Category: Aviation

Source: United States Air Force

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —  

Air Force Reservists in space-related career fields interested in volunteering for the U.S. Space Force in a fulltime capacity can expect the application window to open June 1–Nov. 30, 2024.

This transfer option is part of the Space Force Personnel Management Act (PMA), approved by Congress and signed into law as part of the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act.

When fully implemented, the PMA will enable the Space Force to create a new model of service that integrates active-component Guardians and Air Force Reservists serving in space-focused career fields into a unified service that offers both full- and part-time service options.

“This is an important first step toward fully integrating critical space expertise from the Reserve into our force,” said Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman. “We’ve been serving side-by-side together, supporting the same mission, for longer than the Space Force has existed. I’m excited to officially call the teammates who decide to transfer Guardians.”

Air Force Reservists who hold the below Air Force Specialty Codes are eligible to apply for transfer into the Space Force in full-time capacity:

Officers: 13S – Space Operations, 17D – Cyberspace Operations, 14N – Intelligence, 62E – Developmental Engineer, 63A – Acquisition Manager, and 61X – Scientist. Officers selected from the 6X career field will re-core to a 62E or 63A since Space Force does not maintain that career specialty.

Enlisted: 1C6 – Space Systems Operations, 1N0 – Intelligence, 1N1 – Imagery Analysis, 1N2 – Sigint, 1N3 – Cryptologic Language Analyst, 1N4 – Network Intelligence Analysis, 1N8 – Targeting Analyst, 1D7X1 – Cyber Defense Operations, 1D7X2 – Spectrum Operations Technician, and 1D7X3 – Cable and Antennae Defense Operations.

“The Space Force is about to integrate some of the most talented space operators,” said Chief of the Air force Reserve and Air force Reserve Command Commander Lt. Gen. John Healy. “I have no doubt they will be key to advancing security in the space domain.”

In time, the Air Force Reserve, like the Air Force, will no longer maintain space operations as career fields, meaning Reservists with 13S and 1C6 specialties must transfer to the Space Force in either a full- or part-time position, or re-train under a different Air Force Specialty Code.

Application windows for Air Force Reservists interested in transferring to the Space Force in a part-time capacity are expected to open in 2026 once policies, processes and systems are established. The PMA does not currently apply to space units and personnel currently resident in the Air National Guard; however, Guard members could expect a similar process to their Reserve counterparts after authorized and appropriate legal and policy changes.
Interested Air Force Reservists can apply via MyVector and can access additional application details and requirements on the Space Force Transfer page.

Source: United States Air Force

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas (AFNS) —  

Air Force officials have selected 5,500 technical sergeants for promotion to master sergeant out of 29,497 eligible for a selection rate of 18.65% in the 24E7 promotion cycle, which includes supplemental promotion opportunities. 
 
The average overall score for those selected was 390.1. Selectees’ average time in grade was 4.32 years and time in service was 13.95 years. 
 
The promotion list is available on the Air Force Personnel Center public website. Airmen can access their score notices on the virtual Military Personnel Flight via the AFPC Secure page. 
 
For more information about Air Force personnel programs, visit the AFPC public website. 

 

Source: United States Air Force

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —  

The U.S. Air Force released the Fiscal Year 2024 Selective Retention Bonus list, effective Oct. 1. The FY24 SRB program consists of 73 Air Force Specialty Codes, and none were removed from last year’s program.

If an Airman’s AFSC is included in the FY24 list, they are eligible for a SRB. Since no FY23 SRB-eligible career fields were removed in the FY24 SRB offering, Airmen in career fields identified on the FY23 SRB list remain eligible to reenlist or extend and accept a bonus until Sept. 30.

The SRB program serves as a retention tool, targeting experienced enlisted personnel in critical career fields, particularly those with lower manning or retention rates. Additionally, specialties involving extensive initial skills training and stringent qualification requirements are considered. A bonus may be received either in partial payments or as a lump sum upfront. An update to policy now enables the maximum bonus allowable per zone to be up to $180,000, an increase of $80,000 over previous years, with a career cap set at $360,000.

