PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID TULLAHOMA TN Vol. 65, No. 1 Arnold AFB, Tenn. PERMIT NO. 29 January 8, 2018 AEDC teams assist in preparing Dream Chaser for future missions By Deidre Ortiz AEDC Public Affairs

The Sierra Nevada Corporation’s Dream Chaser space plane recently had a successful free-flight test over the Mojave Desert in California, later making its landing at Edwards Air Force Base, California. The Hypersonic CTF at Edwards AFB is an operat- ing location of AEDC, which is headquartered at Arnold Air Force Base, Tennessee. A Columbia Helicopters Model 234-UT Chinook he- licopter was used to lift the Dream Chaser before drop- ping it to an altitude of almost 12,400 feet for the test. Once dropped, the craft accelerated to 330 mph, made a couple turns and then coasted to Runway 22L at Ed- wards. With a total glide time of 60 seconds, the plane touched down at 191 miles per hour and rolled 4,200 feet before coming to a stop. This Dream Chaser version will not have a crew; its intended use is transporting cargo to the International Space Station. Sierra Nevada Corporation’s Dream Chaser lands at Edwards Air Force Base in California on Nov. 11. The spacecraft recently went through preparations for flight at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center. Ed- wards AFB is an operating location of AEDC, which is headquartered at Arnold Air Force Base, Tennessee. See DREAM CHASER, page 4 (NASA photo/Carla Thomas) Tunnel 9 moves closer to Gearing up to host area 360-degree TSP capability high school students for 2018 National By Bradley Hicks AEDC Public Affairs

The team at AEDC Hypervelocity Engineers Week Wind Tunnel 9 in White Oak, Mary- By Deidre Ortiz land, has for some time considered AEDC Public Affairs a 360-degree capability for tests in- volving temperature-sensitive paint, Students from all over the Middle Tennessee or TSP, and has worked for about a area will be teaming up with AEDC engineers at year on ways to achieve it. Arnold Air Force Base to experience work envi- Thanks to recent innovations ronments and participate in competitions during developed after a customer’s need National Engineers Week, Feb. 18-24. provided a push, the Tunnel 9 team’s As part of Engineers Week, engineers from TSP capability is now one step clos- the Base and throughout the local region volun- er to painting the entire picture on teer their time to assist with mentoring opportu- wind tunnel models. The team built nities and activities geared toward engineering a prototype system mounted in the concepts. plenum of the T9 test cell tunnel to To kick off a busy month of engineering activ- allow for data collection from the ities for students, the annual MathCounts® com- bottom of the test cell – the most petition will be Feb. 3 at 1 p.m. at the University challenging view from an engineer- of Tennessee Space Institute. The competition is ing perspective. a local event where the winners were combined This recently-developed plenum into a team that will compete at the state level and view system prototype was suc- possibly at the national level. Students in seventh cessfully deployed for a test of the and eighth grades from Bedford, Coffee, Frank- Sierra Nevada Corporation’s Dream lin and Lincoln counties compete in these events, Chaser. which challenge mathletes to solve problems. “So far all the data we’ve been A Student Design Competition is Feb. 20 getting looks really good and agrees from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Hands-On Science very well with the discrete sensors as Center in Tullahoma for high school students in well as computational fluid dynamic tenth through twelfth grades from seven coun- predictions,” said Tunnel 9 Project ties. Teams consist of two people and prizes are Engineer Inna Kurits. “We feel it’s awarded to the top three highest scoring teams. a great accomplishment given the short amount of time we had to put See GEARING UP, page 5 the prototype together to meet the customer objectives.” TSP is a system consisting of a special paint, an ultra-violet illumi- The team at AEDC Hypervelocity Tunnel 9, White Oak, Maryland, con- nation source and a scientific charge- ducts a test on the Sierra Nevada Corporation’s Dream Chaser using coupled device camera to obtain temperature-sensitive paint and the recently-developed plenum view surface temperature data. The paint capability prototype. The plenum view prototype allows for data col- is applied to the model in two lay- lection from the windward side of a test article and moves Tunnel 9 ers – an undercoat and the TSP layer. closer to achieving a 360-degree TSP capability. (AEDC photo) The undercoat provides a uniform unique relationship between the completely coated in TSP. Equip- reflective surface for the TSP. The emission intensity and paint tem- ment used to collect data from the illumination source excites the TSP perature can be established through TSP, such as the lights and cameras, layer, which results in fluorescent a calibration process and allows the is typically mounted on the top of the light emissions with its intensity in- paint to be used as a global surface test cell and on one side allowing en- versely proportional to the surface temperature sensor. The measured gineers to see half of the model, pro- temperature on the model. surface temperature time histories viding them with a 180-degree view. “In other words, the paint gets can be used to compute surface heat darker as it heats up and gets bright- transfer.” (DiscoverE.org image) er as it cools off,” Kurits said. “A Models tested at Tunnel 9 are See TUNNEL 9, page 5

AEDC Tunnel 9 team AEDC team working to achieve Bridge to the Future event provides members taking initiative FIAR compliance unique opportunity for prospective in STEM outreach …Page 3 AEDC team members …Page 2 …Page 3 2 • January 8, 2018

Arnold Air Force AEDC Tunnel 9 team members Base taking initiative in STEM outreach Garnering students’ interest in aerospace technology careers

