Department-Level Exercise (DLE) Series

Through this series, the Department of the Air Force is preparing to be a stronger, more lethal deterrent force, to provide an advantage against competitors and adversaries across all domains, and to ensure regional stability in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

The DLE series will incorporate multiple command exercises into one overall threat deterrence scenario, including Resolute Force Pacific (REFORPAC), Resolute Space, Mobility Guardian, Emerald Warrior and Bamboo Eagle 25-3.

It will also integrate multiple allies and partners in specific component exercises with shared interests. Partner integration is critical to U.S. efforts to ensure regional and global peace and stability and provides a decisive advantage against complex threats.

HMH-465 conduct aerial gunnery qualification flight

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing

Video by Lance Cpl. Isabella Thompson

Feb. 7, 2026 | 5:17

U.S. Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 465, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, perform aerial gunnery qualifications in support of a Deployment for Training at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, Feb. 7, 2026.  The CH-53E Super Stallion aircrew conducted an aerial gunnery qualification to sustain combat readiness and proficiency with the GAU-21 .50-caliber machine gun.  The DFT enables Marines to enhance combat readiness through aviation movement rehearsals, training, and sustainment, ensuring forces remain prepared to deploy and operate in support of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force.  (U.S. Marine Corps video by Lance Cpl. Isabella Thompson) More