US–South Korea Launch Expanded ‘Buddy Squadron’ Air Drill

The United States and South Korea have begun the joint aerial exercise Buddy Squadron at Osan Air Base to boost combined defence readiness. This year’s drill features a major expansion in aircraft participation and sortie volume to simulate realistic combat conditions. The battalion-level exercise focuses on sharing air-to-air tactics and integrating fourth- and fifth-generation fighters. Officials say the training strengthens interoperability and reinforces allied deterrence on the Korean Peninsula.