By Deidre Ortiz Col. Scott Cain AEDC Public Affairs Commander AEDC supports many Science, Engineer- Jason Austin ing, Technology and Mathematics (STEM) Chief, efforts throughout Middle Tennessee impact- Public Affairs ing nearly 19,000 students in more than 60 schools since 2013 and has a program dedi- cated to STEM at Arnold Air Force Base. But the STEM efforts don’t stop in Mid- Cynthia Rivera dle Tennessee, the AEDC team members at General Manager, Hypervelocity Wind Tunnel 9 in White Oak, National Aerospace Maryland, are also very involved in STEM Solutions outreach. High Mach Staff: According to Dan Marren, director of the Kathy Gattis, AEDC site at Maryland, Tunnel 9 has an im- NAS Executive Editor pactful workforce development program for Raquel March, undergraduate and graduate students through NAS Editor its Hypersonic Center for Testing Excel- High Mach is published by lence. Lakeway Publishers, Inc. a pri- vate firm in no way connected “Dr. Eric Marineau, T9 chief scientist, with the U.S. Air Force, Arnold has been instrumental in distinguishing this Air Force Base, Arnold Engi- program from most other programs of its neering Development Complex kind,” he said. (AEDC) or National Aerospace Most recently, Marineau and Marren par- Solutions (NAS), under exclu- sive written contract with NAS ticipated in a STEM event for high school at Arnold AFB, Tenn., 37389. students aimed at getting them excited about Everything advertised in careers in science and technology. this publication will be made “On Friday, Nov. 17, a last minute op- available for purchase, use or patronage without regard portunity came up to participate in a STEM Dr. Eric Marineau, chief scientist of hypersonics at the AEDC Hypervelocity Wind Tunnel to race, color, religion, sex, event,” Marren said. “Working with our state 9, hosts a booth at a recent Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics event national origin, age, marital sta- partners at the Federal Research Center, there held at the Aviation Museum in College Park, Maryland. While there, Marineau had the tus, physical handicap, political was a sponsored tour of the Aviation Museum opportunity to speak with students of Duvall High School about his work and the many affiliation or any other non- careers in aerospace engineering. (U.S. Air Force photo/Dan Marren) merit factor of the purchaser, in College Park, Maryland, for Duvall High School, our local area’s high school that has user or patron. reach opportunities and seeing the students exciting work we do at Tunnel 9,” he said. The High Mach office is a magnet program in Aerospace.” become excited about his field of work. “The students were engaged and eager to located at 100 Kindel Drive, As part of the STEM event, Marineau set “The event was a great opportunity to in- learn more about hypersonics and the unique Suite A236, Arnold AFB, Tenn. up a booth and chatted with the high school 37389-1236. Editorial content teract with students and tell them about the Tunnel 9 capabilities.” is edited and prepared by NAS. students about Tunnel 9 and the careers in Deadline for copy is Wednes- aerospace. day at close of business one “Marineau does such a great job speak- week before publication. ing with the high school’s magnet students, This commercial enterprise newspaper is an allowable who have an interest in aerospace about the NAS contractor publication different careers available through the Air for personnel at Arnold AFB. Force Test Center,” Marren said. The content of High Mach White Oak staff also regularly participate does not necessarily reflect the views of the Air Force, Arnold in management activities at the Federal Re- AFB, AEDC or NAS. The ap- search Campus where Tunnel 9 is located, pearance of advertising in this and through these meetings with other gov- publication does not constitute ernment organizations, Marren and his staff endorsement of the products capitalize on opportunities such as this. or services advertised by the Department of Defense, the “There are many opportunities that come Department of the Air Force, from this coordination, and at a meeting Arnold AFB, AEDC, NAS or months ago we were introduced to a STEM Lakeway Publishers, Inc. activity from the state that was previously For general information focused on biological sciences,” he said. about High Mach, call (931) 454-5655 or visit www. “When the coordinator realized that there arnold.af.mil. was an aerospace event coming up with a lo- Use High Mach to market cal magnet school program, she asked if we your products and servic- might want to participate. We said sure and es. Contact Renee at 931- Eric and I attended.” 455-4545 or tnadvmgr@ Marineau stated that he’s glad he took the lcs.net. chance to become involved in this event as he always enjoys taking part in these out-

Core Values • Integrity first • Service before self • Excellence in all we do

Vision “NAS will be integral to the success of AEDC, the U. S. Air Force’s premier aerospace testing facilities, while applying the highest standards of ethics, innovation, safety, security, and quality to daily operations.” Values • Ethics. We are uncompromising in our Action Line integrity, honesty, and fairness. Smoking Policy • Safety & Health. We are relentless in keeping people safe from harm, and 1. The following revised Arnold AFB smoking policy is effective immediately and applies to all individuals on Team AEDC we provide a safe and healthy work Arnold AFB. I believe in free and open communications environment. 2. Traditional Tobacco products (e.g. cigars and cigarettes): with our Team AEDC employees, and that’s • Security. We are disciplined and vigilant a. Smoking is permitted solely in Designated Tobacco Areas (DTAs) identified by designated signage. If no in protecting sensitive AEDC information why we have the Action Line available. and ensuring system integrity to support signage exists, smoking is not permitted in that area. It is the responsibility of all smokers to keep DTAs People can use the Action Line to clear national security and our customers. clean of cigarette butts. • Excellence. We thrive on challenge, b. Tobacco use on the Arnold AFB Golf Course is permitted, but discouraged based on the health hazards up rumors, ask questions, suggest ideas accomplishment, and mission success. of tobacco use and secondhand smoke. No smoking is permitted within 50 feet of golf course buildings on improvements, enter complaints or • Quality. We are passionate about doing our work right the first time. except in the approved DTA. get other issues off their chests. They • People. We have a mission-focused, c. Smoking in government-owned/leased vehicles is strictly prohibited. Personnel are allowed to smoke in their can access the Action Line via the AEDC inclusive workforce who have a diverse personal vehicles at any time; however, at no time will personnel discard cigarette butts outside their vehicle. intranet home page and by calling 454-6000. skill set, are committed to success, d. For government employees, the fact that a person smokes has no bearing on the number of breaks they demonstrate innovation and have a can Although the Action Line is always do attitude. may take. Breaks should be taken in accordance with the current supervisory and personnel policies that available, the best and fastest way to get • Culture. Our team is proud of our diver- afford all employees the same break opportunities consistent with good work practices and accomplish- things resolved is by using your chain of sity, inclusiveness, and collaborative work ment of the mission. environment. We are proud of what we do 3. Smokeless Tobacco products (e.g. snuff and dip): command or by contacting the organization and how we do it. directly involved. I encourage everyone to • Relationships. We build positive, long- Smokeless tobacco products are not to be restricted to DTAs. Smokeless tobacco use will be permitted in all term business relationships through trust, workplace areas (inside and out) subject to reasonable safety and sanitary conditions. Specifically, containers go that route first, then if the situation isn’t respect, and collaboration. of tobacco waste product, including sealed containers, must not be left unattended or disposed of in trash made right, give us a chance. • Innovation. We overcome challenges receptacles. Users of smokeless tobacco must flush tobacco waste down the toilet. through creativity, perseverance, technol- 4. Electronic Cigarettes (also known as “e-cigs”): ogy, and flexibility. We actively seek to Col. Scott Cain continually improve. Pursuant to Air Force Instruction (AFI) 40-102, Tobacco Free Living, e-cigs are considered to be equivalent to AEDC Commander • Sustainability. We plan and act for the tobacco products; however, e-cigs are not restricted to DTAs and are allowed to be used outdoors at a minimum long term benefit of our communities and distance of 25 feet from building entry/egress points. (This policy is dated July 27, 2016) our environment. January 8, 2018 • 3 AEDC team working to achieve FIAR compliance

