U.S. CENTRAL COMMAND AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY -- Members from the 380th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron recently conducted a Rapid Airfield Damage Repair exercise to enhance their ability to restore airfield functionality following an attack or natural disaster.
The training enabled them to get hands-on practice assessing damage, clearing debris and implementing repair methods under the guise of high-stress conditions.
The primary goal of RADR training is to equip Airmen with the expertise needed to quickly repair airfields and resume flight operations. To ensure operational efficiency even with limited resources and manpower, Airmen practiced multiple repair techniques, including concrete capping and crushed stone repairs.
“Squadron leadership designed the training scenario using intelligence on real-world adversary munitions capabilities,” said 2nd Lt. Stephanie Ethier, 380th ECES installation management officer-in-charge. “With minimal preparation time, Airmen swiftly assessed the simulated attack damage and executed a structured repair plan to restore airfield operations.”
Modern warfare includes threats such as missile strikes targeting airfields to disable operations. This exercise not only reinforced U.S. military air superiority but also enhanced interoperability with the host nation's military. As highlighted in the National Military Strategy, integrated deterrence is key to countering adversaries and ensuring operational dominance in contested environments.
The RADR follows a structured, assembly-line approach, beginning with debris removal and upheaval marking to identify pavement deformation. Damaged sections are then cut and broken down, followed by excavation to prepare the foundation. Backfilling stabilizes the surface, and the process is completed with capping, where concrete or crushed stone is applied to restore the runway’s integrity.
“Despite its structured process, RADR is complex and may require execution at night, in adverse weather, and under the threat of recurring attacks,” said Tech. Sgt. Pablo Gavillan Morales, 380th ECES Tiger Team non-commissioned officer in charge. “During the exercise, Airmen had to overcome simulated leadership losses, forcing junior personnel to step up – this tested both technical proficiency and leadership adaptability.”
By the end of the exercise, the team successfully restored the airfield within the designated time frame, demonstrating adaptability and mission readiness. Exercises like these reinforce the Air Force’s ability to project power globally, ensuring air dominance and sustaining military advantage in future conflicts.