In early November 2024, the French Air and Space Force carried out a series of deployments to support NATO’s Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concept, which enhances resilience and survivability in air operations.
The exercise took place from November 4 to 8, 2024, and included deploying Rafale fighter jets to bases in Germany and Croatia, along with one MRTT tanker sent to Poland. The exercise effectively tested the ability to rapidly deploy and operate from geographically dispersed locations with minimal logistical support.
Within the French Air and Space Force, these deployments are also known as the “MORANE” operational concept.
What is NATO’s Agile Combat Employment concept?
Three Rafale fighter jets from Base 113 Saint-Dizier in eastern France touched down at Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany, home to the US Air Force 52nd Fighter Wing, which operates F-16 fighters.
Following the ACE concept, the French crew members utilized US ground support infrastructure, including refueling, mission planning, and rearming services. This integration allowed seamless cooperation between the two NATO members, enhancing interoperability and operational readiness.
Simultaneously, a second Rafale detachment landed at Zagreb International Airport in Croatia, where they practiced the same ACE procedures in coordination with the Croatian armed forces. In April 2024, the Croatian Air Force received the first six of 12 Rafale fighter jets ordered from Dassault Aviation.
“It’s a great opportunity to gather further experience with the ACE concept under NATO’s chain of command,” a French detachment commander commented.
Enhancing survivability in air operations across NATO allies
During their one-week deployment, French Rafale jets participated alongside Spanish F-18 Hornets in simulating an airspace incursion by an opposing air force in Romanian skies. They were intercepted by Romanian F-16s and the French SAMP/T MAMBA ground-to-air defense system, which is currently stationed in Romania to protect NATO forces conducting operations in the area.
ACE deployments are structured to complicate enemy targeting by quickly distributing high-value air assets across various operational locations. This strategy, which gained prominence during the Cold War, allows an air force to utilize civilian airfields or makeshift road bases.
This approach enables the continuation of air operations without reliance on established bases, which are often the primary targets in high-intensity conflicts. The significance of the ACE doctrine has gained increased attention in the strategies of Western armed forces, especially in light of potential threats from near-peer adversaries.