More than just U.S.

TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. - Tyndall Air Force Base's vast training airspace over the eastern Gulf of Mexico recently supported the 308th Fighter Squadron of Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., in its mission to train 5th-generation fighter pilots. The 308th FS traveled to Tyndall to finish six student pilots’ basic course training on the F-35A Lightning II as well as continue training programs for transitional students and instructor pilots. The 308th FS training organization caters to both domestic and foreign forces, including students from the Netherlands and Denmark. The training allowed pilots from the three nations to not only fly with Tyndall aircraft, but Eglin AFB and Alabama Air National Guard assets also. To support visiting personnel and aircraft, the 325th Fighter Wing’s Plans and Programs Office and the 325th Logistics Readiness Squadron Reception Working Group plan together to ensure the visiting unit is secure with all necessary assets to complete the exercise. “The interoperability that we have between the United States and partner squadrons establishes a foundation for future (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) F-35 operations,” said Maj. Robert Cowsert, 308th FS assistant director of operations. “Our goal is to provide students the experience of operating from an unfamiliar airfield, integration with other aircraft types, and to achieve high-level end-of-course training.” (Source: 325th Fighter Wing, 02/17/22)