PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID TULLAHOMA TN Vol. 67, No. 22 Arnold AFB, Tenn. PERMIT NO. 29 November 16, 2020 AFTC commander, command chief visit AEDC

By 2nd Lt. Christine Saunders Air Force Test Center Public Af- fairs

Air Force Test Center Com- mander, Maj. Gen. Christopher “Pi” Azzano and Air Force Test Center Command Chief, Chief Master Sgt. Brian Stafford, visited Arnold Engineering Development Complex Nov. 10, 2020 at , Tenn. Azzano and Stafford, along with Col. Jeffrey Geraghty, AEDC commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Robert Heckman, AEDC superin- tendent, visited various AFTC test facilities at AEDC to check on cur- rent and upcoming tests in support of the National Defense Strategy and the well-being of personnel during the COVID-19 pandemic. They visited the Von Kar- Lt. Col. Lane Haubelt, left, chief of the Propulsion Test Branch, Test Division, Arnold Engineering Development Complex, speaks to Maj. man gas dynamics facility, high Gen. Christopher Azzano, right, commander, Air Force Test Center, and Chief Master Sgt. Brian Stafford, command chief, Air Force Test Center, about engine testing being performed in the J2 test cell during their visit Nov. 10 to Arnold Air Force Base. (U.S. Air Force photo See AFTC, page 3 by Jill Pickett) AEDC at forefront of hypersonic test, evaluation

By Jill Pickett is no single test cell that can AEDC Public Affairs fully duplicate all the key pa- rameters of hypersonic flight Hypersonics is considered simultaneously, AEDC has a critical field for national various types of test facilities defense, and the Arnold En- which are optimized to provide gineering Development Com- insight into a specific aspect of plex is critical to the success hypersonic flight.” of the Department of Defense The complex has three in that field. wind tunnels capable of aero- “Effective test and evalua- dynamic testing of models at tion is key to the rapid field- hypersonic speeds. At Arnold ing of hypersonic systems,” Air Force Base, Tunnel B can said Col. Jeffrey Geraghty, achieve speeds of Mach 6 and AEDC commander. “It pro- 8, while Tunnel C can gener- vides knowledge to reduce the ate Mach speeds of 8 and 10. probability of in-flight failures AEDC Hypervelocity Wind and performance shortfalls, Tunnel 9 in White Oak, Mary- while delivering large cost and land, has nozzles that allow for schedule risk reductions for Mach speeds of 6.7, 8, 10, 14 acquisition programs.” and 18. AEDC engineers and sci- “The Mach 18 nozzle is a entists conduct test and evalu- recent addition to the capabili- ation of hypersonic systems ties of Tunnel 9, extending the and system components in the tunnel’s operational envelope areas of aerodynamics, aero- from Mach number 14 to 18 thermal, propulsion, weather provides greater insight into a effects and flight testing. vehicle’s performance across a “It is difficult to produce wider portion of mission tra- the extreme conditions of a jectory,” said John Lafferty, John VanScoten, left, an outside machinist, Daryl Osteen, a test operations engineer, and other representative hypersonic en- Team AEDC personnel work in the control room of the Arnold Engineering Development Com- Tunnel 9 technical advisor. plex Aerodynamic and Propulsion Test Unit May 20 while wearing masks to help mitigate risk vironment in ground test,” said This nozzle was the result associated with the coronavirus pandemic. The APTU team has performed their tasks, provid- Ed Tucker, AEDC senior tech- ing hypersonic testing capabilities, without interruption during the pandemic. Hypersonics is nical director. “Because there See HYPERSONIC, page 4 considered a critical field for national defense.(U.S. Air Force photo by Jill Pickett) Engine sensors testbed being stood up in SL-1

By Jill Pickett liamson, commented that AEDC Public Affairs having an engine sensor test- bed will benefit future fighter Sea Level aeropropul- and bomber engines in devel- sion test cells at Arnold Air opment. Force Base, headquarters of “This work is to improve the Arnold Engineering De- future engine health moni- velopment Complex, typi- toring, so as to improve the cally serve as testbeds to put time between depot work, engines through their paces and lessen downtime for air- from the relative safety of craft in the field,” William- the ground. But now in SL- son said. 1, a F404 engine is becoming Currently, engineers are the testbed. determining which of the This effort will provide three F404 engines, variants engine sensor vendors the of which power the F/A-18 opportunity to test new hard- Hornet and the T-7A Red ware and techniques on a Hawk, will be used as the modern turbine engine. testbed. The selected engine Stan Freeze, an outside machinist, inspects the tail of a F404 engine Jan. 10 in a sea level test Aeropropulsion technol- See TESTBED, page 5 cell at Arnold Air Force Base. The engine is being prepared for health testing to determine suit- ogy lead for the AEDC Test ability as an engine sensors testbed. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jill Pickett) Systems Branch, Bernie Wil-

With holidays approaching, AEDC F135 testing resumes AEDC machinist keeps commander advocates greater in J2 pedal to the metal during caution to prevent virus spread leisure time …Page 2 …Page 2 …Page 3 2 • November 16, 2020