Further details regarding the fiscal year 2024 SRB program can be found in the Air Force Selective Retention Bonus Listing available on myFSS, using the keyword “Selective Retention Bonus Program.” General eligibility criteria for the Selective Retention Bonus are outlined in Department of the Air Force Instruction 36-2606, Reenlistment and Extension of Enlistment in the United States Air Force, specifically Chapters 3-6.

As stated, in accordance with DAFI 36-2606, paragraph 4.2, any reenlistment or extension made prior to April 4, 2023, cannot be annulled solely to qualify for the bonus.

Corresponding with the Air Force’s FY24 SRB announcement, the Department of the Air Force also announced an update to DAFI 36-2606. The update gives Airmen greater flexibility in determining when they decide to reenlist, provides greater options while reenlisting and expands SRB eligibility to more Airmen.

Airmen are now allowed to reenlist up to 12 months before their expiration term of service giving them more time to decide to reenlist. The change also opens the pool of those eligible to receive selective retention bonuses while maximizing the amount they receive.

Additionally, the department updated its obligated service cap from 72 months to 96 months. The change not only allows Airmen to maximize the amount received from eligible retention bonuses, but also allows Airmen in any AFSC flexibility in their reenlistment contract.

For additional information on the FY24 SRB list, contact a local Military Personnel Flight, Career Development section.

Source: United States Air Force

EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. (AFNS) —  

Source: United States Air Force

GDYNIA, Poland (AFNS) —  

NATO‘s exercise Astral Knight 2024 concluded May 18 in Gdynia, demonstrating joint force interoperability and strategic readiness between U.S. forces and NATO allies. The exercise allowed the incorporation of the Special Warfare Teaming Concept, involving the 2nd Air Support Operations Squadron from Vilseck, Germany; the 57th Rescue Squadron from Aviano, Italy; and members of Polish special forces.

The exercise emphasized United States Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa’s commitment to agile combat employment strategies, integrating advanced sensor technology and refining multinational tactical operations designed to enhance movement, maneuverability and security across NATO territories.

Throughout the training in Gdynia, the special warfare teams, comprising of tactical air control party members and pararescuemen, demonstrated the effectiveness of their combined operations. These operations are aimed at ensuring aircrews and Airmen are well prepared to deliver lethal combat power and conduct precise recovery operations in contested environments.

“Our presence here at Astral Knight 24 aimed to refine and test the Special Warfare Teaming strategy,” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Phonchai Hansen, 2 ASOS flight chief of Alpha Flight. “By combining our TACP capabilities with the expert medical and recovery skills of the PJs, we’ve created a dynamic force capable of addressing multifaceted threat scenarios effectively.”

The exercise featured simulated, dynamic targeting missions and personnel recovery drills, during which TACPs and PJs executed coordinated responses to simulated threats. One of the scenarios included a pilot emergency ejection from an F-16 Fighting Falcon and required immediate extraction from a hostile environment, testing the cohesion and interoperability of the newly formed teams.

“The integration of TACPs and PJs into a cohesive unit allows us to leverage our respective strengths,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. John Miller, 2 ASOS flight commander of Alpha Flight. “This exercise effectively assessed the current state of Air Force Special Warfare Teaming, allowing us to inform the development of the special warfare enterprise.”

This year’s Astral Knight also focused on testing and improving joint operational tactics, involving not only U.S. forces but also enhancing cooperation with Polish military units and other NATO partners. The seamless collaboration forged stronger alliances and demonstrated NATO’s capability to defend its members against any threat.

Source: United States Air Force

CREECH AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. (AFNS) —  

Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force David Flosi and the Honorable Alex Wagner, assistant secretary of the Air Force for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, toured both Nellis and Creech Air Force Bases, May 7.

Nellis AFB, located in the northeast Las Vegas Valley, is renowned for advanced air combat training, weapons and tactics development, and aggressor training. Creech AFB, nestled in the Nevada desert, is the premier installation for remotely piloted aircraft operations. 

Flosi and Wagner witnessed the daily operations, training exercises, and innovations driving Air Force capabilities forward. From interacting with maintenance crews ensuring the airworthiness of cutting-edge aircraft to engaging with remotely piloted aircraft operators conducting precision missions, every encounter offered invaluable insights into the dynamic landscape of modern warfare. 

