C-130 and MQ-9 forward deploy to Battle Creek Air National Guard Base during Northern Strike 25-2. Photo courtesy of Senior Airman Robert Nichols

BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, CA (MPG) - Airmen from the 22nd Air Task Force (ATF), comprised of military members from Beale, Travis, and Fairchild Air Force Bases (AFB), wrapped up their participation in the 2-week training event Exercise Northern Strike 25-2 (NS 25-2) on Aug. 9 at Battle Creek Air National Guard Base. 

Michigan’s role as host for NS 25-2 was crucial in shaping the realism and complexity of the training environment. The state’s diverse terrain and established infrastructure at Battle Creek Air National Guard Base allowed for seamless integration of joint operations in simulated strategically relevant locations. 

“We are proud to provide the coordination and infrastructure needed to ensure our total force partners are ready for deployable operations anywhere in the world,” said Brig. Gen. Daniel J. Kramer II, Michigan National Guard, Assistant to the Adjutant General - Air.

Throughout the week, the Air Task Force responded to a series of realistic and high-intensity scenarios designed to simulate the conditions of modern warfare. Airmen operated in full Mission-Oriented Protective Posture (MOPP) gear during chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) training. Additionally, members were subject to indirect fire attacks, base-wide Alarm Red and Alarm Black conditions which forced units to react quickly and maintain operations under duress.

Army CH-47 Chinook transports Airmen to simulated forward deployed locations. Photo courtesy of Senior Airman Robert Nichols

Key training elements included medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) scenarios, where Airmen coordinated rapid MEDEVAC responses to simulated casualties. Chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear response teams sprinted trough decontamination drills and base defenders locked down perimeters after simulated incursions. In partnership with the Air Force Research Lab Airmen also practiced hot pit refueling, paired with a KC-135 virtual reality trainer that enhanced understanding of aircraft ground operations in a risk-free environment. The exercise offered a unique opportunity to integrate emerging technologies with warfighters in a joint environment to receive real time feedback from service members.

"Preparing for Northern Strike aided me in becoming a certified instructor which has given me opportunities to teach other units about my specialty as a defender,” said Senior Airman Kelsee Ford, 60th Security Forces Squadron installation patrolman. “Here at Northen Strike, I have been able to learn about combat operations and what it takes to effectively sustain an installation under real-world conditions.”

Drawing on their designated areas of expertise, members across the participating units had something to contribute to the overall success of NS 25-2. This included essential safety and fire support, emergency response capabilities, public affairs, and a rigorous wing inspection team making sure that every task met mission standards. Together, their combined efforts underscored the power of a unified, multi-base team operating with precision and purpose.

“We aren’t just training to fight, we are fighting to transform how our Air Force fights,” said Col. William J. Watkins, 22nd Air Task Force commander. “That’s our calling. That’s our privilege. That’s our burden. That’s our honor.”

The end of this exercise isn’t just the close of a training event for the 22nd Air Task Force, it marks a key milestone in their growth as a ready, responsive, and lethal force. From contingency response to combat support, Airmen were tested under pressure across every mission-essential task, proving their ability to deploy and fight when called upon. Now, they return to their home units with a sharpened operational edge and stronger cohesion as a lethal, deployable force.