By AEDC Logistics Office must be recorded in Air Force legacy systems. These National Aerospace Solutions (NAS), Akima Sup- legacy systems perform requirements computation us- port Operations (ASO) and OBXtek are now in the Over the past eight months, AEDC team members ing algorithms designed primarily for centrally man- process of implementing this new inventory strategy. have been preparing inventory records for audit by cer- aged assets in support of weapon systems across the NAS has increased the number of items available on tified public accountants as a part of the Department of Air Force. This requirements computation process is Blanket Purchasing Agreements and is placing materi- Defense Financial Improvement and Audit Readiness not designed to support an infrastructure as unique as al managers at strategic points within project manage- (FIAR) Program. the one here at AEDC.” ment processes to improve responsiveness to require- Program priorities were established in August 2009 The team recognized that the solution to legacy ments and disposition activities. and require DOD Components to focus on improving system reporting for the most unique ground testing ASO is re-warehousing areas within the warehouse the processes, controls, and systems supporting infor- operation in the world is to leverage processes. Since system and has created processing areas to efficiently mation most often used to manage the Department. For AEDC furnishes a limited range of unique spares to move assets to the Defense Logistics Agency Disposi- the past eight months, AEDC has been doing just that. contractors for test and infrastructure support, the team tion Services. OBXtek is capturing process changes Clark Brandon, Deputy, Test Support Division (TSD) decided to maximize Federal Acquisition Regulation in AEDC’s work order system to ensure minimal dis- and FIAR program manager, recognized that this goal procedures for Government Furnished Property and ruption to the end user, and QuantiTech is providing required more than Team AEDC’s effort alone. Rather, then use legacy system procedures only to the extent advisory assistance needed to bridge the gap between it required a carefully orchestrated approach across six needed to transmit inventory data to DFAS for inclu- logistics and test operations to ensure legacy systems external organizations to get this right. So, in March sion on the Statement of Budgetary Resources. This are accurately populated with the required data. of 2017, Brandon invited stakeholders from across the solution does bring some change, but the team made Col. Scott Cain, AEDC Commander, said, “I am Air Force, including Air Staff, Headquarters Air Force every effort to ensure most of the change was transpar- proud of what Team AEDC has accomplished so far. Materiel Command, Air Force Test Center and process ent to the end user. This is a very challenging task, and we’ve identified a owners to participate in a working group focused on Changes include demonstrating Government solution to the challenge while continuing to support achieving AEDC FIAR compliance. A week later, the ownership of Facility Reconfiguration items on - Spe ongoing test operations. Now we need to execute the group emerged with over 300 tasks required to create cial Purpose Recoverables Authorized Maintenance plan before the end of FY18.” auditable processes, controls, and systems supporting (SPRAM) details and using Air Force supply points to The plan referenced by Col. Cain is a floor-to-book information for eighty thousand items worth over 300 demonstrate Government ownership of Repairables. inventory of the test areas. This inventory will be con- million dollars. At the same time, AEDC will reduce asset reporting re- ducted in approximately 300 buildings and the goal When asked about this daunting task, Erik Wine- quirements by leveraging strategic sourcing tools such is to locate, identify, and incorporate equipment into land, AEDC’s Chief of Logistics, recalled his greatest as Blanket Purchasing Agreements and Basic Order- AEDC property records by the end of FY18. TSD will concern. ing Agreements. These strategic sourcing tools provide be reaching out to representatives of all AEDC organi- “The real challenge here is reporting,” he said. “In the same availability as ownership but avoid the cost zations to invite them to participate in a floor-to-book order to transmit AEDC inventory valuation to the De- and reporting requirements associated with inventory planning workgroup to ensure AEDC is ready for audit fense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS), it first investment. in early 2019. Bridge to the Future event provides unique opportunity for prospective AEDC team members

By Deidre Ortiz AEDC Public Affairs

Bridge to the Future, an event hosted by National Aerospace Solutions, the Test Operations and Sustainment contractor for AEDC, provided college-age students of AEDC team members the chance to see where their family works and learn about the many career opportunities available at Arnold Air Force Base. During the event, the participants heard from several individuals in leader- ship roles at Arnold AFB, which included AEDC Commander Col. Scott Cain and Col. Raymond Briggs, chief of the Arnold Air Force Base Test Systems Sustainment branch, NAS General Manager Cynthia Rivera and NAS Deputy General Man- ager Doug Pearson, among others. They also took a tour of the test facilities and then had one-on-one time with a mentor working in their particular area of inter- est. Mark Jenkins, NAS Ethics and Com- pliance officer, explained that Bridge to the Future, held Dec. 18, was the idea of Cynthia Rivera, who hoped that these stu- dents might develop interest in becoming future AEDC team members. “Cynthia had this vision for our [NAS] AEDC Commander Col. Scott Cain tells Bridge to the Future participants and mentors about his time as an Air Force college and technical school-aged chil- pilot and how the work at AEDC is important to the warfighter. The Bridge to the Future event, Dec. 18 at Arnold Air Force dren and grandchildren to see the neat Base, provided college-age students of AEDC team members the chance to see where their family works and learn things where their parents and grandpar- about the many career opportunities available. (U.S. Air Force photo/Rick Goodfriend) ents work,” he said. “From there it grew into an AEDC-wide event geared towards ence, Technology, Engineering and Math work with us to perform AEDC’s mis- ness, collaborative work environment and the same target group and expanded to in- (STEM) career fields, is important for sion for all our customers and the national of what we do and how we do it; and we clude recruiting.” AEDC “because we have lots of work to defense,” he said. “Reaching out to our want those who are most near and dear to Jenkins, who spearheaded the event, do and need great folks to help us do it.” families to do this is natural for us. It is us to be a part of that.” added that outreach to college-aged indi- “We need to identify and pursue the in a sense an embodiment of our culture. viduals, especially those interested in Sci- next generation of employees who will We are proud of our diversity, inclusive- See BRIDGE TO THE FUTURE, page 4 2018 Safety Focus Campaign announced By Bradley Hicks in the Safety Management Plan Action AEDC Public Affairs Status. The January topic is the development The topics for the NAS 2018 Safety and implementation of a more engaging Focus Campaign have been announced. and germane Tool Box format. This campaign is a follow-up to the “The tool box topics are chosen to successful 2017 Safety Condition Cam- be addressed at tool box meetings,” said paign. During the 2017 campaign, em- AEDC Safety, Health & Environmental ployees identified over 800 unsafe or Manager Dick Nugent. “The new focus in non-compliant conditions at various January is to begin a new format of tool AEDC locations and, at this time, have box topics for meetings. We are adding a permanently addressed over 500 of the few discussion points that are centered on identified issues. The remaining items hazards that may be present that day, miti- have temporary mitigations in place. gating controls, and lessons learned from Work continues to permanently address the prior day. The intent is for the meeting the remaining items. leader to engage the attendees in dialogue. In 2018, NAS will continue to focus “Our 2017 campaign was successful in on reviews of selected topics, implement that we identified and addressed a signifi- new or improved processes, and assess cant number of unsafe or non-compliant workplace conditions. The format of the conditions. In 2018, building on that suc- 2018 effort will be similar to that em- cess, our intent is to address processes, ployed during 2017 in that each month such as the tool box in January, and make there will be a specific topic, employees improvements.” will participate, information/expectation The remaining 2018 Safety Focus sheets will be distributed, and identified Campaign topics are: issues will be tracked to completion. This program will be entered into and tracked See CAMPAIGN, page 5 4 • January 8, 2018

