PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID TULLAHOMA TN Vol. 64, No. 10 Arnold AFB, Tenn. PERMIT NO. 29 May 22, 2017 Arnold AFB powered by workforce, fueled by innovation

By Deidre Ortiz said. “It’s in our bloodline. We’ve faced Technology Innovations. “As part of area. AEDC Public Affairs challenges before and overcome them leadership’s commitment to cultivat- “Innovations have run the entire gam- with ideas.” ing new technical competencies, we are ut of technical competencies and all have The U.S. Air Force is focused on the To keep innovation at the forefront, recognizing our best innovators in ac- provided measureable and objective en- importance of innovation in delivering those heading up the Technology Inno- complishing our mission during our daily hancements to mission accomplishment,” war winning capabilities to the warfighter vations Branch at Arnold Air Force Base work. From the beginning of the Test Op- he said. “Innovative approaches to logis- by inspiring and providing the necessary are committed to creating technical com- erations Sustainment (TOS) contract per- tics, test support, manufacturing, engi- tools and support. petencies and supporting its employees as formance period until present, the Tech- neering solutions and information tech- Being a major Air Force Vision, Gen- the driving force behind these improve- nology Innovations Branch has reached nologies have dramatically enhanced test eral Dave Goldfein, Air Force Chief of ments. out to the other branches and documented efficiency and decreased mission risks.” Staff, has noted the significance of inno- “Our Technology Innovations branch over 70 specific technical innovations by One example of recent innovative vation. is currently focused on cultivating the to- team members.” efforts, of software engineer Scott- Wil “We are the service you rely on to push tal portfolio of our innovation pursuits,” Miller mentioned that the advances the limits of innovation,” Gen. Goldfein said David Miller, a group manager for haven’t been in only one AEDC mission See INNOVATION, page 5 Accelerating hypersonics Five selected development to be

A Mach 10 Scramjet- powered vehicle con- AEDC Fellows figuration undergoes testing at AEDC Hyper- velocity Wind Tunnel 9 in 2010. The large scale & replication of flight phys- ics at Tunnel 9 provides the ideal environment to evaluate configura- tions such as this. The Defense Advanced Re- search Projects Agency, or DARPA, and U.S. Air Force sponsored test obtained aerodynamic control data to validate models and predict flight By Claude Morse performance. Tunnel 9, Arnold Community Council located at White Oak, Maryland, provides aero- TULLAHOMA, TN - The Arnold dynamic simulation criti- Community Council announced that five cal to the development of individuals who have made significant hypersonic systems and long-term contributions to the advancement hypersonic vehicle tech- of aerospace ground testing technology and nologies. (Photo by Mike Smith) capabilities at AEDC have been selected as 2017 AEDC Fellows. See the full story “Ac- Lester Bates, of Tullahoma, and the late celerating hypersonics Dr. E. Eugene “Gene” Callens Jr., formerly development” on page 3. of Tullahoma, have been selected to be hon- ored as AEDC Technical Fellows. Pete French, of Manchester, and An- nette McCullough Painter, of Manchester, have been selected to be honored as AEDC New crane purchased to support Craftsman Fellows. David Minto, recently retired technical director of the AEDC 704th Test Group at , , national defense mission has been selected as an AEDC Lifetime By Deidre Ortiz Achievement Fellow. AEDC Public Affairs The new selectees will be honored and inducted as AEDC Fellows at a banquet A large crane has been pur- June 23 at the Arnold Lakeside Center, Ar- chased to help maintain the nold Air Force Base. The annual Fellows national defense mission at Ar- banquet is held on the closest available date nold Air Force Base. to the birthday of General of the Air Force According to Mark Henry Harley “Hap” Arnold who was born Grantham, maintaining these June 25, 1886. facilities is an important task President Harry S. Truman dedicated because it ensures infrastruc- AEDC in Gen. Arnold’s memory on June ture is working as needed to 25th 1951, saying in his speech “here men perform the day to day test op- will test what lies on the other side of the erations of the base. speed of sound.” “The Grove GMK5200-1 The AEDC Fellows Program was es- Hydraulic All Terrain Mobile tablished in 1989 as the AEDC top award Crane will be used for routine, to honor those who have made significant planned maintenance and re- long term contributions to advance aero- pair of Arnold AFB test support space ground flight simulation technology assets,” he said. “The com- and capabilities. plex operates 28 aerodynamic To date, 91 people have been honored as and propulsion wind tunnels, AEDC Fellows. Col. Raymond Briggs, chief of the Arnold Air Force Base Test Systems Sustainment In late 2016 the Arnold Community rocket and turbine engine branch, makes a few remarks at the May 18 acceptance and naming ceremony for the test cells, space environmen- new crane, a Grove GMK5200-1 Hydraulic All Terrain Mobile Crane, purchased to per- form routine maintenance of the test facilities at Arnold. The crane was named Windy, See FELLOWS, page 5 See CRANE, page 5 after retired crane supervisor Windy Cunningham. (U.S. Air Force photo/Deidre Ortiz)

AF Clubs to transition from credit card system to Future rocket scientists shoot for virtual portal and app coming August-September 2017 the stars at annual competition …Page 2 …Page 3 2 • May 8, 2017

