NATO Air Policing operations

U.S. Air Force News

  • New RQ-4 engine depot opens on Tinker AFB

    The Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex recently stood up the overhaul and repair capability for a new workload in the F-137 engine. This new workload is a partnership with Rolls-Royce, and the first venture of this kind with this engine manufacturer.

  • Bully Brothers

    Airman 1st Class Jarret Nave, a 91st Missile Maintenance Squadron electro-mechanical technician, knew where he wished to be stationed when he booked the same job as his older brother. As fate would have it, he ended up with the same job as his brother Senior Airman Todd Nave, a 91st MMXS missile

  • Around the Air Force: Nov. 25

    On this look around the Air Force, NASA launches a new weather satellite, Airmen train with Marines during Vigilant Ace 17-1, and Serbian support during World War II is commemorated.

  • AF supports improved method for transporting TBI patients

    Scientists with the U.S. Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine are playing an important part in the testing and evaluation of a novel aeromedical evacuation stretcher designed to safely transport traumatic brain and spinal injury patients in air and ground vehicles.

  • AF Week in Photos

    This week's photos feature Airmen from around the globe involved in activities supporting expeditionary operations and defending America. This weekly feature showcases the men and women of the Air Force.

  • Training ISR warriors faster, smarter through mobile apps

    There are roughly 12,000 intelligence professionals assigned to 25th Air Force, 70 percent have less than five years of military service, and most of those Airmen are millennials; multi-taskers who thrive on high-tech, mobile and innovative training methods.

  • A different path to citizenship

    Being an American citizen may seem ordinary for most, but for some Airmen, the path to citizenship is anything but ordinary. Senior Airman Michael Mwelwa, a 60th Comptroller Squadron military pay technician, was awarded U.S. citizenship in May at the age of 23. Mwelwa was born in Zambia, a country

  • Around the Air Force: Nov. 22

    On this look around the Air Force, Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico has been selected to be the interim home for two F-16 Fighting Falcon training squadrons, the secretary of defense got a close look at special operations Airmen at work, and the Air Force has concluded an F-16 crash

  • Goldfein discusses changing face of war

    Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David L. Goldfein spoke with Defense One’s Marcus Weisgerber in Washington D.C. Nov. 17 and gave the reasoning behind the changes being contemplated for the future of defense. In addition to being responsible for the “man, train and equip” mission for the Air Force, the

  • Moody Airmen host riot training for local state troopers

    Airmen from Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, hosted Georgia State Patrol’s Mobile Field Force semiannual riot control training Nov. 16-17. The GSP used Moody’s facilities to ensure their readiness for riots while Airmen supported by participating as rioters. The training consisted of both classroom

  • Airmen provide air base defense in northern Iraq

    Today, defenders assigned to the 821st Contingency Response Group are on the front lines in the fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, providing air base defense for Qayyarah West Airfield in northern Iraq.

  • 45th SW supports successful Atlas V GOES-R launch

    The 45th Space Wing supported NASA’s successful launch of the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite-R spacecraft aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket from Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida, Nov. 19.

  • US commemorates Serbian support during WWII

    The U.S. State Department, U.S. Air Force, Royal Air Force, Serbian Armed Forces and local government officials attended a commemoration event in Pranjani, Serbia, Nov. 18, which honored the villagers who welcomed the downed Airmen with open arms.

  • Bay Area ANG unit rescues Navy contractor

    The California Air National Guard's 129th Rescue Wing conducted a long-distance rescue mission over the Pacific Ocean Nov. 12, saving the life of a seriously ill 63-year-old civilian contractor on board the USS Guadalupe.

  • Intel training streamlined

    When it comes to having the leading edge in air, space and cyberspace, non-commissioned officers from the 70th Operations Support Squadron have taken it to a new level, training Airmen on the importance of Air Force National Tactical Integration (AF NTI).

  • AF hosts Warrior Care Sitting Volleyball Tournament

    The volleyball courts were clear as athletes made their way into the Pentagon Athletic Center. Some arrived in wheelchairs. Some were missing limbs. Many had wounds which couldn’t be seen. As they sat down on the court for warm-ups, they all had something in common…they were all wounded warriors.

  • Wounded warriors given avenues during CARE event

    Nearly 130 Air Force wounded warriors and caregivers attending the latest Air Force Wounded Warrior (AFW2) Program’s CARE event at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, from Nov. 14-18 received tools and resources to help them deal with their individual challenges.

  • SecDef ensures future military readiness during JBSA visit

     Secretary of Defense Ash Carter traveled to Joint Base San Antonio, Texas, Nov. 16, during a trip focused on ensuring the readiness of the U.S. military and the effectiveness of the training and equipment provided to today’s warfighters. While at JBSA, Carter spoke with Airmen who had just

  • Coalition intel cell breaks down boundaries

    At the Combined Air Operations Center, the Coalition Intelligence Fusion Cell, a multinational team of intelligence specialists, works side-by-side to provide intelligence to commanders for the fight to degrade and ultimately defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant.