BRIDGE TO THE FUTURE from page 3 Col. Cain also stated he is all for any event that involves supporting one’s family. “The Bridge to the Future was a great event and I enjoyed talking to the students and families. Family is my priority, but this event put that in a new light for me. In many cas- es, AEDC really is a fam- ily business, and we have second and third genera- tions serving here!” “I told the students and families what AEDC means to our operational Airmen and our flight testers who operate sys- tems after they have been developed and tested at AEDC. We really are a crucial step in making systems ready for com- bat, and serving at AEDC makes us all part of some- thing very important for Cynthia Rivera, general manager of National Aerospace Solutions, AEDC Test Operations and Sustainment contractor, speaks to the our nation.” participants of the Bridge to the Future event at Arnold Air Force Base. (U.S. Air Force photo/Rick Goodfriend) Col. Briggs, who opportunity for students to graduation.” children or grandchildren and this in particular was help of several differ- helped welcome the stu- see trades and engineering Bridge to the Future enjoyed it very much,” received very well.” ent organizations and the dents to Arnold at the be- applied to solve real prob- received positive feedback Jenkins said. “Our AEDC Jenkins thanked Air seamless collaboration ginning of the day, added lems, he said. “AEDC is a from the students as well Commander and Doug Force and NAS leader- between Air Force and that the event allowed great place for exposure as those who volunteered Pearson both relayed their ship, the mentors and all contractors,” he said. “It participants to see how to STEM activities. Hope- their time to the event. personal piloting experi- those involved on a job was such a success, and STEM is used daily by fully, we can get some in- “All of the parents I’ve ence in sharing the impor- well done. we hope the next Bridge AEDC team members. terest in having these stu- spoken with had positive tance of the work that we “We couldn’t have to the Future event will be “This event was a great dents join our team after comments and said their perform to the participants pulled it off without the even better.”

DREAM CHASER from page 1 When it does launch, Sierra Nevada and United breaking space missions. program. The testing will validate the aerodynamic prop- Launch Alliance have announced the Atlas V rocket will “I recently took the opportunity on a clear night to erties, flight software and control system performance of be sending the Dream Chaser cargo missions to the ISS. gaze into the night sky, and as it happens, the Interna- the Dream Chaser. AEDC test teams played a role in the development tional Space Station was visible,” he said. “As I looked up The data that SNC gathered from this test campaign of this launch system. In the fall of 2001, AEDC J-4 at the night sky and watched it transit by, I was instantly will help influence and inform the final design of the car- Rocket Motor Test Facility conducted test firings of the thankful of the role that AEDC has played in supporting go Dream Chaser, which will fly at least six cargo deliv- RL-10B-2, in support of the Evolved Expendable Launch this station. We have developed and helped validate the ery missions to and from the space station by 2024. vehicle, which in turn led to the development of the Delta design of rockets and spacecraft that have brought the According to an announcement by Sierra Nevada IV and the Atlas V, two primary launch systems for the parts up to construct the space station.” Corporation of the free-flight test, the Dream Chaser, the U.S. military. Marren added that today AEDC engineers are also first orbital vehicle, is scheduled to go to the International In addition to the flight testing at Edwards and the working with NASA to develop commercial options for Space Station as soon as 2020 for at least six missions as developmental testing of the EELV at Arnold Air Force both crew and cargo to resupply the ISS. part of NASA’s Commercial Resupply Services 2 con- Base, the braking system for the Dream Chaser has been “We are working advanced hypersonic technologies tract. tested by AEDC team members at the Landing Gear Test- that may one day be able to help us transit and develop As the company and NASA move ahead with plans, high ing Facility at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, which is space into a destination,” he said. speed testing is beginning with the Dream Chaser under- part of the 704th Test Group, an AEDC unit. The Dream Chaser flight test helped advance the ve- going testing in the Hypervelocity Wind Tunnel 9 facility Dan Marren, director of AEDC’s site at White Oak, hicle under NASA’s Commercial Crew Program space testing at Mach 10 and 14 to verify the aerothermody- Maryland, and leader of the Hypervelocity Wind Tunnel act agreement, as well as helped prepare the vehicle for namics performance of the system. Marren noted more 9, noted the important role of AEDC test teams in ground- service under NASA’s Commercial Resupply Services 2 details would be available once testing is completed. January 8, 2018 • 5

BRIDGE TO THE FUTURE from page 3 CAMPAIGN from page 3 • FEBRUARY - Arc Flash and Electrical Hot Work • MAY - Confined Space annual assessment. Focus on • SEPTEMBER - Fall Protection • MARCH - Lockout/Tagout annual assessment. Focus identification of confined spaces and required signage. • OCTOBER - Hazardous Materials, focus on Safety on use of locks and tags, along with a confirmation of • JUNE - Walking and Working Surfaces, criteria to be Data Sheets employee understanding of the process. defined • NOVEMBER - Walking and working surfaces, focus • APRIL - Review of the Engineering Design Process • JULY/AUGUST - JSA Review, complete review of on lighting and winter conditions and Safety Systems JSAs for all work • DECEMBER - Hand Safety

GEARING UP from page 1 Engineer for a Day is an time. all-day event, scheduled 7 Local organizations, such As part of the 2017 En- a.m. until 3 p.m., Feb. 21 at as the Tullahoma Chapter gineers Week Engineer Arnold AFB, which gives of the Tennessee Society for Day, AEDC analyst Mary Forde, pictured high school juniors and se- of Professional Engineers, left, explains flash point niors the opportunity to tour the Highland Rim Chapter testing to Fayetteville the Complex and some of its of the American Society of High School student facilities, as well as spend Mechanical Engineers, the Kaytlin Hobbs and Com- time with an engineer mentor Tennessee section of the munity High School in an area of their particular American Institute of Aero- student Brandon Waller interest. Students are selected nautics and Astronautics, the in the AEDC Chemistry by their schools to participate Society for Maintenance and Laboratory at Arnold Air in this event. Reliability Professionals, the Force Base. Engineers Week Engineer for a Day The final event of the Project Management Insti- activities include the week is the Engineers Week tute and the AEDC Science opportunity to tour the Banquet on Feb. 22 from Technical Engineering and Complex and some of 5:30 to 8 p.m., during which Math Program offer assis- its facilities and spend the students and mentors cel- tance with Engineers Week time with an engineer ebrate the accomplishments each year. mentor in an area of of engineers and students. For more information their particular interest. The location of the banquet about Engineers Week, call (U.S. Air Force photo/ will be determined closer to (931) 454-6542. Rick Goodfriend)

