As the largest air force exercise in Europe, ELITE has occupied a firm place in the calendar of multinational exercises for more than twelve years. Around 1.700 soldiers at the Heuberg Training Area alone and almost 40 different weapon systems mark a new record for ELITE 2008.

This year as many as 17 guest nations and the NATO actively participate in this exercise. In addition, nine countries will send observers to this electronic warfare exercise. Most participants operated from German bases (only some support services). ELITE offers an excellent platform for exchange of experience and for the further development of military, scientific or industrial programs. “Train as you fight” is the motto.

Pressday Wednesday July 9

At 07:30 we had to report at the base. Some checks and we reported at the parking place. First coffee and a briefing about the exercise Elite 2008 by Capt. Janzen, Project Officer Elite 2008. Outside it was very windy and wet so good to be inside in stead of outside. After the briefing we were transported to the airbase near the taxi track. The first participants were seen; Polish Su-22’s and Spanish EF-18’s. Most departues/arrivals were in rain but some nice shots were taken with dark clouds at the background. After the morning-mission we visited the different participants; the Polish and Spanish, the Greek Vipers, the Turks and at least the Italian Tornado ECR’s. The second wave departed in the early afternoon and the Su-22’s were great! Also some very dark clouds in the background. After the visit around four o’clock we left the kaserne and went to our hotel. The sun was shining!