354th FS hones CAS skills, capabilities at Green Flag East

by Staff Sgt. Jake Richmond
355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs



An A-10C from the 354th Fighter Squadron fires 30mm rounds from its GAU-8 cannon during moving-target strafe training at Green Flag East, a close-air support exercise in Louisiana. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jake Richmond) Hi-res

2/27/2009 - DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- Members of the 354th Fighter Squadron returned today from their two-week participation in Green Flag East, a permanent-party exercise contingent at Barksdale AFB, La. The ongoing exercise is specifically designed to train flying units that perform air-to-ground combat.

The 354th FS attended GFE in preparation for their upcoming Air Expeditionary Force window.

"The training at Green Flag East relates directly to the missions CAS aircraft perform in Iraq and Afghanistan today," said Lt. Col. Michael Millen, 354th FS commander. "Green Flag is considered a must-do before an AEF spin-up, and it's been excellent training for the Bulldogs."

The purpose of the exercise is to train pilots together with Joint Terminal Attack Controllers and Army ground forces at the Joint Readiness Training Center at Fort Polk, La. And, thanks to unique agreements with three local governments and the existence of a one-of-a-kind simulated village, units can conduct that training in four separate urban environments.

Maj. Brendan O'Brien, the director of operations for Barksdale's 548th Combat Training Squadron, said pilots and ground troops use real people and vehicles in the cities of Oakdale, Leesville and Deridder, La., to mimic the process of accurately locating and tracking enemy and friendly forces - in an area with active roads and occupied buildings - all the way up to the moment when the target would be engaged with weapons.

The fourth location, aptly named "CAS Town," is located on military-owned land within restricted air space. There, contracted employees act like good guys and bad guys, and JTACs are tasked with identifying them correctly. Then, pilots have to avoid the simulated friendlies and other collateral damage, while the "enemies" are visibly firing simulated weapons at the aircraft. The village is also complete with strategically placed pyrotechnics, which ignite as soon as the imaginary munitions hit their target.

Even though no bombs are dropped and no bullets are fired, Colonel Millen said it still provides an immensely important and distinctive training arena for a difficult part of the CAS mission.

"Our focus here is almost entirely on urban CAS, and it's not easy," he said. "Cities are busy places, and trying to find and track the bad guys among thousands of non-combatants is difficult."

And it's not just the environment that presents the challenge. The GFE exercise planners, like Major O'Brien, constantly work to develop demanding training scenarios that reflect what warfighters are seeing downrange.

"Every time a unit comes in (to Green Flag), we pick the brains of the guys who recently came back from a deployment," Major O'Brien said. "Those guys have seen it up close and personal, and they help keep our training fresh and relevant."

Another part of the deployment training is getting pilots, JTACs and ground forces working comfortably in unison with new digital equipment being used in real combat zones - specifically, the new Tactical Air Control Party, Close Air Support System.

"This was the first time we've had a full unit of A-10Cs with digital capability working with JTACs and ground forces using TACP CASS," Colonel Millen said. "It's really perfect training to help our pilots get familiar with the kinds of combat situations they'll see on their deployments and help develop the tactics they'll be using."

Without TACP CASS, a pilot responding to a troops-in-contact, or TIC, would have to wait until he was in radio range of a JTAC to get much of the information necessary to conduct CAS. Using TACP CASS, JTACs can now digitally send crucial details to the cockpit before the pilot arrives at the engagement.

"A pilot can be en route to a TIC and have very good situational awareness on friendly and enemy positions and ground commanders' intent," said Capt. Andy Pitts, a former F-16 pilot who's now the operations officer in charge for GFE. "Before, pilots didn't really know the situation until they arrived."

Staff Sgt. Tyler Woodson, a JTAC assigned to the Georgia Air National Guard's 165th Air Support Operations Squadron, was also participating in GFE. He said "it's nice to give pilots a good picture of what's going on without having to say much -- and that has noticeable benefits in the fight."

"The technology really makes it easier," Sergeant Woodson said. "From the time the aircraft checks in with us to the time munitions hit the ground is a lot faster than before."

He said he and his fellow JTACs were making the most of their time to learn new and better ways to work with the air component of the CAS process, especially since they all have the same goal.

"There's nothing like the opportunity to go out and give guys on the ground the help they need," he added. "To know in your heart and mind that good guys are going home because you did your job right...that's why we do this."

Source



An A-10C from the 354th Fighter Squadron fires 30mm rounds from its GAU-8 cannon during moving-target strafe training at Green Flag East. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jake Richmond) Hi-res



An A-10C from the 354th Fighter Squadron approaches a target and prepares to fire 30mm rounds from its GAU-8 cannon during training at Green Flag East. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jake Richmond) Hi-res



Two Joint Terminal Attack Controllers coordinate a close-air support attack as an A-10C from the 354th Fighter Squadron, dropping flares, approaches to perform moving-target strafe training during Green Flag East, an exercise in Louisiana for flying units that perform air-to-ground combat. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jake Richmond) Hi-res



Rounds from an A-10's 30mm GAU-8 cannon impact the ground during moving-target strafe training, a part of the Air Force's Green Flag East exercise in Louisiana. Davis-Monthan's 354th Fighter Squadron participated in GFE for two weeks to enhance their close-air support tactics and capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jake Richmond) Hi-res

442nd MXG earns Maintenance Effectiveness Award

by Maj. David Kurle
442nd Fighter Wing

2/27/2009 - WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- The 442nd Maintenance Group can add another award to the hallway leading to the wing's 5-Bay Hangar - the Air Force Reserve Command Maintenance Effectiveness Award as the best medium-sized aircraft maintenance unit in the command for Fiscal Year 2008.

"It's kind of nice to be known as the best," said Lt. Col. Michael Wood, the group's commander since Dec. 6, 2008. "This unit has always been known as one of the best A-10 maintenance units in the entire Air Force."

Among the group's accomplishments in 2008 was a 45-day deployment of A-10s and maintenance specialists to Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan, to produce combat sorties in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

"What I think put us over the top for the award, was the deployment (to Afghanistan)," Colonel Wood said. "I always say, 'quality maintenance equals combat effectiveness.'"

While deployed, Citizen Airmen in the 442nd MXG produced more than 600 A-10 combat sorties, which put more than 2,500 hours on the wing's aircraft. The amount of sorties represented a 17-percent increase over previous A-10 units at Bagram.

A deployment halfway around the world wasn't the only accomplishment of the 442nd MXG - at its home base the men and women in the unit provided combat capability every day to the tune of almost 3,500 sorties.

During training missions from Whiteman Air Force Base, the wing's pilots dropped more than 240 bombs and fired more than 94,000 rounds of 30-millimeter ammunition - all of which had to be stored, maintained, prepared for flight and loaded on aircraft by 442nd MXG maintainers.

In November 2007, the group finished installing smart-multi-function color displays in all 27 of the wing's A-10s, representing a major electronics and combat-capability upgrade for the wing's pilots. From February through May, 442nd maintainers completed another electronics upgrade to the wing's aircraft to enable pilots to talk "beyond-line-of-sight" using satellites for communication.

After its Bagram deployment, the 442nd MXG began work on three time-compliance technical orders to identify and repair wing cracks in certain A-10s.

And, in October, the group provided the majority of the maintenance effort for 14 A-10 teams competing in Hawgsmoke 2008 in Salina, Kan.

"We accomplished everything that was asked of us and still maintained the highest standards of quality in all of our maintenance shops," said Chief Master Sgt. Steve Brazeal, 442nd Maintenance Squadron superintendent. "We do as much as any maintenance group in the Air Force and our planes still look the best of any in the A-10 community as far as appearance."

"The Airmen in the 442nd MXG should be proud of the fact that they have been recognized as the best of the best out of all the maintenance organizations in Air Force Reserve Command," Colonel Wood said. "This is all due to their tremendous efforts."

Far from resting on the group's laurels, Colonel Wood is focused on 2009 and the challenges in store for the 442nd MXG.

"Our main focus this year is nothing but our upcoming operational readiness inspection," he said. "My focus other than the ORI is making sure everyone is getting back to the basics - maintenance-101.''

Source

47th Fighter Squadron pilots train with JTAC

by Tech. Sgt. Jeff Walston
917th Wing

2/27/2009 - BARKSDALE AFB, LA. -- Imagine being pinned down in a narrow passageway of an Afghan mountain range while Taliban fighters perched high above in the rocky ledges pour murderous fire down on the Army convoy you're riding in. An Airman clad in an Army uniform, with only his rank insignia distinguishing him from the Soldiers he serves so closely with, crawls forward through a hail of bullets to get his bearings as he prepares to call in close air support. Minutes later, during the height of battle, two A-10 Thunderbolts bank the mountain peaks delivering their payload in a thunderous roar only to silence enemy guns.

These are not crafted words from a screen writer for his latest action movie. These types of events are now common place in both Afghanistan and Iraq. Airmen who keep these situations from going south for American and Coalition Forces are Joint Terminal Attack Controllers. JTACs are considered throughout the U.S. military as experts in air-to-ground operations.

Members of the 47th Fighter Squadron from Barksdale Air Force Base will participate in Patriot Dixie at Fort Stewart, Ga., near Savannah, next month to assist JTACs maintain their expertise in the field.

