The 460th Space Wing, headquartered at Buckley AFB, Colo., last week activated the 11th Space Warning Squadron at Schriever AFB, Colo. The new unit, which replaces Det. 1 of the 460th Space Operations Group, will operate the new Space-Based Infrared System satellite payload. Under a former life, the 11th SWS operated the Attack and Launch Early Report to Theater (ALERT) system that drew data from the Defense Support Program satellites, which SBIRS is designed to replace. (Report by SSgt Sanjay Allen)
A half-dozen pilots from one of the Air Force’s premier F-16 units, the 20th Fighter Wing at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., have been awarded one of the service’s highest decorations for their role in Operation Midnight Hammer, the June 2025 strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities.