events 2009

Six F-16s fighters took part in a joint exercise with Czech fighters. Photo Jakub Hornek

Czech and American Fighters Train On Caslav Skies

September 23, 2009

About 100 Texas National Guard members supporting six F-16s fighters took part in a joint exercise with Czech Jas-39 Gripen and L-159 fighters at the 21st Air Force Base in Caslav, Central Bohemia. There were two major goals for the two-week mission: to take part in realistic simulations of air battles and to give Czech air controllers some practice with different types of aircraft.

“Controllers found the mission very useful, indeed: they don’t have much opportunity to work with foreign fighters,” said 212th Tactical Squadron Commander and L-159 pilot David Reha. According to him, the supersonic Gripens and F-16s are comparable in quality: the U.S. aircraft have more power, but the Gripens are better in other areas such as aerodynamics. “The cooperation with the Americans was great, they are very friendly and always are happy to share their experience,” added Reha.

The U.S. team was not composed solely of pilots, but also included F-16 air controllers, technicians, medical personnel and press people. Caslav base spokeswoman Denisa Smitalova noted that there had been a “Squadron Exchange” exercise at Caslav two years before, but this was the first time the Texas National Guard pilots flew in with their F-16s.

Related stories:

• Czech and American Paratroopers Train in Southern Bohemia (August 13, 2009)
• Czech International Air Fest Gives American Crew Chance to Showcase Aircraft to Czech Public (Sept 5, 2009)

Related links:

• 21st Air Force Base in Caslav