From beginning to end the training for these special operations Airmen is intense. They are embedded with Army units and live as their Army counterparts do.

"Our pilots will use this opportunity as a continuation training in CAS verses our normal schoolhouse student upgrade training," said Lt. Col. John H. Lipps, 47th FS, assistant director of operations. "For this operation on training munitions will be used. No live fire, but it is essential for our instructor pilots to get off station for training in a different environment."

The 47th FS is sending six jets with maintainers to Fort Stewart for 13 days to make a difference for the boots on the ground in a war on the other side of the world. They will be working closely with the 6th Combat Training Squadron from Fort Sill, Okla., and the 15th Air Support Operations Squadron from Fort Stewart.

"This combined training with a dedicated premier air-to-ground platform such as the A-10 enhances our training effectiveness," said Maj. Francis Scolaro, 15th ASOS, director of operations. "Training with CAS experts (A-10) greatly enhances the JTACs tactics, techniques and procedures when engaging the enemy in support of the ground commander's scheme of maneuver."

"(The 47th FS) will support JTACs training on two separate ranges while in Georgia," said Colonel Lipps. "We'll be using both the BDU 33 training ordinance to simulate actual bombs and TP (training) rockets to get the job done for us and the JTACs. I'm sure there will be good times for all."

The 47th FS is a training unit, and as such, is not tasked to deploy in combat. This is all scheduled to change in 2010 when the unit will become combat coded. Four highly experienced and technically proficient A-10 instructor pilots volunteered last year to go to the combat theater to fly the A-10. One commented on the ability to use their training to support the ground forces and be there for them when they call; the JTAC training is what this is all about.



Members of the 47th Fighter Squadron and Air Force Joint Terminal Attack Controllers watch as A-10s drop bombs on the Yakima Range in support of Operation Patriot Knife on August 9th, 2009. The 47th Fighter Squadron deployed to McChord AFB, Washington, where they dropped live munitions on the Yakima Range for training of the A-10 personnel. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Master Sgt. Jessica D'Aurizio) Hi-res



Capt. Warren Crabtree, 917th Maintenance Operations Squadron commander, and Staff Sgt. Ken Hill, 116 ASOS Tactical Air Controller work co ordinance for the 47th Fighter Squadron A-10 during live fire training on the Yakima Range in Washington State. The 47th FS trains regularly with the JTACs and Army personnel to support their training scenarios. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Master Sgt. Jessica D'Aurizio) Hi-res



116 ASOS Tactical Air Controllers and 917th Wing personnel, observe the 47th Fighter Squadron A-10 during live fire training on the Yakima Range in Washington State. The 47th FS trains regularly with the JTACs and Army personnel to support their training scenarios. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Master Sgt. Jessica D'Aurizio) Hi-res

Ceremony celebrates opening of new two-bay fuel cell hangar

Col. Kenneth Todorov, 23rd Wing commander, Airman Bradley Nickel, 23rd Component Maintenance Squadron, fuels systems apprentice, Col. Darrell Mosley, 23rd Maintenance Group commander and Airman 1st Class John Music, 23rd Component Maintenance Squadron, fuels systems apprentice officially open the new A-10C Thunderbolt II two-bay fuel cell maintenance hangar during a ceremony at Moody AFB, Georgia, on February 19th, 2009. The fuel cell hangar will support the maintenance of the A-10Cs that perform close air support missions. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Joshua Green) Hi-res

Source

F-16's to be phased out [122nd FW will get A-10s]

Fighter jets will be replaced by A-10 Thunderbolts

Updated February 28, 2009, December 28, 2009

WANE-TV

Updated: Saturday, 28 Feb 2009, 11:28 AM EST
Published : Friday, 27 Feb 2009, 9:28 AM EST

Janice Allen

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - F-16 fighter jets stationed at the 122nd Fighter Wing at the Indiana Air Guard base in Fort Wayne will be phased out and replaced with A-10 Thunderbolts.

Congressman Mark Souder made the announcement Friday morning. The phase out will take place over the course of several years.

Souder says the move is needed to keep up with the times.

"If we hadn't been able to get the A-10's transferred here we might have lost the 122nd Fighter Wing, we might have lost all our planes here."

One of the big reasons for the change is that F-16's are getting older, and there's less money to keep them going in the future. Base officials say the service life of the jets is ending earlier than expected.

"We were offered the opportunity first before other bases would have been, and it didn't take a rocket scientist to figure out this was a good deal," says Colonel Jeff Soldner, 122nd Fighter Wing Base Commander. "We're very flexible here at the base, our skills will easily translate into this next aircraft that we're flying, so I don't see any problems there."

The 122nd has flown F-16 fighters out of Fort Wayne to missions overseas in support of military operations in Afghanistan, Iraq and other locations around the world.

The A-10 Thunderbolt is also known as the "Warthog" or "Hog" and is used to provide close air support for troops on the ground. It is frequently used to combat tanks.

The A-10's are bigger and slower than the F-16's but they're just as capable.

"The A-10 is designed as a close air support aircraft, low flying, slower flying airplane," explains Lt. Col Michael Stohler, 163rd Fighter Squadron Commander. "The transition for the base and the pilots is actually going to be an exciting one. This gets us closer to the guys on the ground, supporting the coalition fight that's going on, where before we were a little further away."

Converting will take little changes as far as the facility goes out at the base, but it does mean the pilots have to be re-trained to fly the A-10's.

That training takes months, and the entire conversion will last several years.

Soldner tells NewsChannel 15 the training could begin as early as fall of this year. But, it's not clear how soon the A-10's will arrive, or when the F-16's will leave.


Below is the press released issued by the 122nd Fighter Wing:

Fort Wayne IAP, IN - A proposal in the recently approved fiscal year 2010 Program Objectives Memorandum means new airframes for the 122nd Fighter Wing in the next couple of years.

Due to the projected life-span of the F-16, as well as budget restraints, the A-10 Warthog is scheduled to replace the Wing's current Fighting Falcons.

"I am very pleased that the Fort Wayne Air Guard base is actively seeking this change to the A-10 for their flying mission," said U.S. Rep. Mark Souder. "The A-10 will play a unique role in the defense and safety duties that our brave Guardsmen perform. This change will be positive for those who are currently employed at our base and will advance the 122nd Fighter Wing as a leader in the future. This is good news for Fort Wayne and our base."

"The reason for the change," said Lt. Col. Michael D. Stohler, 163rd Fighter Squadron commander, "is that the F-16s are ending their service life earlier than anticipated, and there is not enough money to sustain them into the future."

The A-10 Warthog, on the other hand, has a much longer life span. "The benefit of the 122nd Fighter Wing receiving the A-10 is that it will fly well into the 2020 timeframe," said Col. James C. Luithly, 122nd Fighter Wing vice commander. "It covers the gap from when the F-16 is retired and when the F-35 becomes available to the Air National Guard."

If there is a gap there is potential that the Air Force may not have a mission for the 122nd Fighter Wing, said Stohler. "If there is no mission there would be a loss of jobs," said Stohler, "and in the worst case scenario, the 122nd Fighter Wing could close. The A-10s will keep us in a flying, fighting mission, well into when F-35s will be delivered to the Air National Guard and the Air Force."

Stohler also said that the A-10 aircraft is a highly capable aircraft that is highly sought after, which is why the Air Force is keeping it longer. It has been determined by the Department of Defense that the A-10 will be needed because there is no other air frame that can do that mission. There are more F-16s than A-10s, so it is more cost effective to maintain the A-10 fleet.

"Fort Wayne was chosen because we have a lot of air to ground ranges close by," said Stohler. "We also have one of the largest spin-up training centers close by at camp Atterbury. They know we are an outstanding unit and they want us to maintain a flying, fighting unit so that we can bridge that gap down the road."

"We are excited about this change," said Luithly, "because we know this mission will carry us through to the F-35. It will maintain our jobs."

Associated video:



Source

Note: Strangely enough, on 122nd Fighter Wing's public website the quoted press release was published not before June 11, 2009:

Budget Proposal Means New Airframes for the 122nd Fighter Wing

Release Number: 020209

6/11/2009 - Fort Wayne IAP, IN -- A proposal in the recently approved fiscal year 2010 Program Objectives Memorandum means new airframes for the 122nd Fighter Wing in the next couple of years.

Due to the projected life-span of the F-16, as well as budget restraints, the A-10 Warthog is scheduled to replace the Wing's current Fighting Falcons.

"I am very pleased that the Fort Wayne Air Guard base is actively seeking this change to the A-10 for their flying mission," said U.S. Rep. Mark Souder. "The A-10 will play a unique role in the defense and safety duties that our brave Guardsmen perform. This change will be positive for those who are currently employed at our base and will advance the 122nd Fighter Wing as a leader in the future. This is good news for Fort Wayne and our base."

"The reason for the change," said Lt. Col. Michael D. Stohler, 163rd Fighter Squadron commander, "is that the F-16s are ending their service life earlier than anticipated, and there is not enough money to sustain them into the future."

The A-10 Warthog, on the other hand, has a much longer life span. "The benefit of the 122nd Fighter Wing receiving the A-10 is that it will fly well into the 2020 timeframe," said Col. James C. Luithly, 122nd Fighter Wing vice commander. "It covers the gap from when the F-16 is retired and when the F-35 becomes available to the Air National Guard"

If there is a gap there is potential that the Air Force may not have a mission for the 122nd Fighter Wing, said Stohler. "If there is no mission there would be a loss of jobs," said Stohler, "and in the worst case scenario, the 122nd Fighter Wing could close. The A-10s will keep us in a flying, fighting mission, well into when F-35s will be delivered to the Air National Guard and the Air Force."

