Exercise Brilliant Ardent 2010 was hosted by Germany and lasted from April 12th till 22nd. The exercise was directed and controlled from Izmir in Turkey. BRILLIANT ARDENT evaluates and certifies the interoperability, readiness and capabilities of NATO air forces and its command. The Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Turkey and the USA participated in Brilliant Ardent 2010. Around 60 aircraft ranging from fighters, attack aircraft, helicopters, tanker and airborne early warning aircraft flew from air bases located in Germany, the Czech Republic, France, Poland, and UK. 

Most interesting base to visit was Fliegerhorst Wittmund in the Northern part of Germany. The Luftwaffe supported the exercise with several of their F-4F Phantoms from Jagdgeschwader 71, but was also host for 4 French Mirage 2000N bombers coming from Luxeuil and Istres and 4 Turkish F-16C/D's out of Diyarbakir.

On April 15, the volcanic ash cloud caused by the eruption of Eyjafjallajökull in Iceland was approaching Northern Germany. During the afternoon most flights over northern Europe were suspended. At Wittmund and most other locations the afternoon mission was cancelled. Although causing quite a disruption for the exercise flying, it was also considered an unplanned but challenging test for the command at Izmir to adapt. The next day the ash cloud grounded the entire exercise fleet. On April 21, European airspace was finally declared open again and the exercise could continue. However with the exercise coming to an end, only few missions were flown. Fear over further disruption of flights led to some of the deployed participants to return or stay home.