected assets. The network of networks is the core of cyberspace and the assets are located at the periphery. As a human being, some of these connected assets we use are clearly visible, such as our smartphone, or our connected fridge, and some less visible, for example, a nuclear powerplant. The same is true of our Air Forces’ connected assets, behind which expands a dedicated network of networks, all of which is vulnerable to attack.

In our private life, we are more or less educated on the to build a solid and resilient Early Warning System, within cyber threat when using our personal computer or our the new NATO construct. smartphone. When not cautious enough, we could face the risk of damage or financial loss. In the same way but at a lower level, EAG Nations want to build solid and resilient cyber interoperability at the very In the professional area, especially when serving in Air tactical level implemented by well-informed airmen and Forces, it could be even worse. Therefore, a potential airwomen. For instance, this has been trialled when cyber cyber interoperability challenge lies in the differing cyber awareness events were injected into a Command Post awareness of our airmen and airwomen when working in a Exercise at VOLCANEX FP C2 19. multinational environment. What is the plan for 2021? Which cyber activity is being conducted In order to further increase cyber awareness for airmen by Airmen and Airwomen in the and airwomen in multinational environments, it will be multinational environment? necessary to consider cyber education in a multinational Air Forces’ networks on the ground and in the air or space context. Over the past few years, the EAG has been are sharing large amounts of data “online” (although developing the EAG Cyber Reference Manual. One of the on restricted networks), such as maintenance information, aims of this document is to promote and facilitate training fuel consumption, ammunition supply, personnel data, and exercise sharing between the EAG Air Forces in the and Command and Control orders. The last of these is field of cyber defence, by providing a single database of the most sensitive centre of gravity for a military network, different training and exercise opportunities in the EAG the timely transmission of decisive orders often being a Nations. It is planned to deliver the mature version of this “life or death” factor. If a quick and well-connected network document in 2021. is a key enabler for air operations, it constitutes a huge constraint when it becomes the weak link during a cyber Conclusion attack. Therefore, airmen and airwomen need to train in Cyber defence presents a stark challenge, as it needs to multinational environments under cyber threats monitored be addressed at all levels. The EAG, at the tactical level, is by exercise directors. In addition to this training, airmen a relevant actor to improve the interoperability between and airwomen are working on cyber education in seven Air Forces, and usefully contributes, through tangible multinational environments in order to ensure better actions, to raise the level of the awareness and knowledge education on the risks and the necessary actions to take to of this domain to front-line operators. prevent cyber attacks.

What has been achieved as a Cyber interoperability challenge? The most common and recognisable characteristics of cyberspace are all tied to its environmental fluidity. Speed and unpredictability of cyber attacks are similar to Air domain concepts. Nations and military commands are nowadays feeling the same sense of impotence and distress that was caused in the 50s by the threat of strategic For any information, feel free to contact: bombers and nuclear weapons. That threat caused nations [email protected]

34 Annual Review 2020

Graphic by Tony Jones (AMC)

35 European Air Group

The Combined Air Interoperability Programme – Where are we now?

“There is nothing like a dream to create the future.” – Victor Hugo

n 2016 the EAG had a dream to develop a plan to engage the interoperability challenges that resulted from Ithe introduction of 5th Generation weapon systems and their integration with existing capabilities. The EAG addressed this task by developing the ‘Combined Air Interoperability Programme’ (CAIP). Of all the EAG activity to date, the CAIP was the most forward-looking, as it dealt with some elements which were still in the conceptual or developmental stages. There was therefore a clear opportunity for Nations to shape the activity as understanding increased. The aim of the CAIP was to help resolve the issues that would inevitably result from integrating 4th and 5th Generation weapon systems, in order to achieve a higher level of interoperability in future combined air operations.

