Operation Christmas Drop 24
December 25, 2024
This year Allied aircrews from five nations executed the multinational mission, culminating in Operation Christmas Drop 2024 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, on 14 December. The participants were drawn from the US Air Force, the Royal Canadian Air Force, the Japan Air Self Defense Force, the Republic of Korea Air Force, and the Royal Australian Air Force.
In a display of aerial precision and international cooperation, each allied nation flew in formation across the Pacific while conducting a series of co-ordinated airdrops – a so-called interfly mission.
Capt. Sam Vincent, of the 36th Airlift Squadron at Yokota Air Base, Japan, the OCD 24 assistant director of operations, said the co-ordinated flight highlighted the operational readiness and mutual trust that had been built through years of joint training and mission execution. He said that: “The Indo-Pacific theatre is vast, and we rely on our partners to operate here effectively. This mission offered a low-threat environment where we could work closely with our allies, learn from each other and build interoperability through real-world missions.”
Vincent added that, while language differences between aircrews needed navigation, they were able plan, operate and learn together using a common skillset.
“We share a common language of aviation, even with some language barriers. During planning meetings, we learned how different nations approach tactical challenges and how we could apply those lessons to improve how we operate. On the other hand, it demonstrates that we can co-ordinate large-scale, multinational airlift operations safely and effectively. It’s a thing not many can do.”
Major Jon Balfe of No.436 Squadron, normally part of No.8 Wing at Trenton, Ontario, was the commander of the Canadian OCD 24 Detachment. He noted that the interfly mission was made possible by the established relationships between each nation and that flying together during OCD enabled greater mutual understanding, and provided critical operational experience to prepare aircrews for real-world contingencies.
“Building relationships is critical, especially considering the strategic focus on this part of the world. You can’t wait until a crisis happens to figure out how to work together. Flying, planning and learning from each other now ensures we’re ready when it matters.”
“Interfly missions allow us to plan together, spot differences in procedures and adjust accordingly. Many of our procedures are similar, but it’s often in the small details where missions succeed or fail. Discussing those details, troubleshooting together and being in the same room to work through differences are invaluable.”
