Fighter Pilots Preparing for Flight

Images of military pilots in aircraft cockpits, featuring F-15 and F-16 jets. The mood is focused, with bright skies and an atmosphere of readiness for aerial missions.

C-17 Globemaster IIIs with the 62nd Airlift Wing and F-15E Strike Eagles with the 366th Fighter Wing conduct integrated combat turns, Oct. 18, 2022, Gowen Field, Idaho. These units work in tandem to recover and launch multiple aircraft in a remote location, as they would in a deployed environment.

C-17 Globemaster IIIs with the 62nd Airlift Wing and F-15E Strike Eagles with the 366th Fighter Wing conduct integrated combat turns, Oct. 18, 2022, Gowen Field, Idaho. These units work in tandem to recover and launch multiple aircraft in a remote location, as they would in a deployed environment.

Maj. Thomas Walker, an instructor pilot with the 149th Fighter Wing, prepares for a flight Feb. 4, 2021 at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. The 149th FW trains mission ready F-16 pilots for the Air Force active duty and reserve components to be able to perform at the highest level anywhere across the U.S. and abroad.

Col. Kurt Helphinstine, 4th Fighter Wing commander, and SrA Garret Ford, 704th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, prepare to take off at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, May 2, 2022. Col. Helphinstine took his final flight as the commander of the 4th FW.

Weapons troops from 138th Fighter Wing perform post flight checks on an F-16 Viper during Agile Rage at the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center, Mich., June 9, 2022. One of the focus areas during the training was integrated combat turns, a technique where maintenance technicians refuel the aircraft after landing and simultaneously load weapons while the aircraft is running, which allows the pilot to return to flight as quick as possible. (Oklahoma Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Rebecca Imwalle)

An F-15 Eagle, with the 159th Fighter Wing, Louisiana, flies over the wing of a KC-135 Stratotanker with the 914th Air Refueling Wing, New York, July 10, 2022 over Southeastern United States. The 159th FW is nicknamed the Bayou Militia,” which is displayed on the F-15’s tail.

A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle pilot gives a thumbs-up prior to take off April 6, 2022, at Andravida Air Base, Greece. The 48th Fighter Wing from Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England participated in INIOCHOS 22, a Hellenic air force-led exercise aims to enhance combat readiness and fighting capability, while providing participants the opportunity to develop capabilities planning and conduct complex air operations in a multinational, joint force environment.

An A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft pilot, assigned to the 355th Tactical Fighter Wing, prepares to climb out of his aircraft after flying a late afternoon mission. The aircraft is on a tour of air bases in Korea to familiarize Korean and American field commanders with its capabilities. Base: Osan Air Base Country: Republic Of Korea (KOR)

Members from the 124th Fighter Wing, Idaho Air National Guard, travel aboard a C-17 Globemaster III from the 105th Airlift Wing, New York Air National Guard, in route to Alpena, Michigan June 4, 2022. This effort is in support of Agile Rage 22 which provides realistic training opportunities, mimicking current and future combat environments dictated by the National Defense Strategy.

LT. COL. Bob Gruver, 334th Tactical Fighter Squadron, climbs into his F-15E Eagle aircraft prior to a mission during Operation Desert Shield. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT SHIELD Country: Saudi Arabia (SAU)

A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle pilot assigned to the 494th Fighter Squadron from Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, exits their aircraft after landing at the Tactical Leadership Programme 22-3 at Los Llanos Air Base, Spain, Sept. 9, 2022. The Liberty Wings F-15s were the first foreign aircraft to arrive in Spain for the two-week NATO course.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Louis Bloom, a fighter pilot assigned to the 157th Fighter Squadron at McEntire Joint National Guard Base, prepares to launch an F-16 Fighting Falcon jet in preparation for potential damage caused by Hurricane Dorian, September 4, 2019. The South Carolina Air National Guard is evacuating most of its F-16 fighter jet fleet to Naval Air Station Fort Worth, Texas.

Capt. Michelle Strickland, 555th Fighter Squadron F-16 Fighting Falcon pilot, prepares for flight during exercise Falcon Strike 2022 at Amendola Air Base, Italy, Nov. 17, 2022. Falcon Strike 22 gave multiple NATO nations an opportunity to share knowledge and operational procedures with one another.

