Exercise AMPLE TRAIN (EXAT), the annual SHAPE-scheduled aircraft cross-servicing (ACS) exercise, took place at Aalborg Air Station, Denmark, from 28 April to 3 May 2002 under the command of HQ AIR NORTH.. Twelve nations participated in the flying and ground operations this year, including two PfP nations, Finland and Sweden, which took part with observers. If such a high level of participation continues in future EXATs, the exercise series will remain the pinnacle of NATO live-flying exercises with special emphasis on cross-servicing. Part of the success of this year’s EXAT was due to the fact that EXAT was combined with the Danish air exercise VIKING CHALLENGE, thus providing also valuable operational training. The host nation made the entire contingent of participants and exercise staff feel at home during EXAT and provided outstanding support in every facet of the exercise. By attaining its objectives, the exercise turned out to be a great success and provided highly beneficial training to all the participants. A total of 99 certifications, 24 recertification's, and 247 familiarizations were issued, thus increasing the number of certified technicians who are essential to flying operations throughout NATO wherever they may take place.

HQ AIRNORTH GAZETTE