A Russian-built 
SA-15B air defense radar arrived at Eielson AFB, Alaska, earlier this month to provide realistic surface-to-air threat training for Air Force pilots. The tracked, mobile radar, codenamed “Gauntlet” by NATO, will join a network of other threat anti-aircraft systems, such as the older SA-2 and the more sophisticated SA-10, at the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex supporting Red Flag-Alaska exercises. The range can simulate high-density integrated air defense networks, creating a realistic and challenging environment for aircrew. The SA-15 arrived at Eielson by rail, April 21. Its presence will further enhance range capabilities and give aircrews the opportunity to encounter advanced threat systems before they would have to face them in real-world situations. (Eielson report by A1C Yash Rojas)
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.