Agile Combat Employment (ACE), a concept increasingly adopted by NATO allies, has been put to the test by the French Air and Space Force. The exercise, conducted in early November 2024, saw Rafale fighter jets deployed to bases in Germany and Croatia, highlighting France’s commitment to operational resilience.
Photo by Arnaud Chamberli
Three Rafales from Saint-Dizier Air Base landed at Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany, home to the US 52nd Fighter Wing and its F-16s. The French detachment, applying the ACE concept, took advantage of US ground support facilities and infrastructure. This included flightline services, refuelling, rearming, and mission planning. Another Rafale detachment touched down at Zagreb International Airport, Croatia, to rehearse the same concept in conjunction with the Croatian armed forces.
A French detachment commander emphasised the importance of the exercise, stating that it was “a great opportunity to gather further experience with the ACE concept under NATO’s chain of command.” The deployment involved a temporary transfer of authority to NATO, fully integrating the French aircraft into the Alliance’s chain of command. This provided invaluable training for pilots and mechanics, as well as experience in command and control procedures.
During the week-long deployment, the French Rafales conducted joint air power training over NATO’s eastern flank. Participating aircraft included Romanian F-16s, Spanish F-18s, and various enabling aircraft. France’s SAMPT air defence missile system, deployed in Romania, also took part in the exercise. This multi-domain mission showcased the agility of both the Alliance and its member states.
The ACE concept, designed to enhance survivability and resilience, is rapidly gaining traction among NATO allies. It involves generating air combat power from both home bases and geographically dispersed locations. The concept can be applied proactively or reactively, utilising main operating bases, deployed bases, or contingency locations.
ACE offers commanders and planners a “plug and play” solution to bolster survivability while maintaining uninterrupted operational capability. As security challenges evolve, the concept highlights NATO’s commitment to adapting and developing innovative approaches to modern airpower.
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