Dutch pilots, maintenance personnel and logistics staff are training alongside the United States Air Force, which is acting as the opposing force during the exercise. The training involves intensive use of each other’s equipment and expertise.
The vast training area in Utah provides what the ministry describes as an ideal environment for realistic exercises. It offers extensive airspace and includes simulated air defence systems that pilots must evade.
The aircraft are operating at night and are also practising so-called Hot Pit Refuelling. In this procedure, at least one engine remains running during refuelling in order to minimise the time the fighter aircraft spend on the ground.
In addition, the personnel are working on Rapid Pilot Swap, which involves the swift exchange of pilots. The exercise also includes training with live ammunition.
The Dutch fighter aircraft were accompanied during their deployment by three Airbus A330 MRTT tanker aircraft. These provided air-to-air refuelling during the transit and continue to do so throughout the exercise.
Source: Ministry of Defence of the Netherlands.
![Pete Hegseth and General Dan Caine brief reporters on Operation Epic Fury at the U.S. Department of War headquarters [VIDEO]](https://defence-industry.eu/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/pete-hegseth-and-general-dan-caine-brief-reporters-on-operation-epic-fury-at-the-us-department-of-war-headquarters-video.jpeg)
