JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. -- Members of the 655th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Wing participated in an Air Force-wide exercise that provided real-world training in a dynamic, high-tempo combat environment.
Exercise Bamboo Eagle took place Aug. 2-10, based out of Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., and carried out at various locations across the U.S. Reserve Airmen from the 755th ISR Group at Joint Base Langley-Eustis joined the 3,000 service members who took part in the exercise to improve and refine readiness through complex, large-scale military operations against high-end threats on short notice.
The exercise included Traditional Reserve and Active Guard Reserve (AGR) members along with active duty from multiple major commands, and joint/coalition forces, which ensures our forces are ready to operate in the joint environment, said Col. Philip Warlick, 655th ISR Wing commander.
“To maintain our readiness and edge in an increasingly unpredictable world, it’s critical that our Reserve Airmen train in environments that mirror the complexity and intensity of potential real-world situations,” Warlick said. “These exercises ensure our Airmen are not only fully prepared, but also adaptable, ready to meet and overcome the challenges of tomorrow with precision and agility.”
During the exercise, Reserve ISR members analyzed and interpreted complex simulated data under pressure, making rapid decisions and collaborating with other units. The experience allows them to anticipate enemy actions, identify critical threats, and develop actionable intelligence that supports mission success, said Col. Brian Brooks, 755th ISR Group commander.
“We also learn where the gaps are so we can improve training to be more effective for future exercises and real-world operations,” Brooks said. “Exercises like this give us the opportunity to demonstrate our ability to operate in high-stakes, fast-paced scenarios that mirror the unpredictable nature of combat operations. It also builds confidence, ensuring our members are ready and resilient on the battlefield.”
Future exercises will continue to enhance capabilities to ensure the nation maintains air and space superiority as the Air Force reshapes and reoptimizes for Great Power Competition.