Arnold Air Force F135 testing resumes in J2 Base

Col. Jeffrey Geraghty Commander Jason Austin Chief, Public Affairs

Jeff Albro, right, Joint Strike Fighter Joint Program Office F135 Richard Tighe ground test and evaluation manager, speaks with Lt. Col. Lane General Manager, Haubelt, Materiel leader for the Arnold Engineering Development National Aerospace Complex Aeropropulsion Ground Test Branch, as they and oth- Solutions Testing of an F135 engine with a new rotor design is continuing ers tour the J2 test cell with an F135 engine installed Sept. 2 at High Mach Staff: in the J2 test cell of the Engine Test Facility at Arnold Air Force Arnold Air Force Base. Testing of a new rotor design, also tested Base. The engine is shown in the test cell in this image taken in a Sea Level test cell, is continuing in J2 after an outage. (U.S. Kathy Jacobsen, Sept. 2. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jill Pickett) Air Force photo by Jill Pickett) NAS Executive Editor By Jill Pickett F135, the powerhouse of the to accommodate maintenance. Jet Engine Test project manager. Jill Pickett AEDC Public Affairs F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) Once that outage concluded, “The test team that has been NAS Editor Lightning II. testing resumed with an expec- conducting this test has been High Mach is published by Testing of the Pratt & Whit- In J2, altitudes up to 75,000 tation to continue into early highly involved and has worked Lakeway Publishers, Inc. a pri- ney F135 engine has resumed in feet can be simulated, along 2021. closely with personnel from Pratt vate firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, Arnold the Arnold Engineering Devel- with temperatures from -60 to “Test results to date have & Whitney and the JSF Joint Air Force Base, Arnold Engi- opment Complex J2 Engine Test 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Flight been positive and encouraging, Program Office to frame the de- neering Development Complex Cell at Arnold Air Force Base. speeds of up to Mach 2.6 can and early results allowed us to sired objectives and collect data (AEDC) or National Aerospace The test team is seeking to Solutions (NAS), under exclu- also be simulated. complete an AMT (Accelerated toward those objectives.” sive written contract with NAS validate the structural integrity Testing of the engine began Mission Test) with the same The F135 program has con- at Arnold AFB, Tenn., 37389. and aerodynamic characteristics in J2 in 2019, but was stopped newly-designed rotor,” said 2nd ducted more than 5,500 hours of Everything advertised in of a new fan rotor design for the because of a planned outage Lt. Gregory Landrum, AEDC testing in test cells across AEDC. this publication will be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital sta- With holidays approaching, AEDC commander tus, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non- merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. advocates greater caution to prevent virus spread The High Mach office is located at 100 Kindel Drive, Suite A236, Arnold AFB, Tenn. By Bradley Hicks continued caution while away from restrooms, and requiring masks to the spread, we will be able to keep 37389-1236. Editorial content AEDC Public Affairs work. be worn anytime a person is within getting the mission done at full ca- is edited and prepared by NAS. “We take risks to be close to 6 feet of another whether indoors or pacity,” he said. Deadline for copy is Wednes- Count the seriousness with people we love,” Geraghty said. outside. Throughout the pandemic, day at close of business one which his workforce has taken the week before publication. “Think about those risks and think As they have throughout the Geraghty has reiterated that his This commercial enterprise COVID-19 pandemic among the of others when you decide how to RtFC phases, Geraghty and AEDC priorities are to protect the health newspaper is an allowable things Arnold Engineering Devel- gather. Consider how you can min- Superintendent Chief Master Sgt. of the workforce, execute as much NAS contractor publication opment Complex Commander Col. imize the risk of transporting the Robert Heckman are continuing of the mission as possible and en- for personnel at Arnold AFB. Jeffrey Geraghty is grateful for this novel coronavirus in your commu- regular walkabouts of Arnold to sure members of the workforce The content of High Mach does not necessarily reflect the Thanksgiving. nity. I’ve seen numerous examples help ensure employees remain in take care of each other. He said the views of the Air Force, Arnold Team AEDC is continuing to of our partners in the community compliance with Geraghty’s miti- workforce has continued to dili- AFB, AEDC or NAS. The ap- follow Geraghty’s policy aimed at thinking of others before them- gation policies. Geraghty said he gently meet those priorities. pearance of advertising in this mitigating the spread of COVID-19 selves, wearing masks in their busi- and Heckman have observed that Methods used to ensure mis- publication does not constitute while accomplishing the AEDC ness centers and asking their pa- adherence has remained steady in sion execution include increased endorsement of the products or services advertised by the mission despite the challenges that trons to do the same. These simple the months since the RtFC plan telework opportunities. Geraghty Department of Defense, the accompanied the virus. behaviors will make it slightly less was initiated. said telework has continued to Department of the Air Force, But another health threat has re- risky to spend time with family and “On base, Team AEDC contin- prove very effective and a broader Arnold AFB, AEDC, NAS or emerged. The return of the season- friends over the holidays.” ues to follow the CDC (Centers for implementation in the future is Lakeway Publishers, Inc. al flu, coupled with the increased For general information In an effort to safeguard the Disease Control and Prevention) now being assessed. about High Mach, call (931) chances of virus transmissions due health of its workforce, several op- protocols that are designed to pro- “Supervisors are encouraged 454-5655 or visit www. to many staff members gathering erational plans and postures have tect our health,” Geraghty said. “As to start to determine exactly how arnold.af.mil. with friends and family for the been effected at Arnold Air Force we continue to follow these simple productive it is for each employ- Use High Mach to mar- holidays, has prompted Geraghty Base during the COVID-19 pan- rules, we prevent the virus from ee,” he said. “For example, if they ket your products and to urge continued vigilance among services. Contact Joe at demic. Arnold AFB, the headquar- spreading from person-to-person have five employees teleworking 931-455-4545 or jmartin@ the military personnel, contractors ters of AEDC, remains in the sec- on base. right now and one of them ac- tullahomanews.com and Department of Defense civil- ond of a three-phase Return to Full “However, outside the gates, complishes 80 percent more work ians who make up the AEDC team. Capacity, or RtFC, plan. This phase widespread community transmis- than the rest, that’s probably the The arrival of flu season in the took effect in mid-June, just two sion continues as the virus finds employee you’ll want to have ac- midst of the COVID-19 pandemic weeks after the initiation of RtFC plenty of individuals who are will- complish the remote workload poses an increased risk of illness. Phase 1 on June 1. Prior to entering ing, perhaps unwittingly, to trans- when we establish a new telework Geraghty said AEDC employ- RtFC Phase 1, Arnold AFB con- port the virus to its next host. As policy.” ees should continue following the ducted business in an Operation- a result, the overall infection rate Geraghty also wished to ad- proper COVID-19 mitigation be- ally Urgent posture. During this of AEDC personnel fairly steadily dress the members of Team haviors while taking steps to guard posture, which took effect on April matches the infection rate of the AEDC. Fittingly, it was to share a Core Values against the seasonal flu. 6, the number of personnel on base surrounding community. Thank- message of gratitude. “Keep up the health practices was significantly reduced and only fully, as of this writing we have not “Thank you for taking care of • Integrity first that reduce the risk of getting sick test and support functions critical to lost a teammate to COVID-19.” each other, protecting health and • Service before self and passing diseases on to your national security were maintained. The RtFC framework allows getting the mission done,” he said. • Excellence in all friends, family and co-workers,” we do An increased number of staff for regression to previous pan- “It’s an honor to work for Ameri- Geraghty said. “Wash your hands, returned to base for work with the demic-related operating postures cans who are committed to service wear a mask within 6 feet of each implementation of each new phase. if it is deemed necessary to protect before self.” other, and get vaccinated.” Along with enhanced screening employee health. Geraghty said For more information on The approaching holidays are for base entry, measures to combat nothing he has seen thus far indi- AEDC protocols, the RtFC frame- also a cause for concern on the the spread of COVID-19 at Arnold cates the need to take a step back. work and COVID-19 statistics in Vision COVID-19 front. Geraghty said have been required throughout the “I can’t rule out having to re- areas surrounding Arnold AFB, “NAS delivers the best AEDC team members should be RtFC phases. These include the gress, but as long as we keep do- visit the Arnold AFB coronavirus aerospace testing mindful of the dangers gatherings wearing of masks in common areas ing the things the CDC recom- webpage at https://www.arnold. capabilities today and in may present, and he encouraged around base, such as hallways and mends to mitigate risk and contain af.mil/coronavirus/. the future.” Values • Ethics. We are uncompromising in our Action Line integrity, honesty, and fairness. Smoking Policy • Safety & Health. We are relentless in Team AEDC, keeping people safe from harm, and 1. The following revised Arnold AFB smoking policy is effective immediately and applies to all individuals on I believe in free and open communications we provide a safe and healthy work Arnold AFB. with our Team AEDC employees, and that’s why environment. we have the Action Line available. People can • Security. We are disciplined and vigilant 2. Traditional Tobacco products (e.g. cigars and cigarettes): in protecting sensitive AEDC information a. Smoking is permitted solely in Designated Tobacco Areas (DTAs) identified by designated signage. If no use the Action Line to clear up rumors, ask ques- 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 tions, suggest ideas on improvements, enter national security and our customers. clean of cigarette butts. complaints or get other issues off their chests. • Excellence. We thrive on challenge, b. Tobacco use on the Arnold AFB Golf Course is permitted, but discouraged based on the health hazards The Action Line has been expanded to in- accomplishment, and mission success. • Quality. We are passionate about doing of tobacco use and secondhand smoke. No smoking is permitted within 50 feet of golf course buildings clude an option for your ideas, comments, or our work right the first time. except in the approved DTA. suggestions on the AcqDemo personnel sys- • People. We have a mission-focused, c. Smoking in government-owned/leased vehicles is strictly prohibited. Personnel are allowed to smoke in their tem. Simply call the normal x6000 commander’s inclusive workforce who have a diverse personal vehicles at any time; however, at no time will personnel discard cigarette butts outside their vehicle. action line. You will then be prompted to select skill set, are committed to success, option 1 for the Commander’s Action Line or Op- demonstrate innovation and have a can d. For government employees, the fact that a person smokes has no bearing on the number of breaks they do attitude. may take. Breaks should be taken in accordance with the current supervisory and personnel policies that tion 2 for the AcqDemo line. They can access the • Culture. Our team is proud of our diver- afford all employees the same break opportunities consistent with good work practices and accomplish- Action Line via the AEDC intranet home page sity, inclusiveness, and collaborative work ment of the mission. and by calling 931-454-6000. environment. We are proud of what we do Although the Action Line is always available, and how we do it. 3. Smokeless Tobacco products (e.g. snuff and dip): • Relationships. We build positive, long- Smokeless tobacco products are not to be restricted to DTAs. Smokeless tobacco use will be permitted in all the best and fastest way to get things resolved term business relationships through trust, workplace areas (inside and out) subject to reasonable safety and sanitary conditions. Specifically, containers is by using your chain of command or by con- respect, and collaboration. of tobacco waste product, including sealed containers, must not be left unattended or disposed of in trash tacting the organization directly involved. I en- • Innovation. We overcome challenges courage everyone to go that route first, then if through creativity, perseverance, technol- receptacles. Users of smokeless tobacco must flush tobacco waste down the toilet. ogy, and flexibility. We actively seek to 4. Electronic Cigarettes (also known as “e-cigs”): the situation isn’t made right, give us a chance. continually improve. Pursuant to Air Force Instruction (AFI) 40-102, Tobacco Free Living, e-cigs are considered to be equivalent to • 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 Col. Jeffrey Geraghty long term benefit of our communities and distance of 25 feet from building entry/egress points. (This policy is dated July 27, 2016) AEDC Commander our environment. November 16, 2020 • 3 AEDC machinist keeps pedal to the metal during leisure time

