Ocean Sky 2020: Spanish, French combat aircraft train together in Canary Islands

Spanish and French combat aircraft at Gando AFB, Canary Islands during Ocean Sky 2020 exercise.

The Ocean Sky 2020 (formerly DACT) air combat exercise, led by the Ejército del Aire (Spanish Air Force), began on October 18 at Gando air base, Canary Islands. Until October 29, Spanish and French fighter aircraft will train together to increase their operational readiness, simulating various scenarios.

The OS20 includes a total of 700 Spanish and 195 French soldiers. France participates with an Awacs, operating from France, a C-135 tanker and thirteen Rafales, while Spain has deployed F-18 Hornet, Eurofighter Typhoon, Harrier and an A400M aircraft.

Originally, Ocean Sky was born to test the combat level of the Spanish combat squadrons through their chain of command. Today it has become a primarily air-to-air exercise, based on three missions modeled on NATO tactics: the protection of the area, the escort of major aircraft and the Entry Force. During OS20, the Spanish aircraft focus mainly on defensive missions, while the French ones on offensive missions.

The OS20 marks the only participation of the French Air Force in a foreign exercise in 2020 due to the Covid-19 health emergency and also marks the first simulated use of the new METEOR missile integrated into the latest Rafale F3-R standard.

"A Main Wave takes place every morning, a large operation involving simulated combat with all planes. Less complex missions with fewer personnel, also called Shadow Wave, are held in the afternoon," Lt Col. Guillaume, commander of the FAF Escadron de chasse 3/30 "Lorraine".

Ocean Sky represents a symbol of bilateral relations: "We never fight alone. The ally bond is required for effective training," Gen. Philippe Lavigne, Chief of Staff of the French Air Force, said.

MEDIA DAY

On October 23, 2020, the Spanish Air Force organized a media day to share the purpose and goal of Ocean Sky 2020 with photojournalists. Our contributor George Karavantos traveled to Gando to participate in the event that included a flight aboard a Spanish A-400M to enjoy air refueling activities. From the side window of the aircraft George was able to take photos and videos of an exciting refueling of a Spanish Hornet which, despite the strong turbulence, managed to successfully complete the operation. Additionally, his photos show a Spanish Typhoon and a French Rafale.

WATCH THE VIDEO

Written by Matteo Sanzani

Source: French Air Force

Images: Spanish Air Force, George Karavantos