(Text & Images Copyright of Ernesto Blanco Calcagno/www.airpressman.com – unless otherwise stated)

The CRUZEX 2024 (Cruzeiro do Sul/Southern Star) combined air exercise took place in Brazil at the Natal Air Base (Base Aérea de Natal – BANT) located in Parnamirim, Rio Grande do Norte state, from November 3rd to 15th. The exercise is recognised as the most prominent and largest military exercise in Latin America and was hosted and conducted by the Brazilian Air Force (Força Aérea Brasileira – FAB). This year being CRUZEX’s 9th edition, the undertaking brought together 16 countries and approximately 100 aircraft, with countries participating with aircraft as well as – new this year – with space, cyber tasks technical advisors and observer roles. In addition to Brazil the nations that participated with flight squadrons from their Air Forces were Argentina, Chile, Colombia, United States, Paraguay, Peru, and Portugal. Providing  personnel for space and cyber tasks were Chile, Colombia, the United States, Paraguay, and Peru, and observers were present from South Africa, Germany, Canada, Ecuador, France, Italy, and Sweden. Sadly, Uruguay was unable to participate due to a lack of combat aircraft (on previous venues both IA-58A Pucará and A-37B Dragonfly aircraft participated on the missions).

The Commander of the BANT, Air Brigadier Ricardo Guerra Rezende was the spokesperson for the FAB on an initial conference on November 4, 2024. A a fighter pilot and former commander of a FAB Northrop F-5E/F fighter squadron, Rezende was joined by the chief officers of the air forces delegations from the participating nations that contributed aircraft for the air operations. He stated that Brazil has been preparing for the actual CRUZEX, conducting regular meetings and consultations with the participating forces, since August 2022. The scope of this year’s exercise was large: 1400 hours of flight time planned and 800 missions; allowing military personnel to train in air combat through combined operations. In these missions, different nations operate in conflict scenarios in an integrated and cooperative manner, promoting the exchange of experiences among the members of the participating air forces. This international collaboration underscores the importance of military cooperation in an increasingly complex threat environment. CRUZEX has been commanded by the FAB since 2002 and it is seen as a great challenge and opportunity for the service and the nation, to demonstrate its preparedness. A notable aspect of CRUZEX 2024 was the integration of cyber operations, allowing participants to confront digital threats in real-time and protect critical infrastructure; highlighting the growing importance of cyber defence in modern warfare.

LOCATION

The selection of the Natal Air Base (BANT) is not random; originally called Parnamirim Airport, this facility had an important role during World War II as a strategic base for aircraft flying between South America and West Africa to resupply allied forces. Particularly between 1943 and 1945, the base was used jointly by the FAB, US Army Air Forces, US Navy and the Royal Air Force (RAF) as well as commercial airlines supporting the war effort, namely Pan Am, TWA and American.

The field shared some of the facilities with the Augusto Severo International Airport until 2014 when a new civilian airport was inaugurated further north. Its strategic importance is still relevant as the base serves as a hub for air defence and operational readiness in the region; being relatively close both to Africa and the Caribbean. It provides a platform for training, surveillance, and readiness for missions that involve both national defence and international cooperation. With the facilities being totally for military utilisation, perfect infrastructure, ample sections of low traffic airspace nearby (flight operations were conducted on the Serra do Lajeado Aerial Range; 110 nm west of Natal) and the presence of diversion aerodromes, Natal is the perfect venue for CRUZEX.

WARFARE: REGULAR, REGIONAL AND LIMITED

Rezende also indicated that the CRUZEX war scenario is one of simulated threats by an adversary against a country, followed by the consequent reaction of an allied force, to guarantee airspace protection and sovereignty of the attacked nation; and it is not a Peacekeeping nor a United Nations (UN) type of operation. CRUZEX is conducted as a Regular Warfare or Conventional Warfare exercise, which is characterised by direct confrontations between the conventional military forces of two or more states (Blue Force against Red Force), typically involving formally organised armies and clear divisions. It is the most likely conflict type in territorial or political disputes among nations with traditional armed forces. Regional Warfare refers to disputes that, while potentially having international implications, are confined to a specific region or geographical area. Limited Warfare describes conflicts where the use of military force is intentionally restricted, with clearly defined boundaries set by the involved parties. Such conflicts are generally more focused, encompassing specific interventions, localised military operations, or precision strikes using smart munitions.

