F-16 Fighting Falcon News

October 29, 2007 (by SSgt. Rachel Martinez) - Approximately 80 personnel and five F-16s deployed to Hyakuri Air Base October 14-19 to participate in disimilar training with the Japanese Air Self Defense Force (JASDF).
The 14th Fighter Squadron, in cooperation with two F-15 squadrons from the JASDF 7th Wing, demonstrated bilateral interoperability and conducted effective dissimilar training with their host nation counterparts.

The week-long exercise was part of the Aerial Training Relocation program. The ATR program was conceived to promote bilateral operations while helping to reduce jet noise burden on local communities. There are two types of ATR exercises. Type I calls for one to five aircraft to deploy for one to seven days. Type II exercises call for six to 12 aircraft for eight to 14 days. The 14th FS was tasked with a Type I.

"Overall the exercise was a tremendous success," said Capt. Jordan Carvell. "We met 100 percent of the objectives for the tactical missions flown and had immeasurable success in all aspects of the bilateral operations."

The exercise included more than flying operations. U.S. Air Force and JASDF exchanges, as well as social interactions, were key. Social interactions consisted of primarily side-by-side work. Ice breakers were organized for both the maintenance and operations sides. At the end of the exercise a large barbecue was held, that included gift exchanges and traditional Japanese entertainment.

"The benefit of this event on the individual level was the invaluable experience of working side by side with the JASDF - not only learning how they execute the mission, but making lasting friendships with our host nation allies," said Captain Carvell.

This was the first ATR exercise the 35th Fighter Wing has supported.