By Staff Sgt. Gordon Beecroft
111th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
Spouses of members of the 111th Fighter Wing and local community leaders from around the state took flight on a KC-135 during an air refueling flight that gave the Pennsylvania Air National Guard the opportunity to show its appreciation for the level of support it receives from Guardsmen’s spouses and civic leaders.
Thirty-five spouses and 25 civic leaders boarded two KC-135s and flew to Duke Military Operating Area where they were given the opportunity to witness an in-air refueling operation. One-by-one, the spouses and civic leaders entered the boom operator's area of the KC-135 and witnessed the in-air refueling of one of four A-10s from the 111th Fighter Wing.
During the refueling flight, Lt. Col. Thomas Fennell, an A-10 pilot with the 103rd Fighter Squadron came in and connected to the fuel boom. At the same time, his girlfriend, civic leader Dr. Jenell Coleman, Assistant Professor Perinatal HIV Clinic at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania, listened in on an extra set of headphones to Colonel Fennel's conversation with the boom operator. He then pleasantly suprised her by proposing marriage to her — she joyfully accepted. Overall, the refueling flight was successful and gave many a peek into Air National Guard flight operations.
"This has been a great experience. We are very thankful to have this opportunity," said Stephen Gardner, Right Worshipful Grand Master of the Masonic Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
In a briefing before the flight, State Command Sgt. Maj. Donald Shiner, his successor Command Sgt. Maj. Nicholas Gilliland, Command Chief Master Sgt. Ralph Braden, 111th FW Commander Col. Anthony Carrelli, and 111th FW Command Chief Master Sgt. Richard Mertz offered a word of thanks to the spouses and civic leaders. Many kudos go to Capt. Mike Stock, 103rd Fighter Squadron A-10 pilot, who brainstormed and coordinated the entire event.
Captain Stock and Colonel Fennel were joined by Flight Lead Lt. Col. Ed Fink and Lt. Col. Tim O' Toole, both also A-10 pilots with the 103rd FS. Many thanks to the 171st Air Refueling Wing out of Pittsburgh, Pa., who provided the KC-135s for the event.
(Extracted today from the "Sandy Hog Gazette" - November 2009 public online PDF issue -, newspaper of the 111th Fighter Wing)
Source
Saturday, October 31, 2009
A-10 nose section used for Terminator Salvation
By Joachim Jacob
Today, from Warthog News contributor John Bezosky, Tucson, Arizona, I got the following pictures of the A-10 nose section used for the Terminator Salvation movie.
John told me: "This is the cockpit used for the film. The nose was cut from the fuselage for the studio. It still belongs to the USAF Museum, but it is on loan to us at Pima Air and Space Museum. I didn't get any interior shots, but it is fairly stripped. CGI makes it look like a flyer!"
The nose section belongs to A-10A 77-0262. Info from my Warthog Aircraft Database: 77-0262 (A10-0187) 10th TFW (AR); to AMARC as AC0030 12 Mar 1992; still at AMARC 15 Jan 2008; nose delivered to Albuquerque Studios Jul 2008 for use in movie making
Note the white "AC030" AMARC marking for AC0030 (Aircraft 0030). Full size
Full size
Full size
Proof for the U.S. Air Force serial number. Full size (All photos by John Bezosky)
Today, from Warthog News contributor John Bezosky, Tucson, Arizona, I got the following pictures of the A-10 nose section used for the Terminator Salvation movie.
John told me: "This is the cockpit used for the film. The nose was cut from the fuselage for the studio. It still belongs to the USAF Museum, but it is on loan to us at Pima Air and Space Museum. I didn't get any interior shots, but it is fairly stripped. CGI makes it look like a flyer!"
The nose section belongs to A-10A 77-0262. Info from my Warthog Aircraft Database: 77-0262 (A10-0187) 10th TFW (AR); to AMARC as AC0030 12 Mar 1992; still at AMARC 15 Jan 2008; nose delivered to Albuquerque Studios Jul 2008 for use in movie making
Note the white "AC030" AMARC marking for AC0030 (Aircraft 0030). Full size
Full size
Full size
Proof for the U.S. Air Force serial number. Full size (All photos by John Bezosky)
Terminator Salvation A-10 Toys
That's a "Resistance A-10 Warthog". Playmates Toys wrote: With Air Force pilot Blair Williams at the helm, the A-10 Warthog will play an integral role for the human resistance against the Terminators. Get ready to shoot missiles and drop bombs on the enemies, the fate of the resistance is in your control.
Source
Top Source
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Top Source
Friday, October 30, 2009
A-10s in Terminator Salvation
Please enjoy this awesome movie clip (subtitles in Russian language).
Thanks to Leather for posting this clip on the Warthog Territority Forums.
BTW: Most of them looks more like computer-generated stuff, instead of real A-10 coverage...
Related info:
D-M pilot instructor aids film's authenticity
Kirtland provides Airmen, location for 'Terminator Salvation'
All five Dacian Thunder 2009 A-10Cs identified now
Thanks to two videos, released by USAF on their public main website, the remaining unknown Hogs are identified now. And so, the following five A-10Cs from the 81st FS, 52nd FW, Spangdahlem AB, Germany, participated in Dacian Thunder 2009: 81-0983, 81-0992, 82-0650, 82-0654 (still wrong marked as 81-0654), and 82-0656. Anybody who knows their announced arrival date back at Spang? If yes, German aircraft spotters would be on place on the right time.
Dacian Thunder 2009 videos by USAF
On their public main website, USAF released two video clips of Dacian Thunder 2009:
Dacian Thunder
Dacian Thunder Mission in Romania
Note: To view the videos, please click the refresh button on your browser. I'm still very busy to find out permanent links.
