The 306th Intelligence Squadron completed a transition from Beale AFB, Calif., to Will Rogers ANGB, Okla., on March 6. The move brings into physical proximity the Active Duty ISR training mission for Special Operations Forces airborne analysts with members of the Oklahoma ANG’s 137th Special Operations Wing who fly the aircraft. The 306th IS gained deep operational experience with the MC-12W aircraft while it was stationed at Beale. The fleet of 13 ISR aircraft was moved to Will Rogers starting in 2015, and now the squadron is following the airplanes to a new home.
While the Pentagon has signaled its intent to scale technology, field new systems faster, and work more with nontraditional vendors, a new report identifies persistent manufacturing capacity, resourcing, workforce, and modernization challenges that could hinder its ability to deliver on those goals.