Reported 8 months ago
The United States Air Force has begun expanding the facilities at the Arkansas Ebbing Air National Guard Base to provide training for more allied pilots on operating the F-35A fighter jets, aiding countries in building key capabilities for next-generation air power. With the Luke Air Force Base in Arizona reaching training capacity, the decision was made to expand logistics and training facilities at the Ebbing base to reintroduce the 85th and 57th fighter squadrons in July with a team of 24 F-35A jets, designated to train pilots from Poland, Finland, Germany, Switzerland, and Singapore. The expanded facilities will allow for enhanced training for SEAD, air-to-air combat, and ground attack. The first batch of four pilots is expected to complete training by the end of 2025, with an increase to 36 pilots per year. Additionally, the Singapore Air Force plans to establish an F-35B training detachment at the Ebbing base, prompting improvements in runway and apron materials to support vertical and short takeoff and landing training, while F-16 squadrons stationed at Luke Air Force Base will also enhance training opportunities. This expansion aims to assist allies in boosting F-35A pilot training capacity, benefiting from the upgraded facilities at Ebbing Air National Guard Base.
Source: YAHOO