Why You May Hear Explosions Near Bradley This Week

EAST GRANBY, CT — Residents near Bradley Air National Guard Base may notice more emergency vehicles, increased security at entry gates, loud announcements and explosion-like sounds beginning Thursday.

The 103d Airlift Wing said it will conduct a series of scheduled readiness training events from July 30 through Aug. 2. The activity is a training exercise and not a real-world emergency, according to the wing’s public notice.

The schedule includes a Major Accident Response Exercise on Thursday, July 30, followed by a Combat Readiness Exercise from Friday, July 31, through Sunday, Aug. 2.

During the exercises, the wing said neighbors may hear its “Giant Voice” public-address system and simulated ground bursts designed to create loud, explosion-like sounds. Additional emergency vehicles and security activity may also be visible around the base.

No live weapons fire or pyrotechnics will be used, the wing said. All of the events will take place in controlled, simulated training environments.

The 103d Airlift Wing, also known as the Flying Yankees, is based at Bradley Air National Guard Base in East Granby. The unit operates C-130H aircraft and provides tactical airpower and mission support for Connecticut and the nation, according to the Connecticut National Guard.

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