PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID TULLAHOMA TN Vol. 68, No. 14 Arnold AFB, Tenn. PERMIT NO. 29 July 19, 2021 SBIR effort to enhance measurement of hypersonic wind tunnel velocities demonstrated at Tunnel 9 By Bradley Hicks AEDC Public Affairs

WHITE OAK, Md. – The measurement of ve- locity in a hypersonic wind tunnel facility is no easy feat. Along with the difficulties posed by the- ex tremely high speeds, the measurement process must be non-intrusive to prevent disturbance of the flow field, a possibility that is only heightened due to the low densities within the tunnel. But, thanks to a Small Business Innovation Re- search, or SBIR, program, accurate measurements at rates greater than 100 kHz, or 100,000 cycles per second, can now be obtained in the highest wind tunnel speed available at Arnold Engineering Development Complex Hypervelocity Wind Tun- nel 9 in White Oak, Maryland. Pictured is the setup of the 100 kHz burst-mode laser-based KTV system, which includes the high-energy burst-mode This SBIR was funded to Spectral Energies, laser and high-speed Optical Parametric Oscillator. The OPO was developed by Spectral Energies, LLC, as part of a Small Business Innovation Research project funded to the company to look into increasing the data rates for the See SBIR, page 3 measurement of velocities in hypersonic wind tunnels. (U.S. Air Force photo) National Radar Test Facility adds VHF New AEDC group capability to heavyweight turntable working to create more inclusionary By Jill Pickett AEDC Public Affairs environment WHITE SANDS MISSILE RANGE, N.M. – The 704th Test Group, Detachment 1 of the Arnold By Bradley Hicks Engineering Development Complex AEDC Public Affairs has improved the radar cross section (RCS) test capability at the National The Arnold Diversity and Inclusion Radar Test Facility tenfold. (D&I) Council met, albeit virtually, for “The VHF addition to our heavy- the first time in mid-May. weight turntable allows us to unleash An overview of short- and long-term our full RF [radio frequency] spec- goals of the council was piloted. Mem- trum on all possible test articles that ber introductions were also conducted can be tested on our RCS range,” said during the session. Maj. Nathan Lesman, assistant direc- Misty Layne, who serves as chairper- tor of operations for Det 1. “We can son of the council, stated this group pro- now conduct RCS [radar cross sec- vides the forum for sharing of programs tion] and antenna pattern measure- and practices which have proven their ments down to 60 Mhz on all test ar- effectiveness in enhancing D&I. ticle types: both penetrable and non- “Diversity can be a bit of a challeng- penetrable.” ing word,” Layne said during the meet- Prior to this upgrade, the team ing. “Some see it as offensive. Some could not take any measurements be- think it’s triggering. Really, it’s about low 600 MHz for test articles mount- embracing everyone for their own mer- ed on the heavyweight turntable. it and value. Everyone has their own Turntable testing allows a test arti- unique experiences. One person’s expe- cle, including full-size aircraft, to be riences does not discount another’s. The mounted using large pylons or foam focus of the council helps us all to be columns and rotated to precisely better citizens, better Airmen, so we can measure the RCS, or visibility of the support each other in our everyday lives test article to radar, at various angles. and at work.” Improvements to the turntable As a primary goal, the council is have already enabled three test pro- charged with overseeing initiatives that grams to test flyable hardware with- support a diverse workforce. A second- out having to build custom penetra- ary goal is to provide an inclusive cul- ble test articles and pylon mounting ture to strengthen mission effectiveness hardware. The VHF system used by Detachment 1, 704th Test Group of the Arnold En- across Arnold Engineering Develop- gineering Development Complex at the National Radar Cross Section (RCS) Penetrable test articles are gener- Test Facility at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. The Detachment has added VHF testing to their heavyweight turntable RCS testing capability. See INCLUSIONARY, page 4 See RADAR, page 4 (U.S. Air Force photo) Chief Master Sgt. David A. Flosi named next Command Chief Master Sergeant of AFMC By Richard L. Hoiles Master Sgt. Stanley C. Cadell, senior leaders on development Flosi entered the Air Force Air Force Materiel Command will retire on Feb. 1, 2022, after and implementation of command in May 1996. His background 29 years of service to the United policy. He will