Dacian Thunder
Dacian Thunder Mission in Romania
Note: To view the videos, please click the refresh button on your browser. I'm still very busy to find out permanent links.
442nd Fighter Wing completes ORI
by Maj. David Kurle
442nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
10/30/2009 - WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- After a rigorous operational readiness inspection an Air Combat Command inspector-general team has confirmed that the 442nd Fighter Wing is capable of carrying out its combat mission even though the wing will need to re-accomplish portions of the inspection at a later date.
"Be assured, the IG has confirmed we can build weapons, load weapons and deliver weapons," said 442nd FW Commander, Col. Mark Clemons, to the wing Oct. 29. "I stand proud and so should you."
Team members from the ACC IG spent six days at Whiteman to evaluate the 442nd Fighter Wing's ability to operate, maintain and support its fleet of A-10 Thunderbolt II ground-attack aircraft. The wing exercised for three days in a simulated combat environment fighting a mock war scripted by the IG team.
The wing's reservists prepared for more than 18 months for the inspection, which is an all inclusive examination of every unit in the 442nd.
In addition to numerous combat support deployments, the 442nd Fighter Wing has deployed aircraft, pilots, maintenance specialists and equipment four times to Iraq and Afghanistan since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
The wing's A-10 aircraft provide close air support for ground forces, as well as combat search and rescue, and forward-air-control capabilities.
Source
442nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
10/30/2009 - WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- After a rigorous operational readiness inspection an Air Combat Command inspector-general team has confirmed that the 442nd Fighter Wing is capable of carrying out its combat mission even though the wing will need to re-accomplish portions of the inspection at a later date.
"Be assured, the IG has confirmed we can build weapons, load weapons and deliver weapons," said 442nd FW Commander, Col. Mark Clemons, to the wing Oct. 29. "I stand proud and so should you."
Team members from the ACC IG spent six days at Whiteman to evaluate the 442nd Fighter Wing's ability to operate, maintain and support its fleet of A-10 Thunderbolt II ground-attack aircraft. The wing exercised for three days in a simulated combat environment fighting a mock war scripted by the IG team.
The wing's reservists prepared for more than 18 months for the inspection, which is an all inclusive examination of every unit in the 442nd.
In addition to numerous combat support deployments, the 442nd Fighter Wing has deployed aircraft, pilots, maintenance specialists and equipment four times to Iraq and Afghanistan since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
The wing's A-10 aircraft provide close air support for ground forces, as well as combat search and rescue, and forward-air-control capabilities.
Source
Former 81st Fighter Squadron A-10s still at Lajes
According to Warthog News contributor André Inácio from Portugal, all three ex 81st Fighter Squadron A-10s enroute to CONUS are still at Lajes. Via e-mail, he told me: I don't know when they departure. The tanker left base today, so A10 don't have tanker...
Related info:
Three unmarked 81st Fighter Squadron A-10s left Spangdahlem for CONUS
Related info:
Three unmarked 81st Fighter Squadron A-10s left Spangdahlem for CONUS
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Dacian Thunder 2009 - More official Romanian MoND photos
Additional official imagery, provided by the Romanian Ministry of National Defence (MoND):
Beautiful Romanian female journalist in the cockpit of A-10C 82-0654. (Photo by Cornel Mituţ) Hi-res
(Photo by Cornel Mituţ) Hi-res
(Photo by Cornel Mituţ) Hi-res
(Photo by Cornel Mituţ) Hi-res
(Photo by Cornel Mituţ) Hi-res
(Photo by Cornel Mituţ) Hi-res
(Photo by Cornel Mituţ) Hi-res
Source
Note: Captions will be added.
Beautiful Romanian female journalist in the cockpit of A-10C 82-0654. (Photo by Cornel Mituţ) Hi-res
(Photo by Cornel Mituţ) Hi-res
(Photo by Cornel Mituţ) Hi-res
(Photo by Cornel Mituţ) Hi-res
(Photo by Cornel Mituţ) Hi-res
(Photo by Cornel Mituţ) Hi-res
(Photo by Cornel Mituţ) Hi-res
Source
Note: Captions will be added.