U.S. Air Force A-10C Thunderbolt II pilot stops for a hot pit refuel during exercise Agile Flag 22-2 at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, July 23, 2022. Agile Flag 22-2 is Air Combat Commands first lead-wing certification event designed to demonstrate the 23rd Wings capability to generate combat air power while continuing to move, maneuver, and sustain the Wing and subordinate force elements in a dynamic and contested environment.

An F-15 Strike Eagle pilot from Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan, prepares to lift off in support of the Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Operational Readiness Inspection (ORI). The F-15 was at Osan to act as an aggressor aircraft to test the 51st Fighter Wing's wartime capabilities. Base: Osan Air Base Country: Republic Of Korea (KOR)

A U.S. Air Force Airman assists an F-15C/D Eagle pilot as he taxis to position during RED FLAG-Alaska 23-1 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Oct. 7, 2022. RF-A is a two-week advanced aerial combat training exercise that aims to offer realistic air-combat training for military pilots and other flight crew members from the United States and allied countries.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Tazer Palmer, 100th Fighter Squadron F-16 pilot, climbs into the aircraft cockpit at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, Aug. 12, 2022. The 187th Fighter Wing stationed at Dannelly Field, Alabama, sent aircraft, crew and support personnel to Eglin in support of the 43d FS dissimilar aircraft combat training.

U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle pilots assigned to the 494th Fighter Squadron from Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, await take-off at the Tactical Leadership Programme 22-3 at Los Llanos Air Base, Spain, Sept. 12, 2022. TLP has become the focal point for NATOs Allied Air Forces tactical training and development of knowledge and leadership skills, necessary to face todays air tactical challenges.

US Air Force SENIOR AIRMAN James Prices checks the cockpit of his F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft during the 51st Operations Group weapons-load-crew-of-the-quarter contest at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea. Base: Osan Air Base Country: Republic Of Korea (KOR)

011107-F-0308N-141. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Country: Unknown Scene Major Command Shown: CENTCOM

First Lieutenant Brent Reinhardt, USAF, the F-16D Fighting Falcon pilot looks around the ramp before taxiing to take off on a training sortie. The 421st Fighter Squadron F-16's diverted to the Utah Air National Guard base due to an accident at Hill AFB; an F-16C crashed after the nose-gear tire blew during a high-speed takeoff. Base: Salt Lake City State: Utah (UT) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: ANG

Marines attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 112, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, conduct pre-flight checks on an F/A-18C Hornet at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas, Sept. 15, 2022. VMFA-112 is participating in a joint long-range strike exercise with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 234, VMFA-225, Marine Fighter Training Squadron (VMFT) 401 and U.S. Air Force 513th Operations Support Squadron. This large force exercise demonstrates MAG-41's ability to project long-range strike capability and integrate with the Marine Corps' active component 5th generation aircraft in contested environments.

A 421st Fighter Squadron personnel from Hill AFB Utah, gives a thumbs up to the crewchief as a group of F-16 Fighting Falcons prepare to leave the ramp at the Utah Air National Guard field. The Utah ANG flightline plays host to transient aircraft on a regular basis. Base: Salt Lake City State: Utah (UT) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: ANG

040429-F-1844A-035. Base: England Air Park State: Louisiana (LA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

020306-F-5457M-013. Subject Operation/Series: NOBLE EAGLE Base: Egg Harbor Township State: New Jersey (NJ) Country: United States Of America (USA)

The F-16 pilot waits in the cockpit while the crew chief in chemical gear wipes the aircraft to test for contamination after return from a mission during the 169th Fighter Wing Operational Readiness Inspection. Base: Mcentire Ang Station State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

030902-F-3963C-002. Base: Buckley Air Force Base State: Colorado (CO) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: AFMC