  • C-17 Weapons Instructor Course relocates to JB Lewis-McChord

    Air Mobility Command will save $12 million annually by moving a weapons squadron and weapons instructor course from Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey to Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington beginning the summer of 2017, officials announced Nov. 18.

  • AF Week in Photos

    This week's photos feature Airmen from around the globe involved in activities supporting expeditionary operations and defending America. This weekly feature showcases the men and women of the Air Force.

  • Combat controller continues Special Tactics legacy of valor

    During a ceremony Nov. 16, at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, Maj. Gen. Eugene Haase the Air Force Special Operations Command vice commander, presented the nation’s third highest medal for gallantry against an armed enemy of the U.S. in combat to Thiem. Thiem's actions occurred when he was

  • Around the Air Force: Nov. 18

    On this look around the Air Force the next chief master sergeant of the Air Force is announced by Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David L. Goldfein, Airmen work together with their Japanese counterparts in Keen Sword 2017, and the current policy for Air Force records management requires records

  • 2016 Federal Benefits Open Season runs through Dec. 12

    The Office of Personnel Management has set the dates for the 2016 Federal Benefits Open Season from Nov. 14 through Dec 12, which includes the Federal Employees Health Benefits program, the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance program (FEDVIP) and the Federal Flexible Spending Accounts

  • CRG enables strategic air operations at Qayyarah West

    The landing was much more than routine; it was symbolic. It represented the first time a fixed wing Iraqi aircraft, loaded with cargo, landed at the strategic airfield since it fell to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant fighters in 2014.

  • Air Force promotions eliminates time-in-grade, time-in-service points

    Time-in-grade and time-in-service points in active duty enlisted promotion consideration will be eliminated beginning with the 17E7 master sergeant promotion cycle, and all future promotion cycles, the Air Force recently announced. This is the final step in a gradual reduction of points for TIG/TIS

  • F-16CM ACCIDENT REPORT RELEASED

    An Accident Investigation Board found that an F-16CM Fighting Falcon suffered an engine hardware malfunction resulting in its crash into a rural area in the U.S. Central Command Area of Responsibility on March 29.

  • Air Force looking to boost acquisition, cyber career fields

    Job seekers with in-demand technical skills may want to give the Air Force Civilian Service a look. The Air Force hopes to fill about 1,400 cyber and 2,200 acquisition positions Air Force-wide by the end of 2017.    The Air Force employs approximately 27,000 acquisition and 9,500 cyber civilian

  • Unique rehab center gets injured Airmen back on duty

    Not long after receiving innovative care for serious combat-related injuries, 2nd Lt. Marc Esposito gave his future wife a tour of the unique rehabilitation center that helped the Air Force special operator get back to jumping out of planes. The state-of-the-art setting cast with advanced technology

  • Looking to a cloud to share data faster

    The Kill Chain Integration Branch at Hanscom Air Force Base, Massachusetts, has begun an experimentation campaign to look at ways to provide warfighters data in the fastest and most efficient ways possible.

  • AFRL program turns junior workforce into rapid innovators

    Junior force personnel within the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Materials and Manufacturing Directorate are making the most of their opportunity to showcase innovation and leadership skills through the Junior Force Warfighters Operations in RX, or JFWORX, program.

  • CSAF announces CMSAF #18

    Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David L. Goldfein named Chief Master Sgt. Kaleth O. Wright to serve as the 18th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Nov. 16, 2016.

  • Around the Air Force: Nov. 15

    On this look around the Air Force the 301st Fighter Wing returns home from Afghanistan, Airmen participate in exercise Tonnerre Lightning, and Airmen and firefighters attend an emergency medical technician course.

  • US, Japan forces work together during Keen Sword

    Members from the Japan Self-Defense Forces and U.S. Forces, Japan, came together for Keen Sword 2017 at Yokota Air Base from Oct. 30 – Nov. 11. KS17 involved U.S. forces and the JSDF from all components of both militaries, training to conduct bilateral operations in support of the defense of Japan.