also serve as the includes various leadership du- WRIGHT-PATTERSON States Air Force. command functional manager ties in conventional and nuclear AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio – Air As the command senior en- for the command chiefs, group munitions/missile operations, Force officials announced July 1 listed leader, Flosi will serve as superintendents and first ser- program management, devel- the assignment of Chief Master the primary advisor to the com- geants across AFMC. opmental test and contingency Sgt. David A. Flosi as the Com- mander and senior staff on all Prior to Flosi’s assignment as operations at all Air Force or- mand Chief Master Sergeant, Air matters affecting training, edu- AFSC command chief in March ganizational levels. Flosi has Force Materiel Command. He cation, readiness and effective 2020, he served as Command deployed in support of op- is currently the command chief utilization of the command’s Chief, 438th Air Expedition- erations Southern Watch, Iraqi master sergeant at the Air Force more than 89,000 enlisted Air- ary Wing and Command Senior Freedom, Inherent Resolve Sustainment Center, Tinker Air men, civilians and their families. Enlisted Leader, NATO Train, and Freedom’s Sentinel. Force Base, Oklahoma. AFMC’s He will coordinate with head- Advise, Assist Command-Air Chief Master Sgt. David Flosi current command chief, Chief quarters staff, commanders and (TAAC-Air), Afghanistan.

Arnold AFB program oversees Splashing in safety Cop Corner: Active cradle-to-grave management of shooter incidents hazardous materials, waste …Page 2 …Page 5 …Page 5 2 • July 19, 2021

Arnold Arnold AFB program oversees cradle-to-grave Air Force Base management of hazardous materials, waste

By Deidre Moon AEDC Public Affairs

The test and evaluation ac- tivities that take place in the Ar- nold Engineering Development Complex facilities at Arnold Air Col. Jeffrey Geraghty Commander Force Base at times utilize ma- terials labeled as “hazardous.” Jason Austin However, Arnold has programs Chief, in place to safeguard its employ- Public Affairs ees and the environment from hazardous materials and hazard- ous waste. As part of a requirement Richard Tighe General Manager, of the Environmental Protec- National Aerospace tion Agency’s Resource Con- Solutions servation and Recovery Act, or High Mach Staff: RCRA, Arnold AFB had its first RCRA Part B Permit Applica- Kathy Jacobsen tion for hazardous waste storage NAS Executive Editor signed in April 1984. The cur- Jill Pickett rent RCRA Permit was issued NAS Editor by the Tennessee Department of High Mach is published by Environment and Conservation Lakeway Publishers, Inc. a pri- on Oct. 7, 2019, and it does not vate firm in no way connected expire until Oct. 7, 2029, unless Harry Gregory, a truck driver, receives a barrel of hazardous waste from Annitta Evans, a logistics with the U.S. Air Force, Arnold revoked, reissued, terminated or storekeeper, at the hazardous waste storage facility at Arnold Air Force Base on June 15. Once Air Force Base, Arnold Engi- continued. loaded with all the barrels that are ready for disposal, the barrels are then taken to a site off base. neering Development Complex (U.S. Air Force photo by Deidre Moon) (AEDC) or National Aerospace According to Lisa Douglas, Solutions (NAS), under exclu- an environmental protection sive written contract with NAS specialist at Arnold, to ensure at Arnold AFB, Tenn., 37389. Everything advertised in compliance with the regulatory this publication will be made requirements, the Hazardous available for purchase, use Materials and Hazardous Waste or patronage without regard Program entails cradle-to-grave to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital sta- management. tus, physical handicap, political “Arnold receives hazard- affiliation or any other non- ous materials through our merit factor of the purchaser, HAZMART Pharmacy, which user or patron. The High Mach office is then distributes these materials located at 100 Kindel Drive, or products to the shops request- Suite A236, Arnold AFB, Tenn. ing the materials,” Douglas said. 37389-1236. Editorial content “Arnold tracks all incoming is edited and prepared by NAS. hazardous materials from cradle Deadline for copy is Wednes- day at close of business one to grave using the Air Force- week before publication. wide database called Enterprise This commercial enterprise Environmental, Safety and Oc- newspaper is an allowable cupational Health Management NAS contractor publication for personnel at Arnold AFB. Information System.” The content of High Mach Douglas added that once a does not necessarily reflect the hazardous material reaches the views of the Air Force, Arnold end of its useful life – if it’s ex-