Brig Gen. Edward L. Vaughan, Assistant to the Director, Air National Guard, at Headquarters Air Force, Military Deputy for Training and Readiness, is seated in a Canadian CF-18 Hornet aircraft as a Canadian pilot explains some of the operational features of the aircraft during Operation Noble Defender, 21 September, 2020, 5 Wing Goose Bay, Newfoundland & Labrador. North American Aerospace Defense Command is conducting a dynamic force employment operation in the Arctic Sept. 20-23 to demonstrate NORADs air capability, readiness and will to defend the United States and Canada from competitors who continue to test our defenses.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Mauro Munoz assigned to Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, prepares to launch out an F-35B during Red Flag-24-1 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Jan. 17, 2024. Red Flag is an opportunity to enhance the readiness and training necessary to respond as a joint force to any potential crisis or challenge across the globe.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Michael Wyrsch, commanding officer, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242 conducts pre-flight checks in an F-35B Lightning II aircraft during his final flight at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 15, 2022. Lt. Col. Wyrsch conducted his final flight with VMFA-242 after serving 20 years in the U.S. Marine Corps.

An A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft prior to divestment at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., Feb. 6, 2024. The original A-10 Aircraft was built for Close Air Support during the Vietnam war. Air Force

Col. Matthew C. Gaetke, left, 8th Fighter Wing commander, offers a farewell handshake to Airman 1st Class Logan Diehm, 80th Fighter Generation Squadron dedicated crew chief, before departure during Joint Exercise Cobra Gold 24 at Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, 29 Feb. 2024. The 8th FW has maintained participation in Cobra Gold throughout the exercises 43-year history, demonstrating the commitment to ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Air Force

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor pilot assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron waves after landing at Leeuwarden Air Base, Netherlands, Oct. 16, 2022. The 90th EFS forward deployed from Poland to the Netherlands to conduct agile combat employment (ACE) and integrate with the Royal Netherlands Air Force. This integration marks the first time in history that USAF F-22 Raptors have operated out of the Netherlands and highlights the importance of our shared commitment to defend NATO territory. Continued collaboration and integration on ACE alongside our RNLAF counterparts and other NATO Allies improves the resilience and survivability of coalition airpower.

A US Air Force F-16 Falcon Weapons Load Crew CHIEF from Spandahlem Air Base, Germany, blocks in an F-16 to be armed at Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia, during Operation SOUTHERN WATCH. The F-16 is part of the coalition forces of the 363rd Air Expeditionary Wing, Prince Sultan AB, SAU, that enforces the no-fly and no-drive zone in Southern Iraq to protect and defend against Iraqi aggression. Subject Operation/Series: SOUTHERN WATCH Base: Prince Sultan Air Base Country: Saudi Arabia (SAU)

040508-F-4338B-012. Base: Shaw Air Force Base State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: ACC

U.S. Air Force Capt. John Toliuszis, F-16 pilot from the 120th Fighter Squadron, explains to Jeremiah Price, the Wish recipient, about how to check an F-16 Fighting Falcon after its flown at Buckley Space Force Base, Colorado, March 31, 2023. Price received a tour as part of a collaboration between Colorados Make-A-Wish Foundation and Buckley Space Force Base to provide Price with his very own Top Gun experience.

DF-ST-85-12518. Base: Palmdale State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Miranda Jones, 316th Fighter Squadron pilot, prepares a F-16 fighter jet from the South Carolina Air National Guards 169th Fighter Wing to depart Columbia Metropolitan Airport in West Columbia, South Carolina to an alternate airfield September 29, 2022. The temporary relocation is a safety precaution ahead of the anticipated arrival of Hurricane Ian. The aircraft will return to South Carolina and resume their normal flight training operations just as soon as conditions allow.

Polish Air Force M-346 in its parking shelter at Deblin Air Base, Poland.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Ian MacDonald assigned to Marine Attack Squadron 223, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, slides down the wing of an AV-8B Harrier after completing post-flight inspections during Green Flag-West 24-04 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Jan. 17, 2024. Green Flag-West is primarily executed in conjunction with US Army exercises at the National Training Center at Ft Irwin, CA, but also trains against sea-based threats in order to provide multi-domain air-to-surface fires training. Air Force

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Matthew Fuse” Eldredge, 309th Fighter Squadron Ducks” former commander, prepares to fly the retiring Block 25 F-16 Fighting Falcon Sept. 6, 2022, at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona. Signatures from commanders, honorary commanders and other members of the ducks cover the aircraft in its final send-off. The divestment marks history for the aircraft, retired after many faithful years of duty to our nation.