Daniel Jones burns rubber in his 1961 Ford Falcon at the US 60 Dragway in Hardinsburg, Kentucky. Jones, inside machinist lead at the Arnold Engineering Development Complex Model and Machine Shop at Arnold Air Force Base, Tenn., took up the hobby of drag racing around 25 years ago, an activity that has taken him to various parts of the country for competitions. (Courtesy photo)

By Bradley Hicks tight together and all share AEDC Public Affairs the same interests with the ultimate goal of going as fast Life in the fast lane suits as we can,” Jones said. Daniel Jones just fine. Jones said drag racing With holidays approaching, AEDC commander Jones’ work and his pas- has taken him to various time both center on achiev- parts of the country. He ing extreme speeds. As the has competed in Bowling inside machinist lead at the Green, Kentucky; Hunts- advocates greater caution to prevent virus spread Arnold Engineering Devel- ville, Alabama; Florida; opment Complex Model and southern ; and as Machine Shop at Arnold Air far away as Kirkland, Illi- Force Base, Jones works to nois. He frequently races at support the high-speed test- the Crossville Dragway and ing that occurs in test cells at the Buffalo Valley Drag- throughout the installation. way, a racing facility located Outside of the Arnold gates, around 80 miles north of Ar- Jones can often be found on nold AFB. the track putting the hammer Jones doesn’t spend his down or in the garage gear- free time away from the ing up for his next run. track spinning his wheels, as Jones, who has worked it’s not just the behind-the- at Arnold for around three- wheel aspect of drag racing and-a-half years, took up he enjoys. Over the years, he drag racing as a hobby has built racecars for him- around 25 years ago. Typi- self and friends, as well as cally in drag racing, two for the occasional customer. drivers go head-to-head, vy- This work has included ev- ing to be the first to cross the erything from fabricating finish line. pieces and parts for racers to Daniel Jones, inside machinist lead at the Arnold Engineering Development Complex Model and Machine A self-described “gear- complete vehicle builds. Shop at Arnold Air Force Base, competes in drag racing and builds racers in his free time. Jones, who head,” Jones said an interest While the thrill of victo- refers to himself as a “gearhead,” took up drag racing as a hobby around 25 years ago. (U.S. Air Force photo by Bradley Hicks) in fast cars runs in the fam- ry is a bonus, Jones said it’s ily, as his father also raced the exhilaration of reaching It’s not just the hobby of with my wife, I tell her I’ve in an eighth of a mile. open to helping, and every and tinkered with old cars speeds well above 100 miles drag racing that has been a had it longer than I’ve had Jones said those who en- once in a while you get to and trucks in his free time. per hour that drives him and part of Jones’ life for some her.” joy drag racing form a tight- meet up with those guys at “Growing up, he was a others to return to the drag- time. While he has owned Eventually, Jones decid- knit community, adding he various races,” he said. gearhead and I can remem- strip. and built other cars over the ed to tear down the car and has not only met plenty of Jones also receives sup- ber going and watching him “It’s not so much about years, his 1961 Ford Falcon rebuild it in order to make it fellow enthusiasts in-person port from those most impor- race when I was just 4 or 5 winning or losing,” Jones has been with him from the faster. Jones has put consid- but has also gotten to know tant to him. years old,” Jones said. said. “It’s kind of the accom- beginning of his racing days. erable work into the Falcon some through various inter- “My daughters will Since taking up drag plishment of taking some- It started out as a “daily driv- to soup-up its horsepower net forums and social me- come and pit crew whenev- racing himself, Jones said thing that was just a big pile er” and was the car Jones over the past quarter-centu- dia sites. He said racers are er time permits,” Jones said. he has crossed paths with a of tubing and various parts drove in high school. ry, and it is now his primary more than willing to assist “My wife Kristy has always number of folks who share here and there and putting “The car I’ve got, it was car when he hits the drag- one another by offering ad- supported me in my racing, the need for speed. them all together and having the first car I’ve ever bought, way. It has a 514-inch block vice and sharing ideas. and I have always made sure “There’s a bunch of us an end product as something so I’ve had it 27 years,” engine and is capable of “Everybody in the racing racing wasn’t the number that kind of all run pretty that will fly.” Jones said. “I joke around reaching 120 miles per hour community is pretty well one priority in my life, but

AFTC from page 1 temperature lab, propulsion wind tunnel, J2 engine test and hypersonic test facili- ties. Azzano and Stafford also met with outstanding performers at each of the facilities to thank them for their continued dedication to the test mission at AEDC. “Always a pleasure to be back with our AFTC team at AEDC. They continue to work miracles with ag- ing infrastructure to deliver amazing technology for our nation. We owe them a debt of gratitude and I’m hon- ored to serve with them!” said Azzano. Azzano also held a leadership all call at AEDC where he stressed the impor- tance of sharing the AFTC Maj. Gen. Christopher Azzano, left, commander, Air Force Benjamin Holton, right, section chief of the High-Temperature story. Test Center, comments to Lt. Col. John McShane, right, Materials Characterization and Evaluation capability within the chief of the Flight Systems Branch, Test Division, Arnold Space and Missile Test Branch, Test Division, Arnold Engineering “Everyone should be a Engineering Development Complex, as they look at the test Development Complex, speaks with Maj. Gen. Christopher Azza- public affairs specialist. Our section of Tunnel B in the von Kármán Gas Dynamics Facil- no, commander, Air Force Test Center, about the Mid-Pressure future hinges on how we ity, Nov. 10 at Arnold Air Force Base. Also pictured is Chief Arc Heater, seen in the background, Nov. 10, during a visit by tell our story,” emphasized Master Sgt. Brian Stafford, command chief, AFTC. The wind Azzano to Arnold Air Force Base. The MPAH enables the simula- Azzano. “Be relentless with tunnel is used to conduct aerodynamic testing at hyperson- tion of hypersonic flight conditions for the evaluation of thermal how we tell our story.” ic speeds. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jill Pickett) protection systems. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jill Pickett) 4 • November 16, 2020