Arnold Mattis welcomes new SecAF home Air Force By Master Sgt. as secretary May 12, has Base Bryan Franks more than 35 years of pro- Secretary of the Air Force fessional experience in a Public Affairs range of leadership and management roles in the military, higher education, (AFNS) -- Defense Sec- government and private in- retary Jim Mattis ceremo- dustry. niously swore in Heather Mattis called Wilson Wilson as the 24th Secre- well suited to lead the Air tary of the Air Force at the Force and said he needs Col. Rodney Todaro Pentagon May 16, 2017. her ideas and wisdom as Commander “If we wanted to do the Air Force begins a new Jason Austin one thing to Webster’s chapter. Chief, Unbridged Dictionary to Mattis said he, Wilson Public Affairs define a Patriot with no and Air Force Chief of words, we could put up Staff Gen. David L. Gold- Heather Wilson’s picture fein are committed to re- right next to the word, and storing the readiness of the Cynthia Rivera we would explain what force, modernizing and ad- Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis delivers the ceremonial oath of office to Secre- General Manager, a patriot truly is,” Mattis vancing new capabilities to tary of the Air Force Heather Wilson, making her 24th secretary, during a Penta- National Aerospace said. “On behalf of the en- meet future threats, and de- gon event, May 16. (U.S. Air Force photo/Scott M. Ash) Solutions tire Air Force community, veloping exceptional lead- premacy is not America’s superior service of Ameri- first served together as ca- High Mach Staff: on the behalf of the De- ers to command the finest ordained right and there ca’s Airmen…they push in dets at the U.S. Air Force Kathy Gattis, partment of Defense – wel- combat force in the world. are other hands pushing vain…the U.S. Air Force Academy where they both NAS Executive Editor come home.” “History is not prede- on history’s door,” Mattis must be better than anyone took the oath of office for Raquel March, Wilson, who was ad- termined or static. History said. “By Secretary Wil- else.” the first time as members NAS Editor ministratively sworn in hangs on a hinge. Air su- son’s leadership, by the Goldfein and Wilson of the same class. High Mach is published by Lakeway Publishers, Inc. a pri- vate firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, Arnold Air Force Base, Arnold Engi- neering Development Complex Ware promoted (AEDC) or National Aerospace Solutions (NAS), under exclu- sive written contract with NAS to lieutenant at Arnold AFB, Tenn., 37389. Everything advertised in this publication will be made colonel available for purchase, use or patronage without regard Lt. Col. Jason Avram, deputy chief of Force to race, color, religion, sex, Protection Division, Hanscom Air Force national origin, age, marital sta- Base, Massachusetts, presides over the tus, physical handicap, political ceremony in the AEDC Engine Test Facil- affiliation or any other non- ity Sea Level 2 Test Cell April 28 to promote merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. Lawrence Ware to lieutenant colonel. Ware, The High Mach office is right, deputy for the Test Operation Division located at 100 Kindel Drive, at AEDC, receives congratulations from Suite A236, Arnold AFB, Tenn. Avram at the conclusion of the ceremony. 37389-1236. Editorial content (U.S. Air Force photo/Rick Goodfriend) is edited and prepared by NAS. Deadline for copy is Wednes- day at close of business one week before publication. This commercial enterprise newspaper is an allowable NAS contractor publication AF Clubs to transition from credit card system to virtual for personnel at Arnold AFB. The content of High Mach does not necessarily reflect the views of the Air Force, Arnold portal and app coming August-September 2017 AFB, AEDC or NAS. The ap- pearance of advertising in this By Tanya Bryan members will be better informed be a new monthly dues structure count. publication does not constitute Arnold AFB Services Branch about club programs and events in to go into effect very soon. - Cur Here at Arnold, members endorsement of the products real time through the web portal rently, dues are $8 for enlisted and continue to receive discounts on or services advertised by the The Air Force is revolutioniz- and an application on their smart enlisted equivalent civilians (pre various purchases throughout Department of Defense, the Department of the Air Force, ing its club membership program devices. AcqDemo was GS8 and below) Services such as 10 percent off Arnold AFB, AEDC, NAS or in the coming months, transition- Air Force Services Activ- and $15 for officers, officer equiv- most purchases at the Arnold Golf Lakeway Publishers, Inc. ing away from a club credit card. ity partnered with MemberPlanet alent civilians (pre AcqDemo was Course, Mulligan’s Grill, Café For general information Requiring a credit card mem- to host the new Air Force Club GS9 and above), contractors and 100, Arnold Lakeside Center per- about High Mach, call (931) bership was members’ number 454-5655 or visit www. Member Portal. Current member others eligible. sonal catered food, and Outdoor arnold.af.mil. one complaint. Because our mem- information will automatically be The new dues structure will Rec equipment and boat rentals. bers are important, it was time for loaded on the club portal so mem- have three groupings: $6 for en- Arnold Lakeside Center also of- Use High Mach to market your products and servic- a change. bers simply log in and update pay- listed grades E1 through E4; $8 fers member discounts on lunch es. Contact Renee at 931- A new Air Force Club Member ment information. The free Mem- for enlisted grades E5 through E9, and dinner purchases plus free so- 455-4545 or tnadvmgr@ Portal is currently being tested at berPlanet app is available in the officers second lieutenant through cial snacks on Fridays, free quar- lcs.net. six pilot bases before being rolled App Store or Google Play. captain, and civilians categories terly membership nights, member out across the Air Force in late Current members should be NH II, NK II, NJ II, and NF III and drawings on Fridays and more. summer. The web- and app-based receiving something in the mail below; $15 for officers major and Look for the Members First bro- system allows members to choose from Chase Bank over the next above, civilians categories NH chure in any Services activity for their payment methods and re- few months explaining the end of III, NK III, NJ III, and NF IV and complete details. ceive real-time event information the Chase Air Force partnership above, contractors, and any other Air Force Club membership directly on their smart devices. along with information on main- eligible categories such as Arnold is a tradition. Clubs provide resil- Currently, member dues are taining an account with them, Community Council members. iency to our workforce and their charged to a Chase Bank-affiliat- should you choose. All exist- For many current members, this families. This new approach to Core Values ed club membership credit card. ing membership cards issued by will mean a decrease in monthly membership will make it easier to • Integrity first With the new system, members Chase will be replaced with their dues – an additional bonus. stay connected with our Air Force • Service before self can use their credit or debit card new card minus any Air Force af- Although transitioning from tradition and build on the culture • Excellence in all of choice or even electronic bank filiation or membership ties. Chase Bank is a major change in and esprit de corps. we do drafts. The new system also stan- Since members won’t have the membership program, sev- More details will be coming dardizes payment dates for mem- physical cards to prove member- eral important things remain the soon. Don’t worry if you don’t bership dues. At present, members ship, they’ll now show their digi- same. Club membership will still have a smart phone or computer are charged dues at different times tal membership card through the be valid at all Air Force Clubs, not access, there will be assistance during the month but with the MemberPlant App on their smart just at Arnold. And, any members available from the Club. Vision new system all members will be devices. Those who wish to still who deploy will have their dues Editorial note: Some content “NAS will be integral to the th success of AEDC, the U. S. Air charged on the 15 of each month. carry a physical card have the op- waived during their deployment. compiled from an article writ- Force’s premier aerospace testing In addition to more freedom tion to print at home and laminate. Simply talk to the club manager ten by Debbie Aragon, Air Force facilities, while applying the highest standards of ethics, innovation, with dues payment methods, A local change for Arnold will to initiate this pause on your ac- Civil Engineer Center. 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. Rodney Todaro 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. May 8, 2017 • 3 Accelerating hypersonics development