011012-F-0308N-118. Subject Operation/Series: SOUTHERN WATCH Country: Unknown Scene Major Command Shown: CENTCOM

Marines attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 112, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, conduct pre-flight checks on an F/A-18C Hornet at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas, Sept. 15, 2022. VMFA-112 is participating in a joint long-range strike exercise with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 234, VMFA-225, Marine Fighter Training Squadron (VMFT) 401 and U.S. Air Force 513th Operations Support Squadron. This large force exercise demonstrates MAG-41's ability to project long-range strike capability and integrate with the Marine Corps' active component 5th generation aircraft in contested environments.

Military personnel guiding an F-16 Falcon, U.S. Air Force

MEDITERRANEAN SEA (June 20, 2018) A pilot prepares to launch from the flight deck aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). Harry S. Truman is currently deployed as part of an ongoing rotation of U.S. forces supporting maritime security operations in international waters around the globe.

Afghanistan, Bagram, Bagram Airfield, Silhouette of United States Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle pilot standing atop nose of F-15 by cockpit

Capt. Michael Broch, a 94th Fighter Squadron F-22A Raptor aircraft commander, performs his preflight inspection at Peterson Air Force Base, Colo., Aug. 12, 2016. Assigned to the 94th FS at Langley AFB, Va., the Raptor landed at Peterson AFB to refuel as Broch and the aircraft fly back to Virginia.

011107-F-3356N-002. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Country: Unknown

A U.S. Air Force crew chief assigned to the 510th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron marshals a U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon at 86th Air Base, Romania, April 30, 2022. The 510th EFS will conduct enhanced Air Policing operations over NATO airspace in order to maintain peace, prosperity and stability in the region.

A crew chief covers the pitot tube of an F-4 Phantom II aircraft during Exercise Opportune Journey 4. The aircraft is from the 3rd Tactical Fighter Squadron, 3rd Tactical Fighter Wing. Subject Operation/Series: OPPORTUNE JOURNEY 4 Base: Naval Air Station, Barbers Point State: Hawaii (HI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Marissa Cox, 177th Maintenance Squadron crew chief, performs final checks prior to an F-16C+ Fighting Falcon flight during Red Flag 23-2 March 17, 2023, at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada. Red Flag is a U.S. Air Force air-to-air training exercise that allows for pilots to train in a simulated combat environment.

Senior Airman Isaac McDowell, a crew chief assigned to the 492nd marshals out an F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the 494th Fighter Squadron in support of exercise Point Blank at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England on Aug 24, 2022. Point Blank is a recurring, low-cost exercise initiative designed to increase tactical proficiency of U.S., U.K. Ministry of Defense and other NATO forces.

DF-ST-86-09675. Subject Operation/Series: SOLID SHIELD 85 Base: Mcentire Ang Station State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

030409-F-1631A-012. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Country: Bulgaria (BGR)

US Air Force Captain Mike Ballek, F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft pilot from the 48th Fighter Wing, 494th Fighter Squadron, Royal Air Force Lakenheath, United Kingdom, and Royal Air Force Group Captain Nigel M. Huckins, United Kingdom Liaison Officer to United States European Command, acknowledge a cameraman prior to taking off. Group Captain Huckins was visiting the base to familiarize himself with the Wing's mission. Base: Raf Lakenheath State: East Anglia Country: England / Great Britain (ENG)

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. David Eaglin, left, 18th Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Ronnie Woods, 18th Wing command chief, conduct preflight checks in a F-15D Eagle assigned to the 44th Fighter Squadron on Kadena Air Base, Japan, March 21, 2023. In honor of his time at Kadena, Woods experienced, first-hand, training that enables Airmen to maintain Kadenas status as the Keystone of the Pacific.

040823-F-3968C-035. Base: Luke Air Force Base State: Arizona (AZ) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Capt. Aimee Rebel Fiedler (right), F-16 Viper Demonstration Team commander and pilot, and Col. Kristoffer Smith (left), 20th Fighter Wing commander, prepare to fly a demonstration at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., Aug. 18, 2022. The VDT plays a significant role in not only maintaining community relations for the Air Force, but also in recruiting future members of our service.

An A-10C Thunderbird pilot from the 190th Fighter Squadron goes through his preflight checks.