Senior leaders stress partnership during visit to Romania
Released today by 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs:
CAMPIA TURZII, Romania – Gen. Roger Brady, U.S. Air Forces in Europe commander, speaks to U.S. and Romanian airmen and the Romanian press on the flightline of the 71st Air Base Wing here October 28, 2009. General Brady; Mark Gitenstein, U.S. Ambassador to Romania; and Maj. Gen. Ion-Aurel Stancui, chief of staff of the Romanian air force, visited the base during Operation Dacian Thunder. During the combined training exercise, the U.S. Air Force flew about 100 sorties; half of those sorties were flown with the Romanian air force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Benjamin Wilson) Hi-res
CAMPIA TURZII, Romania – Lt. Col. Ronald Steuwe, 81st Fighter Squadron commander, addresses question from the Romanian press after the last day of combined flying exercises in support of Operation Dacian Thunder. Gen. Roger Brady, U.S. Air Forces in Europe commander; Mark Gitenstein, U.S. Ambassador to Romania; and Maj. Gen. Ion-Aurel Stancui, chief of staff of the Romanian air force, visited the base and viewed an aerial demonstration during the operation. During the combined training exercise, the U.S. Air Force flew about 100 sorties; half of those sorties were flown with the Romanian air force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Greg Hignite) Hi-res
CAMPIA TURZII, Romania – Commander Laurian Anastasof, 71st Air Base Wing commandant, exchanges patches with Lt. Col. Ronald Steuwe, 81st Fighter Squadron commander, after the last day of combined flying exercises in support of Operation Dacian Thunder. Gen. Roger Brady, U.S. Air Forces in Europe commander; Mark Gitenstein, U.S. Ambassador to Romania; and Maj. Gen. Ion-Aurel Stancui, chief of staff of the Romanian air force, visited the base and viewed an aerial demonstration during the operation. During the combined training exercise, the U.S. Air Force flew about 100 sorties; half of those sorties were flown with the Romanian air force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Greg Hignite) Hi-res
Source
CAMPIA TURZII, Romania – Gen. Roger Brady, U.S. Air Forces in Europe commander, speaks to U.S. and Romanian airmen and the Romanian press on the flightline of the 71st Air Base Wing here October 28, 2009. General Brady; Mark Gitenstein, U.S. Ambassador to Romania; and Maj. Gen. Ion-Aurel Stancui, chief of staff of the Romanian air force, visited the base during Operation Dacian Thunder. During the combined training exercise, the U.S. Air Force flew about 100 sorties; half of those sorties were flown with the Romanian air force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Benjamin Wilson) Hi-res
CAMPIA TURZII, Romania – Lt. Col. Ronald Steuwe, 81st Fighter Squadron commander, addresses question from the Romanian press after the last day of combined flying exercises in support of Operation Dacian Thunder. Gen. Roger Brady, U.S. Air Forces in Europe commander; Mark Gitenstein, U.S. Ambassador to Romania; and Maj. Gen. Ion-Aurel Stancui, chief of staff of the Romanian air force, visited the base and viewed an aerial demonstration during the operation. During the combined training exercise, the U.S. Air Force flew about 100 sorties; half of those sorties were flown with the Romanian air force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Greg Hignite) Hi-res
CAMPIA TURZII, Romania – Commander Laurian Anastasof, 71st Air Base Wing commandant, exchanges patches with Lt. Col. Ronald Steuwe, 81st Fighter Squadron commander, after the last day of combined flying exercises in support of Operation Dacian Thunder. Gen. Roger Brady, U.S. Air Forces in Europe commander; Mark Gitenstein, U.S. Ambassador to Romania; and Maj. Gen. Ion-Aurel Stancui, chief of staff of the Romanian air force, visited the base and viewed an aerial demonstration during the operation. During the combined training exercise, the U.S. Air Force flew about 100 sorties; half of those sorties were flown with the Romanian air force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Greg Hignite) Hi-res
Source
Louisiana Civic Leaders tour Eglin AFB
by Tech. Sgt. Jeff Walston
917th Wing Public Affairs Office
10/28/2009 - Barksdale AFB, La. -- More than 25 influential civic leaders from the Shreveport/Bossier City area of Louisiana gained first-hand knowledge of operations of the Air Force during a two-day "Civic Leader Tour" flight from Barksdale Air Force Base, La., to Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., on October 21-22, 2009.
Escorted by the 917th Wing Commander Colonel Edmund Walker, the civic leaders flew onboard a KC-135 Stratotanker furnished by the 931st Air Refueling Group, McConnell Air Force Base, Kan., from Barksdale to Eglin, where they were hosted by Colonel Bruce McClintock, commander of the 96th Air Base Wing, Air Armament Center and Air Force Material Command.
The group was comprised of a wide range of civic leaders from the area including business owners, local elected officials, educators, corporate leaders and community organizers.
One of the purposes of civic leader tours such as this one to Eglin, is to create a better understanding in the civilian sector of how Barksdale Airmen and the Air Force as a whole contributes in the national security role to ensure the freedoms we experience today.
During the flight to Eglin, the civic leaders were able to witness A-10 Thunderbolt jets flying up close and personal to the KC-135 for aerial refueling.
Two A-10 Thunderbolts piloted by Lt. Col. Pete Olson, a Regular Air Force instructor pilot working with the 47th Fighter Squadron and Capt. Jason Cobb, instructor pilot, 47th FS, gave the civic leaders an opportunity to see the expertise and professionalism of the 47th FS pilots and crew of the KC-135.
"I liked seeing the broad scope of the Air Force Reserve mission and how all the teams work together," said Doug Rogers. "It's interesting to me to find out how much of the war effort is accomplished by the Reserves."
Once the civic leaders arrived at Eglin, AFB, they spent the next two days touring base facilities and receiving briefings on the mission support capabilities of the 96th ABW.
The first day at Eglin involved a visit to the United States Air Force Armament Museum, where they received a briefing from Master Sgt. Brian Jones, public affairs superintendent at Eglin AFB. After lunch at the Officers Club, the civic leaders enjoyed a Military Working Dog demonstration, a static display and briefing on the MC-130E Combat Talon I at Duke Field and a briefing by Colonel Andy Comtois, vice commander, 919th Special Operations Wing.
After a restful night in a hotel the civic leaders returned to Eglin where they toured the Air Force Research Laboratory Taconi Room and received a briefing by Brian Mitchell on past, present and future war technology produced at Eglin.
One of the highlights of the second day for the civic leaders was the visit to the McKinley Climatic Laboratory, the world's largest environmental testing chamber.
Lynn Shreve, archeological cultural resource manager, briefed the civic leaders at the Artifact Curation Facility about the preservation and documentation of the historical aspects of the 724 square miles Eglin AFB encompasses.
For lunch on the second day at Eglin, civic leaders enjoyed the fine cuisine of the Enlisted Club.
After lunch, Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force (Ret) Jim Binnicker hosted the Louisiana visitors at the Hawthorn House for a briefing about the Air Force Enlisted Village. Director of the Hawthorn House Jennifer Carron and Admissions Coordinator Angela Guimond conducted tours for the civic leaders of the Hawthorn House and its amenities. The primary mission of the Air Force Enlisted Village - a non-profit organization - is to provide the surviving spouses of Air Force retired enlisted members with housing facilities and related services.
