New E-3 Intelligence Course Graduates First Class

The first class of signals intelligence analysts recently graduated from USAF’s new E-3 Intelligence Initial Qualification Course at Tinker AFB, Okla., according to a base release. “This is the first time we’re going to have an E-3-specific qualification training course,” said Lt. Col. Jeffrey Jennings, commander of the 552nd Air Control Wing’s Operations Support Squadron. “The advantage now is that you have all your intel operators with the same training across the board.” Previously, initial intelligence qualification courses in the E-3 AWACs field were taught at Tinker; Kadena AB, Japan; and JB Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska. The course is now centralized at Tinker and is mandatory for intelligence units that offer direct support to the E-3 weapon system.“So now if we have someone that’s assigned from here to either one of those other bases, they don’t have to be retrained,” added Jennings. Five airmen from the 552nd OSS were the first to pass through the new 132-hour (or 78 hours for non-signals training specialists) course, graduating Oct. 21, states the release. Material includes intelligence sourcing and methods; threats and counter-tactics; aerodynamic, electromagnetic, and electronic warfare principles; intelligence support to unit mission planning; debriefing and reporting; and the E-3 operational roles, missions, and equipment.