A Mississippi air base now is engaged in training international military pilots, with some 32 students from 17 countries, reports a base release. At Columbus Air Force Base, there are three foreign programs: A 12-month course provides military students from Italy, Japan, Nigeria, Portugal, and Singapore the same type specialized undergraduate pilot training as USAF pilot trainees undergo; a 10-month aviation leadership course prepares students for follow-on aircraft in their home country; and a five-month Polish Pilot Program trains Poland’s pilots to fly the F-16, using the T-38C trainer.
President Donald Trump signed legislation reopening the federal government late Nov. 12, ending the longest shutdown in U.S. history. The move sets the stage for tens of thousands of defense civilians to return to work and guarantees troops will be paid in a few days’ time.