Stohler also said that the A-10 aircraft is a highly capable aircraft that is highly sought after, which is why the Air Force is keeping it longer. It has been determined by the Department of Defense that the A-10 will be needed because there is no other air frame that can do that mission. There are more F-16s than A-10s, so it is more cost effective to maintain the A-10 fleet.

"Fort Wayne was chosen because we have a lot of air to ground ranges close by," said Stohler. "We also have one of the largest spin-up training centers close by at camp Atterbury. They know we are an outstanding unit and they want us to maintain a flying, fighting unit so that we can bridge that gap down the road."

"We are excited about this change," said Luithly, "because we know this mission will carry us through to the F-35. It will maintain our jobs."

Source


See also:

New Guard Jet To Call Fort Wayne Home

By Peter Neumann
Story Published: Feb 27, 2009 at 1:29 PM EST
Story Updated: Mar 5, 2009 at 7:36 AM EST

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (Indiana's NewsCenter) --- The venerable A-10 "Warthog" combat air ground support jet is joining the fleet of the Fort Wayne-based 122nd Fighter Wing.

The announcement was made this morning by U.S. Rep. Mark Souder at a ramp ceremony at the unit's facility at Fort Wayne International Airport.

The A-10 will take the place of the aging F-16 jet fighter, and will, according to Souder, help ensure the future of the base.

"I am very pleased that the Fort Wayne Air Guard base is actively seeking this change to the A-10 for their flying mission," said U.S. Rep. Mark Souder. "The A-10 will play a unique role in the defense and safety duties that our brave Guardsmen perform. This change will be positive for those who are currently employed at our base and will advance the 122nd Fighter Wing as a leader in the future. This is good news for Fort Wayne and our base."

"The reason for the change," said Lt. Col. Michael D. Stohler, 163rd Fighter Squadron commander, "is that the F-16s are ending their service life earlier than anticipated, and there is not enough money to sustain them into the future."

Source

Watch the video

Associated still picture, captured from the 122nd Fighter Wing demo clip:

Fort Wayne Air Guard unit changing jets

February 27, 2009 by indystar | Staff

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Indiana Air National Guard's 122nd Fighter Wing in Fort Wayne is going to change the type of jets it flies from the F-16 Fighting Falcons to the A-10 Warthogs.

U.S. Rep. Mark Souder announced Friday that the military is making the change because the projected life-span of the A-10 is longer than the F-16, and also because of budget constraints.

Wing vice commander Col. James C. Luithly said the A-10 will span the gap from when the F-16 is retired and when the under-development F-35 Joint Strike Fighter becomes available to the Air National Guard.

Source

Note: Associated to the 122nd Fighter Wing (Indiana Air National Guard) at Fort Wayne IAP is the 163rd Fighter Squadron 'Blacksnakes' which operates F-16C/D Block 30 small mouth.

Related link:
122nd Fighter Wing's public website

A-10 unit reaches 10,000 hour milestone

by Staff Sgt. Jason Lake
455th Air Expeditionary Wing



Col. Raymond "Donk" Strasburger, 455th Expeditionary Operations Group commander, and Lt. Col. Sam "Spam" Milam, 75th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron commander, completed a mission on February 24th, 2009, that brought the 75th EFS's total combat flight hours during one deployment rotation over the 10,000 mark. This was the first time a squadron deployed here reached 10,000 combat hours. The 75th EFS arrived here from Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, in September for a four-month deployment, but was extended to six months. The A-10C in the background, flown by Col. Strasburger, must be 80-0228 from the 74th Fighter Squadron (according to the numbers on the ejection seat and on the canopy rail). (U.S. Air Force photo) Hi-res

2/27/2009 - BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan -- The 75th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron reached a historic milestone Feb. 24 when the unit surpassed 10,000 combat flight hours in the A-10 Thunderbolt II for a single deployment rotation at Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan.

Col. Raymond "Donk" Strasburger, 455th Expeditionary Operations Group commander, and Lt. Col. Sam "Spam" Milam, 75th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron commander, were the two pilots credited for reaching the milestone after completing a five-hour close air support mission in southern Afghanistan.

As the mission flight leader, Colonel Milam landed his A-10C Thunderbolt II first, and was welcomed out of his jet with a fire hose drenching by Army Lt. Col. George Chizmar, the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing's ground liaison detachment commander.

"The 75th EFS has made [our organization] feel like part of their organization and they've become our family while deployed," explained Colonel Chizmar, a Pennsylvania National Guardsman who relays critical information from ground forces to the pilots during each mission. "I was honored to participate in this milestone event."

Colonel Strasburger received a much drier welcome from Colonel Milam who congratulated his wingman and old friend with a hand shake and a smile.

"We've had the opportunity to fight together in combat before," explained Colonel Strasburger, a Washington, D.C.-native. "He's [like my] brother and this was the first opportunity I've had to fly with 'Spam' during this rotation."

The two veteran pilots, who have worked together numerous times since Colonel Milam was a young lieutenant, said the milestone was a direct reflection of the hard work and dedication of the Airmen at Bagram.

"Nothing happens without the dedication, self-sacrifice, and teamwork that ensures our aviators are at the right place at the right time with the right ordnance, and in a position to provide close air support to our embattled Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines," explained Colonel Strasburger, who has deployed to Bagram three times - including one tour in Colonel Milam's current position. "From ammo and our weapons loaders to fuels technicians, maintainers and life-support; there are hundreds of Airmen making a difference for our men and women on the ground."

The 75th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron is deployed here from the 75th Fighter Squadron at Moody Air Force Base, Ga. The 75th FS has two sister squadrons, the 74th FS, which is scheduled to replace the 75th EFS here soon, and an Air Force Reserve squadron, the 76th FS. Both units are stationed at Moody AFB.

Together the three comprise the 23rd Fighter Group, famous for inheriting the name of the original "Flying Tigers," a group of American volunteer pilots who flew combat missions in Indo-China during the early days of World War II.

The group also made history as the first group to deploy fighter aircraft to Afghanistan in March 2002 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

"A-10s were the first tactical fighters to operate here because it was the only aircraft capable of operating with the conditions of the runway and taxiways," explained Colonel Milam.

Colonel Chizmar said the A-10 Thunderbolt II and the other Air Force assets added to the inventory here over the last seven years have provided vital support for American and coalition troops.

"Close air support is absolutely critical in the execution of ground operations throughout Afghanistan and is directly responsible for saving lives every day," he said. "Close air support is an enormous force multiplier in today's joint and coalition operational environment. It also offers the ground force commander a wide spectrum of response options in a precise and timely matter."

As time winds down on the 75th EFS's deployment, Colonel Milam reflected on some of the unique challenges his unit has faced including a two-month deployment extension and a surge in the number of daily sorties flown by more than 65 percent.

"Our total flight hours here will be slightly less than the entire fighter group back home flies in an entire year, but it was accomplished by a single squadron with less than its full complement of aircraft in less than six months time," the 19-year Air Force veteran from Quitman, Miss., explained. "This has been a unique deployment and this milestone is a manifestation of a great operations and maintenance team. Without the entire team focused 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week on getting the mission off the ground, this could not have happened."

Source



Lt. Col. Sam "Spam" Milam taxis down Bagram Air Field after logging the unit's 10,000th combat flight hour during a mission on February 24th, 2009. The aircraft is A-10C 78-0679 from the 75th Fighter Squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo) Hi-res



Lt. Col. Richard Piazza, 75th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron director of operations, walks with Lt. Col. Sam "Spam" Milam on their way to congratulate Col. Raymond "Donk" Strasburger, 455th Expeditionary Operations Group commander, who flew as wingman on the 75th EFS's 10,000th combat flight hour mission. Visible in the background is A-10C 80-0252 from the 75th Fighter Squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo) Hi-res



Lt. Col. Sam "Spam" Milam shakes hands with Col. Raymond "Donk" Strasburger shortly after the pair completed the mission. The A-10C in the background, flown by Col. Strasburger, must be 80-0228 from the 74th Fighter Squadron (according to the numbers on the ejection seat and on the canopy rail). (U.S. Air Force photo) Hi-res



Lt. Col. Sam "Spam" Milam prepares to dismount A-10C 78-0679 from the 75th Fighter Squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo) Hi-res



(Left) Army Lt. Col. George Chizmar, Air Force ground liason officer, hides a fire hose behind his back as Lt. Col. Sam "Spam" Milam prepares to dismount his A-10C Thunderbolt II. The lieutenant colonel was congratulated shortly thereafter with a short burst of water from the base fire department. (U.S. Air Force photo) Hi-res

Note: After 455th AEW Public Affairs released this very informative news article, I deleted my incorrect previous posts "Intel: 74th EFS already replaced the 75th EFS at Bagram" and "354th EFS should replace the 75th EFS at Bagram".

Up-close tours for base personnel scheduled during annual Heritage Flight

by 1st Lt. Mary Pekas
355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

2/25/2009 - DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- When modern and historic military aircraft from around the country come together here March 4 through 8 during the annual Air Combat Command Heritage Flight Conference, base personnel will have the opportunity to see the various jets up close.

