Airmen assigned to Kadena AB, Japan, are now able to use the base’s newly refurbished combat arms firing range. Its opening means that Kadena airmen no longer have to transfer from the 18th Security Force Squadron’s classroom on base to the Marine Corps range on Camp Hansen. “It’s definitely more convenient,” said TSgt. Andy Pape, 18th SFS noncommissioned officer in charge of combat arms. “We’re a one-stop shop now. [Airmen] come here and receive the classroom portion, go straight to the firing line, and they can return back to their unit or job site in a timely manner.” Approximately 100 airmen are expected to pass through the range each week for weapons qualification prior to deployments. Over the next several months, workers will install a new ventilation system, self-sufficient weapons vault, and concrete floor to complete the renovation. (Kadena report by A1C Maeson L. Elleman)
The Chinese spy balloon may have popped, but funding to protect against similar threats is inflating, according to the Department of Defense. The high-attitude surveillance balloon that traversed the U.S. in late January and early February prompted last-minute additions to the Pentagon's budget of around $90 million for measures to…