AIRCRAFT TYPES

The aircraft were a diverse mix including combat jets and turboprops, transports and Search & Rescue (SAR), Air-to-Air-refuelling (AAR), Electronic Countermeasures (ECM) and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) types . The host nation Brazil provided its latest acquisition and “star” combat jet, the Swedish built Saab JAS 39E Gripen (FAB designation F-39), and combat vectors like the Northrop F-5EM/FM, Embraer A-1A/B (AMX) and A-29B, Airbus C-295 transport and Search & Rescue (SAR) aircraft (designated C-105/SC-105 Amazonas by the FAB), Embraer KC-390 Millennium and E/R-99M, and Airbus/Helibrás Helicopters H225M (designated H-36 Caracal) in addition to the McDonnell Douglas A-4KU from the Brazilian Navy (Marinha do Brasil-MB). These formerly Kuwaiti Air Force Skyhawks (modified A-4Ms and TA-4Js) are designated AF-1 within the service and are the last A-4 in military service in the World.

Argentina showcased its indigenous FMA IA-63 Pampa III and a Lockheed KC-130H; Chile a Boeing KC-135E tanker and General Dynamics F-16C/D Block 50, Colombia with a Boeing KC-767, the United States with McDonnell Douglas F-15C and Boeing KC-46, Paraguay with Embraer AT-27 Tucano and Airbus C-212; Peru with the Korean Aerospace Industries KT-1P and Lockheed KC-130H; and Portugal with an Embraer KC-390.

OVERVIEW OF CRUZEX 2024 OPERATIONS

The exercise consists of three phases: the first, called FAM (Familiarisation), includes familiarisation flights to help aircrews adapt to the Area of Operations; the second, FIT (Forces Integration Training), promotes integration among the various participating forces. The FAM period aims to build situational awareness and adapt to the operational environment, while the FIT stage introduces missions focused on specific tactics and procedures. The final phase features flights in pre-planned scenarios with multiple aircraft, known as Composite Air Operations (COMAO). The latter is the highlight and the culmination of the training activities of CRUZEX 2024, where all forces coordinate air combat actions in a high-pressure environment. In these operations, squadrons and aircraft alternate between “blue forces” and “red forces” roles in each mission, creating a series of tactical simulations and challenging missions conducted by all participating air forces. This operation aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of units in a combat environment by simulating the integration of various forces to complete complex tasks within a short period. The COMAO requires participants to have a high level of organisation and skill to operate effectively in a conflict scenario, demonstrating the importance of interoperability in achieving strategic objectives.

The goals include strengthening the integrated combat capability, testing and improving coordination and communication techniques – communications are conducted in English –  and reinforcing mutual trust and understanding of each nation’s tactics; especially as some have never operated together before. CRUZEX 2024 aims to update tactics, techniques, and procedures in composite air operations, preparing the armed forces for conventional warfare scenarios and complex challenges; enabling participants to contribute to a collective and coordinated response to threats. The exercise’s importance in contributing to global order and peace – missions and procedures follow NATO standards – as well as maintaining Brazil’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, was emphasised by Brigadier Rezende.

CYBER-SPACE

As previously mentioned, the integration of cyber operations was named Cruzex Cyber-Space, a cyber simulation aiming to integrate air and cyber domains into a single defence front, designed to enhance the security of critical IT systems that support aerospace operations. The simulation uses a Capture The Flag (CTF) model, where participating forces are tasked with both protecting and attacking virtual systems. This approach highlights the increasing significance of cyber warfare in the modern military landscape, equipping the forces to tackle emerging threats in this domain, where simply air dominance is no longer sufficient. The Cyber Defence Laboratory brings teams together to handle digital threats, identify vulnerabilities, and respond to attacks in real-time. Advanced activities include computer analysis, vulnerability exploitation, cryptography, and network traffic analysis.

Cyber integration in military training is a game-changer and by combining cyber and air operations, military forces can enhance their precision and intelligence in real-time, allowing for swift route adjustments and threat identification. This synergy also minimises the risk of fratricide and optimizes resource allocation. In today’s digital age, cyber defence is crucial for national security. This innovative approach represents a significant resource-saving opportunity, allowing pilots and digital security teams to face simulated threats in a virtual environment. This reduces the need for expensive physical training, fuel consumption, and preserves aircraft flight hours, making resource use more efficient and targeted.

JETS!

As highlighted earlier, the exercise features a wide range of aircraft with an ample range of performances and capabilities. The FAB showcased the attributes of its new Gripen fighter in international air combat missions and there was a high degree of curiosity to observe the performance of this rare platform as its operational capacity is still developing. Operated by the ‘Jaguar’ Squadron of the 1st Air Defense Group at Anápolis Air Base near the Brazilian capital Brasília, the Gripen is equipped with an onboard self-defence systems, including RWR (Radar Warning Receiver) IRST (Infrared Search and Track) and MAWS (Missile Approach Warning System), which are essential for detecting and countering threats. It was evaluated in Air Opposition Operations, and demonstrated its skills set in advanced tactical missions, performing both offensive and defensive functions. It followed evaluation in combat survival rate and tests like quick reaction capabilities and threat detection. To register this data, the FAB utilised resources from its PMA II (Air Mission Planning II); a system that allows simulating the impact of threats present in the scenario, providing a detailed analysis of the performance of each vector.