AFB, AEDC or NAS. The ap- pired, spent or ready to be dis- pearance of advertising in this publication does not constitute carded – it becomes a hazardous Christina Norman, with the Environmental and Hazardous Waste Operations Group at Arnold Air endorsement of the products waste and must be properly dis- Force Base, checks the label of one of the barrels in the hazardous waste storage facility prior to it or services advertised by the posed. being loaded on a truck and taken to the disposal site on June 15. A current Resource Conservation Department of Defense, the “Like most Department of and Recovery Act Part B permit enables Arnold to store hazardous waste for up to one year at the Department of the Air Force, base’s main storage facility. (U.S. Air Force photo by Deidre Moon) Arnold AFB, AEDC, NAS or Defense services throughout the Lakeway Publishers, Inc. world, Arnold uses the Defense choosing materials that are not ed work areas for every chemi- initial Department of Transpor- For general information Logistics Agency Disposition hazardous or are less hazardous cal that is brought on base,” tation training and a refresher about High Mach, call (931) Services to manage the trans- whenever possible through our Douglas said. “These provide course every three years. 454-5655 or visit www. portation and disposal of haz- arnold.af.mil. written hazardous waste reduc- employees pertinent informa- The current RCRA Part B ardous waste generated on base tion plan,” she said. tion to meet OSHA’s (Occupa- permit enables Arnold to store Use High Mach to mar- ket your products and and verify it reaches the proper Hazardous waste at Arnold tional Safety and Health Ad- hazardous waste for one year at services. Contact Joe at treatment or disposal facility,” includes items such as waste ministration) hazard communi- the base’s main storage facility, 931-455-4545 or jmartin@ she said. paint, solids and liquids con- cation standards in a consistent and there are three other stor- tullahomanews.com Arnold is considered a large- taminated with heavy metals, 16-point format. Each SDS also age areas able to hold hazardous quantity generator, meaning that and ignitable and/or corrosive provides information such as the waste for less than 90 days. Ad- it either generates 2,200 pounds liquids. There is also universal properties of the chemicals; the ditionally, there are seven initial or more of hazardous waste waste, which includes items physical, health and environ- accumulation points, sometimes in any calendar month; accu- such as batteries, lamps, aerosol mental hazards; protective mea- called satellite accumulation ar- mulates more than 2.2 pounds cans, pesticides and mercury- sures; and safety precautions for eas, available for collecting and of acute hazardous waste per containing equipment. handling, storing and transport- storing hazardous waste, up to month; or generates in a cal- “Each waste stream gener- ing the chemical. The SDS must 55 gallons. endar month or accumulates at ated is reported to the Tennessee be in English but can be in other “The Facility Support Ser- Core Values any time 220 pounds or more Department of Environment and languages as well and must meet vices II contractor runs the stor- • Integrity first of acute hazardous spill cleanup Conservation prior to genera- the Globally Harmonized Sys- age areas and each shop area • Service before self material. tion, and the amount generated tem of Classification and Label- can contact them when hazard- • Excellence in all Although Arnold falls into for each waste stream is dis- ing of Chemicals.” ous waste is ready for turn-in,” we do this category, Douglas men- closed in our annual report to Arnold employees who man- Douglas said. tioned that steps are continu- TDEC,” Douglas said. age hazardous waste are required Employees can call the Haz- ously taken to lessen how much When employees at Arnold to take a 40-hour initial Hazard- ardous Waste Operations Group hazardous waste is being gener- handle any type of hazardous ous Waste Operations and Emer- at 931-454-7383 for any ques- ated or accumulated on base. material or hazardous waste, gency Response training course tions regarding hazardous waste. Vision “The base has a wide vari- proper safety procedures must and receive an 8-hour annual Employees can call the Opera- ety of hazardous wastes but ev- be followed. refresher training. Employees tions Center at 931-454-7752 or “NAS delivers the best ery effort is made to reduce our “A safety data sheet (SDS) who sign manifests for shipping 931-454-7688 for response to aerospace testing hazardous waste footprint by book is available for the affect- documents are required to take spills or releases. capabilities today and in 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. July 19, 2021 • 3

