LAKELAND - From May 10 to May 22, about 3,200 Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), along with United States of America and United Kingdom personnel will take part in Exercise MAPLE RESOLVE 22, in Wainwright.
"The public may see standard military pattern vehicles (SMP), Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) and other participating aircraft such as jets, helicopters, and drones, outside the Garrison Wainwright training area during the exercise," according to a public service announcement from the National Defence.
On May 10, a military convoy will travel through the area to simulate driving into an operational theatre. Soldiers in military uniform and will be driving SMP vehicles from Wainwright to Vermilion, Kitscoty, and Paradise Valley before going back to the Garrison Wainwright training area.
"Participating aircraft may be seen lower than normal in order to simulate realistic operational scenarios. They may fly at slower speeds and circle an area more than once," according to the PSA.
Some of the aircraft are larger than many passenger airplanes and could actually appear to be flying lower than they really area.
"RCAF aircraft will adhere to policies and regulations to ensure public safety. All CAF members will follow the CAF COVID-19 Force Health Protection Measures. This includes wearing non-medical masks, limiting to essential interactions only and respecting physical distancing."
Members of the public are also being reminded that it is dangerous and illegal to operate a drone on or near military installations, airfields, and operations. Unidentified drones in the airspace near military activities or aircraft increase the risk to personnel and equipment.