Another highlight was the presence of the United States’ F-15C Eagle (the latter type attached to the 159th Fighter Wing of the Louisiana Air National Guard, based at the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base in New Orleans) on its first visit to Brazil.

The Portuguese Air Force (Força Aérea Portuguesa – FAP) brought one of their newly acquired Embraer KC-390 transport jets, and one of their female pilots stated that they were eager to observe and learn based on how the FAB operated this aircraft. For its operation in Portugal a new squadron has been formed (Esquadra 506 – Rinocerontes/Squadron 506 – Rhinoceros) at the Base Aérea n° 11 at Beja to replace its C-130Hs. With the brazilian jet, the FAP will carry out Air-to-Air refuelling (AAR) for the first time; as well as implement transport and firefighting missions.

Fighter aircraft were employed for different purposes, simulating realistic air combat scenarios, such as air defence, attack, and reconnaissance missions, at times acting on behalf of the “Blue” force (the “good guys”) and at times as part of the “Red” enemy force, to bolster the readiness of all participants.

The Brazilian F-5EM/FM (modernised one and two seater Tiger IIs) fighters were tasked with air defence missions standing out for its ability to manage tactical formations and as Air Defence Package Leader; a critical role responsible for leading and coordinating a package of aircraft, ensuring the effective execution of air defense missions, protecting friendly forces and assets from aerial threats. The slower A-1A/B (also modernised by Embraer in 2013 and oddly all units are about to be retired by the end of 2025) designed for attack and reconnaissance missions, played  a significant role in tactical leadership as Mission Commander in Composite Air Mission scenarios.

The US F-15C Eagle as an air superiority fighter, acted mostly as an escort to the “strike packs”, often lead by the Chilean Air Force (Fuerza Aérea Chilena – FaCh) F-16s.  Interestingly F-15C serial number 85-102 (delivered in 1986) has three confirmed air-to-air kills during the first Gulf War of 1991 (Two Iraqi Air Force Su-22 and a single MiG-23).

 The F-15C with tail number 85-102 has an impressive combat record, with three confirmed air-to-air kills. Here are the aircraft types it shot down:

• Su-22: On February 7, 1991, Capt. Cesar Rodriguez, flying F-15C 85-102, shot down a Su-22 using an AIM-7 missile.
• MiG-23: On January 29, 1991, F-15C 85-102, piloted by Lt. Col. Rose, downed a MiG-23 with an AIM-7 missile.
• Su-22 (again!): Also on February 7, 1991, Capt. Murphy, flying F-15C 85-102, shot down another Su-22 using an AIM-7 missile.

SLOW MOVERS

Joining the “Slow Movers”, the attack turboprop A-29 Super Tucano conducted integrated attacks, offering versatile performance by engaging ground targets with conventional weaponry. Alongside the A-29 were the IA-63 Pampa III of the Fuerza Aérea Argentina (Argentinian Air Force – FAA), Peruvian KT-1P “Torito” (Little Bull in Spanish) and Paraguayan Air Force T-27 Tucano.

MULTI MISSION & “GAS STATION” JETS

Recently modernised, the FAB E-99M is easily identified by the dorsal antenna of its upgraded Saab Erieye radar, provided Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) and alongside the R-99 remote sensing aircraft, played crucial roles in the exercise, ensuring efficient coordination and communication among participants. WIth its new Electronic Warfare (EW) Non-Communication (NCOM) system,The E-99M was responsible for In-Flight Control and Alarm actions (Controle de Vôo e Alarme – CAV for its acronym in Portuguese) while the R-99 served as an Airborne Communication Station (Posto de Comando e Alerta de Radar – PCOM-AR). Additionally, the exercise featured advanced airborne warning, ground attack, in-flight refuelling, combat air patrol, escort, sweeping, cargo, and paratrooper release, among other actions aimed to enhance combat and incursion capabilities.

Another new aircraft type that everyone wanted to see, was the Embraer KC-390 Millennium specially as its recent success in foreign sales.  Alongside the FAB designated C-105 Amazonas (Airbus C-295) were two of the FAB transport aircraft and an essential component of Transport Aviation training.The C-105 Amazonas known for its durability and ability to land on challenging airstrips,  performed troop and supply transport missions to remote areas with cargo drops, underscoring the importance of logistics in combat and humanitarian scenarios.

