TIGER MEET EXERCISE 2025



This emblematic event, which promotes team spirit among flying squadrons that have chosen the “Tiger” as their symbol, will take place from 21 September to 3 October, bringing together 19 squadrons from 14 allied countries. More than 70 aircraft and around 3,000 military personnel will deploy to Beja for the occasion.

OBJECTIVES

The ambition of the Portuguese Air Force is to develop an operational product of excellence, where flying squadrons can acquire new knowledge, experiences, and skills while training in a safe and multinational environment. We will achieve this by conducting multi-domain air operations in demanding scenarios, where interoperability between different assets and the integration of new capabilities will be maximised.

It is the vision of the Portuguese Air Force to innovate and prepare a new generation of pilots, anticipating future challenges in the international arena. We aim to do this by enhancing the integration of new skills and capabilities with current weapon systems, ensuring an objective and consistent transition to the operation of fifth-generation platforms.

The objectives of NTM 2025 also include strengthening ties and fostering international cooperation among participating countries in the fields of defence and technological development.


 

 

 

WHAT IS TIGER MEET

 

Following the wishes of M. Pierre Messmer, the French Defence Minister at the time, the USAFE (United States Air Forces in Europe) 79th TFS (Tactical Fighter Squadron) took the initiative. On 19 July 1961, they invited No. 74 Squadron Royal Air Force and EC 1/12 Squadron of the French Armée de l’Air to Woodbridge, England.

Thus, the Association of Tiger Squadrons was established to strengthen relationships between individual squadrons within NATO. Each of these squadrons had a tiger’s head in its squadron crest — a symbol of strength, speed, and hunting prowess.

Due to the success of the first “meet,” it was decided that future gatherings would be held annually. At the second Tiger Meet, also in Woodbridge, the following aims were formulated — and remain valid to this day:

  • Improvement of solidarity between NATO members;
  • Creation and maintenance of team spirit and camaraderie between participating members;
  • Exchange of experiences and cooperation in line with NATO’s military objectives.

Since 1962, Tiger Meets have evolved into a first-class military exercise in which participants fly combined missions covering the full spectrum of military operations. Alongside low flying, emphasis is placed on air-to-air refueling, air combat, and the use of weapon ranges. The exchange of experiences between aircrews is not to be underestimated.

For countries unable to participate in large Flag exercises in North America, the Tiger Meet is one of the few multinational exercises available. In view of the changing global security situation, participation has become more important than ever.