A very peaceful flight back to Louisiana wrapped the two-day event. Most slept through the return trip, unlike the day before. Deemed a success from the words of praise, smiles and handshakes as all headed home, it would seem that another opportunity for leaders in our community to better understand the Air Force and the Air Force Reserve had been accomplished.
Source
917th Wing Public Affairs Office
10/28/2009 - Barksdale AFB, La. -- More than 25 influential civic leaders from the Shreveport/Bossier City area of Louisiana gained first-hand knowledge of operations of the Air Force during a two-day "Civic Leader Tour" flight from Barksdale Air Force Base, La., to Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., on October 21-22, 2009.
Escorted by the 917th Wing Commander Colonel Edmund Walker, the civic leaders flew onboard a KC-135 Stratotanker furnished by the 931st Air Refueling Group, McConnell Air Force Base, Kan., from Barksdale to Eglin, where they were hosted by Colonel Bruce McClintock, commander of the 96th Air Base Wing, Air Armament Center and Air Force Material Command.
The group was comprised of a wide range of civic leaders from the area including business owners, local elected officials, educators, corporate leaders and community organizers.
One of the purposes of civic leader tours such as this one to Eglin, is to create a better understanding in the civilian sector of how Barksdale Airmen and the Air Force as a whole contributes in the national security role to ensure the freedoms we experience today.
During the flight to Eglin, the civic leaders were able to witness A-10 Thunderbolt jets flying up close and personal to the KC-135 for aerial refueling.
Two A-10 Thunderbolts piloted by Lt. Col. Pete Olson, a Regular Air Force instructor pilot working with the 47th Fighter Squadron and Capt. Jason Cobb, instructor pilot, 47th FS, gave the civic leaders an opportunity to see the expertise and professionalism of the 47th FS pilots and crew of the KC-135.
"I liked seeing the broad scope of the Air Force Reserve mission and how all the teams work together," said Doug Rogers. "It's interesting to me to find out how much of the war effort is accomplished by the Reserves."
Once the civic leaders arrived at Eglin, AFB, they spent the next two days touring base facilities and receiving briefings on the mission support capabilities of the 96th ABW.
The first day at Eglin involved a visit to the United States Air Force Armament Museum, where they received a briefing from Master Sgt. Brian Jones, public affairs superintendent at Eglin AFB. After lunch at the Officers Club, the civic leaders enjoyed a Military Working Dog demonstration, a static display and briefing on the MC-130E Combat Talon I at Duke Field and a briefing by Colonel Andy Comtois, vice commander, 919th Special Operations Wing.
After a restful night in a hotel the civic leaders returned to Eglin where they toured the Air Force Research Laboratory Taconi Room and received a briefing by Brian Mitchell on past, present and future war technology produced at Eglin.
One of the highlights of the second day for the civic leaders was the visit to the McKinley Climatic Laboratory, the world's largest environmental testing chamber.
Lynn Shreve, archeological cultural resource manager, briefed the civic leaders at the Artifact Curation Facility about the preservation and documentation of the historical aspects of the 724 square miles Eglin AFB encompasses.
For lunch on the second day at Eglin, civic leaders enjoyed the fine cuisine of the Enlisted Club.
After lunch, Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force (Ret) Jim Binnicker hosted the Louisiana visitors at the Hawthorn House for a briefing about the Air Force Enlisted Village. Director of the Hawthorn House Jennifer Carron and Admissions Coordinator Angela Guimond conducted tours for the civic leaders of the Hawthorn House and its amenities. The primary mission of the Air Force Enlisted Village - a non-profit organization - is to provide the surviving spouses of Air Force retired enlisted members with housing facilities and related services.
A very peaceful flight back to Louisiana wrapped the two-day event. Most slept through the return trip, unlike the day before. Deemed a success from the words of praise, smiles and handshakes as all headed home, it would seem that another opportunity for leaders in our community to better understand the Air Force and the Air Force Reserve had been accomplished.
Source
Wing awaits ORI results
Staff Sgt. Joe Embrey, 442nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, loads liquid oxygen onto an A-10 Thunderbolt II from the 442nd Fighter Wing during an operational readiness inspection October 24, 2009, at Whiteman AFB, Missouri. The wing's pilots depend on the liquid oxygen, or LOX, to supply breathing oxygen during flight operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kenny Holston) Hi-res
by Maj. David Kurle
442nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
10/27/2009 - WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- The field exercise portion of the 442nd Fighter Wing's operational readiness inspection ended early in the morning Oct. 27 but the wing is still awaiting its "report card" from the Air Combat Command Inspector General team.
The IG team arrived Oct. 23 to evaluate and validate the Air Force Reserve wing's combat capability, which was followed by three days of field exercises to simulate a wartime environment to test the wing's ability to survive and operate, launch and recover combat A-10 sorties and strike enemy ground targets.
While he didn't yet know the wing's inspection grade, Col. Mark Clemons, 442nd Fighter Wing commander said, "I saw this wing perfom at a level far above any of the exercises we held to prepare for the ORI.
"I saw outstanding motivation, a great sense of humor and a wing that sprinted during the entire inspection and never let up," he said. "We have proven we can execute our mission no matter the magnitude of challenges."
Currently, the ACC inspection team is tabulating and validating the results of the inspection, which are expected to be announced Oct. 29.
This was the wing's first operational readiness inspection since 1997.