Capt. Betsy Hand, a 77th Fighter Squadron pilot, situates her gear inside the cockpit of her F-16 Fighting Falcon before climbing into the aircraft Jan. 31, 2012, at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C. The 77th FS participated in an operational readiness exercise, prepping and launching several F-16s to challenge and enhance their wartime capabilities.

Maj. Brett Devries, 107th Fighter Squadron, parks his A-10 Thunderbolt II for the final time upon returning from his Fini-flight” at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Michigan, on Saturday, Nov.5, 2022. The Fini-flight is an aviation tradition which takes place when a pilot leaves his or her unit, and/or will never fly a particular aircraft again.

A U.S. Air Force pilot assigned to the 2d Fighter Training Squadron performs startup procedures in a T-38A Talon at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, Sept. 12, 2022. The 2d FTS traveled from Florida to MHAFB in support of the F-35A Lightning II basic course capstone.

U.S. Marine Corps Master Gunnery Sgt. Margarito Casarez Jr., Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 101 (VMFAT-101) avionics chief, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California (back left), and Cpl. Sierra Aviles, VMFAT-101 avionics technician (front right), complete post-flight maintenance checks on an F/A-18 Super Hornet during Weapons System Evaluation Program East-22.12 at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 12, 2022. WSEP is a formal, two-week evaluation exercise designed to test a squadrons capabilities to conduct live-fire weapons systems during air-to-air combat training missions.

A U.S. Navy F-35C Lightning II assigned to the Strike Fighter Squadron 147, Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, is parked on the maintenance line during Red Flag-Nellis 22-3 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, July 12, 2022. The 5th generation F-35C Lightning II integrates advanced stealth technology into a highly agile, supersonic aircraft that provides the pilot with unprecedented situational awareness and unmatched lethality and survivability.

030306-F-1443F-032. Base: Aviano Air Base State: Pordenone Country: Italy (ITA) Scene Major Command Shown: USAFE

Major John McFarlin, Florida Air National Guard's 125th Fighter Wing, Detachment 1, pilot, performs his pre-flight checklist of an F-15C before taking off at Homestead Air Reserve Base, Florida in support of North American Aerospace Defense Command's (NORAD) Operation Noble Defender (OND), June 30, 2022. As a part of OND, a routine operation, the Continental U.S. NORAD Region (CONR) coordinated and conducted joint operations with the U.S. Navy while concurrently launching jets from different locations across the United States gulf coast and Puerto Rico. OND is an integrated air and missile defense operation designed to ensure the defense and security of the northern and southern approaches to North America. This particular OND allowed NORAD units to exercise maneuvers intended to defend the southern approach to the United States from simulated cruise missile threats. NORAD is a bi-national Canadian and American command that employs a network of aerial, ground-based, and space-based sen

A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer assigned to the 34th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota, receives a salute from its maintainers after taking on fuel at the Royal Australian Air Force base in Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia, June 22, 2022. Bomber Task Force missions contribute to joint force lethality and deter aggression in the Indo-Pacific by demonstrating United States Air Force ability to operate anywhere in the world at any time in support of the National Defense Strategy.

U.S. Air Force Col. Kevin Jamieson, 3rd Wing commander, speaks with his crew chief before take-off, Oct. 12, 2022 at Łask Air Base, Poland. The 90th EFS, from Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska is currently forward-deployed to the European Theater to support the NATO Air Shielding mission and enhance the defense posture on the eastern NATO flank. The 3rd Wing commander and command chief from Joint Base Elmendorf Richardson recently visited the 90th EFS to support deployed Airmen and integrate with the squadron.

Motion picture cameraman MSGT Edd Condon shoots a sequence of a pilot strap-in during the A-10 deployment phase of Exercise Coronet Sail. Subject Operation/Series: CORONET SAIL Base: Munich Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU)

A crew chief communicates with an F-15C Eagle fighter pilot prior to the aircraft's departure from Moron Air Base, Spain in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Moron Air Base State: Sevilla Country: Spain (ESP) Scene Major Command Shown: USAFE

United States Marine Corps aviators prepare to launch an F/A-18D Hornet at Kuantan Air Base, Malaysia.

