Natal, Brazil – November 3, 2024 – Today marks the official start of CRUZEX 2024, the much-anticipated multinational air warfare exercise hosted by the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) at Natal Air Base in Rio Grande do Norte. Running from November 3 to 15, CRUZEX brings together 16 nations, making it the most extensive air combat exercise in Latin America. This year’s event presents new challenges as cyber and space operations join traditional drills, reflecting the evolving landscape of modern warfare.
Brazil, as the host nation, is showcasing an impressive fleet that includes the F-39E Gripen, F-5EM/FM Tiger II, A-1M AMX, A-29B Super Tucano, E-99 and the KC-390 Millennium. Other active participants include Argentina with the IA-63 Pampa III, Chile’s F-16 Fighting Falcons, and the United States with F-15 Strike Eagles, alongside notable contributions from Portugal, which has introduced the KC-390 Millennium, and additional support aircraft from Paraguay and Peru. Nations such as South Africa, Germany, and Sweden are participating as observers, fostering an exchange of techniques and strategic insights across a diverse array of combat scenarios.
Throughout the exercise, air forces will engage in air-to-ground strikes, air superiority operations, escort missions, aerial refueling, intelligence gathering, and more. New simulations in cyber and space domains are also underway, testing critical infrastructure resilience and allowing teams to experience the latest challenges in aerospace security.
Latinaero will be on-site throughout CRUZEX 2024, covering the exercise extensively with daily articles, high-quality photography, and exclusive video footage. As the largest and most advanced air combat training exercise in Latin America, CRUZEX 2024 promises to be an unparalleled platform for observing international collaboration, strategy, and the cutting-edge capabilities of modern air forces. Stay tuned on Latinaero for regular updates, in-depth insights, and a front-row seat to this extraordinary event.
