F-22s from JB Pearl-Harbor, Hickam, Hawaii, and a C-17 loaded with everything needed to support the jets recently flew a rapid-deployment demonstration to Andersen AFB, Guam. “The ability to launch F-22s to a nontraditional location with a complement of additional pilots, embedded maintenance, as well as fuel and munitions, allows for unprecedented flexibility,” said Lt. Col. David Eaglin, Pacific Air Forces operations and power projection boss, in a release. This “Rapid Raptor” iteration was the fourth in series of trials aimed at refining the ability to deploy a small force in three days and immediately begin flying operations. “This concept embodies the fundamental tenets of air power: speed, flexibility, and surprise,” said Eaglin. “Rapid Raptor, once operationalized … will provide us a much greater capability to swiftly respond in support of security and stability in the region,” he added. PACAF flew a Rapid Raptor between its bases in Alaska back in April.
Unit commanders are being told to separate service members who can’t shave their cheeks and chin for medical reasons for more than a year, according to new guidance from Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.