SBIR from page 1

Personnel with Spectral Energies, LLC, are pictured at Arnold Engineering Development Complex Hypervelocity Wind Tunnel 9 in White Oak, Maryland. A Small Business Innovation Research program funded to Spectral Energies allowed a previously-demonstrated diagnostic used to measure velocities within hyper- sonic wind tunnels to be performed at an increased data rate. Pictured from left are Dr. Naibo Jiang, Dr. Paul Hsu, Dr. Mikhail Slipchenko and Dr. Steven Grib. (U.S. Air Force photo)

LLC to devise a method for KTV technique was put to use measuring velocity using during a short throat qualifica- the Krypton Tagging Velo- tion project in Tunnel 9 with cimetry (KTV) technique at the Mach 18 nozzle installed a data rate of 100 kHz. This following the recent calibra- endeavor recently proved suc- tion of the Mach 18 capability. cessful, as the method devel- “A new diagnostic is gener- oped through the SBIR was ally demonstrated when oppor- demonstrated at Mach 18 in tunities present themselves,” Tunnel 9. Smith said. “The throat quali- The KTV technique was al- fication effort was begun as an ready shown to be successful extension of efforts to produce at a lower data rate and lower a ceramic throat in order to tunnel speeds. The diagnostic continue the development of was initially developed and the Mach 18 test capability at demonstrated at Tunnel 9 dur- Tunnel 9. The effort consisted ing the summers of 2014 to of four tunnel runs whose pur- 2017 by Nick Parziale, a pro- pose was to validate some of fessor at the New Jersey-based the ceramic throats. This was Stevens Institute of Technol- an excellent series of runs for ogy who was the recipient of us to demonstrate the burst- a Summer Faculty Fellowship mode laser-based KTV mea- Program. This system was surements.” demonstrated at both Mach 10 Two measurement tech- and Mach 14. niques were demonstrated dur- “The initial demonstrations, ing the throat qualification, while extremely successful, one of which was KTV at the resulting in a number of pa- desired 100 kHz pulse rate. pers and journal articles, were For this diagnostic, a specific performed at a data acquisi- amount of Krypton gas was in- tion rate of only 10 Hz,” said serted into the Mach 18 heater Mike Smith, Tunnel 9 physi- vessel prior to heating. The Pictured is an example of an image produced using the Krypton Tagging Velocimetry tech- cist. OPO was then “pumped” with nique used to measure velocity in a hypersonic wind tunnel such as Arnold Engineering Devel- Tunnel 9 run times general- the burst-mode laser operat- opment Complex Wind Tunnel 9. The single “write line” in the image is the initial fluorescence ly last for only a few seconds. ing at a repetition rate of 100 created by a laser pulse “pumped” into a wind tunnel filled with Krypton gas (~1 percent seed- Because of this, a two-phase kHz. The resultant OPO output ing in volume). The multiple “read lines” show the dissolution of the write line over time. (U.S. Air Force photo) SBIR was initiated. The goal wavelength was 212.56 nano- of the first phase, which began meters (nm), which is the re- process. PLEET does not re- and the calculated values using ent Anti-Stokes Raman Spec- in early 2017, was to deter- quired wavelength to produce quire an atomic (or molecular) standard probe data.” troscopy] and velocity [based mine the feasibility of increas- a long-lived fluorescence at a seed gas such as Krypton. In- High-speed measurements on PLEET] aided in the devel- ing the measurement data rate wavelength of 769 nm. stead, a multiphoton ionization of the Mach 18 flow veloc- opment of a necessary piece of to 100 kHz, which would yield The metastable fluorescing of nitrogen followed by re- ity are needed to provide cus- hardware for the demonstra- a more statistically-significant line that results is monitored a combination produces a fluo- tomers with the most accurate tion.” sample as well as provide the few tens of microseconds later rescing, long-lived line which information on flow condi- Work is set to continue. ability to capture transient using an intensified camera. can be monitored in a manner tions. Smith said the OPO will be de- phenomena in hypersonic en- An image depicting a series of similar to the KTV line. “This state-of-the-art sys- livered to Parziale for further vironments. lines is produced. The