HYPERSONIC from page 1

AEDC is developing, with support from the Test Resource Management Cen- ter, a High Altitude Long Endurance Unmanned-Aerial-Vehicle based flight test support capability, called SkyRange, to supplement or replace traditional data Rob Hale, engineering technician, left, Parth Kathrotiya, system engineer, cen- collection assets, such as ships that are used for hypersonic flight testing. ter, and Zack Russo, engineering technician, pose with the Mach 18 nozzle at A modified Global Hawk aircraft, seen here Sept. 4, is part of the SkyRange AEDC Hypervelocity Wind Tunnel 9 in White Oak, Maryland, March 22, 2019. project to provide increased flight test capacity, operational flexibility and im- (U.S. Air Force photo by A.J. Spicer) (This image has been altered by obscuring proved quality data collection. (U.S. Air Force photo) badges for security purposes) of advanced-technology The J-5 Phoenix test nation’s development of nozzle material develop- facility, currently un- future hypersonic sys- ment and state-of-the-art der construction at Ar- tems,” said Sean Smith, nozzle design tools. nold AFB, will expand Hypersonic Systems “Following the cali- the aerothermal and ad- Test Branch Ground Test bration conducted from vanced high speed pro- technical advisor. “The May to July 2020, the pulsion testing capabili- APTU team has been new capability will be ties of AEDC. J-5 will working hard for the past used extensively for provide true tempera- several years with AFRL current and future pro- ture, clean air testing at (Air Force Research grams,” Lafferty said. speeds in excess of Mach Laboratory) to test some The characteriza- 7 for mission-length run of the largest and most tion for hypersonic sys- times. Plans also call for complex hypersonic en- tem Thermal Protection a variable Mach number gines we’ve ever tested A rocket sled is shown just before launch on the AEDC Holloman High Speed System (TPS) materials nozzle to provide ac- in this country. Test Track at , New Mexico, Aug. 26. The 9-inch mono- is conducted in three curate flight trajectory “This team has over- rail sled was launched as part of the Hypersonic Readiness program, which is AEDC arc heater facili- simulations. come many challenges a series of tests being conducted by the 846th Test Squadron at Holloman to ties. Currently, AEDC along the way and that prepare for future rocket sled testing to support programs and projects includ- ing the Hypersonic Test and Evaluation Investment Portfolio and Air-Launched “Mid-Pressure Arc conducts advanced pro- includes learning how Rapid Response Weapon, as well as hypersonic sled tests for other customers. Heater technologies de- pulsion testing of hy- to operate with the dis- (U.S. Air Force photo) veloped by Arnold AFB personic systems in the ruptions imposed by engineers have resulted Aerodynamic Propul- COVID-19. This will AEDC also is capable tion dynamics, guidance “Bringing those experts in a world-unique ca- sion Test Unit (APTU). be the same innovative of subjecting hypersonic system performance, together as a team to pability that allows for Last year, the AEDC team that will ultimate- systems to weather that sensor performance and plan and execute test pro- high-enthalpy flows, Hypersonic Systems ly lead the execution may be encountered in other key performance grams and shape the fu- pressures and mission Test Branch ground test of test programs in the flight. metrics. ture of hypersonic testing durations which are rep- team conducted test- J-5 facility. J-5 will be “A key element of “The HHSTT pro- is a top priority for us.” resentative of typical ing in APTU, which set the most advanced hy- evolving from a hy- vides customers afford- Due to the surge in boost glide vehicle tra- a record for the highest personic propulsion test personic demonstra- able risk reduction by hypersonic flight test - re jectories,” Tucker said. thrust produced by an facility in the U.S. when tion concept vehicle to producing operational- quirements, additional The increased activity air-breathing hypersonic it comes online, and its an operational weapon ly-relevant hypersonic flight test support assets in hypersonic systems engine. unique capabilities will is to test and evalu- weapon lethality charac- for data collection are has resulted in a very “Both the APTU and enable the team to ac- ate how the system will teristics for our program required to meet the ca- high test tempo for these J-5 test capabilities will complish even greater perform when operating offices, characteristics pacity and capability re- test capabilities. play a critical role in the things in the future.” in weather that it may that will allow our warf- quirements of the DOD. encounter during a mis- ighters to develop strat- In response to this need, sion,” Tucker said. egy and tactics for these AEDC is developing, Hypervelocity Bal- weapons,” said Lt. Col. with support from the listic Range G at Ar- Paul Dolce, commander Test Resource Manage- nold AFB allows for of the 846th TS. ment Center (TRMC), soft-launch at speeds in Recently, the 846th a High Altitude Long excess of Mach 20. The TS, in conjunction with Endurance (HALE) Un- range can be configured the Hypersonic Test and manned-Aerial-Vehicle to simulate a projectile Evaluation Investment (UAV)-based flight test encountering dust, rain, Portfolio, upgraded the support capability, called snow and ice. HHSTT’s rainfield to SkyRange, to supplement “The weather encoun- improve weather effects or replace traditional data ter test techniques being testing. Additionally, the collection assets, such as developed will allow for 846 TS has been study- ships that are used for hy- highly controlled testing ing natural rainfall in or- personic flight testing. of hypersonic materials der to improve the simu- SkyRange will use being developed for fu- lation capabilities of the UAVs with new or im- ture systems,” said Jona- rainfield. proved sensors to sup- than Carroll, capability The HHSTT is cur- port hypersonic flight manager for Hypervel- rently studying recov- tests. The UAVs utilized ocity Flyout, Impact and ered hypersonic mono- by SkyRange are RQ-4 Lethality Ground Test rail testing, a capability Global Hawks and MQ-9 and Evaluation. “These unique to only the HH- Reapers. Initial sensor capabilities ensure sys- STT. While the 846 TS capabilities include te- tems are survivable, has proven this capabili- lemetry, an airborne tele- reliable and well-char- ty in the past, the Squad- scope to characterize ve- acterized in any opera- ron is refining design hicle surface conditions tional environment. The methods to make the and a system to measure ground test data gener- sleds more survivable atmospheric conditions. ated will validate mod- at the higher speeds ex- Additional test support eling and simulation pected in future testing. applications and sensors (M&S) tools that will The AEDC Hyperson- are being considered. be used across multiple ic Systems Test Branch “SkyRange represents hypersonic development integrates ground test- a novel approach to ad- programs. The combina- ing and flight testing dressing our nation’s tion of this ground test within the same branch. need to conduct high- data and M&S tools will The Ground Test Team fidelity hypersonic flight serve as a risk reduction of the branch operates tests by increasing flight and generate cost sav- APTU. The Flight Test test capacity and opera- ings as we prepare for Team, located at Ed- tional flexibility, while future flight tests.” wards Air Force Base improving the quality While Range G pro- in California, provides of data collected during vides lethality capability capabilities such as tra- flight,” said Tyler Neale, ground testing at smaller jectory analysis and op- executing agent for High scales, at the AEDC Hol- timization, simulation, Speed Systems Test Tech- loman High Speed Test test and safety planning, nology program. Track (HHSTT) at Hol- and project management The combination of loman Air Force Base in support. Together, the facilities and personnel New Mexico customers branch’s teams coordi- available within AEDC can test models ranging nate early involvement enables the execution of in size up to full-scale at and support from essen- the hypersonic mission. speeds up to Mach 8. In tial test resources within “AEDC has an out- many cases, the test ar- or outside the Air Force standing team of techni- ticles can be recovered. Test Center. cal experts developing The HHSTT is a rocket “Rapidly providing and operating a unique sled track operated by hypersonic capabilities to suite of hypersonic test the 846th Test Squadron. the warfighter requires a and evaluation capabili- The Squadron provides united effort from orga- ties,” Tucker said. “They customers relevant test nizations across AFTC serve a vitally impor- data to verify lethality and the Department of tant role in gaining the effects, impact surviv- Defense,” said Maj. knowledge needed to ability, aerothermal and John Wilder, Hypersonic successfully field effec- weather effects, separa- Flight Test Team director. tive hypersonic systems.” November 16, 2020 • 5 Drive safely this fall

By AEDC Safety ic dangers of fall weather • If the windshield is storm passes did not have operational • Remove unsafe equip- to be aware of when driv- frosted, clear the en- • Deer are very ac- seatbelts. ment from service. Fall brings fewer ing: tire windshield of ice tive this time of year As the employee • Ensure employees are hours of daylight, and • Turn on your lights. with a scraper and the and can run in front drove on a wooded properly trained to rapidly changing weather Tennessee requires car’s defroster. No of your vehicle. If paved golf course path, operate a GVO/ATV. and road conditions, so you to use headlights peephole driving. that happens, do not the sun and tree shadows be prepared. to make you more vis- • The worse the condi- swerve, just brake prevented the employee While driving any It is common to need ible whenever it rains. tions get, the slower firmly with both hands from seeing a gate arm vehicle be sure it is safe the heater on the way to • As it starts raining wa- you should travel. on the wheel to come that was partially in the and has all functioning work and the air condi- ter mixes with oil on • Brake lightly. When to a controlled stop. employee’s path. When safety equipment. Even tioner on the way home. the roadways, creating you need to stop in the Gator struck the gate the most experienced You should always be particularly slippery rain, wind or fog, go The following is arm, the employee was driver can miss some- prepared for possible conditions. as easy on the brakes information we were ejected and caught the thing once in a while. cold, windy and wet • Watch for fallen as possible. Slam- asked to share about an gate arm, causing exten- There are multiple ways weather, even on days leaves, they can make ming on the brakes incidentthat happened at sive and fatal injuries. to stay safe on the roads when the sun is shining. it slippery and obscure increases your chanc- another facility. this fall, and they all boil Stash in your vehicle traffic lines, markings es of entering into a A golf course employ- • Use proper safety de- down to being aware appropriate clothing, and even potholes. skid. ee was making rounds of vices in all vehicles. of your surroundings; warm coats, rain gear • Temperatures can drop • Know when to park the golf course driving • Do not use any equip- watching your speed, and gloves in case of dramatically during it. If severe weath- a Gator. The Gator the ment that is defective especially in areas with emergency. Plan ahead. the night, making ice er makes travel too employee was driving or faulty. rain, frost or leaves; and Be aware of the weather spots on areas such risky, find the near- had been used by the • Notify leadership of paying attention to the forecast. as bridges, overpasses est truck stop or rest golf course employees any defective safety road. Here are a few specif- and shaded areas. area and wait until the for many months, and it devices. Take care of each other.