Carson McAfee, AEDC outside machinist and fore- The X-15, pictured here as a test model in the AEDC von Kármán Gas Dynamics Facility in 1992, achieved man, makes a control surface change to the sub- what no other aircraft had. It attained an altitude of 67 miles and speeds in excess of 4,100 miles per hour. scale model of the X-51 WaveRider during a break in The model underwent temperature and aerodynamic load testing in the VKF hypersonic tunnel. (U.S. Air aerodynamic testing at the AEDC von Kármán Gas Force photo) Dynamics Facility in 2006. (U.S. Air Force photo) By Lt. Col. Sharon ample, China and Russia hypersonic speeds. One Launched from a B-52 airframe and structures, technologies of an effec- Evans are already flight testing involved a “boost-glide” Stratofortress bomber for guidance, navigation, and tive and affordable hyper- Secretary of the Air Force hypersonic weapons, and concept. This concept in- the first time in May 2010, control, and materials and sonic cruise missile. This Public Affairs several other countries volves a ballistic launch the experimental X-51A manufacturing. demonstration will build have shown interest in to high speed with a sub- “Waverider” was an un- “We simply can’t get on the X-51 success and WASHINGTON pursuing many of the un- sequent unpowered glide manned, autonomous su- where we need to go with- will include a tactically (AFNS) – The Air Force derlying technologies for flight path to the target. personic combustion ram- out continued science and compliant engine start ca- has always been about hypersonic flight. Another concept is an air- jet-powered hypersonic technology investment pability and launch from speed. Less than one “We have a real sense launch enabled vehicle flight test demonstrator. to bring these supporting a relevant altitude. Ad- month after the Air Force of urgency,” said Dr. Greg propelled by its own rock- After extensive data technologies to a readi- ditional programs aim to became its own service 70 Zacharias, the Air Force et, ramjet, or scramjet. analysis and lessons ness level that can meet develop and demonstrate years ago in September chief scientist. “The act- In the late 1950s and learned from three previ- our timelines for an opera- technologies to enable fu- 1947, Capt. Chuck Yeager ing secretary directed this into the mid-1960s, the ous flights, the final flight tional capability,” said Lt. ture air-launched, tactical- became the first person to discussion as a call to joint X-15 hypersonic re- of the X-51A on May 1, Gen. Arnold Bunch, mili- range hypersonic boost fly faster than the speed arms to maintain our heri- search program’s three 2013, was the most suc- tary deputy, Office of the glide systems. of sound – a barrier once tage of excellence in this rocket-powered vehicles cessful in terms of meet- Assistant Secretary of the “We’ve had great long- considered impenetrable area.” flew a total of 199 times ing all the experiment ob- Air Force for Acquisition. term relationships with – in the Bell Aircraft X-1. The discussions this investigating all aspects of jectives. The cruiser trav- The Air Force con- industry on these efforts,” On May 3 Air Force week formulated a com- piloted hypersonic flight. eled more than 230 nauti- tinues to partner with Bunch said. “The technol- senior leaders met to con- mon understanding of the On Oct. 3, 1967, the X-15 cal miles in just over six DARPA on flight demon- ogy and concepts from sider options to acceler- potential for hypersonics piloted by Air Force Maj. minutes reaching a peak stration programs for high these demonstrations will ate hypersonics research as a future operational Pete Knight reached Mach speed of Mach 5.1. speed strike weapon tech- provide options for an op- and development to break game changer for both the 6.7, setting the world’s The AFRL also has ex- nologies which address erational weapon system even more speed barri- U.S. and its potential ad- unofficial speed record. tensive efforts underway challenge areas such as air for rapidly and effectively ers and ensure continued versaries. According to NASA in foundational hyperson- vehicle feasibility, effec- prosecuting the type of technological superiority. “We’re accelerating documents, more impor- ic technology maturation, tiveness and affordability. targets we know we’ll Hypersonics refers our research in this area,” tant than breaking speed including work in ord- We are advancing need to reach in highly to flying at five times said Acting Secretary of records were the X-15’s nance, tactical boosters, development of critical contested environments.” the speed of sound, also the Air Force Lisa S. Dis- “probing of hypersonic known as “Mach 5,” or brow. “The benefits of aerodynamic performance higher. From an Air Force this technology for our and heating rates, research perspective, it is a game- nation’s defense are wide into structural behavior changing capability which ranging, from offensive during high heating and can amplify many of the capabilities to defensive high flight loads, study of enduring attributes of air- systems. This is a high hypersonic stability and power including speed, priority for the USAF.” control during exit from range, flexibility and pre- “We also laid the and reentry of the atmo- cision. groundwork for a longer sphere, and examination “We must push the term coordinated effort in of pilot performance and boundaries of technology policy, operational con- physiology.” in every area,” said Air cepts, science and tech- Decades later, the X- Force Chief of Staff Gen. nology efforts, acquisi- 51A program, a collab- David L. Goldfein. “Our tion, and test and evalua- orative effort of the Air adversaries aren’t stand- tion,” Zacharias said. Force Research Labora- ing still. They are looking Foundational work for tory and the Defense Ad- for every advantage they reaching an operational vanced Research Projects can get.” hypersonic capability has Agency, represented one A recent Air Force been long in the works. of the Air Force’s most Studies Board report iden- Over the years, the Air significant reinvestments Ground crew members make the final checks to the X-51A Waverider scramjet, tified that the U.S. is not Force and other partners in hypersonic flight since which is affixed to an Edwards B-52H Stratofortress before being flown over alone in its quest for this have researched a num- the X-15 flights nearly 50 the Pacific Ocean and launched June 13, 2011. The Hypersonic Combined Test increased speed. For ex- ber of concepts to reach years earlier. Force, an AEDC unit located at Edwards, has been involved in flight testing the X-51 Waverider program. (Photo by Bob Ferguson/Boeing) Future rocket scientists shoot for the stars at annual competition By Deidre Ortiz closest to the target, which is marked AEDC Public Affairs 30 feet downrange from the launch pad. Out of the 15 students that com- Students 10-18 years old from the peted, this year’s winner was Jackson southern middle Tennessee region Parrish, age 11 of Robert E. Lee El- participated in the local Reach for the ementary School in Tullahoma. Stars rocket launching competition Reach for the Stars is also a nation- May 13 at University of Tennessee ally-recognized competition co-found- Space Institute. ed in 2005 by former science teachers The event, hosted by UTSI and or- Jack and Kathy Colpas. Their goal is ganized with help from members of to inspire students to take an interest in the Tennessee Section of the American STEM and also honor the first teach- Institute of Aeronautics and Arnold er in space, Christa McAuliffe, of the Air Force Base Science, Engineering, NASA Space Shuttle Challenger. Mathematics and Technology (STEM) Results of the local Reach for the program coordinator Jere Matty, is part Stars competition determine national of an educational outreach program winners in that five of the closest of that gives young students the opportu- all entries submitted to the competition nity to build and launch their own rock- headquarters by deadline get invited et. This year’s competition was led by to the National Winner’s Celebration. Out of all the students that competed in the local Reach for the Stars competition Jim Burns with the AEDC Space and Last year’s local winner Samuel Man- at the University of Tennessee Space Institute May 13, this year’s winner was Jack- Missiles Branch. sfield was invited to attend the celebra- son Parrish, age 11 of Robert E. Lee Elementary School in Tullahoma. The winner is The winner of the competition is tion at the Kennedy Space Center in determined by who lands their rocket closest to the target, which is marked 30 feet the student who lands his or her rocket Florida. downrange from the launch pad. (Photo provided) 4 • May 8, 2017 X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle-4

