Air Force F-16 Joint Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses Training

This thesis investigates the question: How should the U.S. Air Force (USAF) modify F-16 Suppression of Enemy Air Defense (SEAD) training to ensure pilots have the operational flying experience and proficiency required to conduct effective Joint Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (J-SEAD) operations in combat? USAF F-16 SEAD pilots are not receiving the quantity and quality of training required to conduct effective J-SEAD operations in combat. USAF F-16 SEAD pilots must be trained for J-SEAD to prevent operational failure in combat. The thesis analyzes and evaluates joint training requirements, programs, and combat employment cases to identify USAF J-SEAD training shortfalls. The current and planned trend for joint training is to replace high-cost, live training exercises with simulation-based exercises to reduce cost. This trend has significantly impacted operational readiness and has prevented effective J-SEAD training for USAF F-16 SEAD pilots. J-SEAD must be identified as a mission essential task for the USAF. Pilots cannot afford to wait until combat to develop effective J-SEAD joint tactics, techniques, and procedures. Simulation training should be used to enhance flying training not replace it. The addition of J-SEAD objectives and forces to exercises can be accomplished by simply training smarter.