Continuing the shots from Red Flag Alaska, here are the results of our visit to Elmendorf AFB, close to Anchorage, and the other base to host aircraft for the exercise. Elmendorf was home to most of the fighter aircraft associated with the exercise, and included F-15 Eagles (from the 60 FS, 33 FW, Eglin AFB) and F-22 Raptors (from the local 90 FS and the 43 FS at Tyndall AFB).
After briefings and Q+A with the pilots, it was on to the flightline, where the pilots and ground crews from the 60 FS were preparing for their mission.
Next it was on to the roof of the fire station to watch the departures:
Also equipped with F-15s, but not taking part in the exercise was the 19 FS, based at Elmendorf, and they flew several sorties during the morning.
Recoveries were shot in light varying from good to non-existent!
In the end, we were shooting in a snow storm, and were forced to retreat!
Elmendorf was also home to the command and control elements of Red Flag – Alaska. The USAF used E-3s from Kadena and Elmendorf based units, and the RAF also contributed a single aircraft (plus 2 crews). We were able to visit the RAF detachment at a later date, and some of these photos were taken then.
For more see Elmendorf Album and Red Flag Alaska report
Thanks to Jared and Mikel from Elmendorf PAO for organising a great day for us. Thanks to Karl, Skippy and Shaggy for the company, and also thanks to our American colleagues Jason, Kurt and Jonathon for the laughs along the way.
Thanks for looking,
Paul
Your take off shot of '081 is SO sharp. Lovely jubbly! 
. The 051 Eagle from the roof of the fire station is exceptional 
. I would really love to go and shoot some red flag stuff over the other side of the pond. How on earth do you get access on base?? Also does it cost an arm and a leg with flights etc?? 
) but the F22's look like models taking off compared to the good old F15's