Airman Chase Cannon th Wing Public Affairs lands at Kennedy Space Center HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, The ’s re- By Secretary of the Air The Air Force’s X- Force Public Affairs Air Force Base completed a 37B Orbital Test surge May 5, 2017, to measure Vehicle mission 4 Airmen and WASHINGTON lands at NASA ‘s (AFNS) – The X-37B Kennedy Space A mission. Orbital Test Vehicle mis- Center Shuttle The 6th, 9th and 29th Attack Squad- sion 4 (OTV-4), the Air Landing Facil- Force’s unmanned, reus- ity, Fla., May 7. totaled more than 465 flight hours able space plane, landed Managed by the A student at NASA’s Kennedy Air Force Rapid - Space Center Shuttle Capabilities Of- Landing Facility May 7. fice, the X-37B “While we are conducting surge op- program is the “Today marks an in- you can see a flurry of activity newest and most credibly exciting day advanced re- for the 45th Space Wing entry spacecraft as we continue to break that performs Timothy barriers,” said Brig. risk reduction, Attack Squadron com- Gen. Wayne Monteith, experimentation . “There are a number of things the 45th SW command- and concept of er. “Our team has been operations devel- preparing for this event opment for reus- able space vehi- for several years, and I cle technologies. am extremely proud to (U.S. Air Force see our hard work and courtesy photo) dedication culminate in today’s safe and suc- an on-orbit endurance vehicle technologies. cessful landing of the X- record and marks the “The hard work of 37B.” vehicle’s first landing in the X-37B OTV team Scale models of the the state of Florida. We and the 45th Space Wing X-37 underwent aerody- are incredibly pleased successfully demon- namic loads testing and with the performance strated the flexibility aerodynamic jet interac- of the space vehicle and and resolve necessary tion effects testing at the are excited about the to continue the nation’s AEDC von Karman Gas data gathered to sup- advancement in space,” Dynamics Facility wind port the scientific and said Randy Walden, tunnels. space communities. We the director of the Air The OTV-4 conduct- are extremely proud Force Rapid Capabili- ed on-orbit experiments of the dedication and ties Office. “The ability for 718 days during its hard work by the entire to land, refurbish, and mission, extending the team.” launch from the same total number of days The X-37B is the location further enhanc- spent on-orbit for the newest and most ad- es the OTV’s ability to OTV program to 2,085 vanced re-entry space- rapidly integrate and days. craft. Managed by the qualify new space tech- “The landing of OTV- Air Force Rapid Capa- nologies.” 4 marks another success bilities Office, the X- The Air Force is pre- for the X-37B program 37B program performs paring to launch the fifth and the nation,” said Lt. risk reduction, experi- X-37B mission from A 6-percent scale model of the X-37 underwent testing in 2008 in the AEDC von tal chambers, arc heat- Col. Ron Fehlen, X-37B mentation and concept Cape Canaveral Air Kármán Gas Dynamics Facility tunnels A, B and C to establish how redesigns to the demonstrator spacecraft’s control jet nozzles and body flap effected itsers, ballistic ranges and program manager. “This of operations develop- Force Station, Florida, aerodynamics during reentry into and through the Earth’s atmosphere. (U.S. Airother specialized units mission once again set ment for reusable space later in 2017. Force photo) Arnold]. Many of the s test units have

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“During spring and AEDC ex- prob- - crane, which May 8, 2017 • 5 Holloman surges RPA operations

By Senior Airman Chase Cannon happening on the flight line and in the mission. Sometimes shifts are utilized order of 18 hours a day or more,” Mon- 49th Wing Public Affairs flying squadrons; you can even see the to keep the aircraft in working order. roe said. “Right now we are launching broader impact around Holloman with “A typical duty day on swing shift aircraft that will stay airborne for 10, HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, our various mission support elements is waiting for the MQ-9 to land so that 11 or 12 hours, and it takes a very fine- N.M. (AFNS) – The 49th Wing’s re- who are enabling pilots, sensor opera- we can get control of the Ground Con- tuned sequence and schedule in order to motely piloted aircraft squadrons at tors and maintainers to launch all of trol System and aircraft, that’s when the execute launching those operations.” Holloman Air Force Base completed a these aircraft.” real hard work starts, getting your fin- A key component to the Holloman five-day surge May 5, 2017, to measure Surge week also provides command- gers dirty, that kind of stuff goes on,” team are instructor pilots who help stu- the full capabilities of the Airmen and ers with the opportunity to exercise the said Airman 1st Class Bryton Pollock, dents to develop skills that will prepare civilians involved in the RPA mission. system to accurately measure the profi- a 49th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron them for future roles of providing com- The 6th, 9th and 29th Attack Squad- ciency, accuracy and competency of the communications systems technician. batant commanders with crucial situa- rons completed 45 MQ-9 Reaper sorties squadrons. “Any kind of problems the plane has, tional awareness and strike capabilities. and totaled more than 465 flight hours “We continue to see that what we do we get told about it. We go out and fig- “You develop a much deeper ap- during the week, allowing RPA student here is not simple,” Monroe said. “It is ure out how to fix it. We get the parts preciation for how hard everyone is pilots, sensor operators, and maintain- not something you can do by yourself, it and the tools we need and we put in the working on the flight line every single ers to discover and record limitations. takes a very well built and well trained man hours to fix whatever problem it day,” Monroe said. “From maintenance “While we are conducting surge op- team to accomplish the mission.” has.” personnel, the aviators that are operat- erations you can see a flurry of activity Personnel supporting surge opera- Aircraft maintenance was critical ing the aircraft and all of our various that is happening across the base, and tions included air traffic controllers, during the surge in operations, when mission support partners that help us to that is when we realize how integral of aircraft maintainers, schedulers, flight both aircraft and simulators were uti- accomplish our mission. You develop a team we are,” said Lt. Col. Timothy safety, fuels and munitions specialists, lized to the maximum extent possible an appreciation for just how great of a Monroe, the 9th Attack Squadron com- and range control operators who worked for student training. team we are for producing students and mander. “There are a number of things long hours to keep pace with the RPA “Our simulators are operating on the airpower capabilities here.”

