The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has deployed up to six F-35A Lightning II aircraft, an E-7A Wedgetail, and around 227 aviators to Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada to participate in two of the world's most advanced air combat training exercises.
From 2 February 2026, Exercises Red Flag Nellis and Bamboo Eagle 26-1 will bring together aviators from Australia, the United States and United Kingdom in one of the most challenging and realistic air training environments available.
Wing Commander Matthew Deveson is leading the Australian contingent, which includes both aircraft and a Tactical Command and Control team.
"These exercises provide a highly realistic training environment where we can integrate different capabilities and strengthen our ability to operate with key allies and partners," Wing Commander Deveson said.
"The RAAF's F-35A Lightning remains at the cutting edge of air combat technology as a highly advanced, multi-role, supersonic stealth fighter, and our E-7A Wedgetail is one of the world's premier airborne battle management platforms."
Established in 1975, Exercise Red Flag Nellis focuses on high-intensity air operations conducted throughout the Nevada Test and Training Range. Exercise Bamboo Eagle, introduced in 2024, expands this training to include long-range missions across both land and maritime environments in the western United States.
Both exercises simulate a broad range of modern threats including air, land and maritime capabilities as well as space and cyber-domain threats.
"These exercises involve large force employment missions with a high number of multinational aircraft in the air at the same time," Wing Commander Deveson said.
"Each nation brings unique capabilities and experience, with no single aircraft or unit able to accomplish all the mission objectives on its own."
Australia's involvement in these exercises strengthens deterrence, contributes to regional security and stability, and reinforces long-standing partnerships.
"Australia was the first non-NATO country to participate in Exercise Red Flag Nellis in 1980, and we have been part of Exercise Bamboo Eagle since its inception in 2024," Wing Commander Deveson said.
"These exercises ensure we remain ready to operate seamlessly with two of our most important strategic partners, now and into the future."