A Vision of the Future consisted of one or more activities, such as courses, trials, The EAG identified 16 challenges. workshops and exercises, or products such as Technical However, while assessing the EAG’s Arrangements, TTPs and SOPs. Finally, individual roadmaps potential contributions, it was were compiled, outlining how each project would be recognised that there were a number developed and completed. of other organisations that were in a more favourable position to address After nearly three years, the CAIP was widely recognised some of these challenges. In some as valuable work within the EAG Nations, and amongst areas, HQ AIRCOM and JAPCC took external organisations (NATO (ACT, AIRCOM, SHAPE), JAPCC on the lead role, with the EAG and USAFE). There was significant value in capturing the supporting and contributing national views of new capabilities and developing where needed. The vision of operational concepts. However, it became apparent that the EAG is “seven Air Forces that the development of the individual CAIP projects was a are able to operate together as challenge in itself, and that ‘quick wins’ were going to be one across the spectrum hard to deliver. Analysing the project roadmaps, it was of conflict”. This basic principle also clear that, due to a number of external factors outwith EAG underpinned the development of the CAIP. Taking into control or influence, the Intermediate Goals related to most account that the introduction of 5th Generation weapons of the challenges were, at this point, out of reach. systems will not be completed for at least another ten years, it is fair to assume that this vision would not be Successful CAIP Projects achievable before 2030, far beyond the normal horizon of However, several CAIP projects have found success over EAG projects. the last 3 years, and continue to thrive or develop into new areas. It became clear that prolonged activity and perseverance would be required to meet the objectives of the CAIP and The ‘Red Forces Capabilities’ project should allow an reach the desired End State. In order to provide a clear improvement in training possibilities concerning Red objective, an Intermediate Goal was set for 2022: Air threats, and the HERMES framework is a very positive development. HQ AIRCOM also acknowledged the need By 2022 the EAG Air Forces will have identified, analysed to raise the awareness of the paucity of Red Air capability and, as much as practicable, resolved the majority of the and availability, and to build up knowledge on the specific interoperability challenges that result from operating and needs of 5th Generation weapons systems. supporting a combination of 4th and 5th Generation weapon systems, in order to create the optimal Initiatives concerning ‘Common Terminology’ and preconditions for future combined training, exercises and ‘5th Gen Awareness, Education and Training’ have been operations, leading to the accomplishment of the desired taken forward with the corresponding responsible End State. organisations, the NATO Terminology Organisation, and HQ AIRCOM respectively. Both are continuing to add In order to reach the 2022 Intermediate Goal, individual value across a spectrum of activities and EAG PS projects were created around the challenges, which remain engaged in their development.

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that hampered the progress of the CAIP. The issue of sharing information was identified as the main obstacle for the further development of the CAIP and will remain the main challenge for any other interoperability programme or project in the future that involves 5th Generation system integration.

The increased complexity of regulatory frameworks often had a direct impact on interoperability issues, and licencing and certification within the airworthiness process made ACS a more complex and complicated topic than it was previously. Nations are focusing more resources on risk mitigation and lowering failure rates.

The EAG ‘Synthetic Training Networking’ project has aligned In general, owing to the new, more conceptual nature with the NATO Modelling and Simulation Group-165 (MSG- of many of the CAIP challenges, a clear definition of the 165) objectives and timelines. Following this engagement, required output was not always initially obvious, or within all EAG Nations are now members of the MSG-165. a timeframe that the EAG was able to influence. The current ’Connectivity’ project between legacy and new platforms at the very tactical level was deemed to Conclusion and Next Steps be a success, as it was technically achieved. A new The CAIP was about the integration of 4th & 5th Generation project has been proposed focusing on wider Air Power weapon systems, but challenges addressed were, and still roles and is currently under investigation. While national are, applicable to a range of Air Force issues, like airspace, initiatives to develop gateways to connect national and training opportunities and facilities or the integration and bi-national 4th-5th Generation weapons systems are connectivity of any weapon system into an information at advanced stages of maturity, multinational efforts network. are needed to enable EAG combat aircraft and AEW/C2 entities to operate together effectively. It is generally acknowledged that the EAG is most successful when addressing tactical-level interoperability issues, and NATO AIRCOM has initiated an Aircraft Cross Servicing (ACS) where ‘quick wins’ can be identified. This is where the project, republishing the lapsed ACS doctrine and inviting added value of the EAG can be clearly demonstrated. nations to offer ACS activities to other nations with the same aircraft type. This is proving successful and, whilst it After a successful initial phase focused on the identification only currently includes around 12 nations, the plan is to of the challenges, and subsequent difficulties in managing incorporate all NATO nations eventually. promising and stalled projects within the same framework, the CAIP programme is now closed; however, its legacy These projects have been successful as they have been lives on in the successful projects taken forward by the EAG, well supported by national SMEs who have engaged and and the knowledge that, as 4th-5th Generation integration been proactive in their approach to the EAG work. continues, the EAG will still be in the right position to assist Additionally, the projects mentioned above are the least nations with the interoperability challenges ahead. contentious, and contain the least security restrictions.