INNOVATION from page 1 liams, was to retrieve information entered into a soft- stored for future use.” someone write an application to gather additional data ware application previously used at Arnold so that de- Michael Glennon, technical director of Engineering turning what data we have into new understandings adds sign engineers would have it for future reference. and Technical Management at Arnold, has worked in to the knowledge and information. DODAF is just one Williams explained that the software application was tracking innovating as part of the Technical Excellence example where this is applied.” purchased in 2010 to be used to document Information Board, and through this role has helped facilitate devel- Miller also noted that the efforts similar to Williams’, Technology Design details and interfaces for the Depart- opment in government and contractor innovation. which can benefit AEDC for years to come, occur each ment of Defense Architecture Framework (DODAF). In regards to the work on the DODAF, Glennon men- day at Arnold. “Several man-years were invested in creating the ar- tioned it had also provided a structure focusing on Oper- “Usually people don’t see the big picture in what chitectural models within the application,” he said. ational, System and Technical views of test systems that they do every day, but we know that our success is be- But, in 2016, a decision was made to no longer use allowed data to be presented as information to the users. cause of our great workforce,” he said. this software application and to remove its data from “The DODAF allowed the understanding of what, Dr. Woodrow Whitlow, a technical director at Arnold the server. where and how systems worked and the interrelation- AFB, agreed that “the innovations being pioneered in This, along with other software changes, rendered ships of interfaces from systems of systems architec- the Technology Innovations Branch are allowing us to the diagrams previously entered in the application unus- ture,” he said. “With this software, models could be accomplish the AEDC mission more efficiently.” able. Therefore, Williams worked to ensure that the data developed for as-built as well as what-if modeling al- “In addition, innovations in our daily work are oc- was available through another platform and fixed links lowing graphic and textual displays of changes to the curring in all areas across the Complex in areas, such as to enable additional data that had been entered in the model.” Human Resources, Security Procurement and others,” application. Glennon added that “innovation is the lifeblood of Whitlow continued. “All of our employees are using “All images were exported into a hierarchical direc- change” and can take many forms. their ingenuity and creativity to make AEDC a better tory structure to allow basic access and transition to “This could be a policy change, technical improve- place to work.” alternate software systems as required,” Williams said. ment, software modernization or a new innovative way If you have an idea about how to do work more ef- “Using a file editor, most links were able to be repaired, of solving problems,” he said. “Transformation of what ficiently or how to reduce mission risk, the Technical In- and a permanent backup of the database was made. A we deem information today came from data we already novations Branch managers want to hear about it. Please user’s manual and report manual were also found and have. By simply exposing the existing data and having contact the Technical Innovations Branch at 454-7491.

CRANE from page 1 tal chambers, arc heat- 1978,” he said. “AEDC for the purchase in early Saltzman, with the Lo- to Federal Contracts nold April 28 and has ers, ballistic ranges and purchased the 3900T in October 2016.” gistics Office.” Corp, of Tampa, Florida. since been assembled other specialized units 1985 from the Tennessee During the research The award was made The crane arrived at Ar- and is ready to be used. [at Arnold]. Many of the Valley Authority. This stage, supported by Dave complex’s test units have crane was the workhorse Simmons, manufacturing capabilities unmatched for long reach and heavy branch manager for the elsewhere in the United lifts. The 3900T was rat- Test Operations Sustain- States, and some are ed at 140 tons but was ment contractor, the re- unique in the world. A very time consuming quirements and specifi- heavy lift capability with to configure the lattice cations for the new crane the appropriate capac- boom structure for the were also being devel- ity and reach is required intended lift.” oped. to maintain these facili- The older crane also “Within two months ties.” had to be repaired mul- of approval to purchase, The new crane is 54 tiple times, and during the team, which consist- feet long, 10 feet wide this time would be out of ed of the Test Systems or 26 feet wide with out- service, so cranes were Sustainment Division, riggers extended, and being rented to perform the Test Support Division 13 feet high, weighing maintenance jobs. Logistics Office, Instal- 132,000 pounds. It is Grantham said he lation Contracting office also capable of lifting was later tasked with re- and the TOS contractor, 240 tons and has a reach searching the pros and received local purchase of 210 feet. cons of purchasing a authority from Warner Grantham added that crane, leasing a crane or Robins; issued the solici- the new crane has been continuing to rent cranes, tation; received propos- needed at Arnold for a and find which would als; evaluated proposals while because the crane better benefit Arnold. for lowest-price, tech- being used was experi- “The business case nically acceptable; and encing wear and has lim- that I proposed found awarded the contract on ited capabilities. that the most beneficial Dec. 9, 2016,” Grantham “During spring and option would be purchas- said. “There was great summer 2016, AEDC ex- ing a new crane,” he said. commitment and dedi- perienced multiple prob- “This was confirmed by cation provided to the lems with our Manito- a second, independent team by Miriam James woc 3900T crane, which business case and was and Kelly Pitts, with the was manufactured in presented to leadership Installation Contracting who approved funding Office, and Capt. Mike FELLOWS from page 1 Council, a 501c6 Tennes- see non-profit corporation formed in 2000 to support AEDC, took over respon- sibility for the AEDC Fel- lows Program. Changes to Air Force policy in mid-2016 pre- vent the Air Force from giving awards to individu- al contractor personnel. The ACC AEDC Fel- lows Committee, led by a former AEDC com- mander, retired Maj. Gen. Mike Wiedemer (Lifetime Achievement AEDC Fel- low), finalized the selec- tion of the 2017 AEDC Fellows from nominations submitted by past and present AEDC personnel and AEDC Fellows. 6 • May 8, 2017 Staying safe when doing electrical work

By AEDC Safety and return out of date items to the shop for retesting. For the month of May, the Safety Condition • Hard hats, used in conjunction with arc flash Campaign focus is on Electrical Hot Work. clothing, are to be replaced if in use greater than This type of work is done only as a last resort 5 years. and by a select number of trained employees. While Even if you aren’t performing electrical hot work, fewer teams focus on this, we hope everyone is just as it’s important to be informed on general electrical focused due to the serious nature of this work. hazards and the effects of electric shock is also The Safety, Health and Environmental Standards important. Exposure to “live” electrical components B4 and B6 lists all of the requirements for performing can be a result of inadequate wiring, damaged power both low and high voltage electrical work as follows: tools and equipment, improper grounding, damaged • Working on energized equipment is only allowed insulation or other factors. Therefore, make sure all as a last resort. electrical equipment is properly grounded; report any • An Energized Electrical Work Permit and Job exposed wires or terminals; make sure all panels are Safety Analysis (JSA) must be documented and secure and free of openings; make sure that insulation approved, prior to performing work on energized on all electrical cords is intact; make sure cords are equipment. properly rated for use; do not use any damaged power • Equipment, as designated in Standards B4 and B6, tools; ensure safe distances from any overhead power must have Arc Flash warning labels posted on the lines; and be observant to signs and barriers and equipment. notify supervisors of any areas in question. • Exposed energized equipment must be barricaded This year we have completed four safety focus at a distance defined by Standards B4 and B6. areas: fall protection, barricades and signs, lockout/ • Employees, working on energized equipment must tagout and confined space entry. The focus topic of be wearing proper arc flash clothing. Confined Space Entry for April recently concluded • All electrical protective equipment, to include and data is still being gather from the safety teams gloves, blankets, hot sticks, etc. are to be tested as on their observations and corrections. Overall, 586 per Standards B4 and B6. issues were identified and of those, 215 fixes are complete and 371 are in progress. • Review inspection dates on protective equipment (AEDC file photo) Crickets, bats inspire researchers to develop smart ‘hair’ sensors for flight