A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 13th Fighter Squadron sits on the flight line before taking off to reach its 10,000 flight hour milestone at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Sept. 27, 2022. Aircraft 913 is the second Block-50 F-16 at Misawa Air Base and third in the Air Force to reach 10,000 flight hours.

U.S. Air Force Airmen from the 169th Fighter Wing return from Sentry Savannah 2022, the U.S. Air National Guard's annual premiere fighter jet exercise at the Air Dominance Center in Georgia, May 12, 2022. The 169th Fighter Wing is temporarily using the Columbia Metropolitan Airport, Lexington County, South Carolina, while runway repairs occur at McEntire Joint National Guard Base.

U.S. Air Force pilots assigned to the 79th Fighter Squadron Tigers board F-16C Fighting Falcons at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., Jan. 11, 2024. The Tigers were preparing to participate in Red Flag-Nellis 24-1, a large-scale joint exercise designed to provide Airmen an opportunity to experience advanced, relevant and realistic combat scenarios in a controlled environment.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II pilot assigned to the 421st Fighter Squadron, Hill Air Force Base, Utah, poses for a photo while taxiing at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam after returning from conducting Agile Combat Employment (ACE) rehearsals, June 29, 2022. ACE shifts operations from centralized physical infrastructures to a network of smaller, dispersed locations that can complicate adversary planning and provide more options for joint force commanders.

DF-SC-89-11165. Base: Unknown

CAPT. William J. "Fox" Fallon, commander, Carrier Air Wing 8 (CVW-8), and his pilot prepare to disembark from an Attack Squadron 65 (VA-65) A-6E Intruder aircraft upon their arrival at the air station. The attack and fighter squadrons of CVW-8 have returned to Oceana following their deployment to the Persian Gulf region aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN-71) for Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT SHIELD DESERT STORM Base: Naval Air Station, Oceana State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Jacob Caldwell, 61st Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, leads Capt. Jacob Shadow Jerzewski, 61st Fighter Squadron pilot, to his F-35A Lightning II Sept. 27, 2022, Luke Air Force Base, Arizona. Crew chiefs are a vital part of the maintenance force that ensure aircraft are airworthy and mission-ready.

DF-ST-89-01900. Base: Andrews Air Force Base State: Maryland (MD) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Gen. Jeffrey Harrigian, U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa commander, steps out of an F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 555th Fighter Squadron after his final flight at Aviano Air Base, Italy, April 21, 2022. Harrigian was commissioned in 1985 as a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy. He has served in a variety of flying and staff assignments, including Deputy Director for Strategy, Plans and Assessments, U.S. Forces-Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and as Chief of the Joint Exercise Division at NATO's Joint Warfare Center, Stavanger, Norway.

030114-F-4300H-002. Base: Nellis Air Force Base State: Nevada (NV) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: Air Combat Command

040914-F-6701P-014. Base: Lask Air Base State: Lodzkie Country: Poland (POL)

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Averi Burke, center, a native of Washington and a fixed-wing aircraft mechanic, and Maj. Carlo Bonci, in aircraft, a native of Massachusetts and an F-35B Lightning II jet pilot, both with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 542, conduct preflight checks in preparation for Exercise Nordic Response 24 in Norway, Feb. 22, 2024. Exercise Nordic Response, formerly known as Cold Response, is a NATO training event conducted every two years to promote military competency in arctic environments and to foster interoperability between the U.S. Marine Corps and allied nations. Exercise Nordic Response 24 is VMFA-542's first overseas operational exercise as an F-35B Lightning II jet squadron. Marine Corps

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jack Glad, aircraft turn supervisor assigned to the 122nd Fighter Wing Agile Combat Employment (ACE) team, signals an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft pilot during an Integrated Combat Turn (ICT) maneuver at Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center, Michigan, July 12, 2022. The ACE team refuels and reloads the aircraft while the engines are still running during the ICT maneuver to maximize time in the air.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Ryan Vic Fandler, an instructor pilot assigned to the 97th Flying Training Squadron, conducts preflight inspections on a U.S. Air Force T-38C Talon aircraft at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, July 21, 2022. The 97th FTS, a reserve association of the 80th Flying Training Wing, aids in instructing students in the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training Program. The ENJJPT program, conducted by the 80th FTW, is the world's only multi-nationally manned and managed flying training program chartered to produce combat pilots for NATO.

