Davis-Monthan AFB, Ariz., has deployed more than 1,200 people and nearly 600 tons of cargo this year, shattering previous deployment records, according to a base release. Airmen from every Active Duty unit on base have deployed in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve, Operation Freedom Sentinel, Operation Inherent Resolve, and Operation Resolute Support. Airmen and 12 A-10C Thunderbolts from the 355th Fighter Wing were latest to return home in August from the first theater security Package to Europe. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) congratulated the base and its airmen in a written statement. “The pace and scope of operations supported by service members from D-M have proven the versatility of its mission set, and the resiliency of the men and women who call the base home,” he said.
As Air Force leaders consider concepts of operations for Collaborative Combat Aircraft, sustainment in the field—and easing that support by using standard parts and limiting variants—should be a key consideration, according to a new study from AFA's Mitchell Institute of Aerospace Studies.