Lt. Col. Mike Bever, an A-10 Thunderbolt II pilot in the 303rd Fighter Squadron, heads to the flightline with a positive mental attitude during the 442nd Fighter Wing's October 2009 operational readiness inspection at Whiteman AFB, Missouri. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Kent L. Kagarise) Hi-res
Source
Dacian Thunder 2009 in Romanian news
Dacian Thunder 2009 / Primul "val" de avioane americane a ajuns la Luna
Scris de Emil HĂLĂŞTUAN
Joi, 08 Octombrie 2009 09:52
ZIARUL 21
Primul "val", format din două avioane americane A-10 Thunderbolt, care urmează să participe la exerciţiul de zbor în comun româno-american "Dacian Thunder 2009", au aterizat miercuri, 7 octombrie, la Baza 71 Aeriană Câmpia Turzii. Până în 12 octombrie, data începerii exerciţiului de zbor "Dacian Thunderbolt 2009", la baza aeriană din Câmpia Turzii vor mai ajunge şase aparate de zbor de tip A-10 Thunderbolt.
Ofiţerul pentru relaţii publice al Bazei Aeriene 71 Câmpia Turzii, locotenent-comandorul Marian Dobre, a spus că la acest exerciţiu de zbor, ce se va desfăşura din 12 până în 29 octombrie, aviatorii români vor executa misiuni de acoperire aeriană cu 12 aparate Mig 21 Lancer, iar avioanele americane A-10 Thunderboldt vor simula atacuri aeriene la sol. Elicopterele româneşti IAR 330 SOCAT vor face exerciţii de recuperare a militarilor răniţi pe teatrul de luptă. Dobre a precizat că aviatorii români şi cei americani vor executa misiuni atât separat cât şi împreună. Înainte de încheierea exerciţiului s-ar putea ca avioanele americane A-10 Thunderbolt şi Mig-urile 21 Lancer să fie pilotate de echipaje mixte, alcătuite din aviatori români şi americani, a mai adăugat Dobre.
Cele opt aeronave americane A-10 Thunderboldt, ce vor lua parte la exerciţiul de aviaţie "Dacian Thunderbolt 2009" aparţin forţelor aeriene americane din Europa, dislocate la Baza aeriană de la Spangdahlen, Germania.
Pe lângă cei 250 de militari americani, la exerciţiul "Dacian Thunder 2009" participă peste 300 de militari din bazele aeriene 71 Câmpia Turzii, 90 Bucureşti-Otopeni şi 95, Bacău.
Într-o scurtă declaraţie de presă, locotenent-colonelul Scott Hurrelbrink, director asistent pentru operaţii, la Baza aeriană americană de la Spangdahlen, s-a referit la utilitatea acestui exerciţiu şi la buna colaborare cu aviatorii militari români.
Obiectivul exerciţiului este perfecţionarea nivelului de pregătire şi executare a misiunilor specifice operaţiilor aeriene şi a activităţilor de asigurare a sprijinului acţiunilor de luptă, a mai precizat Marian Dobre. Acesta a spus că exerciţiul care va începe în 12 octombrie este cel de-al doilea din acest an executat în comun cu aviaţia americană dislocată în Europa. Colaborarea dintre Baza 71 Aeriană Câmpia Turzii şi aviatorii americani datează din 2008, când la aeroportul militar de la Luna au mai avut loc două exerciţii comune, executate de piloţi din armatele României şi Statelor Unite ale Americii.
Ultima actualizare (Joi, 08 Octombrie 2009 09:59)
Associated pictures:
Source
Related A-10 pictures, titled "Lupte aeriene romano-americane la Campia Turzii", and released by City News:
Source
Related video from YouTube:
Warthog News contributor Michael Tischer from Germany contributed to this post.
Scris de Emil HĂLĂŞTUAN
Joi, 08 Octombrie 2009 09:52
ZIARUL 21
Primul "val", format din două avioane americane A-10 Thunderbolt, care urmează să participe la exerciţiul de zbor în comun româno-american "Dacian Thunder 2009", au aterizat miercuri, 7 octombrie, la Baza 71 Aeriană Câmpia Turzii. Până în 12 octombrie, data începerii exerciţiului de zbor "Dacian Thunderbolt 2009", la baza aeriană din Câmpia Turzii vor mai ajunge şase aparate de zbor de tip A-10 Thunderbolt.
Ofiţerul pentru relaţii publice al Bazei Aeriene 71 Câmpia Turzii, locotenent-comandorul Marian Dobre, a spus că la acest exerciţiu de zbor, ce se va desfăşura din 12 până în 29 octombrie, aviatorii români vor executa misiuni de acoperire aeriană cu 12 aparate Mig 21 Lancer, iar avioanele americane A-10 Thunderboldt vor simula atacuri aeriene la sol. Elicopterele româneşti IAR 330 SOCAT vor face exerciţii de recuperare a militarilor răniţi pe teatrul de luptă. Dobre a precizat că aviatorii români şi cei americani vor executa misiuni atât separat cât şi împreună. Înainte de încheierea exerciţiului s-ar putea ca avioanele americane A-10 Thunderbolt şi Mig-urile 21 Lancer să fie pilotate de echipaje mixte, alcătuite din aviatori români şi americani, a mai adăugat Dobre.
Cele opt aeronave americane A-10 Thunderboldt, ce vor lua parte la exerciţiul de aviaţie "Dacian Thunderbolt 2009" aparţin forţelor aeriene americane din Europa, dislocate la Baza aeriană de la Spangdahlen, Germania.
Pe lângă cei 250 de militari americani, la exerciţiul "Dacian Thunder 2009" participă peste 300 de militari din bazele aeriene 71 Câmpia Turzii, 90 Bucureşti-Otopeni şi 95, Bacău.
Într-o scurtă declaraţie de presă, locotenent-colonelul Scott Hurrelbrink, director asistent pentru operaţii, la Baza aeriană americană de la Spangdahlen, s-a referit la utilitatea acestui exerciţiu şi la buna colaborare cu aviatorii militari români.