TESTBED from page 1 will then be modified to ac- produce the environment began in August 2019. The gines to determine the most more than a year, all of cept additional instrumen- needed to validate new sen- response to the COVID-19 suitable for the testbed. which are glad to finally tation. Once completed, sors. pandemic caused delays in “The team has been dili- see this testing come to fru- operation of the F404 will Planning for the program being able to test the en- gently working on this for ition,” Williamson said.

Evan Milligan, a journeyman wireman, connects cables to a F404 engine Jan. 10 in a sea level test cell at Arnold Air Force Base. The engine is being prepared for health testing to determine suitability as an engine sensors testbed. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jill Pickett) Air Force ups the ante on supersonic rain erosion testing

By Donna Lindner tightening the materials de- ing me with this responsibili- Air Force Research velopment cycle. ty and providing the resources Laboratory The organic improvements necessary to make this a one- underway include features to of-a-kind, world-class facil- WRIGHT-PATTERSON introduce flexibility in the ity.” AIR FORCE Base, Ohio executed erosion pattern, re- “The rig upgrades are re- (AFRL) - The Supersonic place the current control hard- ally taking shape,” said Dr. Rain Erosion Test Rig (SuRE) ware with a highly adaptable Matthew Hartshorne, Erosion at Wright-Patterson Air Force and capable LabVIEW (type Area Lead. “With two out of Base is experiencing a full of control hardware and soft- three phases complete, we control system replacement ware platform from NITM) were able to put the control and upgrade to provide pin- interface and automate sec- and automation upgrades to point control and unmatched ondary operations. the test during a recent run. testing value. Additionally, improve- The control system performed The SuRE is used in the ments to the full control sys- very well and the advantages evaluation of structures and tem are expected to save ap- of modernizing the rig to cur- coatings under the effects of proximately $40,000 annually rent technology were evident. high speed flight through rain in sustainment cost, reducing We were able to change op- for transonic and supersonic the manpower required to run erating parameters on the fly speeds up to Mach 2.3. Vari- a test by one-third and main- and monitor the system from ous high-speed components tenance downtime by 25 per- a central station instead of and coupon specimens such cent. walking around the large rig as radomes, leading edge ma- “This has been a great to individual gauges. I am ex- terials, and window materials opportunity to apply a per- cited to offer the final product are tested. Data gathered is sonal interest in control and to our customers. The team 1st Lt. Tyler Despard, front, and Kameron Hayes monitor test- ing on the Supersonic Rain Erosion test rig. (U.S. Air Force essential to field feasible ma- automation to a very power- has done a great job making photo by Greg Lanchman) terial solutions for weapon ful tool,” said 1st Lt. Tyler this happen, all during the systems to operate safely un- Despard, lead engineer for COVID-19 restrictions.” Numerous systems have with the U. S. Air Force allows der such environmental con- the upgrade. “I am excited to The SuRE was initially already benefited from the UDRI to provide easy access ditions. deliver the final product for developed under a small busi- SuRE, including Air Force for commercial and govern- The only other method to use by the organizations that ness innovative research con- missiles, Navy propellers and ment customers. Full-service reach this speed for compo- test with us and confident that tract by Continuum Dynam- nent testing is with a rocket they will find a renewed value ics Inc., and has since been commercial space launch ve- testing is provided to dozens of sled or flight testing, both in testing with the SuRE and extensively upgraded by the hicles. joint, international, and com- of which are expensive and enjoy the new flexibility to U. S. Air Force and the Uni- The SuRE is operated by mercial customers each year. time consuming. The SuRE tailor their exposure plan to versity of Dayton Research UDRI as part of the larger To learn more about test- provides a cost effective, exact patterns and speeds. I Institute to increase its avail- AFRL Impact Erosion Test Fa- ing, visit https://udayton.edu/ rapid method to gather data am grateful to the Corrosion able speeds, droplet sizes and cility. A Cooperative Research udri/capabilities/materials/ on component performance, and Erosion Team for entrust- specimen throughput. & Development Agreement rain_erosion.php. 6 • November 16, 2020 Air Force gives family fresh start after COVID-19 crushes private business

By Master Sgt. Chance portive for her husband. Babin “When the business Air Force Recruiting closed, it was a huge Service Public Affairs blow, not only to our financial situation but PHILADELPHIA to Richard personally,” (AFNS) – When the she said. “I had to watch COVID-19 pandemic as all of Richard’s hard hit the work was snatched from earlier this year, many him instantaneously. It small businesses were was hard. I was at a loss. forced to shutter and I’ve never seen my hus- countless families fell band not know what to on hard times. For one do. Richard worked day family affected, the Air in and day out to make Force offered a way for sure we had everything them to start a new life we could ask for. He together. would work in the rain, After years of work- the snow and all sorts ing various jobs in the of hazardous conditions transportation industry, to make sure his family Richard Jimenez finally was comfortable.” got the nerve to start his As Jenna watched own trucking business Richard grow more anx- in 2019. He thought ious and worried, she 2020 was going to be knew she needed to step an amazing year for his up and do something. family. After the crush- “It hit me like a ton of ing loss of his business bricks,” she said. “The during the pandemic, military would be the Jimenez, his wife and way I could take respon- The Jimenez family stands with Tech Sgt. Jeffry Stamm, 414th Recruiting Squadron enlisted accessions their son all found their sibility and get this man recruiter in Haboro, Pa., Nov. 14, 2020. After their business was forced to close due to difficult circum- hopes and dreams shift- off the road. If I could stances during the coronavirus pandemic, the three adult members of the family decided to join the Air ing to something big- make it so he never has Force. (U.S. Air Force courtesy photo) ger — service in the Air to worry about anything show how many times ment plan that would be when he was 13, that “Leaving Layla is Force. like this ever again, I he has been on tempo- tough to find in the ci- was probably one of going to be ridiculously “I finally got up would do everything in rary duty assignments vilian sector.” the hardest things I had difficult,” Jenna said. enough courage and my power to do so.” and his leave and earn- Amarion was inter- to help Amarion over- “She’s three and it’s capital to start my own Before Jenna could ings statements to show ested. come,” Richard said. been me and her for- company and it was a tell Richard she was how much he pays for “While looking deep- Amarion’s biological ever. To leave her for great feeling. Finally, thinking of joining the healthcare and life in- er into the military, I got mom had an infection in a few months, let alone my independence,” military, he was set- surance, how the Thrift to see that they will pay her heart that spread to during the holidays, Richard said. “I could tling on the same solu- Savings Plan works, and for my college and pro- her brain. is gut wrenching. But now create my own tion. While researching how much basic housing vide me with health in- “She left him in my the reason behind it is schedule and spend ways of surviving the allowance and basic al- surance,” he said. “And custody while she tried so much bigger than a more quality time with pandemic on the inter- lowance for subsistence once you’re in service, to get herself well, but Christmas. I may miss the family and live the net, he found that most he receives monthly. you will be part of a unfortunately she wasn’t this Christmas, but with life I dreamt was ours successful families have Jenna and Richard brotherhood that only able to get better,” Rich- that sacrifice, we will all along. I basically foundational members, were sold on the ben- the military can offer.” ard said. “That’s when never have to live the lived in my truck trying like great grandparents, efits the Air Force has Like his parents, Am- Jenna really stepped up way we are right now to make my company who had served in the to offer and the job se- arion decided to join. and provided him with ever again.” work like many drivers military and created a curity it provides. “What made me join the energy he needed Stamm said he across America. But I path to success. A light “The Air Force is the greatest Air Force at the time. As you can was proud to help the thought if I worked hard bulb went off in his something that is always was my family, the imagine, Amarion had Jimenez family join the enough, I knew 2020 mind. going to be there. I think communication and the a lot of hurt, confu- Air Force and bounce was going to be the year “Right before I could it might be the most reli- quality of life I’ve seen sion and questions at back from the devastat- I could get back to my say the words, my wife able job there is,” Jenna so far,” he said. “Every such a time. Jenna defi- ing blow COVID-19 de- family and create the says she thinks she said. “When the world single Airman I’ve spo- nitely stood in front of livered. American dream I’d could go to the mili- stops on the drop of a ken to has been honest that with me and we all “For people who been chasing all along.” tary,” Richard said. dime, you don’t have to and open with me. They overcame it together as may have lost their jobs Then, one morning, “With an excited look on worry about being out didn’t make me any a team – all of us, the during the pandemic, or Richard woke up and her face, she pitches the of a job, paying your promises they couldn’t Jimenez family.” maybe just want a fresh started making his usual best plan ever. God is rent or putting food in keep and they’ve given While Richard was start, the Air Force has phone calls, but no one good. It would not only your children’s mouths. me respect.” always there for his son, great opportunities,” he was answering. take me off the road, but Not only will you have Richard said he is ex- having Jenna step in and said. “We offer guaran- “Everything seemed I could potentially join support from your Air cited his son decided to fill that void has lifted teed contracts for four like it just stopped and make a difference Force family and com- join at such a young age Amarion in his times of or six years in more overnight,” he said. “I as well. I immediately munity in hard times but so he can take advan- need and has created a than 140 career fields. I checked the news and felt a bit of hope rise up. the Air Force itself. Not tage of the educational bond that has made and also feel the job experi- wow, they were talk- This had to be it!” to mention, our family benefits, build a career kept this family close ence you get in the Air ing about a plague. My With the idea of both could also help people and see the world. and operating as a team. Force is one of the big- heart dropped into my joining the military, and be supportive for “I am just so proud of “Since my mother’s gest benefits we have. stomach.” they began researching them. It just seems to be him,” Richard said. “He passing, Jenna has been The Air Force gives Richard came off the the different branches a perfect fit.” will not only be given a there for me,” Amarion you the opportunity to road and waited for some and talking to recruit- One day when Rich- real chance at an amaz- said. “She’s been there obtain a degree in one good news … but it nev- ers, including Tech. ard and Jenna were ing life, but be given all to pick me up when I’m of 71 degree programs er came. After hearing it Sgt. Jeffry Stamm, an visiting with Stamm, kinds of opportunities down, she’s kept me through the Community would be a while before enlisted accessions re- they happened to have that only the Air Force strong when I felt weak College of the Air Force things would go back to cruiter with the 314th their son, Amarion, a can provide. I am not and she cared for me while gaining job expe- normal, his wife, Jenna, Recruiting Squadron in high school senior, with only honored to be his when I felt broken.” rience which makes you asked him, “What are Hatboro. them. Stamm asked him dad, but I’m especially While there are three marketable in the civil- we going to do?” “Jenna and Rich- about his plans. honored to be able to members of the Jimenez ian sector.” “I knew in that mo- ard were looking for “Amarion was sup- serve with him as an family ready to join Richard may be one ment, I had to be strong a fresh start,” Stamm posed to graduate in Airman in the United the Air Force, there’s of the oldest people in and figure this out,” said. “Jenna had been May of 2020, but be- States Air Force.” a fourth member who his basic training flight, Richard said. “Every- a homemaker for the cause of his vocational “As a mom, of is not quite ready yet but he’s looking for- thing I worked so hard past three years and was school and the specific course I want Amarion — Amarion’s 3-year- ward to the challenge. to obtain had been looking to start a career hands-on training in- at the same base as us, old sister, Layla. Since “This is not just a sto- snatched from us seem- and continue her edu- volved, the graduation to be able to see him Jenna is scheduled to ry about a 37-year old ingly overnight by an cation. Richard always requirements had to be and check up on him to leave for basic military joining the Air Force,” invisible enemy. All the had an interest in serv- delayed until August be- make sure he is OK,” training first, Richard is he said. “This is an ex- schooling and tech cer- ing his country and felt cause of COVID(-19),” Jenna said. “But I also set to take care of Layla ample of perseverance tifications and years of the time was right for the recruiter said. “He want him to have inde- and Amarion while she even when the odds are driving different equip- a career change. After was one of about 10,000 pendence and learn and is away. stacked against you,” ment to get to this point they both were prelimi- students affected. He grow on his own. I want “We are excited about Richard said. “Statisti- and now I had nothing. nary qualified, I started was enrolled in a job- him to take advantage of Jenna leaving first, es- cally this shouldn’t be I knew I could never to ask them some of corps program through being able to ship over- pecially since this was possible, but I refuse allow this to happen their future goals and his high school in the seas, explore the world. kind of her idea,” Rich- to accept defeat even again. I needed some- aspirations. It became automotive technology He’s so young so he can ard said. “We are proud in the face of the worst thing permanent, some- clear that the Air Force field. After hearing this, go wherever for as long of her courage and will- pandemic the world thing sure – a founda- would be better for them I explained some of the as he pleases. I’m excit- ingness to go ahead of has seen in 100 years. I tion that could assure when it came down to mechanical and electri- ed for his future.” us. Amarion and I will stand on all 10 toes and that my family would the quality of life and cal career fields the Air Amarion and Jenna be just fine with Lay- keep pushing forward. not have to suffer again educational goals they Force has, and the op- are extremely close la, also known as ‘the Our country is in need financially. It was time were both seeking.” portunities for Amarion since she and Richard boss.’ She’ll have us of strength. I am ready to find a support sys- Stamm shared his to continue his educa- were there for him fol- here while mommy be- to serve. People ask, tem.” family life experiences tion, get valuable job lowing the loss of his comes an Airman. Jenna why did I give the Air Jenna struggled as with Jenna and Rich- experience, and have biological mother. is already a superhero to Force a shot? Because well with how to pay the ard. He also pulled up medical and dental ben- “When my son lost Layla, so this is just an I’ve always aimed high, bills and how to be sup- his travel records to efits as well as a retire- his biological mother upgrade for us.” so why stop now?” November 16, 2020 • 7 8 • November 16, 2020 Female fighter pilots test modified ATAGS “G-suit”

Five fighter pilots from various squadrons wear a modified version of the Advanced Technology Anti-Gravity Suit. The modified ATAGS, which is the latest- ad vancement in female aircrew fitment, was flight tested at , Fla. October 26-30. (U.S. Air Force photo by 1st Lt. Savanah Bray)

By 1st Lt. Savanah G forces during maneu- the secretary of the Air various body types. of the aircraft.” portunity not only to Bray vers in fighter aircraft, Force, engineers and sub- The two major modi- “As more women help ensure pilots have but the ATAGS design, ject matter experts at Air fications to the ATAGS strap into fast jets to get gear that fits, works, and which has been in use Force Life Cycle Man- include wider lacing pan- the mission done, I think prevents G-induced loss EGLIN AIR FORCE since 2001, was devel- agement Center and AF- els in the waist, thigh and the Air Force is heading of consciousness, or G- BASE, Fla. (AFNS) – oped primarily for stan- WERX set out to address calf, which allows the in the right direction,” LOC, but also to connect Five female fighter pilots dard men’s body types. priority shortfalls in fe- suit to be easily adjusted said Capt. Brittany Trim- with other female fighter tested a modified version Pilots who are shorter male specific aircrew for different body pro- ble, an F-16 Fighting Fal- pilots. of the Advanced Tech- or have smaller or hard- equipment and gear, to portions, and the option con instructor pilot, when “It is great to see the nology Anti-Gravity Suit to-fit body types often include ATAGS. Instead for a “darted” or tailored, asked about her experi- Air Force bring female pi- Oct. 26-30. struggle to properly ad- of creating a new product custom waist that does ence testing the modified lots together to test these ATAGS is a proven just the G-suit to fit well altogether, experts de- not reduce performance ATAGS. new improvements, and design and a critical life due to a limited range of termined modifications of the waist bladder that The pilots and aircrew it also gave us a chance support item that pro- adjustability in the stan- could be made to the inflates during high-G who tested the ATAGS to share our career expe- tects aircrew members dard sizes. current ATAGS design maneuvers. noticed significant im- riences with one anoth- from the effects of high- Directly tasked by to better fit women and “In the past, some provements in comfort er,” Jamison said. “There pilots with a shorter and functionality in the are things we have expe- torso have had issues modified ATAGS. rienced in our career that with ATAGS that were “I definitely noticed many of our colleagues too large riding up and improvement with the cannot understand, from causing bruising on the new updates and the as simple as worrying rib cages, while pilots darted waist in particu- about getting your hair who are hard-to-fit may lar,” Trimble said. “I caught in a harness to as have had one size that honestly didn’t expect to complex as how to return fits through the legs, but notice much of a differ- to flying while juggling need a smaller size in the ence because I’d never breastfeeding your in- waist,” said Charles Cru- noticed significant issues fant. The chance to come ze, an AFLCMC Human with the ATAGS sizes together for an important Systems Division engi- before, but I was pleas- test, while also receiv- neer. “Now, the waist can antly surprised that these ing continued mentorship be darted up to 3.75 inch- upgrades increased the and leadership from the es, allowing for a more ATAGS functionality sig- female cadre of fighter custom and accurate fit, nificantly under G.” pilots, was both useful preventing both of those The modified ATAGS and fulfilling.” issues.” testing is also a showcase Fortunately for Air- To properly and safe- example of developmen- men across the Air Force, ly test the ATAGS, the tal and operational test ATAGS is not the only 85th Test and Evalua- experts coming together gear getting modified or tion Squadron executed to provide solutions for adapted for women. More nearly 20 sorties in F-16 the warfighter. Prior to information on female D-model aircraft. Dur- flight testing, AFLCMC fitment efforts, like the ing these test sorties, conducted developmental security forces Airmen at pilots conducted low- endurance testing which Moody Air Force Base, and high-G basic fighter simulated 14 years of use Georgia, who received a maneuvers and specific on identically designed new body armor system profiles to allow for ac- modified ATAGS. Once designed for women, can curate evaluation of the those versions were suc- be found here: https:// modified ATAGS. F-16 cessfully endurance test- www.aflcmc.af.mil/ D-models were used so ed with no issue, flight Units/FemaleFitment/. that in each sortie, a pilot testing began at Eglin Air “These tests are im- wearing standard ATAGS Force Base with the 46th portant because they will was in the aircraft to en- Test Squadron, 96th Test ultimately increase the sure safety should an is- Wing providing the en- lethality of those who no sue with the modified gineering and test plan- longer have their mask ATAGS arise. ning expertise and the slip down during a sor- “For the purpose of 85th Test and Evaluation tie, their G-suit crunch this test, five pilots and Squadron, 53rd Wing, under their waist, or the one aircrew member test- executing the flight tests. extra fabric of a too big ed the modified ATAGS, Following the flight anti-exposure suit get in and evaluated it based on testing, the 46th Test the way of their move- comfort and performance Squadron will provide ments in the jet,” Trimble when compared to the a test report, explained said. “These don’t seem normal ATAGS typically Rogers. Under the cur- like big issues, but ev- worn,” said Sharon Rog- rent acquisition strategy, erything counts in the air, ers, 46th Test Squadron the modified ATAGS and having gear that fits lead test engineer. “Pi- could be in the hands of and works as intended lots were asked to evalu- fighter pilots and aircrew should be the standard. ate based on not only the who need it within 12-24 I’m excited the Air Force ATAGS during high-G months. is working to identify and maneuvers, but also dur- For Maj. Shanon fix these issues, especial- ing regular activities like Jamison, an F-16 pi- ly in innovative ways like sitting, standing, walking lot, testing the modified provide AFE new modifi- and climbing into and out ATAGS was a great op- cation options.” November 16, 2020 • 9 Arnold Fire and Emergency Services offers tips for safe Thanksgiving By Bradley Hicks they’ll get sidetracked watching AEDC Public Affairs the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade or football or what have Thanksgiving is a happy oc- you, and bad things can happen.” casion for most, one filled with To prevent these tragedies the joys of family, friends and, of and others, Lyle and Arnold FES course, food. Fire Prevention Inspector Steve Members of the Arnold Air Macon provided the following Force Base Fire and Emergency safety tips to keep in mind this Services team want base person- Thanksgiving. nel to have a memorable Thanks- • Make sure smoke detec- giving and not for the wrong rea- tors are working properly. sons. Test these alarms. Detectors ”Obviously, nobody wakes up should be replaced every 10 saying, ‘You know what? Today years and batteries in the de- I’m going to have a bad day,’” tectors should be changed in said Christian Lyle, Arnold FES the spring and fall when time fire prevention/communications changes. officer. “Everybody has great in- • Stay in the kitchen when tentions when they wake up that cooking on the stove top to morning to have a good holiday.” keep an eye on the food being However, Thanksgiving is the prepared. Arnold Air Force Base Fire and Emergency Services Fire Prevention Inspector Steve Macon, left, peak day for home cooking fires, • Keep cooking wrappers, pot demonstrates to Paula Lyle the proper way to use a fire extinguisher Nov. 9 at Arnold AFB. Ensuring followed by Christmas Day, holders and towels a safe dis- a fire extinguisher is kept nearby when cooking is one of several fire prevention tips Arnold FES has Christmas Eve and the day be- tance from the hot eyes of the provided ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday. (U.S. Air Force photo by Bradley Hicks) fore Thanksgiving. In 2017, U.S. stove. • If you’re choosing to use a an overhang or in a garage. weekends and holidays. The de- fire departments responded to an • Keep children away from the turkey fryer, it’s important to Ensure a fire extinguisher is partment has mutual aid agree- estimated 1,600 home cooking stove. A safe zone of at least 3 note that Underwriters Labo- nearby for easy access in the ments in place with other first fires on Thanksgiving. feet from the appliance is rec- ratories, a global product event of fire. Never use water responders in the community Unattended cooking is the ommended. Also make sure safety organization, discour- to extinguish an oil fire. and is at the ready to respond to leading contributor in cooking children stay away from hot ages the use of outdoor gas- • Never put a frozen turkey emergencies both on base and in fires and fire deaths. Cooking foods and liquids. The steam fueled fryers that immerse into a deep fryer. The turkey the surrounding area. equipment was involved in near- or splash from vegetables, whole turkeys in hot oil. The should be allowed to thaw 24 “We’re going to be here and ly half of all reported home fires gravy or coffee could cause oil can spill over into the hours for every 5 pounds it the safety of the community is and home fire injuries and is the serious burns. open flames with catastroph- weighs. For example, an 18- our number one priority; mak- second leading cause of home • Make sure cooking pot han- ic results. to 20-pound turkey should ing sure everybody has an en- fire deaths. dles are turned inward and • Even knowing the dan- be allowed to thaw four full joyable holiday and comes back “It’s either the deep fryer electrical cords from electric gers, some people will still days in the refrigerator be- to work safe and sound and cooking of the meat or just un- knives, coffee makers, plate choose to use a turkey fryer. fore it is fried. ready to complete the mission,” attended cooking,” Lyle said of warmers and other items are The fryer should be placed Those experiencing emer- Lyle said. the leading causes of residential not dangling off the counter at least 15 feet away from gencies should dial 911. Those with any questions are fires on Thanksgiving. “People to prevent children from grab- homes, garages, sheds, etc. Lyle added the Arnold FES asked to contact Arnold FES at will place food in the oven and bing and pulling them off. Never use a fryer underneath team is staffed 24/7, including 931-454-5569 or 931-454-5306. New sign installed at Main Gate of Arnold Air Force Base

Workers install a new sign at the Main Gate at Arnold Air Force Base on Oct. 22. The new sign, located alongside Wattendorf Highway before entering the base, was necessary after an accident occurred in February 2020 in which a car ran off the roadway and collided with the previous sign. The project was completed by the Simplified Acquisition Base Engineering Requirements contractor, SDVE, LLC. (U.S. Air Force photos by Deidre Moon) The new sign at the Main Gate at Arnold Air Force Base was installed Oct. 22.

