The Air Force’s newest tactical intelligence systems squadron reached full operational capability on March 31, six months ahead of schedule. The 28th Intelligence Squadron at Hurlburt Field, Fla., is a geographically separated unit that is part of the 655th Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Group at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio. The new squadron, which is the first Reserve tactical systems operator squadron, is tasked with training Total Force integrated personnel to provide analysis for special operations personnel, according to an Air Force Reserve Command release. This squadron specializes on the U-28A turboprop, manned surveillance aircraft. The squadron’s parent group stood up in October 2012 with 38 people, but has since grown to include 11 classic associate squadrons in six states with more than 1,000 people. Next year, the group will add three more squadrons, according to AFRC. The next squadron in the group expected to reach full operational capability is the 49th Intelligence Squadron at Offutt AFB, Neb., which focuses on the RC-135.
The last remaining T-1 Jayhawk at JBSA-Randolph, Texas, took its final flight to the "Boneyard" at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., on July 15. The 99th Flying Training Squadron will train pilots using T-6 and simulator until it gets T-7 Red Hawk in fiscal 2026.