single The multiple-line measure- tem will also permit a more development of the high-speed The aim of Phase II of the “write line” in the image is the ments provided redundant ve- complete characterization of KTV technique. SBIR, which got underway in initial fluorescence created by locity measurements. the turbulent boundary layer,” “Additionally, Professor late 2018, was to develop the the laser pulse, and the mul- The results of the KTV Smith added. Parziale has acquired a burst- hardware to accomplish this tiple read lines show the dis- showed reduced velocity un- Years of planning and re- mode pump laser from Spec- measurement and eventually solution of the write line over certainties when the technique search culminated with com- tral Energies funded by a Navy perform a demonstration at time as it travels downstream. is applied. Smith said the ve- pletion of the Tunnel 9 Mach DURIP [Defense University Tunnel 9. In this case, images were re- locities compared “very well” 18 system calibration in July Research Instrumentation The hardware developed as corded at a rate of 100 kHz. to measurements made with 2020. The capability allows Program],” Smith said. “This a result of this effort, known as The flow field velocity is the 10 Hz KTV technique and for testing at speeds never will allow the development of an Optical Parametric Oscilla- determined by measuring the the 1 kHz Femtosecond La- before realized in an AEDC turbulent boundary layer and tor, or OPO, was coupled with separation distance between ser Electronic Excitation Tag- facility. The first customer multi-line velocity measure- a pump laser (ns pulse width) the initial and dispersed lines ging, or FLEET, technique. runs at Mach 18 occurred in ments for application to the initially developed under a and dividing by the separation FLEET was developed dur- August 2020. Tunnel 9 Mach 14 and Mach separate AF SBIR to provide between the intensifier gate ing 2016-2019 using SBIR Smith expressed apprecia- 18 facilities. This capability the necessary output wave- times. The shape of the line funding and uses a 100 fem- tion for those whose efforts will allow AEDC to more com- lengths and intensities for the can be used to investigate the tosecond-width laser pulse at helped provide an enhanced pletely characterize the Tunnel measurement. When velocity flow turbulence. a pulse rate of 1,000 Hz. The measurement technique for the 9 turbulent boundary layers of is measured in a hypersonic The other technique was FLEET system was previous- new capability. hypersonic flow fields.” wind tunnel, the sample time Picosecond Laser Electronic ly demonstrated at Mach 10, “The assistance of the Smith added the success- must be very short in order Excitation Tagging, or PLEET. Mach 14 and Mach 18 in AEDC SBIR coordinators, ful KTV demonstration is to near-instantaneously deter- This diagnostic was used to Tunnel 9. Nick Galyen and Robert How- just another example of SBIR mine the velocity without blur- take an additional measure- “The uncertainty decreas- ard, is greatly appreciated,” projects that have benefited ring the sample. ment at a pulse rate of 100 kHz es as you move further away Smith said. “Also, the concur- Tunnel 9. “Thus, a high-energy, burst- using the KTV pump laser. Al- from the write line,” Smith rent SBIR to provide AEDC “The SBIR program has mode laser is the perfect exci- though not part of the SBIR, said. “The measured veloci- with a burst-mode laser, moni- been put to good use at Tunnel tation source for this measure- the opportunity to conduct this ties agree very well with those tored by Joe Wehrmeyer, ca- 9 in recent years, especially in ment,” Smith said. demonstration presented itself previously measured with 10 pable of measuring gas-phase the Mach 18 facility develop- The high-speed OPO-based during the throat qualification Hz KTV, and1,000 Hz FLEET, temperature [based on Coher- ment,” he said. 4 • July 19, 2021 News Re-Cap: What to know about COVID-19 Delta variant, available vaccines By Air Force Materiel Command

