F-16 Fighting Falcon News

July 29, 2010 (by Secretary of the Air Force) - The Secretary of the Air Force and Chief of Staff of the Air Force announced today the transition of Holloman Air Force Base, N.M. to the F-16 training mission. The Air Force determined that Holloman has the capacity to accept two F-16 training squadrons.
The aircraft and additional training mission will provide Holloman with expanded training opportunities. The move also offers the opportunity for combined training with the Remotely Piloted Aircraft Formal Training Units already assigned here.

Holloman's RPA FTU will continue to provide highly-trained pilots and sensor operators in the 29th Attack Squadron, 6th Reconnaissance Squadron, 16th Training Squadron and the slated addition of the 11th Reconnaissance Squadron from Creech AFB, Nev.

"We look forward to welcoming the incoming squadrons of F-16s to Holloman," said Col David Krumm, 49th Wing Commander. "Holloman has outstanding facilities, airspace and people for this new training mission."

This announcement comes at the same time the Air Force announced actions to consolidate the F-22 Raptor fleet, which includes the deactivation of one F-22 squadron at Holloman and the redistribution of that squadron's aircraft to other F-22 units. Additionally the remaining squadron will eventually relocate to Tyndall AFB, Fla.

"This plan maximizes combat aircraft and squadrons available for contingencies," said Ms. Kathleen Ferguson, deputy assistant secretary for installations. "By consolidating aircraft at existing bases, F-22 operational flexibility is enhanced."

The time-lines for these actions are yet to be determined and contingent upon completion of appropriate environmental analysis.

"This is an exciting time for the base and our neighbours in the Tularosa Basin. Holloman has a long history of training world-class fighter pilots in some of our nation's most complex weapons systems," said Col Krumm. "We appreciate the outstanding support of our surrounding community and look forward to introducing them to our newest mission."

The F-16 Fighting Falcon is a compact, multi-role fighter aircraft. It is highly manoeuvrable and has proven itself in air-to-air combat and air-to-surface attack. The F-16 is a high-performance weapon system for the United States and allied nations. It is a battle-proven fighter aircraft that has deployed in support of operations in both Iraq and Afghanistan.