At the Aviano base the exercise simulating a nuclear attack

In Aviano the exercise simulating a nuclear attack during the flight of an F16.

The Radiant Falcon exercise took place at the Aviano and Spangdahlem air bases in Germany, aimed at preparing aviators for extreme scenarios, including a possible nuclear attack during the flight.

The exercise involved approximately thirty highly trained airmen, who faced a Detailed simulation of an air attack exposed to nuclear radiation. The goal was to prepare staff to manage an extremely dangerous situation, such as a tactical nuclear attack, which could occur in a crisis context.

During the simulation, personnel were equipped with protective suits, gloves and gas masks to protect them from radiation exposure. The instructors guided the Airmen in learning the procedures to follow in case of radiation, simulating an air attack in flight. An aircraft F-16 exposed to radiation must be able to return to base after passing through a high risk area. In this context, the staff only had twenty minutes to put on protective suits and prepare for the plane to land. Once landed, a team of rescuers, medical personnel, refuelers, operators aviation equipment and maintenance worked together to allow the F-16 to safely restart.

To ensure maximum safety during the operation, electronic personal dosimeters were used in the suits to monitor individual radiation exposure. Furthermore, they were used specialized instruments to detect the level of radioactive particles in the air and on the planeso that data can be collected to assess the severity of radiation exposure and manage risks during surgery.