WISCONSIN — Be prepared to hear sonic booms for the next 11 days as members from the National Guard, Air Force, Army, and Navy simulate combat experiences for training purposes at Volk Field Air National Guard Base in Camp Douglas.
Around 50 aircraft and 1,000 people will take part in the Northern Lightning Counterland exercises. It's training that is designed to mimic "today's air battle space with current and future weapons platforms," it said on the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs website.
Those living in the following counties can expect to see increased military flight operations: Adams, Brown, Calumet, Clark, Columbia, Dane, Dodge, Fond du Lac, Green Lake, Jackson, Marathon, Marquette, Monroe, Outagamie, Portage, Sauk, Sheboygan, Trempealeau, Waupaca, Winnebago, and Wood.
That includes hearing sonic booms as planes fly overhead.
“We are excited to continue conducting our annual Northern Lightning exercise at Volk Field,” said Col. Bart Van Roo, the exercise director. “This exercise will focus on offensive counter-air with simulated surface-to-air attacks, and the integration of multiple air platforms. Training in this manner is essential for readiness and enhancing partnerships.”
“This exercise will include potential supersonic travel, within FAA and military guidelines, so people in the military operating area, a 55 by 200 mile space, may hear sonic booms between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm during weekdays,” Van Roo said. “We appreciate everyone’s patience as it is a necessary part of preparation for actual combat.”
The training exercises go from Aug. 10 to 21.