Obiectivul exerciţiului este perfecţionarea nivelului de pregătire şi executare a misiunilor specifice operaţiilor aeriene şi a activităţilor de asigurare a sprijinului acţiunilor de luptă, a mai precizat Marian Dobre. Acesta a spus că exerciţiul care va începe în 12 octombrie este cel de-al doilea din acest an executat în comun cu aviaţia americană dislocată în Europa. Colaborarea dintre Baza 71 Aeriană Câmpia Turzii şi aviatorii americani datează din 2008, când la aeroportul militar de la Luna au mai avut loc două exerciţii comune, executate de piloţi din armatele României şi Statelor Unite ale Americii.
Ultima actualizare (Joi, 08 Octombrie 2009 09:59)
Associated pictures:
Source
Related A-10 pictures, titled "Lupte aeriene romano-americane la Campia Turzii", and released by City News:
Source
Related video from YouTube:
Warthog News contributor Michael Tischer from Germany contributed to this post.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Dacian Thunder 2009 - Official Romanian MoND info
First official info from the Romanian Ministry of National Defence (MoND) about "DACIAN THUNDER 2009" Romanian-American common flight exercise:
Press release No. 353 / 6th October 2009
"DACIAN THUNDER 2009" Romanian-American common flight exercise
The first US flying echelon of A 10 Thunderbolt II to participate in "DACIAN THUNDER 2009" Romanian-American common flight exercise will land Wednesday, October 7, at the 71st Air Base Campia Turzii, starting 1,30 p.m.
More than 250 US soldiers with 8 airplanes A 10 Thunderbolt II and the adequate equipment from the 81FS/52 FW USAFE deployed in Spangdahlem, Germany will participate in "DACIAN THUNDER 2009" exercise to be developed between October 12 and 29, at the 71st Air Base Campia Turzii. The Romanian Air Force Staff will participate with more than 300 soldiers from the 71st Air Base Campia Turzii and the 90th Air Transport Base Otopeni with 12 MiG 21 LanceRs and 4 IAR 330 SOCAT helicopters.
The exercise aims to improve the training level and perform of air operation specific missions and the combat support actions.
Source
Related photos from album "The airplanes' arrival":
The US A-10 Thunderbolt II in "DACIAN THUNDER 2009")- (Photo by Sorin Săftoiu) Hi-res
A-10 81-0992. (Photo by Sorin Săftoiu) Hi-res
A-10 81-0992. (Photo by Sorin Săftoiu) Hi-res
Related photo from album "Aspects from the opening of the exercise":
Joint patrol - U.S. Warthogs and Romanian MiG-21s. (Photo by Marian Dobre) Hi-res
Press release No. 353 / 6th October 2009
"DACIAN THUNDER 2009" Romanian-American common flight exercise
The first US flying echelon of A 10 Thunderbolt II to participate in "DACIAN THUNDER 2009" Romanian-American common flight exercise will land Wednesday, October 7, at the 71st Air Base Campia Turzii, starting 1,30 p.m.
More than 250 US soldiers with 8 airplanes A 10 Thunderbolt II and the adequate equipment from the 81FS/52 FW USAFE deployed in Spangdahlem, Germany will participate in "DACIAN THUNDER 2009" exercise to be developed between October 12 and 29, at the 71st Air Base Campia Turzii. The Romanian Air Force Staff will participate with more than 300 soldiers from the 71st Air Base Campia Turzii and the 90th Air Transport Base Otopeni with 12 MiG 21 LanceRs and 4 IAR 330 SOCAT helicopters.
The exercise aims to improve the training level and perform of air operation specific missions and the combat support actions.
Source
Related photos from album "The airplanes' arrival":
The US A-10 Thunderbolt II in "DACIAN THUNDER 2009")- (Photo by Sorin Săftoiu) Hi-res
A-10 81-0992. (Photo by Sorin Săftoiu) Hi-res
A-10 81-0992. (Photo by Sorin Săftoiu) Hi-res
Related photo from album "Aspects from the opening of the exercise":
Joint patrol - U.S. Warthogs and Romanian MiG-21s. (Photo by Marian Dobre) Hi-res
Deployed Sabers reach out to Romanian community
by Senior Airman Benjamin Wilson
52nd Fighter Wing, Public Affairs
10/27/2009 - CAMPIA TURZII, Romania -- Members of the 52nd Fighter Wing deployed to Campia Turzii, Romania, recently donated their time and money to help renovate a children's community center dedicated to helping local children with their academic studies.
"I think it is awesome to come into an area and provide help for their people," said Master Sgt. Sheryl Monroe, 52nd Communications Squadron first sergeant. "It strengthens community relations and keeps them wanting us to come back and train."
The deployed members provided aesthetic upgrades and school supplies to center. They also hope to raise enough money to donate a computer before they leave.
The center has teachers on staff and works with about 250 families in the local community helping about 50 children with their school work.
Airmen deployed from Spangdahlem were glad to help with the community's efforts to improve their children's quality of life.
"I asked the first sergeant if there would be any special activities happening during the TDY and she told me about this project," said Staff Sgt. Dennis Sawyer, 52nd Equipment Maintenance Squadron. "No matter where you are in the world there are kids in need, and if helping this school out gives them a better future, I am more than happy to help."
The servicemembers are in Romania supporting Operation Dacian Thunder, a combined training exercise with the Romanian air force.
CAMPIA TURZII, Romania – Children from the town of Turda, Romania, smile in front of a static display of an A-10 Thunderbolt II while visiting the 71st Air Base Wing Oct. 26. Members of Spangdalem Air Base deployed in support of Operation Dacian Thunder 2009 explained the parts of the A-10 and let them operate the hose of a fire truck during their visit. The deployed units also donated money and time to help renovate a community center dedicated to helping local children with their academic studies. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Benjamin Wilson) Hi-res
Note: This is A-10C 82-0654, still with wrong serial number markings (AF 81 654).
