NATO’s Ramstein Flag 2025 tested the Alliance’s readiness with realistic and demanding scenarios testing interoperability, rapid response capabilities and multidomain operations across NATO territory. Spanning nearly two weeks, the exercise brought together more than 2,000 personnel from more than 15 NATO nations. Ramstein Flag also served as a platform to deepen ties among Allied forces. Practicing cross-servicing of aircraft and sharing intelligence across command structures fostered a stronger sense of unity while enhancing operational effectiveness.
“We are here today practicing to ensure that if we need to get air superiority, that we have the capability to achieve it,” Gen. James Hecker, Commander of NATO Allied Air Command, said in a NATO news release.
During Ramstein Flag 2025, participating forces engaged in high-tempo operations aimed at replicating potential threats. One key component was the rapid integration and deployment of air power. Advanced platforms such as the Lightning, Hornet, and Eurofighter Typhoon, alongside unmanned aerial systems, were coordinated with ground-based air defense units to simulate missions aimed at neutralizing sophisticated enemy missile systems and other offensive capabilities. Aerial refueling operations played a role in maintaining these high-tempo missions, showcasing the logistical proficiency that military operations demand. Providing the refueling capability were a Canadian Polaris CC-150, Italian KC-767A, and Turkish KC-135R, alongside a Voyager from the United Kingdom, a KC-135 Stratotanker from the U.S., and a A330 MRTT from NATO’s Multinational Multirole Tanker Transport Unit.
Ramstein Flag also incorporated advanced cyber and space capabilities to simulate responses to hybrid threats — situations where digital vulnerabilities could compromise operational integrity. Secure, real-time communications, linking dispersed units across different domains, were also tested. This comprehensive approach prepared Allied forces for today’s modern conflicts.
“Ramstein Flag 25 has provided a golden opportunity for us to train with a variety of different fighter aircraft, demonstrating our high level of readiness and the interoperability between Allied Air Forces while increasing the cohesion of the Alliance,” said Maj. Eşref SAYIL, mission commander of the Turkish detachment.
The exercise also provided valuable insights that will shape NATO’s strategic planning and training programs. As hybrid threats evolve and technology advances, lessons learned from Ramstein Flag will inform adjustments in tactics, operational doctrines and investment in new technologies.
“The strength we create here at Ramstein Flag is that piece of the puzzle that enables us to fully interconnect with all the forces and be able to fight,” said Royal Netherland Air Force Lt. Gen. André Steur.