By Marisa Alia-Novobilski important as agile fliers join the fleet. Air Force Research Laboratory Conventional aerial systems typi- cally draw data from bulky “bolted-on” WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR sensors, resulting in single point mea- FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFNS) – Na- surements with delayed sensing. The ture has inspired scientific and engi- Artificial Hair Sensor team created a neering innovations for hundreds of novel, lightweight artificial hair sensor years. An apple falling from a tree in- that mimics those used by natural fliers spired Isaac Newton to define the laws – like bats and crickets – using carbon of gravity. The burdock burrs clinging nanotube forests grown inside glass fi- to the skin of his hunting dog lead to ber capillaries. The hairs are sensitive Swiss engineer Georges de Mestral’s to air flow changes during flight, en- invention of Velcro. The ability of abling quick response by fliers. Researchers at the materials and manufacturing directorate, Air Force Re- the kingfisher to slice through water Carbon nanotubes, revered by ma- search Laboratory have developed a novel, lightweight artificial hair sensor to catch prey inspired the redesign of that mimics those used by natural fliers – like bats and crickets – by using car- terial scientists for having a high bon nanotube forests grown inside glass fiber capillaries. The hairs are sensi- the high-speed Japanese bullet train, strength-to-weight ratio as well as tive to air flow changes during flight, enabling quick analysis and response by enabling it to exit tunnels quietly at a their ability to conduct electrically, agile fliers.(Air Force courtesy photo) speed ten percent faster than predeces- form the basis for these hair sensors sors. and are grown inside of a glass capil- For scientists at the Air Force Re- lary with electrodes on each end. With search Laboratory, it is the hairs on a diameter of less than one-tenth of a bats and crickets that inspired the cre- human hair, the sensors work when air ation of artificial hair sensors, destined flows over the fiber, compressing the to change the course of agile flight. carbon nanotube, causing a change in “Ever notice how a cricket might the resistance between the electrodes. stop chirping when you walk into a This information is analyzed by a room? It’s because it detects a big air “brain-like” neural network, in which disturbance and does not know if you an algorithm is able to process and dic- are a friend or a foe,” said Dr. Jeff tate a response. Baur, a principal engineer in the struc- “These can help to better under- tural materials division, materials and stand aerodynamics or wind gusts in manufacturing directorate. “Nature has an urban environment, for example. given bats and crickets these fine hairs Imagine my agile aircraft is turning that they use to sense changes in their the corner of a building – the wind may environment. We hypothesized that if change. If I have a system that can de- we could engineer similar hairs at the tect a gust is coming, I can adjust im- surface of an aircraft, we could enable mediately to stay on course,” said Dr. an agile flight system that can detect Greg Reich, a team member from the air changes and ‘fly by feel.’” Aerospace Systems Directorate. Thus, a multi-directorate artificial Though a large portion of develop- hair sensor team funded by the Air ment and bench-level lab testing of the Force Office of Scientific Research sensors took place here, the team took was started to develop an innovative, advantage of pressure wave tubes de- adaptive, multifunctional structure for veloped at the Munitions Directorate Air Force systems. Beginning in the by Dr. Ben Dickinson and wind tunnels lab as a ‘proof of concept’ experiment, within the Aerospace Systems Direc- the artificial hair sensors have gained torate to validate the sensor durability international interest, with aerospace and sensitivity to speed. companies and researchers eager to “By changing the diameter of the integrate these into their wind tunnel capillary, we are able to detect dif- models and flying systems. ferent wind speeds and have shown Moreover, the research has also success at up to 100 miles per hour,” resulted in three patent applications Baur said. “We are still in the process based on the research activity – a of evaluating durability, but already highlight for scientific research in any we have tested the same sensor for field. more than 316 hours. This shows great “We’re providing new insights and promise.” non-traditional outlets for long-term Another potential application for (AFRL) research. The project has the artificial hair sensors, according moved to the point where we are mak- to Baur, is in bonded composites. By ing these sensors, evaluating them in applying the sensors across bonded the wind tunnel within AFRL and dis- material, researchers can internally tributing them to collaborators across detect what is going on inside of a the globe to try them out in different bond, which may allow them to detect concepts. It’s exciting,” Baur said. a break before it happens. For the Air Force, the need to un- Ultimately, the artificial hair sen- derstand ambient air data and its ef- sors are just one way the scientists and fects on aircraft performance, naviga- researchers at AFRL continue to ad- tion and more has become more criti- vance technology and the state-of-the- cal as flying machines are now lighter art for Air Force systems of now and and operate in diverse environments. the future. The need for ‘fly-by-feel’ systems, “We’re just working to understand where aerial systems have distributed how nature does things and taking smart sensors to assess the external en- advantage of this understanding and vironment and change maneuvers dur- knowledge for the Air Force,” Baur ing the course of flight, is increasingly said. May 8, 2017 • 7 8 • May 8, 2017

See the June calendar on page 11 Endpoint cybersecurity technology deployed through AF agreement

By Jaclyn Knapp Air Force Technology Transfer Program Office

HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. (AFNS) – The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center electronic systems development division here and Carbon Black, a locally-based security company, signed a cooperative research and development agreement to improve cybersecurity for the Hanscom Air Force Base Collaboration and Innovation Cen- ter. The HCIC serves as a collaborative testing and development arena for lead- ing-edge advances in defense applica- tions, cyber defenses and public safety. Carbon Black, based in Waltham, Mas- sachusetts, is known for its work in end- point next-generation security. Endpoint devices such as laptop and desktop com- puters are vulnerable to cyberattacks, and technology is required to prevent and reduce cyber intrusions and threats for computer networks that connect to these devices. This agreement will allow Carbon Dr. Tim Rudolph, center, the former Air Force Life Cycle Management Center chief technology officer, signs the paper- Black to deploy their advanced endpoint work for a cooperative research and development agreement with Carbon Black, March 15 at Hanscom Air Force Base, security technology on the HCIC’s net- Mass., while Michael Canavan, left, the electronic systems development division chief, and Damon Cabanillas, Carbon work to leverage identification, preven- Black’s vice president of federal sales and operations, look on. The electronic systems development division signed a tion, tracking and responses related to CRADA with Carbon Black to enable deployment of advanced endpoint security technology on the Hanscom Collabora- endpoint cybersecurity activity. tion and Innovation Center to improve cybersecurity. (U.S. Air Force photo) “We are really looking forward to ex- sales and operations. tain and ban specific behaviors, activi- ing networks, such as those used at perimenting with Carbon Black, learn- CRADAs provide quick, unique ac- ties and threats. In addition, users have the HCIC, are vulnerable to unknown ing from this opportunity and sharing cess to extensive government research access to 10,000 industry and propri- threats. This cooperative effort will - al these lessons across the Air Force,” said and development resources that can etary experts via an online community. low the center to be used as a model by Mike Canavan, the electronic systems yield powerful research results. This “To dramatically improve cyber re- Carbon Black to develop products that development division chief. technology transfer agreement will en- siliency and data asset protection, I aim provide increased protection for DOD The CRADA will further enable the able the HCIC to implement real-time, to collaborate with key contributors and networks and current and future custom- facility to provide crucial cybersecurity continuous cyber defense software not leverage multiple, diverse capabilities ers. information, assistance and training to currently used by the Air Force. to combat adversaries in the digital age. “We have had success getting some government, industry and academic ac- “Cyberwarfare is a clear and present One recent example is the research and of the technology deployed and will con- tivities that require secure research, de- danger and can significantly degrade our development agreement between Hans- tinue to share these lessons as we move velopment, test and evaluation environ- country’s ability to execute our mission com Air Force Base and Carbon Black, forward working together through this ments. on the frontline for both the government which uses advanced tools with United CRADA,” said Canavan. “Together we will provide capabili- and commercial industry,” said Cabanil- States Air Force data sets to enhance For additional information about ties that will enhance the Air Force’s las. “This CRADA will allow our teams learning across the enterprise,” said Lt. CRADAs, technology transfer or how to visibility at the endpoint level to help to collaborate on new ways of defending Gen. William Bender, the office of the partner with the Air Force, please con- them understand the techniques, tactics against cyber-attacks that most technol- secretary of the Air Force’s chief of in- tact the Air Force T2 Program Office at and procedures that are used in adver- ogies can’t detect.” formation dominance and chief informa- 937-904-9830, [email protected]. sarial attacks,” said Damon Cabanillas, Advanced endpoint security allows tion officer. mil , or visit the T2 website at www. Carbon Black’s vice president of federal users to create a profile to identify, con- Department of Defense comput- wpafb.af.mil/t2. May 8, 2017 • 9 AF Repair Enhancement Program saves millions of dollars

