The annual field training exercise started for the first time in 1994 and comprises aviation and ground units. The goal of the exercise is to enhance interoperability and relations amongst each nation’s air forces.
This year's exercise, the 26th edition, was held held from 13 to 25 March 2022 and involved armed forces of Thailand, Singapore and the US.
Cope Tiger 22 was held in two locations – the 1st Air Base Wing in Korat/Nakhon Ratchasima for aircraft exercises and the 2nd Air Base Wing in Lopburi for field-training exercises.
The exercise provides invaluable training opportunities for Airmen in planning and executing realistic large-scale air combat operations in both air defence and strike missions.
In total 70 aircraft participated in the exercise:
Kong Thap Akat Thai (RTAF, Royal Thai Air Force) F-16A/B Fighting Falcon from 403 Squadron Cobra at Takhli air base JAS39C/D Gripen from 701 Squadron Sharks at Surat Thani air base Saab 340AEW from 702 Squadron at Surat Thani air base Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) A330-243MRTT from 112 Squadron Team Twisters at Changi air base F-15SG Strike Eagle from 149 Squadron Shikra at Paya Lebar air base F-16C/D Fighting Falcon from 140 Squadron Osprey at Tengah air base F-16D Fighting Falcon from 145 Squadron Hornet at Tengah air base G550 Nachshon Eitam from 111 Squadron Jaeger at Tengah air base IAI Heron UAS from 119 Squadron Dragons or 128 Squadron Golden Owl at Murai Camp United States Air Force (USAF) F-16CM/DM from 80th Fighter Squadron Juvats ('WP') at Gunsan air base (South Korea)
Cope Tiger 2022