SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- The 25th Attack Group is modernizing its training capabilities with a simulation platform that replicates combat scenarios in a virtual airspace called Distributed Mission Operations. The DMO network enables the 25th ATKG and its geographically separated units to operate in the same virtual airspace as fighter aircraft, command and control assets, and any other participating Combat Air Forces assets.
“DMO allows our MQ-9 squadrons to connect remotely to scenarios hosted by the DMO center and train alongside other CAF units,” explained Capt. Eric Peterson, 25th Operations Support Squadron chief of group exercises. “It's similar to a lobby in multiplayer video game: a scenario is created and hosted on a server, Air Force users log in via the DMO network and then units are able to operate in the same virtual airspace with one another in real-time.”
Before the use of DMO, aircrews were restricted to flying simulated missions that could not support other airframes or tactical players. DMO provides a supplemental layer of reality where multiple aircraft and units from around the Air Force can train simultaneously on their platform, which is tailored to simulate real-world combat environments and scenarios.
The 25th Attack Group's transition to full DMO integration was initially delayed due to infrastructure limitations. Recent upgrades and a new headquarter facility have now positioned the group for fully operational DMO training.
The next phase involves system testing and coordination with the DMO network's controlling agency at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico. This testing phase will focus on core functionalities—aircraft visibility, weapons employment, and inter-unit coordination—to ensure functioning system operations.
“The extensive support behind the scenes allows DMO to inject layers of simulated realities within a scenario that add clutter and complexity, enhancing the realism of the training,” said Maj. Daniel Stroup, 482d Attack Squadron MQ-9 evaluator pilot. “This demanding, realistic, and comprehensive training ensures our teams are combat-ready.”
Once verified, personnel will progress to full-scale exercises that simulate complex combat scenarios, such as Virtual Flag. Unlike standard in-house training, which often relies on scripted scenarios, DMO’s network creates complex simulations populated with multiple entities—targets, foliage, vehicles, and civilian traffic—that challenge pilots and sensor operators to adapt and react in real-time. This not only allows the group and GSU’s to integrate into scenarios developed by contractors and Joint Staff planners, but they can also connect their MQ-9 simulators locally for internal training.
“These simulated exercises are a critical step in training as members prepare for theater operations,” Peterson said. “We practice mission planning, tactics integration, and joint operations in a realistic, highly orchestrated environment to achieve specific desired learning objectives - without the cost or logistical burden of a large, live-fly exercise.”
Peterson also highlighted DMO’s joint force capacity, stating exercises routinely involved U.S. Army ground controllers, allied air forces, and other services. This joint integration is essential for interoperability as we prepare and certify units for global combat operations.
The 25th ATKG’s use of DMO aims to produce aircrews capable of executing complex operations in unpredictable environments. The enhanced realism of DMO will continue to provide a scalable, modernized exercise and training backbone for MQ-9 crews, intelligence support, and their joint allies.