Source
52nd Fighter Wing, Public Affairs
10/27/2009 - CAMPIA TURZII, Romania -- Members of the 52nd Fighter Wing deployed to Campia Turzii, Romania, recently donated their time and money to help renovate a children's community center dedicated to helping local children with their academic studies.
"I think it is awesome to come into an area and provide help for their people," said Master Sgt. Sheryl Monroe, 52nd Communications Squadron first sergeant. "It strengthens community relations and keeps them wanting us to come back and train."
The deployed members provided aesthetic upgrades and school supplies to center. They also hope to raise enough money to donate a computer before they leave.
The center has teachers on staff and works with about 250 families in the local community helping about 50 children with their school work.
Airmen deployed from Spangdahlem were glad to help with the community's efforts to improve their children's quality of life.
"I asked the first sergeant if there would be any special activities happening during the TDY and she told me about this project," said Staff Sgt. Dennis Sawyer, 52nd Equipment Maintenance Squadron. "No matter where you are in the world there are kids in need, and if helping this school out gives them a better future, I am more than happy to help."
The servicemembers are in Romania supporting Operation Dacian Thunder, a combined training exercise with the Romanian air force.
CAMPIA TURZII, Romania – Children from the town of Turda, Romania, smile in front of a static display of an A-10 Thunderbolt II while visiting the 71st Air Base Wing Oct. 26. Members of Spangdalem Air Base deployed in support of Operation Dacian Thunder 2009 explained the parts of the A-10 and let them operate the hose of a fire truck during their visit. The deployed units also donated money and time to help renovate a community center dedicated to helping local children with their academic studies. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Benjamin Wilson) Hi-res
Note: This is A-10C 82-0654, still with wrong serial number markings (AF 81 654).
Source
Some A-10s caught at D-M October 27, 2009
Warthog News contributor Ned Harris from United States took the following pictures:
A-10 79-0120 from the 47th Fighter Squadron, 917th Wing, landing at Davis-Monthan AFB October 27, 2009. The aircraft is currrently based at D-M as part of the ANG/AFRC Test Center. (Photo by Ned Harris)
A-10 81-0954 from the 47th Fighter Squadron, 917th Wing, landing at Davis-Monthan AFB October 27, 2009. The aircraft is currently based at D-M as part of the ANG/AFRC Test Center and is carrying a Litening targeting pod. (Photo by Ned Harris)
A-10 80-0159 with Sniper Pod landing at Davis-Monthan AFB, October 27, 2009. (Photo by Ned Harris)
A-10 79-0120 from the 47th Fighter Squadron, 917th Wing, landing at Davis-Monthan AFB October 27, 2009. The aircraft is currrently based at D-M as part of the ANG/AFRC Test Center. (Photo by Ned Harris)
A-10 81-0954 from the 47th Fighter Squadron, 917th Wing, landing at Davis-Monthan AFB October 27, 2009. The aircraft is currently based at D-M as part of the ANG/AFRC Test Center and is carrying a Litening targeting pod. (Photo by Ned Harris)
A-10 80-0159 with Sniper Pod landing at Davis-Monthan AFB, October 27, 2009. (Photo by Ned Harris)
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
81st FS conducts combined training with Romanian air force
CAMPIA-TURZII, Romania -- An 81st Fighter Squadron pilot prepares to shoot the A-10 Thunderbolt II's 30 mm seven-barrel Gatling gun during training at a range here October 22, 2009. Precise weapons delivery is one of the 81st FS' priorities while training here, as pilots are able to utilize many of the A-10s capabilities. "This deployment offers tremendous training opportunities for an A-10 squadron," said Lt. Col. Ronald Stuewe, 81st FS commander. "We plan on maximizing the events that are difficult to obtain from home station – low altitude, chaff and flare employment, and basic weapons delivery. The potential ability to utilize our Data-Link (a computer network for communication between aircraft) will be critical in the European Command Area of Responsibility and will truly allow the squadron to train like we fight." (U.S. Air Force photo by 2nd Lt. Kathleen Polesnak) Hi-res
Note: This could be A-10C 81-0983 with Sniper XR targeting pod on station 10.
by 2nd Lt. Kathleen Polesnak
52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
10/27/2009 - CAMPIA TURZII, Romania -- The 81st Fighter Squadron has teamed up with the Romanian Air Force to conduct training and exchange perspectives to help boost mission capabilities and foster collaboration among NATO partners.
About 250 Airmen and five A-10 Thunderbolt IIs from the 52nd Fighter Wing are part of Dacian Thunder, a combined training exercise with the Romanian air force, aimed at enhancing both countries' ability to conduct combined search and rescue operations, air-to-air and air-to-ground sorties, and weapons delivery.
So far, the squadron has completed more than 70 sorties, about 20 of which have been in conjunction with Romanian air force assets, including Super Puma helicopters and MiG-21s.
"We're very excited to be here," said Lt. Col. Ronald Stuewe, 81st FS commander, "not just for our training aspect - which is considerable - but our ability to engage in work with our NATO partners - with the Romanians."
"This deployment offers tremendous training opportunities for an A-10 squadron," Colonel Stuewe added. "We plan on maximizing the events that are difficult to obtain from home station - low altitude, chaff and flare employment, and basic weapons delivery."
This includes the A-10-C's Situational Awareness Data Link, a computer network that connects pilots to each other and ground forces making weapons delivery a more accurate, efficient process.
"The training has been outstanding because we've been able to utilize the full capabilities of our aircraft," said Capt. David Befort, an 81st FS pilot.
Besides being able to flex all the A-10's muscles, the experience of flying over new terrain is also exciting, Colonel Stuewe said.
"On the flying side, the countryside is absolutely beautiful. It's a very nice time of year - the trees are turning, there's snow on the mountains and there's beautiful terrain in the valleys," he said.
