The airmen of the 2nd Bomb Wing at Barksdale AFB, La., on Jan. 13 completed a one-week, no-notice nuclear surety inspection and performed well. In fact, 26 airmen and 23 teams were recognized for superior performance. “Congratulations on another extremely successful inspection,” said Col. Steven Basham, 2nd Bomb Wing commander, of the demanding evaluation his airmen faced. He added, “Today we received the same exceptional praise for our professionalism, mission readiness, and ability to overcome any obstacle.” NSIs gauge a wing’s ability to execute its nuclear mission safely, securely, and reliably. “We’ve asked a lot of you and you continue to not only deliver but to shine,” said Gen. Will Fraser, Air Combat Command boss, of the Barksdale airmen. On Jan. 19, the 90th Missile Wing at F.E. Warren AFB, Wyo., was declared mission ready after its no-notice NSI. (Barksdale report by SrA. Alyssa C. Miles)
A semi-autonomous Collaborative Combat Aircraft drone shot down an air-to-air target in a Dec. 8 test supported by the U.S. Air Force, a notable milestone in the development of the loyal wingman-type drones that will join the fleets of the USAF, other American services, and allies and adversaries.
