ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands - The South Carolina Air National Guard’s 169th Fighter Wing conducted Exercise Caribbean Fox at St. Croix July 16-24, focusing on mastering Agile Combat Employment concepts to prepare for any global challenge.

The wing simulated a rapid deployment to a forward operating location with limited resources. Wing members demonstrated the effectiveness of integrated combat turns, a tactic that ensures rapid aircraft rearming and refueling to maximize readiness. This efficient employment of personnel and assets demonstrates the “faster, leaner” approach ACE fosters.

The 156th Wing, Muniz Air National Guard Base, Puerto Rico, was the contingency location for the exercise. Two 169 FW F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jets and a KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft, assigned to the 134th Air Refueling Wing, Tennessee Air National Guard, executed critical mission requirements and rapidly redeployed while threatened by simulated opposing forces.

“Supporting ACE exercises such as Caribbean Fox enhances our multi-capable Airmen’s readiness by employing direct interoperational support from our installation’s strategic location,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Evaristo Orengo, the 156th Wing commander, Puerto Rico Air National Guard.

Exercise Caribbean Fox focused on honing the wing’s capabilities in ACE.

“Our wing inspection team, composed of subject matter experts who understand the importance of our Airmen, are trained and equipped to deploy rapidly and effectively anywhere in the world,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. David Way, the 169th Fighter Wing inspector general. “Through ACE principles, we can ensure our capabilities are strategically dispersed, self-sufficient, and mission-focused.“

Caribbean Fox was not solely about technical proficiency. Airmen from diverse specialties collaborated in fast-paced scenarios, sharpening their teamwork and ability to anticipate, identify and overcome threats.

“In the dynamic environment we face today, the South Carolina Air National Guard’s commitment to mission-ready Airmen and ACE is vital,” said Way.

Exercise Caribbean Fox brought together personnel and aircraft from various Air National Guard units to Henry E. Rohlsen Airport in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, including F-16 Fighting Falcons assigned to the 169th Fighter Wing, South Carolina Air National Guard; KC-135 Stratotankers assigned to the 134th Air Refueling Wing and C-17 Globemasters assigned to the 164th Airlift Wing, Tennessee Air National Guard; Airmen assigned to the 156th Wing, Puerto Rico Air National Guard, and Virginia Islands National Guard Soldiers.