  • Licking their wounds: Trained dogs assist, comfort wounded Airmen

    Constant back pain from an injury suffered years ago in combat still troubles Staff Sgt. Ryan Garrison. It wakes him up at night when his medication wears off. It triggers his depression and anxiety, leading to angry outbursts. Several prescriptions and mental health visits didn’t effectively assist

  • Hawkeye: Eyes, ears of the RQ-4

    The RQ-4 Global Hawk, serves as the Air Force’s high-altitude intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, long endurance RPA. Global Hawks are loaded with an integrated sensor suite and cameras capable of providing global all-weather, day or night ISR, however while on the ground visibility for

  • Around the Air Force: Nov. 11

    FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, Md. (AFNS) - On this look around the Air Force a retired staff sergeant is awarded the Silver Star, exercise Invincible Shield enhances trilateral interoperability, and Kadena Air Base, Japan hosted its 17th annual Special Olympics. Hosted by Airman 1st Class Jasmine

  • Joint expeditionary Airmen bridge service gaps in today’s fight

    Though he’s performing a standard Air Force job ensuring supplies make it to the front line, Tech Sgt. Ronald Gowen's deployed experience is different from many other Airmen. He is assigned specifically to support non-Air Force units. His unique skills as an Airman are in high demand by sister

  • Exercise Tonnerre Lightning exhibits trust, teamwork, training

    Around-the-clock, whether for combat operations or humanitarian aid, Airmen are ready to respond anywhere. Until they get that call, however, Airmen hone their skills through exercises and realistic training.During exercise Tonnerre Lightning, the U.S. Air Force worked with United Kingdom and French

  • AF Week in Photos

    This week's photos feature Airmen from around the globe involved in activities supporting expeditionary operations and defending America. This weekly feature showcases the men and women of the Air Force.

  • AF unveils latest ‘Veterans in Blue’ exhibit

    The seventh volume of “Veterans in Blue” is now available online. The exhibit captures 28 stories of heroism and service by Air Force veterans. Each veteran’s portrait is also displayed at the Pentagon.

  • 305 make next cut for enlisted RPA pilot selection

    Air Force officials have chosen 305 active-duty enlisted Airmen for the next phase of the Enlisted Remotely Piloted Aircraft Pilot Selection Board process as part of a deliberate approach to enhance the intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance mission.

  • Around the Air Force: Nov. 8

    On this look around the Air Force enlisted pilots take their first solo flight and a World War II bomber pilot is awarded the Silver Star.

  • Airman beats cancer, completes 22nd marathon

    His cancer diagnosis came as a complete surprise. After all, he had just run his 21st marathon. Other than a recent cold, he was a picture of perfect health. Chief Master Sgt. Todd Kirkwood, the 167th Maintenance Group superintendent, received the news of his diagnosis the day after Thanksgiving in

  • Innovative cyber program protects critical Tyndall AFB assets

    The 325th Communications Squadron became the first Air Combat Command squadron to join a new initiative to ensure Tyndall Air Force Base is able to train and project unrivaled combat airpower.The Cyber Squadron Innovation is a pathfinder program among Air Force communication squadrons, enabling

  • Silver Star shines bright on Hutchins’ heroic actions

    Maj. Gen. Thomas Deale, the director of operations of Air Combat Command, presented retired Staff Sgt. Benjamin Hutchins, a former 18th Air Support Operations Group joint terminal attack controller, with the Silver Star during a ceremony Nov. 4 at Pope Army Airfield, North Carolina.

  • Airman conquers triathlons, strengthens CAF domains

    Daily obstacles in life can take on many forms, and one Airman from the 325th Aerospace Medical Squadron has found overcoming obstacles encountered during triathlons helps strengthen his four domains of Comprehensive Airmen Fitness.

  • STRATCOM welcomes Hyten as new commander

    Gen. John E. Hyten took command of U.S. Strategic Command from Navy Adm. Cecil D. Haney during a change of command ceremony at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, Nov. 3.

  • Report released for 2015 MQ-1B crash

    An MQ-1B Predator was destroyed in a Oct. 17, 2015, crash after experiencing electronic systems failure and loss of control due to a lightning strike, according to an Air Combat Command Abbreviated Accident Investigation Board report released Nov. 2.

  • Edwards AFB squadron tests missile for European ally’s F-35

    From Norway to Australia, members from a number of allied and partner nations have come to Edwards Air Force Base to team with base units to test systems, enhance international cooperation and advance their own air force’s capabilities.

  • AF Week in Photos

    This week's photos feature Airmen from around the globe involved in activities supporting expeditionary operations and defending America. This weekly feature showcases the men and women of the Air Force.

  • Around the Air Force: Nov. 4

    On this look around the Air Force Airmen help fight fires in Iraq; the 48th annual Airlift Tanker Association Convention took place in Nashville, Tennessee; Gen. Hawk Carlisle, the Air Combat Command commander, is inducted into the Order of the Sword; and a hospital on Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada,

  • AFIMSC reaches full operating capability

    The unit which consolidated more than 150 Air Force-wide installation and mission support capabilities a year ago has achieved full operating capability. Maj. Gen. Brad Spacy, the commander of the Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center, declared FOC a year after his unit reached initial

  • Adversaries’ ever-changing tactics require quick responses

    In the ongoing fight between coalition forces and the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, U.S. adversaries have added explosives-laden drones to their weapons arsenal, according to recent stories in the news. In October, adversaries used a drone, intended for surveillance use, to injure troops on