Services activities are open! ALC November 2020 But with limited hours and offerings. Social Distancing and Mask Wear required as needed 454-3350 5-8pm Dining INFO UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE - SUBJECT TO CHANGE Jam 6-9:30pm On back patio .75 Wing Call to check and confirm availability. Special Other restrictions may apply. Jam & Wing night 6 *Cash only bar* GOLF COURSE: daily 7am-dusk Call @ upcoming tournaments 454-GOLF

T MULLIGAN’S GRILL: S-S only 7am-1pm 454-FOOD Dining 5-8pm Kids pick up their turkey or scarecrow craft bags from ALC OUTDOOR REC: Office/Marina M, T, Th, F, Sa 10am-5pm * Limited supplies * to decorate at home! RESERVATIONS REQUIRED 454-6084 FamCamp (limited sites), Dogwood Ridge, Crockett Cove, & Marina (limited availability) Post completed craft to Kids Craft bags the Services FB page! Some small rentals are available plus trailer grills and bass/jon boats on trailers. 13 CAFÉ 100: M-F 7:30am-12:30pm Grill closed 10-10:30am (closed holidays) MASKS REQUIRED Limited menu, Call In and To Go recommended 454-5885 Limited seating for dining only. No loitering and/or gathering. Touchless payment encouraged One way flow – watch signs on floor FITNESS CENTER: M-F 5am-1pm, 1:30-7:30pm Sa 8am-1pm (closed holidays) BY APPT ONLY, 454-6440, FOR AUTHORIZED USERS -Screening questions at entry -No lockers -Limited showers -Hours extended based on usage Virtual Classes available through Wellbeats.com Use code: 479b0f59

ALC: Th-F 5-8pm dining (limited menu) & bar 454-3350 Check flyers/posters, SharePoint, Facebook, or SKN tvs for specials & events

WINGO INN: M-F 7am-6pm S-S 8am-4pm 454-3051

As of 20 Oct 20 FOOD TRUCKS: M-F 10am-1pm 10 • November 16, 2020 National Aerospace Solutions celebrates 2020 Salute to Excellence award winners By Bradley Hicks Arnold Air Force Base. Lead of the Year, Craftsman National Aerospace Solu- NAS is comprised of Bechtel NAS Public Affairs Awards were presented for Journeyman/Technician of the tions, LLC is the team selected National, Inc., Sierra Lobo Inc. the following: Quality, Safety, Year, Test Operations Engineer by the U.S. Air Force to con- and GP Strategies Corporation; Team members with Na- Security, Innovation, Engineer- of the Year, Craft Supervisor/ duct Test Operations and Sus- teaming subcontractors include tional Aerospace Solutions, ing Design and Facilities Pro- Superintendent of the Year, En- tainment activities at the Ar- nLogic, Inc. and Chugach Fed- LLC, the Arnold Engineering fessional of the Year, Science gineering Analysis of the Year, nold Engineering Development eral Solutions, Inc. Development Complex Test and Technology Professional and Engineer of the Year. Complex, Arnold AFB, Tennes- (Awards were given by Operations and Sustainment of the Year, Customer Service Employees were nominated see, the Hypervelocity Wind National Aerospace Solu- Contractor, received awards Excellence, Program/Project based upon their superior per- Tunnel 9 at White Oak, Mary- tions, LLC and do not re- Nov. 9 and Nov. 11 during Manager of the Year, Techni- formance and support in areas land, and the National Full- flect any stance, opinion, or the Salute to Excellence An- cal Project Leader of the Year, of company core values and Scale Aerodynamics Complex determination made by the nual Awards presentation at Craft Innovation, Craftsman technical excellence. at Mountain View, California. U.S. Air Force.)

Robert Williams Jeffrey Holt Kraig Smith Tracie Burnett Gina Bragg Marion Bragg Craft Superintendent/ Environmental Scientist Environmental Scientist Quality Specialist III Industrial Hygienist II Industrial Hygienist II Craft Supervisor II II Quality Branch Safety, Health & Safety, Health & Technology Innovations Safety, Health & Safety, Health & Safety Award Environmental Branch Environmental Branch Branch Environmental Branch Environmental Branch Safety Award Safety Award Quality Award Safety Award Safety Award

Keri McBee Donna Kennedy Stephen Harris Cory Robertson Ezra Perkins III Andrew Escue Material Coordinator Senior Purchasing Test Operations Plant Operations Aeropropulsion Plant Facility Engineering Acquisitions Branch Specialist Engineer II Engineer II Supervisor Supervisor Safety Award Acquisitions Branch Space & Missile Branch Flight Branch Aeropropulsion Branch Technology Innovations Safety Award Innovation Award Innovation Award Innovation Award Branch Innovation Award

April Powers Scott Wieland Chris Robinson Amy Duncan Joel Sizemore Jody Frame HR Admin. Professional Mechanical/Aeronautical ID&C Engineer III Project Engineer Machinist Journeyman - Electrical Shop II – Sys. & Processes Engineer III Technology Innovations Flight Branch Outside Supervisor Human Resources Technology Innovations Branch Technical Project Leader Flight Branch Base Operations & Branch Branch Science and Technology of the Year Craft Innovation Award Support Branch Customer Service Engineering Design and Professional of the Year Craft Supervisor/ Excellence Award Facilities Professional of Superintendent of the the Year Year

Carey Rose Michael Skyles David Faucett Emily Tranberg Steven Ardry Instrument Technician Instrument Technician Test Operations Test Operations Senior Staff Engineer & Lead Journeyman Engineer II Engineer II Subject Matter Expert Space & Missile Branch Flight Branch Flight Branch Flight Branch Flight Branch Craftsman Lead of the Craftsman Journeyman/ Engineering Analysis of Test Operations Engineer of the Year Year Technician of the Year the Year Engineer of the Year

Photos unavailable for the following award winners:

Wesley Steelman IT Engineer Instrumentation, Data & Controls Branch Security Award

Curtis Winstead Senior Staff Engineer and Subject Matter Expert for Test Assets Space & Missile Branch Innovation Award

Terry Harris Capital Project Manager Flight Branch Program/Project Manager of the Year November 16, 2020 • 11 Team AEDC reflects during Thanksgiving season

Joseph Bedell Haley Douglas Neethi Matthew Brianne McManamen Holly Randles By AEDC Public Affairs “As we nervously await the arrival of Question: What are you most thank- our first child amidst a still broiling pan- ful for this year? demic, having moved across the country from everyone and everything we previ- brought to you by Services Recycling Program “This year, I am thankful for my coun- ously knew just over a year ago so that I try. In 2020, with everything that has hap- could begin my career with AEDC, I find pened, we may not agree with each other myself most thankful for the presence, over many issues. But that’s the beautiful love and support of my husband this year thing about this country, we don’t have to. (among a plethora of things to be thank- In America, we have the amazing ability ful for). He has been my biggest motiva- to speak out minds because we live in a tor and supporter in everything we have free society. Many countries punish or taken on this year (moving, career chang- silence people for speaking out against es, buying our first home, pregnancy), those in power. So for as much arguing and I cannot imagine having achieved so that people feel like is going on, at least much without him by my side. we have to ability to argue. For that, I “Despite all of the pitfalls and rough am thankful.” – Joseph Bedell, Turbines spots, this has been one of the most ful- Test Analyst, TMAS filling years of my life; and I owe so much of the joy and success to my one- “This year I am most thankful for my and-only, Kyle.” – Brianne McMana- health. I am also very thankful for the men, Aerospace Engineer, Air Force kindness of those around me who have “In the current state of our world, I welcomed me to Arnold with open arms.” find myself most thankful for my daugh- – Haley Douglas, Administrative Assis- ter, my family and my dear friends. I’m tant, Air Force thankful for their love and support al- ways, but especially during this difficult “I’m really thankful for the technol- year.” – Holly Randles, Administrative ogy in our world today. It’s amazing how Assistant, Air Force technology made connecting so simple living through a pandemic and shelter-in- “I would have to say I am thankful place order. There are so many great fea- for a wonderful family, great friends, and tures of technology that we take for grant- my amazing fiancée. I would also say I ed each and every day, and it’s because of am thankful to be working in these trying technology that we are able to enjoy the times. I am most thankful for mine and Thank You from The Green Team quality of life we have.” – Neethi Mat- my family’s health this year.” – Clayton David Miller (manager) & Bud Schell thew, Administrative Officer, Air Force Raulston, ID&C Engineer, TOS 931-454-6068 12 • November 16, 2020