However, beyond the operational aspects, such visits serve another critical purpose – that of listening. Flosi and Wagner had the opportunity to engage in candid discussions with airmen of all ranks, understanding their concerns, aspirations, and suggestions. These conversations form the bedrock of informed decision-making, ensuring that policies and initiatives resonate with the realities faced by those on the ground. 

In visiting both Southern Nevada air force bases, the two Department of the Air Force officials underscored a commitment to understanding the needs, challenges, and triumphs of the airmen who serve on the front lines of defense. Additionally, it demonstrates that the Air Force is taking significant steps in reoptimizing for the Great Power Competition. 

The Great Power Competition refers to the strategic rivalry and competition between major global powers for influence, resources, and dominance in various spheres, including political, economic, military, and technological domains. Historically, it has often been used to describe the dynamics between powerful nations seeking to assert their interests on the world stage.

The character of war has changed; we are faced with aggressive challenges in a rapidly evolving battlespace,” Flosi said. “The Air Force is adapting to counter threats like the PRC’s military advancements and unconventional tactics across all domains. To achieve this, we are building a more ready and unified force, prioritizing agile and rapid response, while emphasizing mission readiness over functional competence.”

“Change is a major priority in preparing the total force for the future fight. Since assuming his position, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David W. Allvin has focused on his Case for Change message, and these visits from Department of the Air Force leadership demonstrate his continued commitment to that message. 

“Today, a new key inflection point is upon us,” Allvin said in a message to Airmen. “We cannot afford to be complacent, holding on to outdated structures. The Air Force built for the previous era is no longer optimized for the current strategic landscape. History has shown that we can successfully navigate these turning points — now is the time to do so again. Our motivation is crystal clear: change is not an option but a necessity. We must adapt to effectively demonstrate our readiness and capability to deter, and, if required, to prevail in conflict.” 

Leadership has made it clear: the Air Force must adapt to a new era of competition and must not settle into business as usual. When Creech obtained Installation Command Authority from Nellis in 2019, the bases maintained their autonomy and carried on with their own identity. This does not mean, however, that one cannot rely upon the other in any contingency. During his visit to each installation, Flosi emphasized the need to work together and maintain readiness. 

“We need to all understand what it means to be an Airman in the Profession of Arms,” Flosi said. “The sense of teamwork we all share, and a sharp focus on our mission as Airmen, are what make us part of a winning team. We must also maintain a high state of readiness, both personally and professionally.”

Furthermore, these visits strengthen bonds not only between military leadership and government officials but also among the Airmen themselves. By witnessing the solidarity, professionalism, and camaraderie that permeate every aspect of base life, Flosi and Wagner confirmed that the cohesive spirit of the Las Vegas-area bases corresponds with Air Force values and challenged them to channel that into a warrior ethos.

“Gen. Allvin’s ‘Case for Change’ emphasizes the Air Force’s need to adapt to a new era of competition,” Flosi said. “Airmen should understand this means sharpening their warfighting skills and staying flexible to confront evolving threats. As leaders, we owe it to our Airmen to set the conditions for them to be successful in this new environment.”

Source: United States Air Force

CREECH AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. (AFNS) —  

Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force David Flosi and the Honorable Alex Wagner, assistant secretary of the Air Force for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, toured both Nellis and Creech Air Force Bases, May 7.

Nellis AFB, located in the northeast Las Vegas Valley, is renowned for advanced air combat training, weapons and tactics development, and aggressor training. Creech AFB, nestled in the Nevada desert, is the premier installation for remotely piloted aircraft operations. 

Flosi and Wagner witnessed the daily operations, training exercises, and innovations driving Air Force capabilities forward. From interacting with maintenance crews ensuring the airworthiness of cutting-edge aircraft to engaging with remotely piloted aircraft operators conducting precision missions, every encounter offered invaluable insights into the dynamic landscape of modern warfare. 

However, beyond the operational aspects, such visits serve another critical purpose – that of listening. Flosi and Wagner had the opportunity to engage in candid discussions with airmen of all ranks, understanding their concerns, aspirations, and suggestions. These conversations form the bedrock of informed decision-making, ensuring that policies and initiatives resonate with the realities faced by those on the ground. 

