The Royal Air Force plays a pivotal role in the Joint Expeditionary Forces (JEF) large-scale military training event called Tarassis; an exercise specifically designed to test and enhance the ability of the JEF to operate in austere and contested environments.
Central to the RAF’s contribution was the involvement of Tactical Air Traffic Control (TacATC), whose expertise ensured the seamless coordination of air operations in challenging conditions.
Exercise Forest Guardian, part of the Tarassis activity, held in Latvia, focused on simulating operations in remote and degraded environments, where traditional air traffic control infrastructure is unavailable. The exercise brought together personnel and assets from across the JEF community, Royal Canadian Air Force and the British Army, with the RAF’s TacATC team providing critical support to ensure the safe and efficient management of airspace for both fixed-wing and rotary aircraft.
TacATC personnel are highly trained specialists capable of deploying rapidly to establish and manage air traffic control services in the most demanding environments. Equipped with surveying, communications and meterorological equipment along with their extensive expertise, they enable air operations to continue in locations where conventional air traffic control facilities are absent or compromised.
"Tarassis is a fantastic opportunity for us to demonstrate our ability to deliver air traffic control services to a Temporary Landing Zone, even in austere environments. A demonstration of Air Land Integration as well as interoperability and flexibility, our survey recommendations were implemented by 20 Works Group Royal Engineers to enable the Royal Canadian Air Force CC-130 Hercules TLZ Operations.
Our role is to ensure that aircraft can operate safely and effectively, even in the most challenging conditions. This exercise allows us to refine our skills and work closely with other partner nations and units to achieve mission success."
Flight Lieutenant Manning, a TacATC Officer
During the exercise, TacATC teams worked alongside Royal Canadian Air Force pilots, ground crews, and the Army’s 8 and 11 Brigade to coordinate a range of air operations, including troop transport, resupply missions, and close air support. Their ability to adapt to rapidly changing scenarios and maintain control of the airspace was critical to the success of the exercise.
"The TacATC teams are an essential part of the RAF’s capability to operate in contested and remote environments. Their professionalism and adaptability ensure that air operations can continue, no matter the circumstances. Exercises like this are vital for developing and maintaining our readiness and interoperability with other units and with our partners and allies."
Squadron Leader Klejnow, Officer Commanding TacATC
The RAF’s participation in Tarassis highlights its commitment to maintaining a highly skilled and adaptable force, capable of supporting UK Defence objectives and responding to global challenges. The TacATC teams exemplify the RAF’s ability to deliver critical capabilities in the most demanding operational environments.
