The William Tell Air Competition recommences.

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Kevin Martinez
  • 366th Fighter Wing
MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho – --  

The Air Force’s William Tell competition is taking flight after a 19-year hiatus Sept. 11-15, 2023 at the Air Dominance Center, Savannah, Georgia.

The William Tell Air Competition, often regarded as one of the most prestigious and challenging air warfare exercises in the world, has been an integral part of the United States Air Force's training and readiness program for decades. Named after the legendary Swiss folk hero William Tell, this event brings together elite aircrews from various Air Force units to test their skills, teamwork, and precision in a series of demanding combat scenarios.

The William Tell Air Competition is more than just a contest it’s a crucible that hones the skills of aircrews to razor-sharp precision. The event challenges participants to execute a wide range of missions, including air-to-air combat, air-to-ground strikes, electronic warfare, and aerial refueling. This comprehensive approach ensures that participants are well-rounded and capable of handling real-world combat situations.

The competition encourages participants to not only master their individual roles but also to communicate effectively and coordinate with team members. This focus on teamwork fosters a sense of camaraderie and mutual trust, which is vital for success in complex and dynamic operational environments.

Moreover, the competition provides valuable data and feedback to the Air Force and defense contractors, facilitating the refinement and development of new technologies. The lessons learned during the competition often lead to enhancements in aircraft, sensors and tactics, ultimately improving the Air Force's combat capabilities.

The competition will showcase the capabilities of the F-15 Eagle units, F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II representing different Air Combat Command and Pacific Air Force wings and Air National Guard.

The fact that the 366th Fighter Wing is competing in the William Tell Air Competition is a testament to their dedication, skill and teamwork. For Gunfighters this is a perfect opportunity to hone their skills and showcase their commitment to excellence.