During the Combat Power Exercise 388th and 419th FWs launched 35 F-35 Lightning IIs within a condensed period of time
Taken by Aaron Rumfallo from RampCheck Global on Nov. 19, the interesting photos in this post show Hill’s 388th and 419th Fighter Wings conducting a combat power exercise during which the F-35 has done is first ever elephant walk. During the drill the units launched 35 Lightning IIs within a condensed period of time.
As the Air Force’s only combat mission ready F-35A units, the 388th and 419th FWs must be prepared to launch any number of aircraft to support the national defense mission at a moment’s notice.
“We are ready to fight tonight, and exercising with multiple squadrons of F-35s can demonstrate our ability to defeat potential adversaries wherever they may arise,” said Maj. Caleb Guthmann, 34th Fighter Squadron assistant director of operations and exercise project officer.
The wings fly between 30-60 sorties per day from Hill’s flight line. During the exercise, they launched roughly the same number of sorties, and aircraft took off in 20 to 40-second intervals.
Launching aircraft from multiple squadrons simultaneously presents various challenges and allows the wings to evaluate the capabilities of maintenance professionals, as well as pilots and command and control teams.
According to the News Release, Hill AFB is slated to be home to three F-35 fighter squadrons with a total of 78 aircraft by the end of 2019.
The active duty 388th FW and Air Force Reserve 419th FW will fly and maintain the jets in a Total Force partnership, which capitalizes on the strength of both components.
This print is available in multiple sizes from AircraftProfilePrints.com – CLICK HERE TO GET YOURS. F-35A Lightning II 56th OG, 61st FS, LF/12-5050 / 2014
Photo credit: Aaron Rumfallo / RampCheck Global
Artwork courtesy of AircraftProfilePrints.com
