EventOn Aug. 6, 2026, U.S. Air Force F‑16s and F‑35s flew in formation over Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, conducting aerial refueling as part of Operation TUNDRA MERLIN to demonstrate integrated air‑land defense capabilities in the Arctic.
U.S. Air Force F‑16 participates in Operation TUNDRA MERLIN at Eielson AFB on Aug 6 2026 as part of an integrated air‑land capability demonstration for Arctic homeland defense.
The United States Air Force conducted Operation TUNDRA, flying F‑16 Fighting Falcons and F‑35 Lightning IIs in formation while performing aerial refueling, showcasing integrated air‑land capabilities aimed at strengthening Arctic homeland defense readiness.
Operation TUNDRA MERLIN showed joint U.S. and multinational air and land forces working together across Alaska’s Arctic theater to boost homeland defense readiness.