From 8 to 9:30 a.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the flightline will be open to DOD ID-cardholders. Escorts will take groups to see the rows of demo aircraft. Flying will begin at 10 a.m.

This year's historic aircraft flying in the Heritage Flight Conference include the P-51 Mustang, the A-1 Sky Raider [Skyraider, as edited by J.J.], the F-4 Phantom II, the P-40 Warhawk, and the F-86 Sabre. ACC flying demonstration aircraft include the A-10 Thunderbolt II, the F-15 Eagle, the F-15E Strike Eagle, the F-16 Fighting Falcon and the F-22A Raptor.

The Heritage Flight Conference allows civilian and military pilots to train together in preparation for the spring and summer air show seasons. Heritage formations, during which modern and historic fighters fly together, are a popular highlight event at air shows throughout the United States and Canada.

Source

Associated picture:



A-10 Thunderbolt II 82-0662 (marked 355 FW) from the A-10 West Demonstration Team flies in formation with a P-51 Mustang, March 7, at Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona during the 2008 Heritage Flight Conference. The Heritage Flight Conference allows civilian and military pilots to train together in preparation for the spring and summer air show seasons. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Christina D. Kinsey) Hi-res

Exercise offers A-10 crews chance to hone warfighting skills

by Casey E. Bain
U.S. Joint Forces Command

2/24/2009 - BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. (AFNS) -- Airmen are improving their warfighting skills as they train to conduct close-air-support missions for ground forces in preparation for deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan during Exercise Green Flag East here.

The exercise is in partnership with the Joint Readiness Training Center at Fort Polk, La., and with support from U.S. Joint Forces Command's Joint Fires Integration and Interoperability Team.

A-10 Thunderbolt II aircrews from the 354th Fighter Squadron from Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., are currently participating in the training.

"Green Flag East provides us with the environment that best replicates what we'll experience once deployed," said Maj. James Krischke, an A-10 pilot and 354th FS assistant director of operations. "I don't think people realize how carefully organized and orchestrated our military operations have become. Our goal is to minimize collateral damage and eliminate fratricide in combat. The Green Flag team provides our squadron with the opportunity to improve those skills we need to reach our goal before we deploy and fight."

Joint Fires Integration and Interoperability Team members helped Green Flag East staff members enhance joint close-air-support training for aircrews, joint terminal attack controllers, and joint fires observers for the past two years.

"Green Flag has done a remarkable job of providing a world-class CAS environment for the aircrews, JTACs, and JFOs that train here," said Navy Lt. Cmdr. Chris Olson, JFIIT lead at GFE. "Our job is to help integrate those assets and bridge the gaps between the services, both in terms of technology and tactics, techniques, and procedures, so they can improve their combat effectiveness while reducing the potential of fratricide and collateral damage on an ever-evolving battlefield."

Green Flag East staff members work with Joint Readiness Training Center officials to integrate joint assets for a realistic and rigorous training environment that replicates many of the same conditions found in Iraq and Afghanistan.

"The joint training between Green Flag and JRTC is excellent," said Army Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Roten, a Joint Readiness Training Center training mentor and ground liaison officer for Green Flag East. "Anytime you get the chance to work with the Air Force it makes you a better warfighter for the Army. I will take the lessons that I learn from this exercise and apply them back at JRTC to help improve CAS integration for our Army fires supporters that are preparing to deploy downrange."

Green Flag East provides many opportunities for aircrews to train with resources and assets that they don't have readily available at their home station.

"There is so much that we want our aircrews to experience before they leave Green Flag," said Maj. Brendan O'Brien, director of operations for Green Flag East. "Their experience will include working with JTACs and JFOs in a realistic and dynamic air-to-ground environment; flying with and using advanced targeting pods and practicing with new technologies. We want our fighter pilots to be exposed to intense combat scenarios with realistic tactical problems to solve so they will leave here confident in the knowledge they've learned and ready for the challenges that lie ahead."

According to Green Flag East leaders, the opportunity for aircrews, JTACs, and Army JFOs to improve the coordination, synchronization, and execution of close-air-support in this near-real-world environment will help the joint team accomplish its mission and put bombs on target more effectively in the heat of battle.

"We take pride in providing the best possible predeployment combat training for our fighter crews, intelligence, maintenance, and logistics team to ensure they are prepared for the asymmetric fight they will face in theater," Major O'Brien said. "Green Flag East strives to be a premier training venue that replicates that fight and we do it as a joint team. Working with organizations like JRTC, JFIIT, and others allows us to provide the quality training that our fighter pilots and entire warfighting team needs and deserves."

Joint Readiness Training Center training mentors also realize the importance of working with aircrews at Green Flag East to improve air-ground integration between fighter pilots, JTACs, JFOs and brigade combat teams.

"CAS is such a combat multiplier for our maneuver forces," Sergeant Roten said. "We've got to learn how to fully take advantage of its capabilities before we actually need it on the battlefield - this exercise will really help us to improve that mission-essential air-ground integration that's vital to our team's success."

The benefits of this enhanced joint training are evident to many of the leaders and fighter pilots who train here.

"This is the only exercise that intentionally seeks to replicate the operational flow of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom," Major Krischke said. "We get the opportunity to work with many of the same assets that we will see in theater in just a few short months. It's a fundamental building-block approach to training aircrews that can't be found anywhere else."

Source



An A-10 Thunderbolt II pilot prepares for a close-air-support mission with the assistance of a ground crewmember during Green Flag East 09-04 on February 23rd, 2009, at Barksdale AFB. According to the number on the ejection seat, the aircraft must be 80-0238. (U.S. Air Force photo by Casey Bain) Hi-res

Note: The associated picture is new on the web. But the news article itself is an edited and shortened version of the original article USJFCOM joint fires team preps A-10 aircrews for combat, already posted on this blog.

USJFCOM joint fires team preps A-10 aircrews for combat

U.S. Joint Forces Command's Joint Fires Integration and Interoperability Team is working closely with the Army's Joint Readiness Training Center at the Air Force's Green Flag East to prepare A-10 Thunderbolt pilots for deployment.

By Casey E. Bain
JFIIT, USJFCOM

(BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, LA. - Feb. 23, 2009) - The Air Force's Green Flag East (GFE), in partnership with the Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) at Ft. Polk, La., and with support from U.S. Joint Forces Command's (USJFCOM) Joint Fires Integration and Interoperability Team (JFIIT), is improving warfighting skills of fighter pilots conducting close air support (CAS) missions for ground forces as those pilots prepare for deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.

The 354th Fighter Squadron, an A-10C Thunderbolt unit from Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Az., currently participating in the ongoing GFE 09-04 training rotation, is honing its CAS skills here.

"Green Flag East provides us with the environment that best replicates what we'll experience once deployed," said Air Force Maj. James Krischke, A-10 fighter pilot and assistant director of operations, 354th Fighter Squadron. "I don't think people realize how carefully organized and orchestrated our military operations have become. Our goal is to minimize collateral damage and eliminate fratricide in combat. The Green Flag team provides our squadron with the opportunity to improve those skills we need to reach our goal before we deploy and fight."

JFIIT has helped GFE enhance joint CAS training for aircrews, joint terminal attack controllers (JTACs), and joint fires observers (JFOs) for the past two years.

"Green Flag has done a remarkable job of providing a world-class CAS environment for the aircrews, JTACs, and JFOs that train here," said Navy Lt. Cmdr. Chris Olson, JFIIT lead at GFE. "Our job is to help integrate those assets and bridge the gaps between the services, both in terms of technology and tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP), so they can improve their combat effectiveness while reducing the potential of fratricide and collateral damage on an ever-evolving battlefield."

GFE works with JRTC to integrate joint assets for a realistic and rigorous training environment that replicates many of the same conditions found in Iraq and Afghanistan.

"The joint training between Green Flag and JRTC is excellent," said Army Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Roten, JRTC training mentor and ground liaison officer for GFE. "Anytime you get the chance to work with the Air Force it makes you a better warfighter for the Army. I will take the lessons that I learn from this exercise and apply them back at JRTC to help improve CAS integration for our Army fires supporters that are preparing to deploy downrange."

GFE provides many opportunities for aircrews to train with resources and assets not available at their home station.

"There is so much that we want our aircrews to experience before they leave Green Flag," said Air Force Maj. Brendan O'Brien, director of operations, GFE. "Their experience will include working with JTACs and JFOs in a realistic and dynamic air-to-ground environment; flying with and using advanced targeting pods; practicing with new technologies and TTP, like digitally aided CAS; working counter-improvised explosive device scenarios at JRTC, and much more."

"We want our fighter pilots to be exposed to intense combat scenarios with realistic tactical problems to solve so they will leave here confident in the knowledge they've learned and ready for the challenges that lie ahead," added O'Brien.

According to GFE leaders, the opportunity for aircrews, JTACs, and Army JFOs to improve the coordination, synchronization, and execution of CAS in this near-real-world environment will help the joint team accomplish its mission and put bombs on target more effectively in the heat of battle.

"We take pride in providing the best possible pre-deployment combat training for our fighter crews, intelligence, maintenance, and logistics team to ensure they are prepared for the asymmetric fight they will face in theater," said O'Brien. "Green Flag East strives to be a premier training venue that replicates that fight and we do it as a joint team. Working with organizations like JRTC, JFIIT, and others allows us to provide the quality training that our fighter pilots and entire warfighting team needs and deserves."