In visiting both Southern Nevada air force bases, the two Department of the Air Force officials underscored a commitment to understanding the needs, challenges, and triumphs of the airmen who serve on the front lines of defense. Additionally, it demonstrates that the Air Force is taking significant steps in reoptimizing for the Great Power Competition. 

The Great Power Competition refers to the strategic rivalry and competition between major global powers for influence, resources, and dominance in various spheres, including political, economic, military, and technological domains. Historically, it has often been used to describe the dynamics between powerful nations seeking to assert their interests on the world stage.

The character of war has changed; we are faced with aggressive challenges in a rapidly evolving battlespace,” Flosi said. “The Air Force is adapting to counter threats like the PRC’s military advancements and unconventional tactics across all domains. To achieve this, we are building a more ready and unified force, prioritizing agile and rapid response, while emphasizing mission readiness over functional competence.”

“Change is a major priority in preparing the total force for the future fight. Since assuming his position, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David W. Allvin has focused on his Case for Change message, and these visits from Department of the Air Force leadership demonstrate his continued commitment to that message. 

“Today, a new key inflection point is upon us,” Allvin said in a message to Airmen. “We cannot afford to be complacent, holding on to outdated structures. The Air Force built for the previous era is no longer optimized for the current strategic landscape. History has shown that we can successfully navigate these turning points — now is the time to do so again. Our motivation is crystal clear: change is not an option but a necessity. We must adapt to effectively demonstrate our readiness and capability to deter, and, if required, to prevail in conflict.” 

Leadership has made it clear: the Air Force must adapt to a new era of competition and must not settle into business as usual. When Creech obtained Installation Command Authority from Nellis in 2019, the bases maintained their autonomy and carried on with their own identity. This does not mean, however, that one cannot rely upon the other in any contingency. During his visit to each installation, Flosi emphasized the need to work together and maintain readiness. 

“We need to all understand what it means to be an Airman in the Profession of Arms,” Flosi said. “The sense of teamwork we all share, and a sharp focus on our mission as Airmen, are what make us part of a winning team. We must also maintain a high state of readiness, both personally and professionally.”

Furthermore, these visits strengthen bonds not only between military leadership and government officials but also among the Airmen themselves. By witnessing the solidarity, professionalism, and camaraderie that permeate every aspect of base life, Flosi and Wagner confirmed that the cohesive spirit of the Las Vegas-area bases corresponds with Air Force values and challenged them to channel that into a warrior ethos. 

“Gen. Allvin’s ‘Case for Change’ emphasizes the Air Force’s need to adapt to a new era of competition,” Flosi said. “Airmen should understand this means sharpening their warfighting skills and staying flexible to confront evolving threats. As leaders, we owe it to our Airmen to set the conditions for them to be successful in this new environment.”

Source: United States Air Force

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (AFNS) —  

The Crows of the 350th Spectrum Warfare Wing welcomed the Air Combat Command leadership team and their spouses to Eglin Air Force Base, recently, where they saw firsthand the wing’s role in providing joint and coalition partners with electromagnetic warfare capabilities needed to dominate the spectrum. 

The wing, activated in 2021, has its origins in the 53rd Wing at Eglin; the same wing Gen. Ken Wilsbach, commander of Air Combat Command, previously commanded. The now inactive 53rd Electronic Warfare Group, went on to become eight squadrons across the 350th SWW that Wilsbach had the opportunity to engage with during his visit. 

“Going through the 350th today and seeing how much has changed was impressive,” Wilsbach said. “The advancements, changes and speed at which the wing operates enhances the focus on the primary challenge – China.” 

Wilsbach and Chief Master Sgt. David Wolfe, ACC’s command chief, were briefed on the wing’s current process to rapidly reprogram critical mission data under wartime contingencies and how it is reshaping its approach to combat adversaries in the spectrum.

“Electromagnetic spectrum operations are a significant part of how we operate,” Wilsbach said. “The operations that are happening today in the Pacific will inform the data and what will happen here at the 350th. That data will in turn be used by those same operators for an advantage against China.” 

