More than 70 Airmen from the 80th Fighter Squadron and 80th Aircraft Maintenance Unit deployed from Kunsan Air Base, South Korea, March 2 for Operation Commando Sling.

The month-long deployment, involving joint warfare operations between the U.S. Air Force and its Singapore counterparts, will provide vital fighting skills, said Col. Brian Bishop, 8th Fighter Wing commander.

“Anytime we can train with our partners in the theater, both sides benefit. In the future, we can expect the U.S. will turn to our allies and coalition partners for assistance,” Colonel Bishop said. “I was on the very first deployment (to Singapore) back in 1989. It’s gratifying to know that we consider Singapore such a close ally and that we continue to support this critical exercise.”

The Republic of Singapore air force’s mock missions allow the F-16 Fighting Falcons to fight and fly against their aircraft, according to Capt. Edward Francis, 80th FS scheduler.

“The primary focus for Commando Sling will be on the air-to-air missions,” Captain Francis said. “This will give us the chance to improve our training on both ends of the operations. They (Singapore air force) are going to learn from us and we will learn from them.”

In support of the deploying Airmen, the 8th Mission Support Squadron processed them through a deployment line Monday, assisting with critical issues such as pay, wills and threat conditions. Because of Kunsan’s mission to “Accept follow-on forces,” they are also extremely proficient at deploying members at a moment’s notice, said Maj. Jarrard Galbreath, 8th MSS commander.

“We exercise proper procedures (for deploying Airmen) on a regular basis and understand exactly what it takes for precise accountability and beddown of personnel,” he said. “Anytime a (Kunsan Airman) arrives at a deployed location, the gaining units are generally impressed with the preparedness of our members and thoroughness of their documentation.”

Together with the 8th MSS’s deployment line, the 8th Logistics Readiness Squadron ensures passengers and cargo leave for Singapore expediently. From the time the cargo plane lands to the moment it lifts off, the 8th LRS works hard to make the deployment an overall success.

Now in its 16th year, Operation Commando Sling continues to host Kunsan and other units from Pacific Air Forces and the U.S. Marine Corps. Goals for Commando Sling include sustainable and enhanced combat training as well as promoting security and stability throughout the Pacific.