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio – The existing vaccines now available to everyone Splashing in safety over the age of 12 have proven to be highly effective in preventing the new- est COVID-19 Delta variant as well as other versions of the virus, according to Defense Department health officials. “The more virulent Delta variant is spreading quickly through commu- nities with lower vaccination rates ... and it is likely to become the predomi- nant variant in the United States. The Delta variant poses a threat to our ser- vice members who are not fully vac- cinated. The best way to beat the Delta variant is to be fully vaccinated,” said Dr. Terry Adirim, the acting assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, during a June 30 press conference at the Pentagon. The Delta variant is much more contagious than the original virus and other variants, and threatens to reverse many of the gains against the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly Air Force Senior Airman Ashton Gilbert, 673d Healthcare Operations Squadron medical technician, administers the among populations with low vac- first of a two-dose series of a COVID-19 vaccine to Lt. Gen. David Krumm, Alaskan North American Aerospace Defense cine rates. Further, health officials Command Region, Alaskan Command and 11th Air Force commander at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, observed significant spikes in deaths Jan. 4. Upon receiving the initial shipment of the vaccine, JBER began inoculating personnel following the Centers for from COVID-19 due to the Delta vari- Disease Control and Prevention’s prioritization guidelines. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Samuel Colvin) ant in countries with low vaccine rates, 50 percent more contagious than the Drug Administration for COVID-19. “We thank our service members and but did not see a spike in COVID-19 Alpha strain (the previous dominant The Pfizer and Moderna mRNA- vac DOD personnel who have been vacci- deaths in countries with high vaccina- strain in the US), and the Alpha strain cines require two doses, and the Jans- nated and continue to strongly encour- tion rates. was 50 percent more contagious than sen/Johnson & Johnson is a one-dose age our remaining service members, As of July 9, the DOD has adminis- the original strain. One person with vaccine. DOD retirees, all of their families, tered 4.3 million total doses across the the original strain could infect one to Pfizer’s mRNA vaccine is approxi- and DOD staff to get vaccinated – for DOD population since the COVID-19 two other people. However, one person mately 88-percent effective at prevent- themselves, for their families and for vaccines have become available last with the Delta variant can infect three ing symptomatic infection for Delta the community,” said Army Lt. Gen. year. to four other people. and 96-percent effective at preventing Ronald J. Place, director of the De- Delta spreads rapidly through un- hospitalization/death after two doses. fense Health Agency, during the Pen- The COVID-19 Delta Variant vaccinated people, and is now the A single dose of Pfizer vaccine is par- tagon press conference. The Delta variant, or B.1.617.2, is dominant strain in the U.S., accounting tially protective – 33 percent against Airmen and personnel interested more transmissible and results in high- for 51.7 percent of new COVID cases symptomatic illness and 94 percent in getting COVID-19 vaccines should er cases of hospitalization and death as of July 3. against hospitalization and death. contact their local Military Treatment than any other strain, according to the Symptoms may include headache, Early laboratory research with Facility or healthcare provider to de- military health system. Additionally, sore throat, runny nose and fever. Moderna and J&J vaccines shows anti- termine when to schedule or walk-in to this strain is more likely to be contract- Cough and loss of smell are less com- bodies from both vaccines can neutral- receive doses. Vaccines are available ed by younger age groups. Health of- mon for the Delta variant. If you have ize all of COVID-19 known variants, through the community, as well. ficials do not yet know if the reason for any of these symptoms, even if you including Delta. More information is available with- this is that this population is not vacci- have been fully vaccinated, get tested Health officials urge people to get in the AFMC factsheets about the Del- nated, or if younger people are actually even if you think it’s just a cold or al- vaccinated to reduce their risk of infec- ta variant and COVID-19 vaccines. more susceptible to it. lergies. tion and death from COVID-19, reduce Information for this article sourced According to the CDC, Delta was the spread of COVID-19, and reduce from health.mil; defense.gov; Cen- initially identified in India in Decem- Available Vaccine Options the numbers of variants that develop. ters for Disease Control and Preven- ber 2020, and was first detected in Currently, there are three vaccines At this time, the CDC has not recom- tion; and the Headquarters AFMC the United States in March 2021. It is authorized for use by the Food and mended booster shots. Surgeon General Office.