TUNNEL 9 from page 1 Because the windward, or bottom, side CRS2 program. run,” Kurits said. “The data processing “The advancement that will allow of a test article is typically of the most The Tunnel 9 team had only months starts taking a very long time and the files 360-degree TSP capability is putting interest to test customers, the models are to develop the prototype in order to meet become very large.” cameras and lights on the bottom of the usually mounted in an inverted fashion to the customer need, but there would be Kurits commended the work of Tun- test cell, specifically in the plenum of the allow viewing of the bottom of a model challenges. The equipment in the plenum nel 9 Project Engineer John Juliano, who tunnel,” she said. DREAM CHASER from page 1 from the top of the test cell. would have to operate under a vacuum. she said has done much work over the Once the 360-degree system is de- This conventional method would not There is limited space within the plenum past year to streamline the Tunnel 9 data ployed, Tunnel 9 will be able to provide work with the Dream Chaser model, to position the necessary equipment. reduction processes and improve code customers with a more complete data set, however, as the Tunnel 9 team realized Even if the equipment could be suc- efficiency. This will ultimately allow the such as quantitative heat transfer over the the test could not be conducted with the cessfully placed within the plenum, this Tunnel 9 team to process the large data entire surface of a model. This system model inverted due to the angle-of-attack equipment could not interfere with the volume associated with the 360-degree would be among the other innovations range of interest. The test pushed the tunnel pitch mechanism or the ability to capability in the same amount of time as at Tunnel 9 implemented to enhance ef- team to develop a solution to the optical open and close the test cell. Adjusting the before. ficiency and customer satisfaction. access limitation. equipment inside the plenum would also Kurits said the team is not planning to “The technology is constantly improv- “This meant we would have to be able be difficult, as there is no physical access deploy the 360-degree capability on the ing,” Kurits said. “We are trying to keep to image the windward side of the test ar- to the test cell once it is closed. Dream Chaser test just yet, but the plan our system class leading by keeping up ticle from the plenum of the tunnel as op- “We were able to identify cameras is to deploy a simultaneous top and bot- with the improvements in camera and posed to the top of the test cell, which is that could operate in a vacuum with wa- tom view and a view of one side during LED technologies. Newer cameras are currently the standard mode of operation ter cooling as opposed to our standard the next test, providing engineers with a smaller, faster, have higher resolution, for TSP,” Kurits said. “We had an idea of cameras that use fans,” Kurits said. “The roughly 270-degree view. and are cheaper. New LEDs have higher how to get this done, but no working pro- other piece of the puzzle was finding the To achieve a full 360-degree data light output for the same power input. totype, so we had to put one together in UV LED lights that are powerful enough collection capability, lights and cameras Newer computers can process larger vol- short order specifically for this test pro- and small enough to allow effective il- would be needed on all four sides of the umes of data faster. All of these technolo- gram.” lumination of the model from the small test cell. Kurits said this is the ultimate gies result in improved data quality and The SNC’s Dream Chaser is an under- space available in the plenum.” goal, and more equipment must be pro- efficiency, and hence, directly benefit the development spacecraft designed to carry Tunnel 9 Optical Technician A.J. cured to reach that point. customer.” out commercial space transportation. Ac- Spicer performed much of the lab work cording to the SNC website, the Dream necessary to figure out how to cool the Chaser Cargo System was selected in LEDs so they could be operated at full 2016 by NASA under the Commercial power in a vacuum without overheating. Resupply Services 2 (CRS2) contract to “He also figured out how to package transport pressurized and unpressurized all the components in the small space cargo to and from the International Space available to us,” Kurits said. Station with return and disposal services. Another challenge that presented it- Under the CRS2 contract, Dream self to the team, and one they are continu- Chaser will provide a minimum of six ing to work through, is data reduction. cargo service missions to and from the “Going from the current system we ISS between 2019 and 2024. have to a 360-degree system would dou- The Tunnel 9 test is in support of the ble the amount of data we collect every 6 • January 8, 2018 Hill AFB F-35A maintainers passing the Pacific TSP test By Trevor Tieman 24th Air Force Public Affairs

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan (AFNS) – Five weeks into the first F-35A Pacific Theater Security Package deploy- ment, the 34th Aircraft Maintenance Unit team is at full stride. Maintainers in the Pa- cific location and in Utah, home of the 34th AMU under the 388th and 419th Fighter Wings, are com- ing together to make the first TSP a success and fulfill lofty expectations of themselves and of the Air Force’s newest stealth fighter. “Everyone associ- ated with the 34th Fighter Squadron and AMU alike, make a really great team, and that’s good because we have a lot to accom- plish while we’re here,” said Capt. Christina Mer- ritt, 34th Expeditionary Maintenance Unit officer Senior Airman Alexander Evans, 34th Aircraft Maintenance Unit, and Master Sgt. Kyle Kutcher, 419th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, in charge. “We’re show- conduct routine maintenance on an F-35A Lightning II at Kadena Air Base, Japan while deployed in support of the first F-35A Pacific ing the world what we’re Theatre Security Package. This long-planned deployment is designed to demonstrate the continuing U.S. commitment to stability and made of and what the F- security in the region. (U.S. Air Force photo/Donovan Potter) 35A can do.” great start and have con- aircraft across the world flying over salt water con- the parts for it and we we will continue to fill From a maintenance tinued through the early and more than 300 people stantly, our pilots have fixed it the same day,” he them perfectly. I want our perspective, the results are part of this deployment.” across the world is im- to run through the ‘bird said. “As long as we have maintainers to walk away remarkable. The jet can Sarafin said he isn’t pressive. It’s mostly due bath’ every day.” the parts, we can fix this from this experience be- fly seven hours from Utah surprised the maintenance to the hard work that all The bird bath is a giant jet quick. That is a testa- ing proud of what they to Hawaii and then 10- record is so good because the people have been put- sprinkler that pilots drive ment to our maintenance do in the Air Force, and plus hours to Kadena Air the plane is strong and ting in around here.” through as they taxi back capability, and the ease being proud of success- Base on Okinawa, Japan, the people working on it Keeping planes in the to their parking spot. It of maintenance on the fully accomplishing the without a single mainte- are skilled. He also com- skies over subtropical engulfs the entire aircraft F-35.” very first F-35A Pacific nance incident, and then mended the Airmen of Okinawa can be a little with clear water to rinse Merritt said she every- deployment.” continue to perform ex- Kadena AB’s host 18th different than flying over off salt the aircraft was one to fully understand U.S. Pacific Command’s ceptionally during train- Wing for their support. the Utah desert. Merritt exposed to while flying the importance of this TSP deployments to the ing missions throughout “We have already said they’re becoming ac- over the ocean. TSP deployment because Indo-Asia-Pacific region the Pacific Theater. proven the F-35s are reli- customed to dealing with When something does they have an important have operated since 2004. “The jets performed able,” Sarafin said. “We salt water’s corrosive need repair on the F-35A role in making it a suc- This long-planned de- perfectly and all landed fly like crazy back home properties. during this deployment, cess. ployment for the 388th code 1 (no flight-limiting and we get good num- “In Utah, we don’t Sarafin said they can fix it “This is a huge deal for and 419th FWs is de- conditions),” said Master bers all the time. But to fly over oceans with salt promptly. our unit and also for the signed to demonstrate the Sgt. Brian Sarafin, F-35A get zero maintenance water corrosion,” she ex- “We’ve been able to U.S. Air Force,” she said. continuing U.S. commit- production superinten- non-deliveries to start out plained. “But coming here fix the things that have “We have big shoes to fill ment to stability and se- dent for the 34th AMU. the TSP, after moving 12 with the 5th gen platform broken, because we have and I have no doubts that curity in the region. “We have gotten off to a

