RARO 12 strengthens NATO member nations FAC capabilities through theater-realistic training

NAMEST AIR BASE, Czech Republic -- Czech Republic air force Lieutenant Jan Talacko, Exercise ground commander, checks the area for threats before moving on to a new location while in search of an enemy target during a forward air control training scenario a part of Ramstein Rover 2012 Sept. 11, here. During this scenario German forward air controllers, who are based out of Baumholder, Germany, communicated with Czech Republic helicopter pilots to establish targets for the ground commander while mitigating risks to civilians and civilian assets. Sixteen NATO member nations are participating in RARO 12 to include: The United States, United Kingdom, Czech Republic, Belgium, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Latvia, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia and Turkey. The 81st Fighter Squadron is participating in the exercise as the United States counterpart to provide close air support for forward air controllers. This squadron often conducts close air support and forward air control missions with the FACs from Baumholder. Each nation's participation in RARO 12 ensures effective employment of airpower in support of alliance or coalition forces while mitigating risks to civilians in contingency operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Natasha Stannard/Released)