The Minnesota National Guard’s Inver Grove Heights-based 34^th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade participated in an Exportable Combat Training Capability exercise, known as xCTC, as part of their annual training in July, at Minnesota’s Camp Ripley. 

The exercise creates the opportunity train and certify squads, platoons, and companies in a tactical environment. It involves a combination of field exercises and simulations that replicate real-world combat scenarios. During these exercises, units such as the brigade take on specific roles to improve their coordination, communication, and operational skills. 

“The XCTC exercise is an intense training program designed to enhance the readiness of National Guard units,” said Army Maj. William Alms, the brigade’s executive officer. “In this training, the aviation brigade acts as an intermediary coordinating asset, acting as a command post, to enhance communication across different staff sections, and develop a comprehensive understanding of the operational environment.” 

The training typically includes various aviation battalions and support battalions, Alms said, but for this exercise only a few participated, highlighting the importance of proper coordination and communication essential.  

Key activities for the brigade during exercise included establishing airspace control, managing air traffic, and providing fire support. These efforts are required for the success of the simulated missions and help prepare the units for real-world deployment scenarios. 

The aviation brigade’s Soldiers trained alongside the Iowa National Guard’s 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division. The brigade can provide attack capabilities, lifting maneuvers, medical evacuations, and more, all supporting their counter parts on the ground. The exercise was the first training event where the Minnesota aviation brigade could work directly with its subordinate battalions especially, the 1^st Battalion of the 151^st Aviation Regiment from South Carolina National Guard. Service members from South Carolina, Iowa, and Oregon participated.in the exercise. 

The 1st Battalion, 151st Aviation Regiment, carried out flight operations of 20 aircraft including, AH-64E Apache Guardian, UH & HH-60M Black Hawk, and CH-47F Chinook helicopters. Minnesota’s 834th Aviation Support Battalion oversaw sustainment operations, providing aviation fueling and logistic support to all units within the brigade. 

“XCTC has allowed Soldiers to train and execute air assault and attack aviation operations,” said Army Maj. Justin Archer, the brigade’s training officer, “That they would not typically see during an annual training period.” 

Story By Capt. Kate Sulzle 

Minnesota National Guard