The 129th Rescue Wing, based at Moffett Air National Guard Base in Mountain View, California, the 144th Fighter Wing, based at Fresno Air National Guard Base, California and the Air National Guard Air Force Reserve Command Test Center have conducted a first of a kind test evaluating helicopter and fighter aircraft engagements.

The Naval Air Warfare Center at Naval Air Station Point Mugu also provided critical support, demonstrating interagency collaboration.

The exercise evaluated the effectiveness of countermeasures in a maritime environment. An F-15D Eagle from the 144th engaged with an HH-60G Pave Hawk from the 129th and an HH-60W Jolly Green II from the 305th Rescue Squadron based at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona. The tests, simulating real-world scenarios, evaluated the helicopters' defensive capabilities against modern aerial threats.

"The HH-60W has never undergone this type of evaluation," said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Don Smith, AATC HH-60 Division deputy director. "This test data will help us determine how effective U.S. countermeasures are against fighter aircraft over water."

The test data will inform future training and equipment upgrades aimed at enhancing the survivability of rescue helicopters. Modern Technology Solutions Inc., based in Las Vegas, is providing electronic warfare analysis support. Electronic countermeasures disrupt enemy sensors and weapons systems, crucial for aircraft protection.

"Guard units execute the same critical missions as active duty but often have fewer specialized training opportunities," said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Terry Parham, AATC HH-60 Division director. "This exercise enhances mission effectiveness and provides invaluable training for our Airmen."