ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- All-source intelligence analysts assigned to the 19th Operations Support Squadron at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, and the 317th OSS at Dyess AFB, Texas, provided combined intelligence to U.S. and Allied forces during the U.S. Air Force’s 2025 Department-Level Exercise, at Andersen AFB, July 10–31, 2025.
Timely and accurate information supports effective readiness training across air and space operations. The DLE integrates U.S. and allies with shared intelligence for multinational cooperation — enhancing situational awareness, interoperability and collective deterrence.
“I have a strong interest in global affairs and understanding how different situations impact our operations,” said Airman 1st Class Hannah Abudayeh, 19th OSS all source intelligence analyst. “At our home station, we brief pilots and commanders on relevant information. While the exercise is similar, it involves greater volume, more briefs and increased coordination. Collaborating with foreign partners has been especially rewarding, as we help them interpret mission expectations and responses.”
In preparation for the DLE, the 19th and 317th OSS trained months in advance at Scott AFB, Illinois. Intelligence teams trained on satellite communication systems, coordinated with other cells and sharpened their ability to operate in deployed environments, with an emphasis on briefing skills for joint and combined coordination.
“After we knew the mission, it was all about getting into theater,” said Senior Airman Cameron Robin, 317th OSS all source intelligence analyst.
The 317th Airlift Wing executed Maximum Endurance Operations, enabling rapid arrival into theater and immediate mission execution after landing. This would not have been possible without a well-rested aircrew, a mission-ready aircraft, or pre-positioned intelligence equipment ready for use upon arrival.
After arriving at Andersen AFB, 19th and 317th OSS Airmen converged to form the C-130J Super Hercules aircraft Mission Generation Force Element. Together, they established operations in a provided Conex box — a once-empty trailer converted into a fully functional intelligence cell.
“Our team operates in a Conex right behind the Deployment Operations Center here at Andersen,” said Robin. “The Conex was bare bones; just air conditioning and two chairs. We set up our systems and connections to stand-up self-sufficient operations.”
Once operational, the C-130J MGFE supported intelligence collection for U.S. and Allied personnel with mission-essential information.
“While most of our intelligence is gathered independently, we also coordinate with the Combat Intel Cell at another location to produce a broader operational picture tailored to our pilots,” said Abudayeh. “Our primary points of contact include pilots, tactics teams, aeromedical evacuation personnel and foreign partner aircrews.”
Day-to-day, intel teams conducted up to six mission-specific briefs, customized for different aircraft and operational areas within the Indo-Pacific region. Foreign partners from the Five Eyes (FVEY) alliance, a security and intelligence partnership between Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the U.S., were included in shared intelligence briefs.
“Initially, it was challenging to ensure proper information release protocols were in place,” said Abudayeh. “Coordinating brief schedules, determining recipient requirements, and verifying authorization to brief foreign partners required close collaboration. We addressed this by verifying security clearances, scheduling briefings appropriately and maintaining clear communication lines.”
The DLE validated the capability of forward-deployed intelligence teams to deliver high-quality, real-time information under pressure, enabling both department-level and coalition missions.
“My goal is to provide the 317th OSS with insights into the units we engaged with, the support available in-theater and lessons on adapting to early challenges,” said Robin. “
The 317th AW is intensely focused on operations in the Indo-Pacific; we learn more every day on operating out of the region and the DLE further supports that.”
Furthermore, the DLE reinforced partnerships, enhanced collective deterrence and strengthened operational readiness.
"This exercise significantly improved my skills in regular briefing and effective communication,” said Abudayeh. “Adapting to dynamic conditions, such as evolving mission requirements in the Indo-Pacific, has been one of the most valuable takeaways. Operating independently in a deployed setting and collaborating with foreign partners provided valuable experience. I’ve also gained a deeper appreciation for the cultures and operational methods of our international counterparts. The DLE was a valuable opportunity for us to support the mission and build stronger ties with our partners.”