  • Osan’s special handling section has a ‘hand’ in everything

    One small group of Airmen hold the responsibility of accepting, storing and transferring these critical items aiding in the safety and stability of the South Korea. From a small blood sample to aircraft ammunition, the 731st Air Mobility Squadron’s special handling section assists in the

  • Expeditionary wing brings the fight to the enemy

    Since its activation in 2002, the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing has provided continuous support in the battle against violent extremism. The wing’s primary focus is delivering decisive airpower throughout the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility in order to provide stability to the region, a

  • FY 2017 NCO retraining program application window now open

    The Air Force has released fiscal year 2017 retraining quotas for eligible NCOs via the NCO Retraining Program.The retraining program is a complimentary tool used to help balance and sustain the enlisted force as the Air Force continues to grow. While the Air Force is still undermanned across the

  • Carrying the load

    With enemy rounds visible within 10 feet of the ramp, the loadmasters took cover and manually cut the release gate. After the drop, the pilot conducted a rapid climb and maneuvered out of the weapon engagement zone. Although the entire encounter lasted approximately 90 seconds and resulted in a

  • Around the Air Force: Nov. 1

    On this look around the Air Force a reduction in ancillary training is announced, cyberattacks are the leading strategic threat and a preview of the latest episode of BLUE features Air Force tankers.

  • Airmen keep F-35s flying

    After a discovery of faulty insulation on coolant lines caused a temporary flight restriction for 10 F-35A Lightning IIs at Hill Air Force Base, the repaired jets are beginning to fly again.

  • RED HORSE elite team compared to real life superheroes

    A 21-member civil engineering team whose main objectives are to air insert themselves to repair battle-damaged airfields and quickly return them to service. The team is composed of electricians, structures, heavy equipment operators, vehicle maintenance and services personnel.

  • AMC commander: Airmen, partnerships, technology key to mobility’s future

    The Air Mobility Command commander showcased the impact of mobility Airmen on current global operations while highlighting ways in which partnership and technology will shape the future, in a presentation during the 48th annual AMC and Airlift/Tanker Association Symposium here, Oct. 29.In a nod to

  • James reiterates focus on modernization, efficiency

    Air Force Secretary Deborah Lee James took the stage Oct. 28, at the 48th annual Airlift Tanker Association Convention to address the Air Force’s priority to maintain mission readiness and promote modernization in the coming years.

  • BLUE: Fueling the future

    Most families have traditions that revolve around holidays and special occasions. We introduce you to a family with a tradition that's intertwined with the history and future of two tankers, the KC-135 Stratotanker and the new KC-46A Pegasus.

  • Around the Air Force: Oct. 28

    On this look around the Air Force Airmen bring supplies to a newly liberated and repaired airfield in Iraq, and a memorial honors the life on an Air Force Office of Special Investigations agent.

  • AF Week in Photos

    This week's photos feature Airmen from around the globe involved in activities supporting expeditionary operations and defending America. This weekly feature showcases the men and women of the Air Force.

  • Overcoming cancer, embracing life

    She placed a pillow under her right shoulder and put her right arm behind her head on the bed. Using her left hand, she pressed the pads of her fingers around her right breast gently in small circular motions, covering the entire breast area and armpit.

  • Raymond takes command of AFSPC

    Gen. John W. Raymond replaced Gen. John E. Hyten as commander of the U.S. Air Force Space Command during a ceremony at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, Oct. 25.

  • Yesterday's Air Force: Tankers

    The KC-46A Pegasus is the newest member of the aerial refueling team. This episode of Yesterday's Air Force takes a look back at where it all started -- from wing walkers to the most recent KC-135 Stratotanker.

  • Health Profession Education Program candidates selected for 2017

    Air Force officials have selected more than 200 officers for the Air Force Medical Service Health Profession Education Program.Development team boards held this summer for the Biomedical Sciences Corps, Medical Service Corps and Nurse Corps selected 216 officers from 20 career fields for the

  • AF selects 720 civilians for developmental education

    More than 700 Air Force civilian employees were selected for basic, intermediate and senior developmental education opportunities during the 2016 Civilian Developmental Education Board held at the Air Force Personnel Center in September.

  • Taking the fight to the cyberspace frontier

    In a highly secure, underground facility in Colorado Springs, crews of operators in a room full of computers keep an ever vigilant eye, protecting worldwide U.S. assets around the clock. This facility is not underneath tons of granite in the midst of Cheyenne Mountain, like a more well-known part of

  • QF-4 mission nearly complete

    The QF-4 Aerial Target mission is winding down and two of the aircraft visited here Oct. 25 so that those who have supported F-4 Phantom IIs over the years could see them one last time.