CAMPIA-TURZII, Romania -- A-10C 82-0650 from the 81st Fighter Squadron stands ready on the flightline here October 22, 2009, for an early-morning take-off. The 81st FS conducted more than 100 sorties during Dacian Thunder, a month-long combined exercise with the Romanian air force focused on enhancing their ability to execute combat search and rescue, air-to-air and air-to-ground, and weapons delivery missions. (U.S. Air Force photo by 2nd Lt. Kathleen Polesnak) Hi-res
Note: Sniper XR targeting pod on station 10.
Source
Dear Warthog News readers:
At the moment, I'm very busy to get some more online info about CAMPIA-TURZII, Romania.
First hit: 71st Airbase "General Emanoil Ionescu"
Second hit: ROAF Air Bases Map by Scramble
Note:
This post will be further updated.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Arkansas Hogs caught at Nellis during GREEN FLAG - West 10-01
At Nellis AFB, Nevada, Warthog News contributor Bruce Smith from United States took some interesting shots of A-10s from the 184th Fighter Squadron, 188th Fighter Wing, Fort Smith, Arkansas, participating in GREEN FLAG - West 10-01. Special thanks to Bruce for his permission to post his shots exclusively on my blog.
Covered are:
A-10C 78-0613 (ex 118th FS, 103rd FW, Connecticut ANG)
A-10C 78-0621 (ex 118th FS, 103rd FW, Connecticut ANG)
A-10C 78-0626 (ex 131st FS, 104th FW, Massachusetts ANG)
A-10C 78-0638 (ex 118th FS, 103rd FW, Connecticut ANG)
A-10C 78-0639 (ex 118th FS, 103rd FW, Connecticut ANG)
A-10C 78-0642 (ex 131st FS, 104th FW, Massachusetts ANG)
A-10C 78-0646 (ex 118th FS, 103rd FW, Connecticut ANG)
A-10C 78-0649 (ex 131st FS, 104th FW, Massachusetts ANG)
A-10C 78-0696 (ex 131st FS, 104th FW, Massachusetts ANG)
A-10C 79-0129
Please Note: Because AN/AAQ-28 LITENING AT targeting pod is visible on station 10, these aircraft must be A-10Cs. The A-10C has the ability to carry this pod also on stations 2/10, thus once again making available stations 3/9 for the AGM-65 Maverick. This post will further updated by loadout interpretations.
A-10 78-0613 with full new unit markings. (Photo by Bruce Smith) Full size
A-10 78-0621 with full new unit markings. (Photo by Bruce Smith) Full size
A-10 78-0626 still without FS tailcode. (Photo by Bruce Smith) Full size
A-10 78-0638 still without FS tailcode and new tailband only at left. (Photo by Bruce Smith) Full size
A-10 78-0639. (Photo by Bruce Smith) Full size
A-10 78-0642 with full new unit markings. (Photo by Bruce Smith) Full size
A-10 78-0646 still without FS tailcode, but with former CT colors. (Photo by Bruce Smith) Full size
A-10 78-0649 still without FS tailcode. (Photo by Bruce Smith) Full size
A-10 78-0696 still without FS tailcode. (Photo by Bruce Smith) Full size
A-10 79-0129 with full new unit markings. (Photo by Bruce Smith) Full size
Related info:
188th Fighter Wing scheduled to deploy for OEF to Afghanistan
In the news: 188th Fighter Wing in GREEN FLAG - West 10-01
184th Fighter Squadron A-10Cs participating in GREEN FLAG - West 10-01
Covered are:
A-10C 78-0613 (ex 118th FS, 103rd FW, Connecticut ANG)
A-10C 78-0621 (ex 118th FS, 103rd FW, Connecticut ANG)
A-10C 78-0626 (ex 131st FS, 104th FW, Massachusetts ANG)
A-10C 78-0638 (ex 118th FS, 103rd FW, Connecticut ANG)
A-10C 78-0639 (ex 118th FS, 103rd FW, Connecticut ANG)
A-10C 78-0642 (ex 131st FS, 104th FW, Massachusetts ANG)
A-10C 78-0646 (ex 118th FS, 103rd FW, Connecticut ANG)
A-10C 78-0649 (ex 131st FS, 104th FW, Massachusetts ANG)
A-10C 78-0696 (ex 131st FS, 104th FW, Massachusetts ANG)
A-10C 79-0129
Please Note: Because AN/AAQ-28 LITENING AT targeting pod is visible on station 10, these aircraft must be A-10Cs. The A-10C has the ability to carry this pod also on stations 2/10, thus once again making available stations 3/9 for the AGM-65 Maverick. This post will further updated by loadout interpretations.
A-10 78-0613 with full new unit markings. (Photo by Bruce Smith) Full size
A-10 78-0621 with full new unit markings. (Photo by Bruce Smith) Full size
A-10 78-0626 still without FS tailcode. (Photo by Bruce Smith) Full size
A-10 78-0638 still without FS tailcode and new tailband only at left. (Photo by Bruce Smith) Full size
A-10 78-0639. (Photo by Bruce Smith) Full size
A-10 78-0642 with full new unit markings. (Photo by Bruce Smith) Full size
A-10 78-0646 still without FS tailcode, but with former CT colors. (Photo by Bruce Smith) Full size
A-10 78-0649 still without FS tailcode. (Photo by Bruce Smith) Full size
A-10 78-0696 still without FS tailcode. (Photo by Bruce Smith) Full size
A-10 79-0129 with full new unit markings. (Photo by Bruce Smith) Full size
Related info:
188th Fighter Wing scheduled to deploy for OEF to Afghanistan
In the news: 188th Fighter Wing in GREEN FLAG - West 10-01
184th Fighter Squadron A-10Cs participating in GREEN FLAG - West 10-01
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