Airmen from Air Combat Command and Air National Guard combat communications and tactical communications units were among the first to set up operations in the Gulf Region. Members of the 83rd Comm Squadron, Langley AFB, Va., arrived at Keesler AFB, Miss., with mobile satellite communications systems on Aug. 28. In all, the comm troops deployed to six sites. The 5th Combat Comm Group, Robins AFB, Ga., sent 60 airmen and three SatCom packages to Mississippi. The 3rd CCG, Tinker AFB, Okla., sent 100 airment and three SatCom systems to Louisiana. ANG units from Alexandria and Hammond, La., and Meridian, Miss. Provided comm and air traffic control teams.
The Air Force won’t finalize a new deal with Boeing for another 75 KC-46 tankers until some of the “deficiencies” with the refueler are resolved, new Vice Chief of Staff Gen. John D. Lamontagne told lawmakers March 4.