The grounds of the U.S. Air Force Academy transformed into a battlefield, not with live ordnance, but with the intense realism of “CULEX”—a 24-hour culminating exercise designed to forge future leaders. Nearly 4,000 cadets found themselves immersed in a simulated combat scenario, a crucible built to test their skills and resilience.
This year’s exercise reimagined the Academy’s 18,500 acres, nestled against the majestic Rocky Mountains, as Hokkaido, a Japanese island under siege. The scenario called upon cadets to respond to a request for defensive support, thrusting them into a complex war game with high stakes and demanding decisions.
The exercise unfolded across four designated “Joint Operating Areas,” each housing around 800 cadets tasked with defending critical airfields, high-value assets, and even a simulated downed airman. The pressure was immediate and unrelenting, mirroring the chaotic realities of modern warfare.
Adding another layer of complexity, a dedicated squadron of cadets was assigned the role of “Red Force”—the enemy. Their mission: to harass and challenge their fellow students, forcing them to adapt, prioritize, and make critical choices under duress. The Red Force embraced their role with enthusiasm, injecting a potent dose of unpredictability into the exercise.
The landscape itself became a character in the unfolding drama. Austere, expeditionary environments sprang up, complete with tactical operations centers, medical tents, and sleeping quarters. Cadets worked and rested in these temporary camps, maintaining a constant state of readiness throughout the 24-hour period.
Above, the skies buzzed with activity as cadets piloted aircraft and deployed parachutes. Below, hundreds more engaged in ground defense, utilizing airsoft weaponry and relying on constant radio communication as they responded to simulated attacks. The air crackled with urgency and the weight of responsibility.
Mission control centers hummed with activity, utilizing drones and advanced mapping technology to analyze the battlefield and provide real-time support to cadets in the field. This integration of cutting-edge technology underscored the importance of adaptability in modern combat.
CULEX isn’t about pass or fail; it’s about building confidence, fostering teamwork, and honing leadership skills. The goal is to prepare cadets for the unpredictable challenges they will face as officers in the Air Force and Space Force, equipping them with the experience to thrive in high-pressure situations.
For the graduating seniors, CULEX represents a final, invaluable preparation before entering the ranks. In just 44 days, they will be entrusted with leading and making critical decisions, and this exercise aims to ensure they are ready to face those challenges with courage and competence.
The exercise provides a unique opportunity to experience the complexities of warfare firsthand, solidifying the training necessary to navigate the future battles that await them. It’s a testament to the Academy’s commitment to developing not just skilled technicians, but adaptable, resilient, and decisive leaders.
