An MQ-9 Reaper assigned to the 29th Attack Squadron crashed on final approach at Holloman AFB, N.M., last week, according to base officials. The remotely piloted aircraft, operated by one of Air Combat Command’s RPA flying training units, had just completed a local training mission when the incident occurred on Oct. 7. There were no injuries or damage to private property, according to a base release. A board will convene to investigate the cause of the accident. This is one of several RPA mishaps at Holloman since its schoolhouse began operations in September 2009.
The Air Force is conducting a detailed investigation of environmental hazards at ICBM bases as part of its broad study of cancer risks at the facilities. There is an improved understanding of the environment and factors that can affect the issue, as well as better technology and “access both to…