JRTC training mentors also realize the importance of working with aircrews at GFE to improve air-ground integration between fighter pilots, JTACs, JFOs, and brigade combat teams.

"CAS is such a combat multiplier for our maneuver forces," added Roten. "We've got to learn how to fully take advantage of its capabilities before we actually need it on the battlefield - this exercise will really help us to improve that mission-essential air-ground integration that's vital to our team's success."

The benefits of this enhanced joint training are evident to many of the leaders and fighter pilots who train here.

"This is the only exercise that intentionally seeks to replicate the operational flow of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom," said Krischke. "We get the opportunity to work with many of the same assets that we will see in theater in just a few short months - it's a fundamental building-block approach to training aircrews that can't be found anywhere else."

Source

81st Fighter Squadron Receives Simulator Upgrades

by Staff Sgt. Logan Tuttle
52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs

2/17/2009 - SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- The 81st Fighter Squadron recently received a new A-10 Thunderbolt simulator along with upgrades to their only other simulator from Boeing.

The project cost approximately $ 4.5 million, and took a team from Boeing 12 days to set up, from the time they arrived here, to the time the new unit and upgrades were completed.

"The [equipment] was shipped to us from Mesa, Ariz. It was in 23 crates, and took up an entire airplane," said Andy Gilbert, the project lead from Boeing. "We've had excellent support from the unit as far as getting forklifts and stuff we needed."

The benefits of the upgrades include a better visibility database, the ability to see the wings of the plane, new software and moving map capabilities. The two simulators can now fly together for two-ship missions, as well as hook up and fly with other simulators anywhere in the world, over a distributed mission network.

Mr. Gilbert said one of the biggest improvements made are the volumetric clouds, which give the simulators the ability to provide adverse weather conditions similar to what pilots at Spangdahlem could experience.

Capt. Papa Roche, one of the pilots who tested the upgrades, felt that having the 360-degree screen was one of the most noticeable differences. Although you can never replace flying in a real aircraft, he said, the simulators function accurately and he thinks they'll see a significant increase in the amount the simulators are used.

1st Lt. Patrick Parrish, another pilot who tested the new simulator said it would be useful to add to the pilot's training as a supplement to real flying, especially for practicing emergency procedures.

"The simulators give pilots the ability to practice, they simulate everything without the cost and time to put the airplane in the air, and the [simulator]is more forgiving," said Mr. Gilbert.

Source



Capt. Papa Roche, an A-10 pilot with the 81st Fighter Squadron, tests a new A-10 simulator on February 6th, 2009. This is the second 81st FS simulator. Boeing sent a team to install the new simulator and vital software upgrades for both systems. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Nicholas Wilson) Hi-res

The first six A-10s arrived at Selfridge in December last year

By Joachim Jacob

The following very important news article "A-10s arrive at Selfridge" was already published on the front page of the "Prevailing Wind", January 2009, online PDF issue. "Prevailing Wind" is the official newspaper of the 127th Wing, Selfridge ANGB, Michigan. Please note: There is still no HTML version of this news article on 127th Wing's public website. From the PDF file I also extracted the two associated pictures, also still not released as JPGs.

A-10s arrive at Selfridge

The first six A-10 Thunderbolt jets arrived at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in December 2008. The jets, from the 110th Fighter Wing in Battle Creek, Mich., are the first of twenty-four "Warthogs" that are part of the 127th Wing's new fighter aircraft mission. Many 107th Fighter Squadron pilots are already away at school learning to fly the new jet.

The 127th Maintenance Group begins its training in mid-January. Active duty airmen from the Field Training Team will be training the Michigan Guardsmen through April in the maintenance of this larger (than F-16) attack plane.

"Everyone is looking forward to beginning this new mission. It's exciting that we're all starting from ground zero and will have these aircraft up and running in a matter of months," stated Chief Master Sgt. Henry Ryan, 127th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron superintendent.

Newly qualified pilots of the 107th Fighter Squadron will be flying A-10s out of Baltimore, MD., until later this spring after an official ceremony marks the stand-up of the new fighter mission at Selfridge.

A-10C 80-0267 from the 172nd Fighter Squadron after arrival at Selfridge ANGB in December 2008. (Photo by John S. Swanson, 127th Wing Public Affairs)



A-10C 80-0267 from the 172nd Fighter Squadron in front of Hangar 3 after arrival at Selfridge ANGB in December 2008. (Photo by John S. Swanson, 127th Wing Public Affairs)

Source

See also:
127th Wing begins Thunderbolt training
107th Fighter Squadron 'Red Devils' now one step closer to converting from F-16C/Ds to the A-10C

According to the news article 127th Wing begins Thunderbolt training, seven A-10s are now on temporary loan at Selfridge, until the 127th Wing is ready to officially take ownership of the aircraft in late April 2009.

Meanwhile, some 172th FS aircraft are relocated from Battle Creek to Martin State Airport, Maryland. Are they part of the loaned aircraft package and relocated only for 107th FS pilots training?



Airmen look over A-10Cs from Battle Creek and Baltimore before launching them on a mission at Warfield Air National Guard Base on December 17th, 2008. Visible from left to right are: 80-0262 (172th Fighter Squadron), 78-0705 (131st Fighter Squadron) and 80-0263 (172th Fighter Squadron). (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. David Speicher) Hi-res



A-10C 80-0264 from the 172nd Fighter Squadron, and probably also now on loan to the 127th Fighter Wing, heads to the runway for take off at Martin State Airport, Maryland, on January 29th, 2009. (Baltimore Sun photo by Lloyd Fox)

When pigs fly... with Ospreys

by 2nd Lt. Mark Lazane
1st SOW Public Affairs

2/11/2009 - HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- What do you get when you cross an osprey with a warthog?

For a zoologist, the question may seem preposterous.

In Air Force terms, instead of an odd looking winged-swine hybrid, the result is immense firepower and unparalleled close air support capability for the rapid infiltration and exfiltration of troops in the battlespace.

For the first time, the tilt-rotor CV-22 Osprey and the fixed-wing A-10 Warthog teamed up for some high-flying training Jan. 31, prior to the start of Emerald Warrior 2009, a joint exercise sponsored by the Air Force Special Operations Command.

"It is like having a little angel flying on your wing," said Capt. Luke Sustman, a CV-22 evaluation pilot. "Having these pilots out here gave them a perspective of what we do and how they help us."

The affinity for their sister aircraft was mutual.

"Impressive," said Capt. Andrew Hood, an A-10 pilot from Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, after his inaugural flight aboard a CV-22. "The Osprey definitely revolutionizes the way we fight."

Captain Hood was one of a handful of pilots aboard the Osprey as the two air frames flew and practiced with one another. Representatives from the 8th Special Operations Squadron invited several A-10 pilots to fly in the Osprey to experience the unique airframe and to help explain its unique capabilities.

According to Captain Hood, one advantage of the Osprey is that it's far superior to traditional helicopters when it comes to escorting a rescue aircraft to its intended destination, either to drop off or pick up individuals in the fight.

One large advantage the CV-22 has over traditional rotary wing assets is the speed at which it is able to operate.

"Most of the time, helicopters go kind of slow," Captain Hood said. "The CV-22 is almost as fast as we are. It's able to get to its destination a lot faster (than traditional rotary wing aircraft)."

"The CV-22 can go twice as fast and twice as far as rotary wing assets," said Tech. Sgt Erik Davis, a CV-22 Flight Engineer.

"Speed is a huge usage boost because the A-10 doesn't have to stay exposed as long when it's providing escort," said Major Mike Holder, a CV-22 evaluation pilot and the mission commander.

The 8th Special Operations Squadron at Hurlburt Field is currently the only operational CV-22 squadron in the Air Force. Because of their uniqueness, they continually look for ways to practice and familiarize themselves with other aircraft.

"We are validating everything we talk about on the ground," said Major Holder. "I's very exciting to be on the cutting edge of technology for the Air Force."

As someone who has flown helicopters in two branches of the military, Major Holder understands the benefits of having an airframe such as the CV-22 Osprey.

"We're defining tactics rather than refining them," said Major Holder, an Army AH-1 Cobra and AH-64 Apache pilot prior to joining the Air Force. "We expect to do a lot more (inter-airframe training) throughout Emerald Warrior."

The training, although historic, was business as usual for Sergeant Davis.

"This is another capability that we've shown we can do," Sergeant Davis said. "We feel pretty confident in our training with them, but there are a lot of steps we have to take."

Major Holder is confident his aircraft could survive if called upon at any time.

"I feel we are 100 percent ready to deploy right now if needed," he said. "We recently completed our initial operating training exercise and it flew great. I'm excited to fly the Osprey."

