In contrast to the local Nörvenich air base, we had to operate our EUROFIGHTER in the open air at the Mihail Kogalniceanu Air base ("MKAB" - LRCK). In combination with the initially extremely cold weather, this presented a number of challenges: A heavy snowstorm on November 26th. Aircraft, airfield and equipment were transformed into a single melange of ice, and freezing fog made work even more difficult for all soldiers. Nevertheless, everyone involved gave full throttle to get the machines back to standby status in the shortest possible time. It soon took off, despite the elements.
"The visibility is only a few hundred meters, thick clouds can be seen directly above our heads. Shortly before I climb the icy cockpit ladder, I join the maintenance crew of my aircraft. Time is of the essence, but this gesture is a must. Without good teamwork and blind trust, we will achieve nothing under these conditions! While the APU (Auxillary Power Unit) slowly brings the jet to life, the canopy closes. The jet is completely cooled down, the metal cockpit feels like an icebox. Every breath condenses immediately and after a few seconds the hood is completely fogged up. The handles still have to be in place. Regardless of the icy conditions, the two EJ200 engines report for duty immediately, the Environmental Control System drives away the cold within seconds and even before the maintenance crew can use the two IRIS-Ts and AMRAAM has sharpened guided missiles, all fluids are at operating temperature. We have a mission to fulfill and we will do so even under difficult conditions. "It's been less than 15 minutes since the siren sounded when my plane plunges into the thick fog with full afterburner power."
"Frost"
Gerald Groß