The KC-390 Millennium showcased its capabilities in Air-to-Air refuelling (AAR) making its operational debut on these tasks, equipped with two Hose-and-drogue type refueling system, with pods mounted outboard on its wings. Further assignments for the KC-390 included aerial resupply, airdrop assault, infiltration, and exfiltration of troops missions; assisting to establish tactical and operational training for the type in a simulated conflict scenario, demonstrating its versatility in multi-scenario operations, being military or humanitarian operations. Interestingly, Embraer and the Brazilian Air Force have begun studies to adapt the C-390 Millennium for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, focusing on potential platform adaptations for these missions, expanding the solutions portfolio to meet operational needs. To this effect, one KC-390 was observed operating with an Israeli built Rafael Litening XR targeting and navigation pod.

The Colombian Air Force, USAF and Chilean air tankers were also deployed during these operations that allow combat aircraft to extend their range, making it a crucial asset for prolonged operations and missions in remote areas.With such an intricate and multifaceted air operation Air traffic Controllers (ATC) played a vital role with responsibilities raging from coordinating and ensuring the safety of training missions to the complex integration of flights from different foreign air forces, requiring careful planning and execution.

Responsible for ensuring operational safety and airspace surveillance in the region was the Third Integrated Centre for Air Defence and Air Traffic Control (3º Centro Integrado de Defesa Aérea e Controle de Tráfego Aéreo – CINDACTA III in Portuguese). This Brazilian military unit headquartered in Recife (290 nm south of Natal) being responsible for managing and controlling a vast area of 13.5 million square kilometres (some 5.212.377 square miles). It includes the Northeast region of Brazil and a large part of the Atlantic Ocean; being the main air traffic control centre for flights between South America and Europe. Specialised training was conducted with controllers from the Tower, Approach, and Military Operations Control to familiarise them with simulated scenarios and develop quick response tactics for convoluted situations. Additionally, advanced communication and surveillance systems were operated to minimise disruptions to air operations, monitoring aircraft movements ensuring precise and safe airspace management. Controllers also played a crucial role in monitoring Beyond Visual Range (BVR) combat scenarios and participated in daily briefings and debriefings to review tactics and strategies.

FINAL WEEK

On the second and final week and of CRUZEX 2024 the training became more intense. The training included new scenarios with increased operational complexity and additional hurdles; aiming to promote operational exchange, focusing on preparation and interoperability in a mutual defence environment among participating air forces. At this stage artificial limitations were placed on aircraft capabilities, compelling pilots to develop creative solutions to accomplish their missions. The exercise director explained that as the training progressed, the methodology was to reduce aircraft capabilities, balancing them out. This approach allows the development of doctrinal competence in simulated scenarios during training, aiming to impose a controlled “imbalance of forces” increasing mission complexity. Furthermore it challenged aircrews in their planning and decision-making skills as teams had to innovate and adapt to adverse situations, enhancing their operational competencies.

The observers from nations that did not contributed aircraft, played a crucial role in this exercise, learning and understanding CRUZEX to provide feedback to their respective air forces. With their participation in briefings and debriefings, they gained insights into mission planning and execution in a simulated conflict environment. Furthermore observers followed the entire planning and execution of the Composite Air Operations (COMAO), watched the flights and tactical activities from a safe distance, gaining a comprehensive view of the training stages, the strategies and methods observed during the exercise to strengthen defence capabilities on their own nations. At the end of the exercise, each observer country had the opportunity to present their impressions, highlight positive aspects, and suggest improvements. This exchange of knowledge enabled all involved to broaden their perspectives and adopt more efficient practices in future training and operations.

The 2024 CRUZEX exercise was a major success, with 16 countries and over 3,000 military personnel participating. The event aimed to enhance defence capabilities and promote international cooperation among air forces. During the exercise, participants completed over 800 missions, including 1,500 flight hours, 450 paratrooper drops, and 160 target attacks. The exercise highlighted the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing among air forces to improve responses to real-world situations.

A key feature of CRUZEX 2024 was the integration of cyber operations, which allowed forces to address digital threats alongside physical challenges. This focus on both traditional and cyber warfare underscored the commitment to global security and better coordination among air forces. To the delight of the FAB, the exercise also demonstrated whilst operating on large, complex missions, the effectiveness of advanced aircraft like the F-39 Gripen fighter, KC-390 Millennium transport, and R-99/E-99 reconnaissance planes, reinforcing the capabilities of participating squadrons. Air forces like the Paraguayan, on their first visit to the exercise, departed with a strong sense of purpose and determined to modify their operational tactics and look forward to their newly acquired A-29 Super Tucano to be incorporated from next year. The “mighty” FAB Super Tucano showcased its capabilities – already combat proven in Afghanistan – to an eager aviation audience as the type continues to be sold overseas (during 2024 A-29s were sold to Portugal, Paraguay, Uruguay and an undisclosed African nation).

Overall, CRUZEX 2024 left a strong legacy of international collaboration and learning, paving the way for future exercises that will continue to strengthen global aviation capabilities.