A pair of US F-16 fighters were deployed to Croatia last Wednesday (16). The movement is yet another defensive action by NATO amid the crisis in Europe due to the war between Ukraine and Russia.
Fighter aircraft of the 555th Fighter Squadron, Triple Nickel, were sent from Aviano Air Base, Italy, to Croatia's 91st Air Base. The base shares operations with Franjo Tuđman International Airport, in the capital Zagreb.
“Our long-standing alliances and partnerships in the European and African theaters have enabled our multi-capable airmen to execute our mission as a dynamic coalition force”, said General Jeff Harrigian, commander of the Allied Air Command of NATO.
“Driving our strategic capabilities from any number of forward locations creates a resilient force, ready to pivot and fight aggression anywhere at any time.”
The US Air Force routinely executes its ACE (Agile Combat Employment) capabilities with NATO Allies to ensure that t forces are ready to respond to any threat against the Alliance.
This training develops NATO's defensive capabilities, improves Allied interoperability and develops strategic access opportunities, highlights the Organization.
US Air Force activities in Croatia the preparedness of Allies and partners across NATO airspace in southeastern Europe, extending to the Mediterranean Sea.