Source



A CV-22 Osprey, a tilt-rotor aircraft assigned to the 8th Special Operations Squadron, prepares for take off at Hurlburt Field, Florida, as an A-10 Thunderbolt II flies overhead on January 31th, 2009. The two aircraft flew together as part of training opportunity here prior to the kick off of the annual Air Force Special Operations Command exercise, Emerald Warrior. The 8th SOS is the only operational CV-22 squadron in the Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Julianne Showalter) Hi-res

Related news:
Exercise demonstrates special ops capabilities
'Covert op' training successful (with VIDEO)

127th Wing begins Thunderbolt training

by TSgt. Dan Heaton
127th Wing Public Affairs

2/9/2009 -- In an enclosed hangar on a snowy and cold Michigan winter day, seven camouflaged men struggled to feed the dragon. Standing on a platform, voices raised to be heard over a portable heater unit running at full tilt against the cold, the men reached and pulled and loaded - and learned - to feed the dragon.

The "dragon" is an ALA or Ammunition Loading Adapter, and it is the piece of equipment that allows Air Force munitions crews to feed the roughly 1100 rounds of 30 mm ammunition the A-10 carries for its distinctive seven-barrel Gatling gun.

"The gun is the biggest challenge," said Master Sgt. James Thomson, a member of the load standardization crew for the 127th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (AMXS) munitions unit, a part of the Michigan Air National Guard at Selfridge Air National Guard Base.

"Loading missiles and munitions on the wing is similar on the A-10 to the F-16, but the A-10's gun is a new experience for our guys."

The 127th Wing is in the middle of transitioning from flying F-16 Fighting Falcons to becoming one of the Air Force's newest A-10 units. As part of the transition, the 366 personnel who make up the wing's maintenance squadron are getting initial qualification training in all aspects of the A-10. The Wing's last F-16 departed in the closing days of 2008.

"We've had a number of people who are really stepping up, anxious to get their qualifications done and to be ready to answer the call with the new aircraft," said Chief Master Sgt. Henry Ryan, superintendent of the maintenance squadron.

On Jan. 14, a field training team (FTT) of 22 active duty personnel from A-10 squadrons around the Air Force arrived at Selfridge to begin training the Guardsmen and women in the specialized skills and tasks required to maintain the A-10. In addition, the 127th sent a cadre of avionics technicians and munitions specialists to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona to earn initial qualifications on the A-10 and its related equipment, such as the dragon. The FTT will stay at Selfridge through April 28. Following the FTT's departure, Chief Ryan said nine Airmen from active A-10 units will spend six month on a temporary assignment at Selfridge to ensure that qualification standards are met.

Seven of the A-10s are now on temporary loan at Selfridge, until the 127th is ready to officially take ownership of the aircraft in late April. The aircraft at Selfridge now are being used as to get the maintainers fully qualified. Meanwhile, pilots from the 107th Fighter Squadron at Selfridge are rotating through flying tours at a Maryland Air National Guard unit near Baltimore, which also flies the A-10. Pilots and crews from Maryland, Arkansas and Idaho are working together at various locations to ensure that the pilots are checked out in the attack aircraft and keep at the highest levels of readiness during the transition, said Col. David Augustine, vice wing commander for the 127th Wing.

"Active duty and Air National Guard personnel and aircraft are working together to ensure that this transition is done as smoothly as possible," Augustine said. "This is what the American people expect of us, that we are given an assignment and we carry it out efficiently."

For traditional Guard members of the 127th - those who generally perform two days of duty one weekend per month - the Wing's February Unit Training Assembly provided the first opportunity to actually begin to work with the A-10. Such was the case for four 127th Airmen who were undergoing familiarization training on the system that communicates the commands from the aircraft to the weapon system. Working with FTT instructor Staff Sgt. Brent Williams, who is normally assigned to Detachment 13 at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada, the 127th personnel walked through the basic steps required to test the system. With Technical Sgt. Rena Jackman, 127th AMXS, in the cockpit montitoring system readouts, Technical Sgt. Jon Huerta, and Senior Airmen Jeremy Wesley and Otto Kelly ran through the checklist.

"This is the first time we have ever done this on this aircraft," said Huerta. "We have to learn the new systems and have a qualified FTT person to sign us off on them." Ryan said he's pleased with the progress made so far by the maintenance group. "Now that we've been able to have some A-10s here and have been able to get the panels off and really get into the aircraft, we've been able to move into high gear with our training," Ryan said. "We're all looking to that next big milestone, taking formal ownership of the aircraft and launching our first official flight in May."

Source



TSgt. Harold Hayes, TSgt. Jared Bicker, TSgt. Jim Ferguson and SrA Jeff Kohler of the 127th Wing's Aircraft Maintenance Squadron were selected to work with instructors TSgt. Bob Mitchell, TSgt. Mike Kerr and TSgt. Andy Amala in a Train-the-Trainer-style program at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. Here they familarize themselves with the Ammunition Loading Adapter, or Dragon, which racks the roughly 1100 30-millimeter rounds into the A-10 Thunderbolt II. The 127th Wing is training on the A-10 as part of its ongoing conversion to the attack aircraft from the F-16C/D. (Photo by MSgt. Clancey Pence, 127th Wing Public Affairs) Hi-res



TSgt. Harold Hayes, TSgt. Jared Bicker, TSgt. Jim Ferguson and SrA Jeff Kohler of the 127th Wing's Aircraft Maintenance Squadron were selected to work with instructors TSgt. Bob Mitchell, TSgt. Mike Kerr and TSgt. Andy Amala in a Train-the-Trainer-style program at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. Here they familarize themselves with the Ammunition Loading Adapter, or Dragon, which racks the roughly 1100 30-millimeter rounds into the A-10 Thunderbolt II. The 127th Wing is training on the A-10 as part of its ongoing conversion to the attack aircraft from the F-16C/D. (Photo by MSgt. Clancey Pence, 127th Wing Public Affairs) Hi-res



SrA Jeremy Wesley and TSgt. Jon Huerta from the 127th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron weapons section, train with SSgt. Brent Williams (center), an active duty instructor with U.S. Air Force from Det 13, Nellis Air Force Base. The group is working with the PAX Interface 1760 which double checks the wiring between the A-10 aircraft and the weapons pylon. (Photo by MSgt. Clancey Pence, 127th Wing Public Affairs) Hi-res

See also:
107th Fighter Squadron 'Red Devils' now one step closer to converting from F-16C/Ds to the A-10C

Birds of a Feather Flock Together

by Tech. Sgt. David Speicher
175th Wing Public Affairs

2/10/2009 - BALTIMORE -- A time compliance technical order has brought several A-10 units here to Warfield Air National Guard Base.

Planes, pilots and maintenance crews from Air National Guard units at Fort Smith, Ark. and Battle Creek, Mich. along with active duty personnel from Moody Air Force Base, Ga. have been flying since October.

Wing cracks were discovered in some planes which caused all planes to be inspected.

According to Lt. Col. Tim Schuster, 175th deputy maintenance group commander, there are 127 A-10s throughout the Air Force grounded. Twelve of the effected aircraft are at Warfield Air National Guard Base.

"All the flyable iron from Fort Smith, Battle Creek and Baltimore are consolidated at Warfield Air National Guard Base," said Lt. Col. Patrick McAlister, 104th Fighter Squadron commander. "Consolidation, coupled with extra manpower from the respective bases has allowed us to build a bridge to a future date when the fleet is once again healthy."

This allows the pilots from all the bases to maintain currency with planes that were not affected. Not only are pilots flying missions from Warfield but they are also practicing using the new flight simulator here.

There is a team with personnel from other units to keep the planes flying. "We are augmented by other units. It is a coalition effort to produce the sorties," said Lt. Col. Dan Marino, 175th Operations Group Commander. The extra manpower made it possible to fly 194 sorties in the first two weeks in December.

According to Marino, "Maryland became the obvious choice because of its maintenance and operation expertise."

McAlister pointed out how members have stepped up for the extra workload. "Senior Master Nancy Smith has pilots from three different bases at any time. She is the gate keeper of keeping their records legal to fly. She catalogs all of their records which are treated differently at the base they normally fly."

Life support has also needed to maintain pilot's different equipment from different bases. Any equipment that passes through their shop must be looked over. With different flyers from different bases coming through every week there is a constant influx of different equipment to look over.

Source



Airmen look over A-10Cs from Battle Creek and Baltimore before launching them on a mission at Warfield Air National Guard Base on December 17th, 2008. Visible from left to right are: 80-0262 (172th Fighter Squadron), 78-0705 (131st Fighter Squadron) and 80-0263 (172th Fighter Squadron). (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. David Speicher) Hi-res

Heritage meets horizons

by Airman 1st Class Spencer Gallien
23rd Wing Public Affairs

2/9/2009 - MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- A former 23rd Fighter Group Flying Tiger from the era known as the 'greatest generation' of America recently discovered that his former U.S. Army Air Corps unit from World War II is still playing an active role in military operations today.

From 1944 to Dec. 15, 1945, Mr. Hild served with the 23rd FG as an enlisted intelligence gatherer for the group. He is now an avid collector of all things Flying Tigers related.

Upon learning that the Flying Tigers are still a unit within the Air Force, Jack Hild, president of the Lt. Gen. Claire Lee Chennault foundation of the Flying Tigers and former president and historian for the Flying Tiger's 14th Air Force Association, donated a collection of books containing the history of the 23rd FG.

"For years I've been collecting what I could afford," said Mr. Hild. "A painting there, a book here...anytime I saw something about the Flying Tigers I tried to acquire it."

After the disbanding of the Flying Tigers' 14th AFA society, Mr. Hild helped form the Lt. Gen. Claire Lee Chennault foundation of the Flying Tigers.

