The XVIII Airborne Corps concluded the latest iteration of its groundbreaking exercise series, Scarlet Dragon, which ran from Dec. 1-11. The exercise focused on testing and validating a single data layer to create a seamless connection between sensors, shooters, and decision-makers across the joint force, enhancing battlefield efficiency and lethality.
A key event occurred on Dec. 8, when the 18th Field Artillery Brigade (FAB) conducted cold-load training, loading and unloading an M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) onto an Air Force C-17 aircraft. This training was instrumental in testing new HIMARS software that enables the system to automatically generate its land geolocation after being airborne. This development negates the need for manual system changes, enabling better targeting and allowing fire-support platforms to rapidly “jump” to new firing locations with Air Force assistance, significantly increasing survivability.
From Dec. 9-11, advanced counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) technology was tested in a dynamic field environment. The exercise integrated AH-64 Apache helicopters from the 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade, Sentinel radars from the 82nd Airborne Division, and newly fielded SGT STOUT systems from the 108th Air Defense Artillery Brigade. The Sentinel radars and SGT STOUTs tracked Apaches and drones, pushing data to the Corps Headquarters to validate faster early-warning systems for troops on the ground. During the exercise, Apache pilots tested their ability to identify and track small Group one drones, while the SGT STOUT teams validated their role within the unified data layer. The integration of the SGT STOUT into the maneuver force is a critical step in providing protection against short-range air threats…