PALANQUERO, Colombia -- A powerful demonstration of international alliances and military readiness took flight yesterday as the Colombian Air Force joined forces with the United States to officially kick off Relámpago de los Andes (RDLA) 2025. The Colombian-led exercise brings together airpower, expertise and shared values to enhance security and interoperability in the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility from July 28 to Aug. 9.
This year’s iteration of RDLA is the first to merge two previously separate efforts: Relámpago, focused on air superiority and large force employment, and Ángel de los Andes, emphasizing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief as well as combat search and rescue.
“Exercises like these are important because they strengthen readiness and capabilities of everyone involved,” said Lt. Col. David Estrem, U.S. Mission Commander. “The Colombian Air Force has globally recognized systems that they’ve built from the ground up to do the very specific types of missions they need to do in their country. It’s incredible.”
Approximately 300 U.S. service members are participating, bringing a diverse fleet of aircraft to train alongside their Colombian counterparts. In addition to Colombian Air Force aircraft, RDLA 2025 will utilize U.S. F-16 Fighting Falcons from the South Carolina Air National Guard’s 169th Fighter Wing, C-17 Globemaster IIIs from the 315th Airlift Wing and several other aircraft across multiple sites in Colombia.
Through realistic, high-tempo training and humanitarian cooperation, RDLA enhances the capacity of partner nations to respond quickly and effectively to crises, whether in combat or natural disaster scenarios.
This training builds upon a history of collaboration, reflecting an enduring promise between the allied nations to assure a secure and prosperous Western Hemisphere. By improving the collective ability to respond to complex challenges, the exercise strengthens the security of both the United States and Colombia.
“This reflects our shared commitment to interoperability and collective defense,” said Brig. Gen. Jaime Andrés Valencia Monsegny, Air Combat Command No.1 Commander, Colombian Air Force. “We are confident that this exercise will deepen mutual understanding, improve joint operations and continue to build the trust that defines our alliance.”
During RDLA, U.S. and Colombian aircraft will fly together and engage in simulated combat against one another, sharpening readiness in real-world scenarios. Subject matter exchanges will also take place, further strengthening mutual understanding and capability. It also reinforces the United States' strategic commitment to counter malign influence through transparency, collaboration and trust-based relationships.
Relámpago de los Andes 2025 represents another step forward in strengthening hemispheric security, forging resilient partnerships and preparing for the challenges of tomorrow, together.