WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) – If you live in and around the Salina area, you may see and hear a significant increase in military activity in the coming weeks. Over 600 service members will participate in Jaded Thunder, a comprehensive joint-service training exercise. The exercise includes the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and U.S. Special Operations Command.
The airport authority said the Salina Regional Airport’s proximity to the Smoky Hill Weapons Range offers a key strategic advantage for advanced training. The airport allows minimal transit for military aircraft and maximizes training hours over the range in coordination with ground forces.
“The combination of the Smoky Hill Weapons Range and the Salina Regional Airport provides unmatched access for realistic training scenarios,” said Pieter Miller, Executive Director of the Salina Airport Authority. “The continued support from the local community also plays a vital role in making this location ideal for military readiness exercises.”…