By Staff Sgt. Samuel shop saved the 366th Morse Fighter Wing approxi- 366th Fighter Wing mately $1.3 million com- Public Affairs bined between cost sav- ings and cost avoidance, MOUNTAIN HOME and Bergmann said his AIR FORCE BASE, Ida- team is on-track to save an ho (AFNS) – The smart estimated $2.5 million this phone you’ve had for a year. while just died. You’ve Staff Sgt. Zachary tried everything in the user Dowd, an AFREP circuit manual, and it’s just not card repair technician, working. As you walk it replaced the resistor on to the trash can, defeated, the power supply. The re- wondering where you’re placement only took a few going to get $300 for an- minutes, but finding out other phone, someone what was wrong and how stops you, and asks to take to fix it took a bit longer. a look before you throw it Dowd had to look up away. the schematics for the After a few minutes, power supply, some of the good Samaritan pulls which were hand-drawn, a paperclip from their inspecting and testing pocket, inserts it into the each part to find where the phone, puts the phone problem was. This isn’t The dish for the 266th Range Squadron’s Multiple Threat Emitter System shines in the morning sun at the back together, powers it on uncommon; the team fre- Mountain Home Air Force Base Range Complex in May 9. The system can simulate 65 different types and hands it back. It works quently works on decades- of ground threats to help train air crews through scenarios that mimic real enemy threats the crews might perfectly again. Aston- old, custom-made equip- face. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Samuel Morse) ished, you ask what you ment, some of which only radar technician. “Saves owe, and they reply, “$4 had a single manufactur- us money, saves the Air should cover my time and ing run. Force money as a whole the paper clip.” Once the problem was and allows everybody to This might sound too found, Dowd used the gen- run more efficiently.” good to be true, but the Air eral maintenance technical To be cost-effective, Force Repair Enhance- order used by AFREP and AFREP focuses on high- ment Program at Moun- consulted the manufactur- value items, usually from tain Home Air Force Base er to determine how to re- aircraft, but the team has performs marvels like this pair the part. AFREP has to repaired everything from all the time. Recently, the get maintenance proposals the fitness center’s running four-person shop repaired approved by engineers be- clock to security forces’ si- a $20,000 power supply fore the repair can be made rens. In each case, AFREP headed for the trash by re- and the part returned to the saved the units downtime, placing a $5 resistor, the customer. money or both. equivalent of fixing a $300 And what do AFREP’s “If there’s ... something phone with an 8-cent pa- customers think about this in within your work center per clip. program? that you think is a high- “We’ve got a really “We’ve got a count- value asset and it’s going Staff Sgt. Zachary Dowd, an Air Force Repair Enhancement Program circuit card cool and unique mission,” less number of parts that to take you a lot of pain to technician, replaces a resistor on a power supply at Mountain Home Air Force said Master Sgt. Mark we cannot fix because try to get a replacement, or Base, Idaho, May 8. The four-person AFREP team saved the Air Force a combined Bergmann, the AFREP we’re not coded to, so it’s going to cost your unit $1.3 million in 2016, and is on-track to save $2.5 million in 2017, between cost manager. “Basically, our having AFREP as a valu- quite a bit of money, might savings and cost avoidance. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Samuel Morse) job is to save the Air Force able resource on base to as well let us have a shot at on them. When Dowd was arms out in triumph. specialty code is in avion- money by supporting the be able to take that bur- it,” Bergmann said. “What asked how he feels when “Honestly, I’ll have a ics. “It’s really nice to be flying mission, but we’re den rather than throw- we really need is the units he fixes something, his hard time going back to able to know that you’re also getting parts back to ing a part in the trash is a to be aware of us.” coworker, Senior Airman my career field not being legally able to fix some- the unit a little bit quick- big deal,” said Tech. Sgt. The important role Joshua Vance, held up a able to fix something that thing that would otherwise er.” Aaron Steinberg, a 266th played by the AFREP printed internet meme of isn’t in the [manual],” said have been thrown in the Last year, the small Range Squadron ground team members isn’t lost a dirty child holding his Dowd, whose Air Force trash.” 10 • May 8, 2017 Focus on fall prevention can reduce serious injuries

By Darlene Y. Cowsert ty will focus on the importance sult from non-compliance or Fall prevention awareness While not all Air Force or- Air Force Safety Center of life-saving fall prevention inadequate training,” said Bill and training are generally fo- ganizations can set aside May 8 Public Affairs measures during Fall Preven- Parsons, the chief of Air Force cused on falls from heights due – 19 for Fall Prevention Focus, tion Focus, May 8 – 19, 2017, Occupational Safety. to the greater potential for seri- Parsons said it’s a good time KIRTLAND AIR FORCE marking the fourth year the Air “It’s incumbent upon every ous injury or death. However, to look at organizational safety BASE, N.M. (AFNS) – Hun- Force has partnered with the Airman, supervisor, and senior falls on even surfaces are much programs and plan some time dreds of fall mishaps occur Occupational Safety and Health leader to ensure our workforce is more common, according to throughout the year to discuss across the Air Force every year Administration and the National aware of all mishap prevention Mike Eckert, the chief of Air fall prevention in the workplace that result in thousands of lost Institute of Occupation Safety requirements, have the proper Force Traffic Safety and- Out and to draw attention to the need work days. From 2012-2016, Air and Health to draw attention to equipment to prevent falls, and reach. for compliance, training and Force personnel were involved fall prevention. know how to use that equip- “Fall-related injuries are awareness. in almost 3,500 non-sports relat- During this time, Air Force ment properly,” Parsons said. more common on wet surfaces “We need to remind every- ed falls, resulting in more than organizations are encouraged Supervisors are responsible for or stumbles in walkways,” Eck- one that appropriate risk man- 42,000 lost days of work. More to conduct activities that raise ensuring Airmen are trained in ert said. “Most falls are prevent- agement and a little common significantly, there were 13 fa- awareness of fall prevention in accordance with AFI 91-203, able if we follow basic safety sense can drastically reduce the talities during this same time. the workplace, and at home. Air Force Consolidated Safety practices and maintain situation- number of injuries from slips, Air Force Occupational Safe- “Most falls from heights re- Instruction. al awareness.” trips and falls,” Parsons said. MQ-9 Reapers add to arsenal with first GBU-38 drop

