The main objective for Sweden is to continue its integration into NATO, particularly in the planning, execution and evaluation of large-scale air combat operations. “Flying in new airspace, working with non-Swedish-speaking pilots, and conducting overseas deployment provides valuable experience, especially for our younger pilots,” said a pilot from Skaraborg Air Wing.
The exercise is led by NATO Allied Air Command in cooperation with the Royal Netherlands Air Force. It aims to strengthen cooperation among NATO members and improve their ability to conduct joint military operations.
Flight crews will train in realistic combat scenarios, facing advanced threats and practising the defence of NATO airspace. Ramstein Flag has become one of NATO’s most important air exercises, offering training in air defence, missile defence, and rapid crisis response.
Participants are divided into two groups—defenders and aggressors—creating complex and dynamic training environments. This setup allows air forces to test their capabilities under challenging and rapidly changing conditions.
This year’s exercise will run in parallel with Frisian Flag, another large-scale air operation also hosted by the Netherlands. Combining the two exercises enables participating nations to train for coordination across vast distances and demanding scenarios.
A central goal of Ramstein Flag is to build cohesion between NATO’s air forces, ensuring they can act swiftly and effectively in a real crisis. “We are proud to host this year’s Ramstein Flag in the Netherlands. When it really matters, we must be able to act together immediately. This type of advanced training prepares us for that,” said Lieutenant General André Steur, Commander of the Royal Netherlands Air Force.
The exercise will operate from 12 air bases across Europe, featuring a range of aircraft types and specialised units. NATO highlights that one of the alliance’s greatest strengths lies in its ability to act jointly, quickly and efficiently, regardless of the threat.
With 32 member countries and an operational area spanning nearly 25 million square kilometres, NATO’s air operations demand high levels of flexibility and responsiveness. Ramstein Flag 2025 plays a vital role in ensuring the alliance’s air forces are prepared to meet future security challenges.