He was left numerous volumes cataloguing the Flying Tigers stories, activities and photos from 1949 to 2007.

During a tour of the wing, Mr. Hild presented the volumes along with a plaque to Col. Kenneth Todorov, 23rd WG commander.

"I wanted these books to be available for all Airmen to read and learn about the history of the men and women of the famed Flying Tigers," said Mr. Hild.

When I learned that the Flying Tigers and 23rd FG still existed, I knew the books should belong to the Airmen who carry on our traditions, he added.

Those books will now serve as a reminder to all 23rd WG Flying Tigers of the heritage and honor they represent whether it is in a deployed environment or at their home station, said Colonel Todorov.

"We're extremely thankful that Mr. Hild contacted and provided us with these priceless pieces of history," added Colonel Todorov. "It's truly a testament to all the Airmen who have had the honor of serving as a Flying Tiger."

During Mr. Hild's visit, he received a personal tour of the Parker Greene Base Support Center with Colonel Todorov and a tour of the 23rd FG with Col. Mike O'Dowd, 23rd FG commander and Capt. Jarrett Biggers, 74th Fighter Squadron A-10C Thunderbolt II pilot.

He also met General Chennault's descendant, Airman 1st Class William Chennault, 41st Helicopter Maintenance Unit crew chief.

He presented Airman Chennault with two framed pictures, the first was a painting of his great granduncle that Mr. Hild had collected over the years and the second was the cover of a Times magazine featuring General Chennault.

"I've been thanked numerous times for my donations during my time here on base," said Mr. Hild. "But I should be the one thanking all the Airmen - it's a great day for me when I can spend time around all these Flying Tigers."

Source



Jack Hild, 23rd Fighter Group World War II veteran, receives an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft briefing from Capt. Jarret Biggers, 74th Fighter Squadron pilot, photographed in the cockpit of A-10C 80-0194, during a visit at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, on January 30, 2009. During his visit, he met several current-day Flying Tiger members from the 74th Fighter Squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Gina Chiaverotti) Hi-res

A-10 Thunderbolt II Demo Teams Schedule for 2009

ACC Aerial Events Schedule (released by HQ ACC/A3TA, Aerial Events Branch):

March 14-15: Brownsville, TX (Air Show), A-10 East, HF P-47
March 21-22: Luke AFB, AZ (Open House), F-22 East, A-10 West, HF P-40
March 28: Riverside, CA (Air Show), HF A-10 West & F-86
March 28-29: MacDill AFB, FL (Open House), F-15E East, A-10 East, HF P-51

Source

Please note: Heritage Flight is shown with the letters HF followed by the type aircraft flying with the demo team.

See also:
A-10 East Coast Demo Team prepares for 2009 season

Related links:
A-10 East Coast Demonstration Team
A-10 West Demonstration Team

Over the year, I will further update any related info, given either by Air Combat Command (ACC) or by Air Show Buzz

Two more 75th EFS A-10Cs relocated from Bagram to Spang

By Joachim Jacob

Yesterday, two more A-10Cs from the 75th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron arrived at Spangdahlem AB, Germany, for wing inspections and repairs due to partial A-10 Thunderbolt II groundings.

80-0226 is part of the original 75th EFS twelve-ship aircraft package which deployed for Operation Enduring Freedom to the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing at Bagram AB, Afghanistan, for USAF's AEF 5/6 (Cycle 7) rotation (September - December 2008). 79-0135 is part of a four-ship replacement aircraft package which additionally deployed from Moody AFB, Georgia, to Bagram AB just after the groundings.

According to the Scramble Message Board, both jets were announced to arrive as Iron 01 and Iron 02.



A-10C 79-0135 from the 74th Fighter Squadron arrives at Spangdahlem AB, Germany, on February 6th, 2009. (Photo by Matthias Bienentreu) Full size



A-10C 80-0226 from the 74th Fighter Squadron arrives at Spangdahlem AB, Germany, on February 6th, 2009. (Photo by Matthias Bienentreu) Full size

Special thanks to Matthias Bienentreu from the FlugzeugForum community for his written permission to publish his exclusive and very nice shots on my blog!

See also:
Some 75th EFS A-10Cs returned to Bagram after inspections at Spang

Boeing targets new A-10 support deal

Flight International

06/02/09

By Stephen Trimble

Boeing is seeking to win a larger role of the multi-billion market for maintaining and upgrading the US Air Force's Fairchild A-10 Thunderbolt II ground-attack aircraft.

The company on 4 February submitted a bid for a share of a projected $1.6 billion, 10-year programme to support A-10 maintenance and upgrade needs. The proposal comes less than two years after Boeing captured a heavily contested, $2 billion deal to replace the wing-skins on 242 A-10s.

The current competition is not for a winner-take-all deal. Northrop Grumman has acted as a prime contractor for the A-10 since purchasing Fairchild, but the USAF has abandoned that strategy and will instead select three contractors who will be allowed to compete for task orders.

BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin and Northrop are also known to be vying for the same deal.

Bill Moorefield, Boeing's A-10 programme manager, says the company's proposal for the lifecycle contract provides "support for the aircraft fleet while ensuring relevance and viability through 2028 and beyond".

Source

See also:
Boeing Submits A-10 Sustainment/Integration Contract Proposal to US Air Force

Bagram pulls together for historical aircraft recovery

by Staff Sgt. Jason Lake
455th Air Expeditionary Wing



Edited caption: Crash recovery and emergency management crews survey C-17A Globemaster III 96-0002 "The Spirit of the Air Force", 437th AW, Charleston AFB, on January 31th, 2009, as it rests on the active runway of Bagram AB, Afghanistan, after landing on January 30th with its landing gear retracted. More than 120 Airmen, Defense Department civilians and contractors successfully removed the crippled aircraft from the runway on February 2nd and restored full airfield operations shortly thereafter. The "belly up," or no landing gear, recovery effort was the first in the airframe's 16-year Air Force history. (U.S. Air Force photo)

2/4/2009 - BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan -- More than 120 Airmen, Defense Department civilians and contractors successfully removed a crippled C-17 Globemaster III from the runway here Feb. 2 and restored full air operations after a historic aircraft recovery operation.

Emergency response crews sprang into action Jan. 30 shortly after the 150-ton aircraft screeched to a halt with none of its landing gear down - a first-time incident in the aircraft's 16-year history.

While none of the crew suffered significant injuries in the incident, the disabled aircraft presented a significant challenge for maintaining air operations.

"A lengthy runway closure is our worst nightmare at Bagram," said Brig. Gen. Mike Holmes, 455th Air Expeditionary Wing commander. "The Airmen, sailors, and soldiers on the 455th team work extremely hard every day to make sure coalition forces all over Afghanistan can count us to be there with close air support, airdrop and airlift, personnel recovery, and electronic attack, when and where they need it. We knew we had to find a way to keep doing our job while the runway was closed."

Col. Tim Strasburger, 455th Expeditionary Operations Group commander, led a team of aviators, airfield operators, air traffic control personnel and wing safety to figure out how to safely continue airfield operations.

Crash recovery, emergency management, aircraft engineers and maintainers, some of whom had flown in from other bases within the theater of operations, worked tirelessly to formulate a plan and gather supplies needed to lift the more than aircraft up long enough to extend its landing gear.

"Being a first time incident did not impact our course of action ... this is what we train for," explained Tech. Sgt. Joseph Mixson, lead team chief for crash recovery here. "We put together a group of experts so we could pool our resources and see what was available to work with at the time. Once we knew what assets were available, we set forth an initial recovery plan based on the guidance provided from the disabled aircraft recovery technical order."

Lt. Col. Greg Urtso, on-scene commander during the recovery operation, said the aircraft experts kept their focus on the recovery effort with the help of mission support personnel.

Airmen from the 455th Expeditionary Mission Support Group provided security, construction equipment, transportation, communications equipment, and lodging for experts brought in from outside Afghanistan. Medical staff from the 455th Expeditionary Medical Support Group took air samples inside the aircraft to ensure it was safe for personnel.

"The level of cooperation and willingness to do whatever it took was awe inspiring," Colonel Urtso said.

After more than two days of concentrated effort, the recovery crew managed to lift the $200 million aircraft high enough to extend its wheels and prepare it for removal from the runway.

"We used a 120-ton crane assisted by six 26-ton airbags to finally lift the aircraft from the runway," explained Sergeant Mixson. "The major lesson learned was that the technical data for a C-17 recovery did not list any alternate methods. We were not able to place the airbags in the positions they needed to be because the entire fuselage section was laying on the runway. The crane allowed us to [lift the aircraft and] get the airbags into position."

Shortly after the aircraft was removed from the runway, Col. Clifton Blanks, 455th Expeditionary Maintenance Group commander, applauded the work of everyone involved in the safely executed recovery effort.

"I'm extremely proud of the whole team that raised the C-17," he said. "They did something that hadn't ever been done before. This event serves as another example of the true mettle of the men and women in the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing. While a group of folks were busy working the recovery of the C-17, much of the rest of the wing figured out a way to safely and effectively continue combat operations with our runway closed."

Source Edited AFNS version on Air Force Link (USAF's public main website)

Note: This post will be further updated!