Staff Sgt. Jordan Jones, 34th Aircraft Maintenance Unit, directs an F-35A Light- ning II from the flows at Kadena Air Base, Japan while deployed in support of the first F-35A Pacific Theatre Security Package. This long-planned deploy- ment is designed to demonstrate the continuing U.S. commitment to stability and security in the region. (U.S. Air Force photo/Donovan Potter) January 8, 2018 • 7 8 • January 8, 2018 Every journey begins with a single step – An Airman’s story of resiliency

By Shireen Bedi Air Force Surgeon General Public Affairs

FALLS CHURCH, Va. (AFNS) – (This is part one of a series following an Airman through her cancer treatment and amputation) Maj. Stephanie Proellochs, a Medi- cal Service Corps officer, was fighting cancer, overcoming the odds and set on returning to active duty. Unfortunately, just when the finish line was in sight, new challenges presented themselves. After a year of treatment and the amputation of her left foot, Proellochs thought she was cancer-free in Novem- ber 2017. She was not. Her cancer had spread, and will require additional treat- ment. Her drive to overcome cancer, her commitment to rejoin her fellow Airmen and her relentlessly sunny and positive attitude are all still present and stronger than ever. The first part of her story showcases an Airman exhibiting strength and grati- tude through the highs and lows of her treatment journey. “Every journey begins with a single Maj. Stephanie Proellochs relies on her wheelchair as she heads in to her daily physical therapy session at Walter Reed step,” read the Facebook caption under a National Military Medical Center, Nov. 8, 2017. Proellochs received a below-the-knee amputation in September 2017 to treat a malignant tumor that had metastasized and spread. (DoD photo by Karina Luis) picture of Proellochs walking on a tread- mill with a smile from ear-to-ear. orthopedic oncologist at Walter Reed Unfortunately, not long after she was derwent surgery to amputate her foot at Most Airmen are not excited about National Military Medical Center in No- back in combat boots, she noticed lumps Walter Reed National Military Medical exercising on a treadmill, but Proellochs vember 2016. in her upper thigh. In June, she discov- Center in Maryland. The procedure was is not your average Airman. As a recent “The first thing he said to me was, ered her tumor was metastatic and had a below-the-knee, trans-tibia amputation amputee, this single step marked an im- ‘You have a tumor in your foot and the spread from her foot. on her left leg. This type of procedure portant milestone on her road to recovery. next time I talk to you, I will be taking “It was at that point I said, ‘Take the will give her a strong chance at regaining Her journey has highlighted how patient- it out,’” said Proellochs. “They removed foot’,” said Proellochs. “When I found a functional limb, and enable her to return centered principles of trusted care help the tumor in December 2016.” out it was on the move, it was time for the to an active lifestyle. wounded, ill and injured Airmen at all While most would be shocked at the foot to go.” “After speaking with my healthcare levels of care. thought of a tumor, Proellochs had some For anyone, an amputation of a limb team at Walter Reed, I felt comfortable For Proellochs, who has served for 10 prior experience with a benign tumor in is a life-altering experience that nobody moving forward with the amputation,” years, it all started in late 2015 with un- the same foot. She assumed once doctors is prepared for. Fortunately, Proellochs’ said Proellochs. “The team here has such bearable pain in her left foot. That began removed the tumor, her ordeal would be husband and his experience working with an amazing reputation, so I knew I was in a year long quest to find the root of her over. amputees made the upcoming transition good hands.” pain, a journey that drastically changed However, in January 2017 she learned a bit easier. Proellochs’ strength, positive outlook her life. that her tumor was malignant and her “My husband, John, volunteers for a and, most of all, gratitude after amputa- “I started seeing doctors, being re- foot needed to be amputated. Insisting non-profit organization that is focused tion are impossible to ignore and help ferred to specialists and tests,” said Pro- on holding off on such a life-changing on working with wounded veterans who drive her recovery. ellochs. “My healthcare team was deter- operation, Proellochs opted to undergo have disabilities like amputations,” says “I have the ‘paper cut’ of amputa- mined to find answers to the cause of my months of radiation therapy instead. By Proellochs. “He was familiar with life af- tions. I only lost my left leg, so I can still pain and get me back to work.” June, Proellochs thought she was healed ter amputations and conversations about drive,” explains Proellochs. “When you Her quest for answers led her to an and ready to go back to work. what life would be like was common in talk to other amputees with more severe our household. With the help of my hus- injuries, it puts it all in perspective. I have band and his experience, I felt prepared spoken with patients who are quadruple for it. And now he got his own amputee.” amputees, making incredible recoveries. Knowing life as an amputee would be I look at my situation and think, ‘This is different, Proellochs wanted to have one nothing. I just have a paper cut.’” last “tour” with all 10 of her toes. This Proellochs might describe her ampu- motivated her to plan a “Farewell to Foot tation as “just a paper cut,” but facing Tour” with her family. such a life-changing event like this is a “I wanted to put both of my feet in the sign of her strength and her ability to stay sand one more time. My family, friends focused on her recovery. and I planned a vacation to commemorate The next part of her story brings to the last time I would be able to do this light her amazing support system, the im- with my left foot. We all met up and took pact this has had on her Air Force career, pictures of my 10 toes in the sand and two and her ability to use humor to face the feet in the water for the last time.” more challenging moments of her treat- In September 2017, Proellochs un- ment. January 8, 2018 • 9 Cyber operations Airmen ‘Hack the Air Force’

