DVIDS – News – On the hunt: Wolf Pack integrates into Ulchi Freedom Shield

On the hunt: Wolf Pack integrates into Ulchi Freedom Shield
8th Fighter Wing – Public Affairs

KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea – The 8th Fighter Wing recently began integration with Ulchi Freedom Shield, an annual joint all-agency exercise, on Aug. 19.

The goal of the multi-week joint exercise is to improve operational readiness, interoperability and coalition partnerships by bringing together U.S. forces such as the 8th Fighter Wing and the Republic of Korea Air Force to practice a range of scenarios, including responding to humanitarian crises and armed conflict. The goal is to strengthen the U.S.-Republic of Korea alliance, joint defense readiness and promote security and stability on the Korean Peninsula.

“The Wolfpack's participation in exercises like Ulchi Freedom Shield is critical to maintaining our military readiness and promoting interoperability with our allies,” said Col. Peter Kasarskis, U.S. Air Force 8th Fighter Wing commander. “Through exercises like Ulchi Freedom Shield, we can work side-by-side with our partners, test our capabilities and learn from each other. This not only benefits our individual units, but also contributes to the overall goal of the 8th Fighter Wing.”

During the exercise, the Wolfpack will conduct local air and agile combat operations at forward locations to enhance interoperability with forward partners in realistic combat scenarios. These scenarios directly support the exercise's focus on conducting multi-domain operations utilizing component assets with an emphasis on countering weapons of mass destruction.

“It is imperative to connect the wolf pack with the operational command level,” said Kasarskis. “These connections do not happen automatically and must be rehearsed. Exercises like Ulchi Freedom Shield provide us with the opportunity to continuously improve.”

In addition to meeting exercise objectives, the Wolfpack simultaneously tests the operational readiness of its squadron, including its ability to support following forces and defend the base against regional threats.

“We must continue to improve, innovate and optimize our processes to produce a lethal combat power,” he said. “Our participation in these exercises builds a more combat-ready force that is better able to meet any challenge in the Indo-Pacific region.”

Ulchi Freedom Shield 24 underscores the enduring military partnership between the Republic of Korea and the United States and strengthens the Alliance’s role as a cornerstone for regional peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region.