Idaho Air National Guard jet hits runway light

LocalNews8

Associated Press - February 4, 2009 4:34 PM ET

BOISE, Idaho (AP) - Idaho Air National Guard officials say an A-10 Warthog fighter jet was damaged when it collided with a 20-foot runway light at the Boise airport.

The pilot, who was the only person aboard the jet, was unharmed in the Wednesday morning mishap.

Lt. Col. Tim Marsano said investigators with the Idaho Air National Guard, the Boise Airport and local agencies are trying to determine what caused the collision.

He says the pilot, whose name was not released, was approaching the runway from the west on a routine training mission when the jet's landing gear made contact with 1 of the approach lights. Marsano says the jet landed safely, and that although the light is damaged it is not affecting airport traffic.

Source

Boeing Submits A-10 Sustainment/Integration Contract Proposal to US Air Force

A Boeing news release

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 04, 2009 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today submitted a proposal to the U.S. Air Force to participate as an associate prime contractor in the projected $1.6 billion A-10 Thunderbolt Life-Cycle Program Support (TLPS) contract to support the sustainment of the A-10 Thunderbolt II weapon system and integration of current and future requirements.

"We are confident the Air Force will continue to recognize the resources and competencies that The Boeing Company brings to the warfighter," said Steve Waltman, director of Boeing Aircraft Sustainment & Maintenance, a subdivision of the company's Maintenance, Modifications & Upgrades division. "We are committed to the standard of excellence we have exhibited on the current A-10 Wing Replacement Program and, if selected, we will deliver the same outstanding level of customer satisfaction and performance on the TLPS contract."

Boeing won the $2 billion A-10 Wing Replacement Program contract in June 2007. The program includes engineering services and the manufacture of up to 242 wing sets for the Air Force's A-10 fleet. The program is on schedule as Boeing develops the 3-D models that provide the engineering foundation for current wing sustainment needs, design improvements to prevent cracking, and production of the enhanced wing sets.

"The Boeing solution for the A-10 Wing Replacement Program allows the A-10 fleet to fly for at least another 20 years, providing the close-air support our troops need," said Bill Moorefield, A-10 program manager for Boeing. "Our proposal for TLPS takes that one step further -- providing support for the aircraft fleet while ensuring relevance and viability through 2028 and beyond."

The Air Force will select up to three contractors to compete for individual task and delivery orders over the life of the contract. Work will include avionics, mechanical, structural, and propulsion system upgrade work and a program integration support task.

The A-10, also known as the Warthog, was first introduced into the Air Force inventory in 1976. The twin-engine aircraft provides close-air support of ground forces and employs a wide variety of conventional munitions, including general-purpose bombs. The simple, effective and survivable single-seat aircraft can be used against all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The aircraft is currently supporting operations in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Source

Note: The A-10 Thunderbolt II is currently supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, but not Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq.

Older Boeing news releases:
Boeing Awarded $14.9 Million A-10 Wing Modeling Contract (22 January 2008)
Boeing Awarded $2 Billion A-10 Wing Contract (29 June 2007)

Md.'s Air Guard prepares for war in Afghanistan

175th Wing training for deployment as part of U.S. buildup

The Baltimore Sun

By David Wood
February 3, 2009

Deadly A-10 warplanes armed with the latest precision-bombing technology are thundering over Baltimore at an accelerating pace as National Guard pilots from Maryland and other states train here to deploy early next year with the Obama administration's expected military buildup in Afghanistan.

Officers said the planes will fly there in stages next winter for a combat tour of three to six months. Joining them will be the Maryland Air Guard's C-130J airlift cargo planes and crews.

The A-10 attack jets of Maryland's Air National Guard were the first in the nation to be fitted with the new digital-linked targeting and fire-control systems.

Maryland Guard pilots, who used the system in combat in Iraq, are now teaching their counterparts from Arkansas and Michigan on the upgraded model of the A-10 "Warthog."

Lacking specific deployment orders, the Maryland Guard does not yet know how many aircraft and pilots, air crews, technicians and others will go.

But tens of thousands more U.S. ground troops are likely to be sent into combat, and that means "more airplanes are needed," said Lt. Col. Dan Marino, commander of the Maryland Guard's 175th Wing operations group.

By this time next year, Maryland's heavily armed A-10s could be escorting the unarmed cargo planes on air drops of ammunition to troops pinned down by enemy fire, Marino said.

"When they have A-10s with them, all of a sudden nobody wants to act up," he said.

The upgraded technology enables the A-10s to use precision munitions such as a 500-pound, satellite-guided bomb that can level a building while leaving adjacent structures unharmed, pilots say. Flying low and slow in support of ground troops, the A-10s usually are guided to a target by a tactical air controller on the ground, sometimes a difficult task in the heat and smoke of battle. The new system passes target coordinates directly to pilots.

"That's all you need to drop it in the bucket," Marino said.

President Barack Obama has promised to send reinforcements into what military and intelligence officers describe as a worsening situation in Afghanistan, which is beset by government corruption, a booming drug trade and a violent Islamist insurgency that has spread across the deserts and mountains of southern, central and eastern Afghanistan.

Since the United States attacked Afghanistan in 2001, weeks after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, 626 Americans have been killed in action there and 2,627 wounded, according to the most recent Defense Department accounting.

The White House is weighing a request for at least three more combat brigades that Gen. David McKiernan, commander of U.S. and allied forces, says he needs.

The three combat brigades, with an aviation brigade of attack and transport helicopters and military police, special forces, combat engineers, forward surgical hospitals and other support personnel, could add up to 30,000 or more, roughly double the number of U.S. military personnel now assigned to Afghanistan, U.S. officials said.

The A-10s' mission will be to prowl above main roads to protect convoys and assist American and allied troops under attack.

Afghanistan will be familiar ground to Maryland's A-10 squadron, which did a tour there in 2003.

"We know our customer - the 18-year-old kid on the ground getting shot at," said Marino, a lanky 46-year-old from Bel Air with a raffish mustache and 23 years of experience in the A-10 cockpit.

When they arrive over troops in combat, he said, A-10 pilots can often hear bursts of rifle and machine gunfire over the radio.

Built to fly close to the battlefield and to survive hits by ground fire, the A-10s carry bombs, rockets and a 30 mm Gatling gun that can shoot 3,900 2-pound slugs a minute from its seven revolving barrels.

"You can be hiding behind a concrete block wall and that won't save you," Marino said.

When friendly troops are locked in combat, the A-10s work closely with a joint tactical air controller and employ the Gatling gun, which is more precise than a bomb.

"You want to continue to put on the pressure," said Marino, "and not break off contact until the ground guys say, 'OK, we got it.'"

For the squadron's pilots, most of whom are airline pilots in civilian life, flying will become more purposeful as the deployment approaches.

Last week, 28 A-10s sat on the apron at Warfield Air National Guard Base in Essex. Some, loaded with inert 500-pound practice bombs, were trundling to the head of the runway at Martin State Airport, preparing to fly in pairs 15 minutes northeast to the range at Fort Indiantown Gap, in Pennsylvania.

Others were returning to practice "hot" 40-minute turnarounds to refuel, rearm and receive new intelligence briefs and missions.

Pilots also are practicing air refueling and spend Sundays on "target academics," studying weapons, munitions and intelligence reports on Afghanistan.

The A-10 squadron will participate in a combat search-and-rescue exercise next month at Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas and in an extended ground-attack exercise this spring in Florida.

In late summer, the pace will pick up, culminating in a predeployment exercise in Florida in November.

The practice and the A-10's precision guidance systems will be useful in Afghanistan, where civilian casualties from airstrikes have ignited protests from the public and from President Hamid Karzai.

"Civilian casualties are doing us enormous harm in Afghanistan," Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates told the Senate Armed Services Committee last week.

Gates and others have noted that the Taliban and other insurgents hide among the civilian population. "When we go ahead and attack, we play right into their hands," he said.

In an effort to limit civilian casualties, the Air Force is increasingly turning to precision-guided weapons such as the 500-pound Joint Direct Attack Munition, which the new technology enables the A-10 to carry.

When the Maryland Guard A-10s took the new system with them to Iraq, they were immediately given a mission against insurgents trying to lure soldiers into a house that had been booby-trapped. Armed with the precise coordinates, a pair of A-10s hit the house with two JDAMs, collapsing it neatly without damaging a mosque next door, a gun-camera tape of the attack shows.

Using patience - taking the time to sort out the situation on the ground - is a key skill in employing the A-10 in combat, Marino said.

"You can lay a lot of waste on the ground," he said, "but that's not our job. Our job is to protect those civilians. I'm a human being and a father, and I do not want to take a life, especially of children, and live with that the rest of my life."

As Maryland's A-10s practiced last week, the war continued in Afghanistan. According to an Air Force combat report, a pair of A-10s - not identified by home state - attacked insurgents using rocket-propelled grenades, automatic weapons and sniper fire against allied forces near Namgalam, along the Pakistani border east of Kabul.

According to a daily Air Force combat report, precision strikes by the A-10s "effectively ended the battle."

Source

Associated photo gallery with eight very interesting shots, taken by Lloyd Fox (The Baltimore Sun) at Martin State Airport on January 29th, 2009

Sample picture:



An A-10C Thunderbolt II from the 104th Fighter Squadron, 175th Wing (Maryland ANG), gets ready for takeoff at Martin State Airport on January 29th, 2009. (Baltimore Sun photo by Lloyd Fox)