By Trevor Tieman 24th Air Force Public Affairs

NEW YORK (AFNS) – Within 30 seconds of re- ceiving the order to “start hacking,” researchers at the Hack the Air Force 2.0 event discovered two vul- nerabilities – exactly the result the organizers were hoping for. The researchers were cyber security special- ists invited to the Dec. 9, 2017 event in New York to identify security gaps in Air Force websites. Hack the Air Force 2.0 is a continuation of the Hack the Air Force event held in June 2017. Initi- ated by the Defense Digi- tal Service, the event is a by-invitation opportunity for computer experts out- side the Air Force to as- sist in strengthening the service’s defensive cyber posture, by discovering and reporting vulnerabili- Capt. Katherine Lawall, 390th Cyber Operations Squadron, answers questions posed by local high school students during a “Hackers ties in Air Force websites. Panel” Dec. 9, 2017. HackerOne coordinated with the non-profit organization Code.org, to invite a group of students to the Hack the DDS contracted Hack- Air Force 2.0 event to learn more about computer sciences. (U.S. Air Force photo by Trevor Tiernan) erOne, an internationally gram strengthen those team of hackers … but the and leverage the range of all come together to find highly contested environ- respected vulnerability partnerships, it allows the vulnerability had already talent in our country and these vulnerabilities,” he ment where the adversary disclosure and bug bounty Air Force to both teach been patched. They’d be partner nations to secure said. “I was amazed at the constantly changes tactics company, to host and co- and learn from the best trying to grab screen shots our defenses,” said Peter creativity [of the research- and techniques, creating ordinate the event. Twen- and brightest outside of to prepare a post-day Kim, Air Force chief in- ers] with some of these is- complex vulnerabilities. ty Fourth Air Force sent a the [Department of De- brief, but they couldn’t formation security officer. sues that were found. So Participating in the Hack- team of Airmen from the fense].” because the systems were “We’re greatly expanding the best part was seeing erOne hosted ‘hackathon’ 90th, 315th, 352nd and Even though Hack- already healthy.” on the tremendous suc- all these resources come allowed our cyber war- 390th Cyber Operations erOne invited some of The non-Air Force cess of the first challenge together to solve security riors to showcase their Squadrons to work along- the world’s elite hackers researchers were able to by targeting approximate- problems.” immense talent and skills side their industry coun- to the event, they were receive cash rewards of ly 300 public facing Air In a rapidly and per- while also learning and terparts discovering bugs surprised to find the Air up to $50,000 for each Force websites. The cost- petually evolving domain strengthening relation- and weaknesses. Force sites were not that vulnerability they identi- benefit of this partnership such as cyber, interacting ships with our partners “This was a first to easy to crack. fied under a practice com- in invaluable.” with industry partners is in industry and other na- showcase our offensive “They were im- monly used in private sec- For Maj. Barrett Dar- essential for the Air Force tions.” capabilities in an offi- pressed,” said Lt. Col. tor known as “Bug Boun- nell, 315th COS, the high- to stay on top of its game. At the close of the cial capacity alongside Jonathan Joshua, 24th ties.” Under bounty pro- light of the day was the in- “Our cyber warriors event, after 12 hours of private and commercial AF deputy chief of staff. grams, companies pay so- teraction between differ- are in the fight every day,” hacking, participants had sectors and international “As a vulnerability was called “white hat” hackers ent groups participating. said Weggeman. “Our identified multiple vulner- partners,” said Maj. Gen. identified, shortly thereaf- a reward for pointing out “What stood out was Airmen operate within Air abilities, protected 300 Christopher Weggeman, ter, hackers would be at- holes in their security. seeing private sector, in- Force networks and em- Air Force websites and 24th AF commander. tempting to highlight the “Hack the Air Force al- dependent bounty hunt- ploy offensive and defen- forged immeasurable new “Not only does this pro- vulnerability to another lowed us to look outward ers and the government sive capabilities 24/7 in a partnerships. 10 • January 8, 2018 Arnold AFB Milestones F-35 testers wrap up Weapons 35 YEARS 20 YEARS Chevis Lee, FSS NEW HIRES John Moorehead, TOS Joseph Capps, TOS Richard Crouch, TOS Michael Money, TOS Adam Baker, TOS Scarlett Taylor, TOS David Hurst, TOS Charles McCoy, TOS Kenneth Cheek, TOS Sarah Wood, TOS INBOUND MILITARY William Cochran, TOS 30 YEARS 15 YEARS Capt. Mark Birdwell, Deborah Corum, TOS PROMOTIONS Jim Hicks, FSS Daniel Lynch, TOS AF Joy Davis, TOS Karlie Madden, to second Delivery Accuracy tests Letha Hodges, TOS James Mitchell, TOS Tonya Fry, TOS leuitenant, AF Jason Waller, TOS RETIREMENTS Alex Gonzales, TOS 25 YEARS Betty Estabrooks, Casey Griffith, TOS Wendall Duncan, TOS 10 YEARS TOS Andrew Hans, TOS Congratulations Carson McAfee, TOS Stuart Hanson, TOS Sue Hampton, TOS Henry Hawley, TOS Scott McPherson, FSS Senior Master Sgt. Charles Teddy Holt, TOS Team AEDC! David Hurst, TOS Allen Zimmerman, 5 YEARS Hoyt, AF Mark Manning, TOS 35 Years FSS Dennis Akers, TOS Michael Ketron, AF Tammy Marsh, TOS JTACs, aircrews participate in joint exercise over PRTC By Airman 1st Class pable of accomplishing.” Donald Knechtel The combination of 28th Bomb Wing Public JTACs in the field cre- Affairs ated a unique opportunity for units to conduct real- ELLSWORTH AIR istic training; however, FORCE BASE, S.D. while B-1B Lancer air- (AFNS) – Aircrews from crews have had extensive Ellsworth Air Force Base training with JTACs in worked side-by-side with the past, it was a rare op- members of the 582nd He- portunity for those in the licopter Group out of F.E. UH-1N Huey. Warren AFB, Wyoming “What we are training and joint terminal attack on is working with high- controllers from the Eng- speed JTACs,” said 1st land’s Royal Air Force Lt. Jesse Togawa, 37th during a joint-training HS chief of plans and pro- exercise over the Powder gramming. “As a unit, we River Training Complex are tactically employing in western South Dakota our aircraft in the ways Dec. 4-8, 2017. that they need us to in a A UH-1N Huey helicopter from the 37th Helicopter Squadron at F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyo., takes The exercise provided large-scale operation like off from Ellsworth AFB, S.D., Dec. 7, 2017. The exercise was the Huey aircrew’s first time training with the each unit an opportu- this one. We don’t get B-1B Lancer and was designed to help prepare them for real-world situations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Air- nity to integrate with Air many chances to work man 1st Class Donald C. Knechtel) Force Global Strike Com- with JTACs, so this is a that are widely different said Capt. Julien Adams, roles the different plat- “This kind of exercise is mand platforms and im- great opportunity for us.” from the rotary-wing air- 34th Bomb Squadron forms used. While the B-1 definitely a viable train- prove their strengths and During the exercise, craft. It’s important to see weapon systems officer. scanned the area and neu- ing scenario we would capabilities in the field. JTACs worked with air- what would happen in a “In training like this, it’s tralized larger targets, the like to see continued.” “It’s important that we crews from both the B-1 real world situation with always great to have real Huey provided close air These agencies expect train with other units, be- and the UH-1N Huey he- multiple entities working JTACs instead of having support, utilizing weap- to work together again in cause it not only proves licopter, providing them together seamlessly in the an instructor role play as ons to take on individual upcoming joint trainings. our abilities, but it shows with tactical information field.” one in the field. It gave us targets. “Being the first time the other squadrons what for targets in the field. The operation pro- more of a real-world feel According to the RAF we have worked with the their proficiencies are,” “This is the first time vided experience to Ells- to the training. Having ac- JTACs, every operation B-1, I have to say that it said Staff Sgt. Travis Ak- we have worked with the worth AFB aircrew for tual radio communication is situational. With each was extremely success- erson, 37th Helicopter B-1s,” Togawa said. “The future missions. with a guy on the ground scenario, the JTAC may ful,” Akerson said. “We Squadron special mis- training objective in this “This training was was great.” need an entirely differ- built relations with the sions aviator. “When we operation is how to inte- done because it gave us During the training, ent platform to ensure the B-1s [aircrew], the British work together, it paints a grate with the other air- an opportunity to practice JTAC switched back-and- target is destroyed, some- forces and special opera- picture of what we are ca- frames, especially those for our next deployment,” forth between different thing a WSO knows all tions forces. We are going aircraft relaying targets to too well. to use those relations we both of them simultane- “It’s all task dependent built to accomplish these ously. on what’s happening on kinds of exercises going Adams explained the the ground,” Adams said. into the future.”

