After two weeks of high-intensity multinational air operations, the Relámpago de los Andes 2025 exercise concluded in Colombia, led by the Colombian Aerospace Force with the participation of the U.S. Air Force (USAF), which had deployed its F-16 fighters, along with C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft, KC-135 Stratotanker refueling aircraft, and HC-130J Super Hercules search and rescue aircraft.
For the first time, the event integrated two previously separate instances: Relámpago (“Lightning”), focused on air superiority and large-scale operations, and Ángel de los Andes (“Angel of the Andes”), focused on humanitarian assistance, disaster response, and combat search and rescue (CSAR). The activities were carried out in different bases and training areas of the country, within the framework of the area of responsibility of U.S. Southern Command (AFSOUTH).
The U.S. contingent, composed of about 300 personnel, deployed F-16C/D Fighting Falcon fighters from the 169th Fighter Wing of the South Carolina Air National Guard, C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft from the 315th Airlift Wing, a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 161st Air Refueling Wing of the Arizona Air National Guard, and an HC-130J Combat King II from the 71st Rescue Squadron, along with “Guardian Angels” rescue teams from the 38th Rescue Squadron.
During the exercise, defensive and offensive air combat missions, mass evacuations of simulated victims, maritime rescues, and personnel recovery operations in hostile environments were carried out. Among the highlighted maneuvers, a U.S. C-17 transported 50 fictitious earthquake victims with medical equipment on board, while Colombian special forces and USAF rescue teams conducted the extraction at sea of a simulated pilot via helicopter hoist.
The activities made it possible to strengthen interoperability, align procedures, and overcome language barriers between crews and technical personnel. Authorities from both countries highlighted that, in addition to tactical training, the exercise reinforces bilateral cooperation and the joint response capability to crises in the region.
With the conclusion of Relámpago de los Andes 2025, the U.S. aircraft began their withdrawal from Palanquero Air Base and other locations in Colombia, closing a new stage in military cooperation between Washington and Bogotá.
*Images obtained from Staff Sgt. William Rosado
You may also like: With the deployment of a P-8A Poseidon aircraft, the navies of Colombia and the United States conducted new anti-submarine warfare exercises
