240 aircraft, including F-35 Lightning II, EA-18 Growler, F-15K Slam Eagle and KF-16 Fighting Falcon - US and South Korea begin large-scale exercises amid DPRK's approaching nuclear test

The United States and the Republic of Korea are conducting the first Vigilant Storm air exercise in five years. The exercise will involve 240 aircraft from the two countries' air forces.

Here's What We Know

The exercise began amid several ballistic missile launches by North Korea. Pyongyang is also preparing for its first nuclear test in several years and seventh overall. The press service of the U.S. Pacific Fleet Air Force said that the Vigilant Storm will last until November 4. During the maneuvers, aircraft will perform more than 1,600 combat sorties.

The United States has sent 100 aircraft to the exercises. Among them there are EA-18 Growler carrier-based electronic warfare aircraft, F-35B Lightning II fifth generation fighter and KC-135 Stratotanker aerial refuelers.

South Korea's F-35A Lightning II, F-15K Slam Eagle and KF-16 Fighting Falcon (F-16 for Korea) fighters are participating in the exercise. In addition, the Royal Australian Air Force has sent a KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport, which is a modified version of the Airbus A330.

Source: Yonhap News