RAF Lakenheath to conduct Combat Readiness Exercise Aug. 25-29 Published Aug. 20, 2025 By 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- Personnel assigned to the 48th Fighter Wing will conduct a combat readiness exercise here from Aug. 25-29. The exercise is designed to challenge the operational readiness of the Liberty Wing, to include its ability to generate airpower under simulated combat conditions. “Realistic training is crucial to ensuring the warfighters of the 48th Fighter Wing are prepared to deter threats and if necessary fight alongside our UK and NATO partners,” said Brig. Gen. Jack Arthaud, 48th Fighter Wing Commander. Community members in the local area may notice increased noise, activity, and traffic delays near RAF Lakenheath and RAF Feltwell during the exercise. Training will occur during both the day and night and include the use of pyrotechnics and blanks, which is ammunition without live bullets. The exercise will also feature the use of loudspeakers, a noise-generating device used for training, and drone operations. Residents may also see personnel in protective gear, simulated emergency and security responses, and increased movement between RAF Lakenheath and RAF Feltwell. There is no scheduled night flying during this exercise. Additionally, flight activity will be reduced Aug. 25 in observance of the bank holiday to help minimize noise and disruption to local residents. “Our exercise planners have worked hard to minimize disruptions to the local community while also ensuring our forces receive the essential training needed to be fully prepared for any contingency,” said Arthaud. “We appreciate the continued understanding and support of our neighbors as we strengthen our ability to defend our RAF bases.”