Part of that reshaping includes the planned activation of the 950th Spectrum Warfare Group at Robins AFB, Georgia. The 950th SWG is projected to expand the wing’s ability to assess every aircraft in the Combat Air Force inventory, ensuring readiness through assessment of EMS-based combat capabilities. 

The wing conveyed the resourcing challenges associated with reinvesting in spectrum-based capabilities, including the ability to gain experienced Airmen who are familiar with EW—a challenge on both the officer, enlisted and civilian sides of the force. 

“We need to have an ecosystem for experts in electronic warfare and spectrum warfare,” Wilsbach said. “The focus on creating that pipeline will develop our Airmen and prepare them to execute the mission of the Spectrum Warfare Wing.” 

Wolfe agreed with Wilsbach and wing leadership, stating, “There’s a lot of work to be done from Air Combat Command to ensure we are doing everything possible to resource a new wing.” 

During the visit, Wolfe hosted an all-call with the 350th and 53rd Wing enlisted members touching on the readiness of the force to meet the pacing challenge of China and other adversaries in the Indo-Pacific region. 

“We’re the only enlisted force on the planet that can do what would be needed in the Pacific,” said Wolfe. “The professionalism and the excellence of our enlisted corps is a distinct advantage and is full of winners who do a job every day and make things happen.” 

The ACC command team learned how the wing is weaponizing data and how it is essential for disrupting, degrading and destroying enemy command, control and communication systems. This is being done through efforts conducted at units such as the 513th Electronic Warfare Squadron, which supports the entire Department of Defense F-35 Lightning II fleet. 

The wing also showcased its role in prioritizing EMSO-integration into exercises such as Red Flag, Bamboo Eagle and more, supporting Wilsbach’s exercise priorities and providing warfighters and planners across the joint force realistic EW training environments and education. 

“EMSO needs to be integrated into our training,” said Wilsbach. “As we go forward with these large force exercises…the [350th] Spectrum Warfare Wing and its mission will be integral. Electronic warfare is not a special thing; it is just what we do.” 

The Air force’s ability to generate, sustain and deliver decisive multi-domain effects to achieve air component commander objectives depends on the 350th SWW, a message that was on display during the visit. 

“It’s been fantastic being at Eglin and interacting with the Airmen,” said Wilsbach. “They’re addressing the most pressing needs our service has and getting results. Dominance in the electromagnetic spectrum is required; it’s no longer optional. If you don’t pay attention in that area, you’re going to get beat.”

Source: United States Air Force

FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, Md. (AFNS) —  

In this week’s look around the Air Force, Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall experiences autonomous flight in the front seat of the VISTA aircraft, researchers create and deploy small unmanned aerial systems in just a few hours, and JROTC instructor positions are open to veterans and currently serving Guard and Reserve Airmen. (Hosted by Tech. Sgt. Brittain Crolley)

Watch on DVIDS | Watch on YouTube For previous episodes, click here for the Air Force TV page.

Source: United States Air Force

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —  

Air Force Chief of Chaplains (Maj. Gen.) Randall E. Kitchens commemorated the anniversary of the U.S. Air Force Chaplain Corps in an event at Arlington National Cemetery, 75 years after the date of its inception, May 10.

Kitchens attended a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Solider, and other attending members of the Chaplain Corps laid flowers at the graves of Air Force Chaplains on Chaplains Hill.

“Our mission is to inspire the readiness of Airmen, Guardians and their families through the accommodation of their religious needs,” Kitchens said. “We exist to lead and enhance spiritual fitness with the necessary advisement in the areas of religious, spiritual or ethical concerns.”

For more than seven decades, the Air Force Chaplains Corps has served service members of all faiths, offering counsel and religious support services.

“The unique challenge our Chaplain Corps faces today is the growing need for care and support with the competing prioritization of needed personnel and resources. As we look to the future and possible future conflicts, we will need more Chaplain Corps members to meet the demand.” Chief of Chaplains (Maj. Gen.) Randall Kitchens

Established May 10, 1949, the Air Force Chaplain Corps has been an integral part of the Air Force’s mission, nurturing the spiritual well-being of its members in times of peace, conflict and uncertainty. It continues to serve Air Force Airmen and Space Force Guardians at locations around the world.