A B-1B Lancer from Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., flies over a UH-1N Huey helicopter from the 37th Helicopter Squadron at F.E. Warren AFB, Wyo., dur- ing a joint exercise at the Powder River Training Complex in western South Dakota, Dec. 7, 2017. During the training, joint terminal attack controllers from England’s Royal Air Force switched back and forth between different aircraft relaying targets to both of them at the same time. (U.S. Air Force photo by Air- man 1st Class Donald C. Knechtel) January 8, 2018 • 11 F-35 testers wrap up Weapons Delivery Accuracy tests

By Kenji Thuloweit 412th Test Wing Public Affairs

EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. (AFNS) – Testers from the 461st Flight Test Squadron and F-35 Integrated Test Force completed a major test mile- stone bringing the F-35 Lightning II’s full combat capabilities closer to the battle- field. The weapon systems for the F-35 were previously ground-flight tested in the Pro- pulsion Wind Tunnel at AEDC, Arnold Air Force Base. Weapons Delivery Accuracy flight tests began in July 2013 and wrapped up earlier this month. The WDA portion of the F-35 developmental test and evalua- An Edwards Air Force Base F-35A Lightning II fires an AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile as part of tion mission ensures the fifth-generation Weapons Delivery Accuracy testing. The 461st Flight Test Squadron and F-35 Integrated Test Force completed WDA fighter’s weapons system can deliver le- testing in early December, which concludes a large and important part of F-35 developmental test and evaluation. (Cour- thal ordnance both air-to-air and air-to- tesy photo by Chad Bellay/Lockheed Martin) ground using the jet’s warfighting Block cate missions that we had and the jet did Maj. Jonathan Gilbert, 461st FLTS drop them on the target they’re selecting,” 3F software. extremely well.” pilot, completed the final air-to-ground Hamilton said. The ITF used all three F-35 variants Hamilton said the air-to-air accuracy WDA test as a new test pilot to the F-35 The F-35 Integrated Test Force, op- and delivered air-to-air missiles including tests finished in August with air-to-ground Integrated Test Force. erating at both Edwards Air Force Base AIM-120s, the AIM-9X and the United tests ending in October. The F-35 ITF “I didn’t even know it was a milestone, and at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Kingdom’s advanced short range air-to- then capped off WDA tests by completing I just knew I was dropping a weapon,” said Maryland, continues to conduct develop- air missile. The WDA tests also confirmed testing on the F-35’s GAU-22 25mm gun Gilbert. “It wasn’t until after that I felt the mental flight test for the Defense Depart- air-to-ground delivery of the Paveway IV at the beginning of December. The WDA excitement from the team and the squad- ment’s F-35 Joint Program Office. On- laser-guided bomb, GBU-39 small diam- gun tests included the Air Force’s A-vari- ron to close out the WDA program. It is going testing at Edwards AFB includes eter bomb, GBU-12, GBU-31 joint direct ant where the gun is internally carried and a credit to the team and the planning as it mission effectiveness testing, suppression attack munition and the AGM-154 joint on the Marine Corps’ and Navy’s B and C did not appear this would be achievable in of enemy air defenses, maritime interdic- standoff weapon. variants, which employ a gun pod beneath the time the squadron accomplished it in, tion, and offensive and defensive air-to- “Weapons delivery accuracy tests are the jet. but yet they were able to complete it. I just air combat testing. important, because without proof that the Each weapon test required multiple had the pleasure of dropping the last one.” “The ITF takes these extremely chal- F-35 can actually drop these weapons missions including software develop- Hamilton said the F-35 Joint Program lenging and intricate data requirements “This kind of exercise iswhere we need them to go, then the F-35 ment, “dry runs” and then the actual Office analyzes the data from all the and then finds a way to coordinate with definitely a viable train-is just an information-gathering system,” weapon release. Not including the gun, WDA tests and any upgrades to the F-35 multiple outside agencies, drones, tank- ing scenario we wouldsaid Lt. Col. Tucker Hamilton, 461st Hamilton said the F-35 ITF delivered 55 mission systems software will be sent out ers, ranges and basically conduct these like to see continued.” FLTS commander and F-35 ITF director. weapons during WDA testing, which was to the F-35 operational fleet. missions and make them happen in a his- These agencies expect“The F-35 proved it was extremely capa- mainly done over the military sea range “When they get their 3F software, the torical manner,” said Hamilton. “No one to work together again inble in delivering these weapons where we off the California coast and at Naval Air one that is going to be productionized for before them has ever been able to pull off upcoming joint trainings. wanted it and how we wanted it delivered. Weapons Station China Lake in Califor- full 3F capability, (the fleet) will be con- executing weapons deliveries like the in- “Being the first timeThese are the most complicated and intri- nia. fident they can load these weapons and dividuals in the ITF.” we have worked with the B-1, I have to say that it was extremely success- ful,” Akerson said. “We built relations with the B-1s [aircrew], the British forces and special opera- tions forces. We are going to use those relations we built to accomplish these kinds of exercises going into the future.” 12 • January 8, 2018