Barriers to Success Nonetheless, there have been numerous barriers to our approach to resolving many CAIP challenges, some unable to get off the ground, others stalled part-way through, after initially promising starts.

National and F-35 programme caveats that limit the sharing of information were the most significant barriers

“For time and the world do not stand still. Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or the present are certain to miss the future.” – John F Kennedy

37 European Air Group

Standing EAG Technical Arrangements Available for use by the Nations at any time

Technical Arrangements Description

Enables aircrew to obtain Air-to-Air Refuelling Air-to-Air Refuelling (AAR) qualifications (FRA, GBR)

Flying training framework for Air Defence Air Defence Training (Eurofight) (all EAG Nations)

Framework for AvMed cooperation Air Force Activities – Aviation Medicine (AvMed) (all EAG Nations)

Framework for mutual use of alternate airfields Alternate Airfield Functions for Fast Jet Aircraft (BEL, DEU, FRA, NLD)

Autonomous Air Combat Manoeuvring Framework for AACMI training activities Instrumentation (all EAG Nations)

Framework for deployed operations Combined Air Terminal Operations (CATO) (all EAG Nations)

Framework for deployed operations Deployable Multi-National Air Wing (DMAW) (all EAG Nations)

Framework for fuel cross-training and deployments EAG Fuel Projects, Training and Exchange of Personnel (BEL, DEU, FRA, GBR, ITA, NLD)

Framework of arrangements to establish the EPRC European Personnel Recover Centre (EPRC) (all EAG Nations)

Framework for standardising cargo load clearances Interoperable Load Clearance Activities (ILCC) and processes (BEL, DEU, ESP, GBR, ITA, NLD)

Mutual Support through Exchange of Services – Mechanism for mutual exchange of AvMed services Aviation Medicine High Cost Equipment (HCE) and training (all EAG Nations)

Framework enabling short notice flying training Short Notice Detachments (SHORDET) activities (BEL, FRA, GBR)

Framework for force protection training Survive to Operate (Force Protection) (STOX) (all EAG Nations plus Norway and Sweden)

Twinning: RAF Regiment and Commandement des Mutual agreement to improve interoperability Fusiliers Commandos de L’Air (FRA, GBR)

38 Annual Review 2020

EAG Project Activities 2021

Notice: Due to the ongoing pandemic situation in Europe and associated travel or gathering restrictions, the precise dates and form of the events indicated in this provisional schedule will be subject to changes and adjustment.

JANUARY FEBRUARY

l EAG Fuel Committee l ECMI&T Workshop

l IPC VOLCANEX FP C2 l Workshop VOLCANEX CIS 21

l MSG-165 Meeting

l EAG 1* Forum

MARCH APRIL

l EAG CIS Meeting 21-1 l EAG Working Group Meeting 21-1

l EAG Cyber Meeting

l VOLCANEX CIS Site Survey

MAY JUNE 3rd - 4th l AvMed Coordination Board l ETIP Permanent Forum Meeting QUARTERS l ATMP Coordination Board l ECMI&T Workshop (TBC) l VOLCANEX CIS 21 l CIS Meeting 21-2 l HERMES Workshop (TBC) l EAG AWCs Symposium l EAG C-sUAS Workshop l EAG CIS Meeting 21-3

l VOLCANEX FP C2 CPX 21

l RPAS Symposium

l VOLCANEX IMRIT (TBC)

l EAG Steering Group Meeting

l EAG FP Seminar

(All images are MOD Crown copyright)

39 European Air Group

Notes

An RAF F-35B Lightning aircraft refuels from an RAF Voyager Airbus whilst a French Armée de l'air Rafale flies in the background. (MOD Crown copyright)

40 Image shows (L-R) an RAF Hawk training jet, two French Air Force Rafale fighters, an RAF Voyager air-to-air refuelling aircraft and three RAF Typhoon FGR4 aircraft operating over the North Sea. (MOD Crown copyright)

With modern conflicts becoming ever more complex and technologies ever more advanced, interoperability is a growing challenge that reaches out to virtually all types or air operations. (© Julien FECHTER/Armee de l'air/Défense)

41 European Air Group

Produced by Air Media Centre, HQ Air Command. UK Ministry of Defence © Crown Copyright, 2020