By /432nd Air Expeditionary "The GBU-38, just like the Hellfire Wing Public Affairs and GBU-12, is a very accurate weapon and the fact that it’s GPS-guided gives , us another versatile way to guide the Nev. (AFNS) – Airmen from the 432nd weapon, specifically, through inclement Wing/432nd Air Expeditionary Wing, weather onto targets,” Scott said. here, and the 26th Weapons Squadron, The JDAM being added to the arsenal , , made his- is another step in furthering the attack ca- tory earlier this week, by employing the pabilities of the MQ-9 Reaper force. first GBU-38 Joint Direct Attack Muni- "There’s definitely times when I tion from an MQ-9 Reaper. could’ve used the GBU-38 in combat While the JDAM has been around prior to this," Scott said. since the late '90s, the munition has just Not only does the GBU-38 perform recently been validated and now proven through poor weather conditions, it also for real world engagements marking a helps the munitions Airmen and the significant step in the Reapers’ joint warf- weapons load crew members who load ighter role. them. "We had a great opportunity to drop “The GBU-38 has a 20 minute load the first live GBU-38s in training," said time compared to the GBU-12, which Capt. Scott, a 26th WPS weapons in- has a 30 minute load time,” said Senior structor pilot. "The GBU-38 is a weapon Airman Curtis, a 432nd Aircraft Mainte- we've been trying to get on the MQ-9 for nance Squadron load crew member. “The several years now and we had the oppor- GBU-38 is a quicker load compared to tunity to be the first to drop during train- the GBU-12 and gets the plane in the air An MQ-9 Reaper is loaded with a GBU-12 laser-guided bomb on the left and a ing." quicker.” GBU-38 Joint Direct Attack Munition on the right April 13 at Creech Air Force While waiting for the aircraft to ap- Incorporating this new munition into Base, Nev. The JDAM is a GPS guided munition which brings added capabil- proach the target area, members of the the total strike package will give MQ-9 ity to the warfighters, specifically by aircrews being able to employ weapons weapons squadron waited anxiously. Af- aircrews additional capabilities. through inclement weather. The first two GBU-38s employed in training- suc ter the bombs successfully struck their "Our job at the weapons school is to cessfully hit their targets May 1 over the Nevada Test and Training Range. (U.S. practice targets in a controlled environ- train to the highest standard possible," Air Force photo/Senior Airman Christian Clausen) ment, the entire room cheered. Scott said. "We're going to take the The JDAM will add flexibility and is aircrew will have more versatility for For the past 10 years skilled MQ-9 GBU-38 and incorporate it into our ad- efficiency to the targeting process.- Air the commanders to provide different ef- aircrew have been employing AGM-114 vanced scenarios, prove the weapon and crews will continue to employ the AGM- fects and make a difference for the guys Hellfire missiles and GBU-12 laser- integrate with all Air Force assets. What 114 Hellfires and GBU-12s downrange in on the ground," Scott said. "It has a dif- guided bombs, but the JDAM brings new that gives us is the ability to take it down- addition to the GBU-38 that is now ready ferent guidance system and it opens the global positioning system capabilities to range and employ in the most demanding for combat. bridge to more GPS-guided weapons in the warfighters. circumstances possible." "The overall impact of the GBU-38 the future." Air Force to Release F-35 Weight Restrictions By Secretary of the Air the seat that slightly delays Force about these changes Force Public Affairs parachute deployment at to their ejection seat, and high speeds and decreases I’m confident our pilots are WASHINGTON parachute opening forces no longer concerned with (AFNS) – Air Force lead- for lightweight pilots. Ad- the safety of the F-35 ejec- ers recently removed the ditionally, a head support tion system. I’ve flown in restriction that kept pilots panel has been mounted on this seat myself and believe, weighing less than 136 the rear risers of the para- with these modifications, pounds from flying the F- chute to prevent the pilot’s this is the safest ejection 35A. The restriction was head from moving back- seat I’ve ever flown,” said imposed in 2015 due to wards during an ejection. Brig. Gen. Scott L. Pleus, concerns about the risk dur- Finally, the overall helmet the F-35 Integration Office ing ejections in a portion of weight has been reduced director. the flight envelope. through both the reduction In July 2015, during After rigorous testing to of internal strapping mate- the manufacturer’s ongo- ensure the escape system rial and the removal of an ing testing, analysis identi- works reliably and safely additional external visor, fied an unacceptable risk in all planned conditions which decreases injury risk of neck injury during para- and across all pilot weights, during parachute opening. chute deployment/opening three distinct modifica- “I have personally for pilots weighing less tions were implemented. briefed every single F-35 than 136 pounds. The re- A switch was installed on pilot in the United States Air quirement is for the seat to be certified for any pilot weighing between 103 and 245 pounds. Air Force headquarters and wing leadership took immediate action to ensure pilot safety and work with the manufacturer to meet requirements for the seat. The F-35 Joint Program Office has been working in concert with contractors to develop options to recon- figure the ejection system. The new ejection seats are already being retrofitted into the existing fleet, and the lightweight helmets are available in pre-production now, while full production starts later this year. The Air Force has received more than 100 F-35As to date, trained more than 400 pilots and accumulated more than 40,000 flight hours. May 8, 2017 • 11

While not all Air Force or

Parsons said it’ to look at or

for compliance, training awareness. “We need to remind every one that appropriate risk man

trips and falls,” Parsons said. MQ-9 Reapers add to arsenal with first GBU-38 drop

An MQ-9 Reaper GBU-38 Joint Direct Attack Munition on the right April 13 at Creech Base, Nev. The JDAM is a GPS guided munition which brings added capabil ity to the warfighters, specifically by aircrews being able to employ through inclement weather. The first two GBU-38s employed in training suc cessfully hit their targets May 1 over the Nevada Test and Training Range. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Christian Clausen) the commanders to provide different ef fects and make a difference for the on the ground," Scott said. "It has a dif See the May calendar on page 8 the future." Air Force to Release F-35 Weight Restrictions

I’m confident our pilots no longer concerned the safety of the F-35 ejec tion system. I’ve flown with these seat I’ve ever flown,” the F-35 Integration director. the manufacturer’s ongo ing testing, analysis identi fied an unacceptable of neck injury during para than 136 pounds. The re to be certified for any

245 pounds.

Office has been working develop options to recon figure the ejection system. are already being into the existing fleet, now starts later this year. The Force has received

40,000 flight hours. 12 • May 8, 2017