030309-F-5712B-009. Country: Unknown

Straight on medium close-up aerial shot, looking out the boom operator's window on a KC-135, as the pilot gives a thumbs up in the cockpit of a US Air Force F-16. He and other F-16s (Not shown), from Aviano Air Base, Italy, are being escorted to MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, by KC-135s (Not shown). The 555th Fighter Squadron deployed to MacDill due to temporary closure of Aviano's airfield. Country: Unknown

A Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) F-15DJ pilot with the 23rd Flying Training Squadron waves at the airshow visitors as he taxis the flight line at JASDF Nyutabaru Air Base during the Nyutabaru Air Show, Dec. 4, 2022. The air show encompassed various U.S. and Japanese static display aircraft, aerial performances, and provided a chance for the people of Japan to observe U.S. and JSDF assets.

U.S. Air Force airmen from the 366th Fighter Wing, Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, disembark from an F-15E Strike Eagle after returning from a sortie at Wendover Airfield, Wendover, Ut., 21 May 2022. The F-15E Strike Eagle is an all-weather multi-role strike fighter derived from the F-15 Eagle, and has been in continuous operation by the United States Air Force and partner nations since the late 1980s.

021017-F-4177H-013. Base: RAF Lakenheath State: East Anglia Country: England / Great Britain (ENG) Scene Major Command Shown: USAFE

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Patrick Cooley, left, and Staff Sgt. Carina Cabello, both 169th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron weapons specialists, prepare a F-16 fighter jet from the South Carolina Air National Guards 169th Fighter Wing to depart Columbia Metropolitan Airport in West Columbia, South Carolina to an alternate airfield September 29, 2022. The temporary relocation is a safety precaution ahead of the anticipated arrival of Hurricane Ian. The aircraft will return to South Carolina and resume their normal flight training operations just as soon as conditions allow.

A-10 Thunderbolt IIs from across the globe arrive at Gowen Field, Boise, Idaho, to compete in Hawgsmoke 2022, Sept 7, 2022. Hawgsmoke is a biennial USAF bombing, missile, and tactical gunnery competition for A-10 Thunderbolt II units which provides unique training.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Caroline Truemper, 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron crew chief watches an F-22 Raptor take off at Łask Air Base, Poland, Aug. 16, 2022. The 90th EFS forward deployed to Łask Air Base, Poland to bolster NATOs collective defense posture through Air Shielding.

040929-F-9789G-002. Base: Eielson Air Force Base State: Alaska (AK) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A U.S. Marine with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 533, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force - Crisis Response - Central Command 16.2, directs an F/A-18D Hornet returning to an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, June 9, 2016. VMFA(AW)-533 operates and conducts strikes as part of the Aviation Combat Element of SPMAGTF-CR-CC in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat they pose to Iraq, Syria, and the wider international community.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Sean Dolan, an F/A-18 Hornet pilot, left, and Capt. Raymond Rickenbach, an F/A-18D Hornet weapons system officer with Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA(AW)) 533, conduct pre-flight inspections on an AGM-84D Harpoon Anti-Ship Missile attached to an F/A-18D Hornet aircraft at Andersen Air Force Base Guam, June 14, 2022, in preparation of a joint maritime strike to demonstrate service components fires and effects capabilities in the maritime environment during exercise Valiant Shield 22 (VS 22). Exercises such as Valiant Shield allows the Indo-Pacific Command Joint Task Force the opportunity to integrate forces from all branches of service to conduct long-range, precise, lethal, and overwhelming multi-axis, multi-domain effects that demonstrate the strength and versatility of the Joint Task Force and our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Pilot climbs into a Bulgarian Air Force MiG-29 during sunset at Graf Ignatievo Air Base, Bulgaria.

010310-F-3431H-202. Base: Lajes Air Field State: Azores Country: Portugal (PRT)

A U.S. Air Force F-15C Eagle pilot assigned to the 44th Fighter Squadron secures his oxygen mask before an evening training sortie at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Nov. 8, 2022. Nighttime flying exercises provide fighter squadron aircrew and support personnel the experience needed to maintain a ready force capable of defending a free and open Indo-Pacific, day and night.

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