The 562nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron at the Warner Robins Air Logistics Center in Georgia has just received its AS-9100 certification, following a nine-month process that ensures the unit meets international standards. “It’s a major advantage to us when it comes to marketing for work,” said Mike Doubleday, deputy squadron director. With one squadron certified, the ALC expects others in its 402nd Maintenance Wing to follow, starting with three more squadrons by next fall. Currently, the 562nd AMXS performs about half the maintenance, overhaul and repair work done on the C-17 airlifter, with the other half done at prime contractor Boeing’s San Antonio facility. Col. John Bukowinski, commander of the ALC’s 402nd Aircraft Maintenance Group, said he hopes to get more workload now, adding, “We have the facilities for it.” (Robins report by Wayne Crenshaw)
The Air Force could conduct an operation like Israel's successful air campaign against Iran's nuclear sites, military leadership and air defenses, but readiness issues would make it risky, airpower experts said. Limited spare parts and training, low mission capable rates and few flying hours would put a drag on USAF's…