LEAP translates strategy into action during first-in-a-generation DLE exercise series

Republic of Korea Air Force members pose with U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Esther Kim, Space Systems Command director of contracting and Language Enabled Airman Program participant, Los Angeles Air Force Base, California, during the U.S. Air Force’s 2025 Department-Level Exercise series at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, July 28, 2025. LEAP empowers the DLE by enhancing linguistic and cultural interoperability, enabling more effective collaboration and mission success with partners and allies. DLE 2025 is a new way of conducting operations in a contested, dynamic environment to build capabilities, making a stronger, more deterrent force. The DLE encompasses all branches of the Department of Defense, along with Allies and partners, employing more than 400 Joint and coalition aircraft and more than 12,000 members at more than 50 locations across 3,000 miles. (Courtesy photo by ROKAF)