RADAR from page 1 ment Complex, or AEDC. AEDC. Champion Members AFTC Commander Maj. Gen. sion (D&I) ensures that we the rubber meets the road, a Although many may inter- include: Air Force Test Center Christopher Azzano. act as one united force.” place where all Airmen know pret the perception of diversi- Senior Leader Thomas P. Fet- The Arnold CAP, which “No two Airmen are exact- and feel they belong.” ty and inclusion as a relatively terhoff, PhD., 704 TG Com- was in response to the AFMC ly the same, he or she brings to Going forward, the Arnold novel concept, Misty Layne mander Col. Darren P. Wees, D&I survey open to its instal- the mission their own uniquely D&I Council will meet once points out this is hardly the AEDC Test Division Chief lations in late 2020, calls for diversified experiences, wis- a month. Layne said commu- case. Col. Lincoln Bonner, and In- a D&I brief to be added to dom and knowledge,” Layne nication and sharing of wing- “One of America’s found- terim AEDC Headquarters the new employee checklist. further wrote. “Our differ- level information among ing fathers, Thomas Paine, Superintendent Senior Master Per the plan, monthly talk- ences are real and shouldn’t AFTC teammates is frequent said, ‘The world is my coun- Sgt. Jason R. Harlan. ing points are to be provided be discounted, but rather em- and ongoing. The AFTC team try, all mankind are my breth- In addition to the local to leadership and first-level braced for their value and also participates in regular ren, and to do good is my council, Layne represents supervisors. This action step ability to strengthen how we meetings with D&I leads from religion,’” Layne said. “His AEDC on AFTC’s Diversity promotes awareness of the fly, fight and win. Garnering across the AFMC. words capture the dignity and and Inclusion Council. This D&I program and encour- the many facets that make us Layne added the Arnold respect we should deliver and four-person team is comprised ages camaraderie and work- a diverse and inclusive whole, D&I Council’s minutes are expect of one another.” of AFTC and tenant unit D&I force engagement. The plan we dignify the profession we posted monthly to the Team The Arnold D&I Coun- leads. Ronald Turner is the also calls for sensing sessions share in common. This pro- AEDC SharePoint site and are cil was established after Air AFTC D&I manager at Ed- to be hosted on a recurring cess challenges us, inspires us accessible to the workforce. Force Materiel Command, or wards Air Force Base, Cali- monthly basis. These sessions and reminds us we are part of All relevant D&I information AFMC, required each instal- fornia. Shona Wood is lead will increase opportunities for an even larger accountability will be provided and commu- lation under its command to for the 412th Test Wing at Airmen to engage with other system. nicated via appropriate distri- appoint a D&I lead. AEDC Edwards AFB, California, Airmen as it relates to their “At our best, we are a bution channels such as the Commander Col. Jeffrey Ger- and Cecil Williams is the background and cultural expe- cohesive product of knowl- announcements section of the aghty appointed Layne to this lead for the 96th Test Wing riences. edge, understanding, ability Team AEDC homepage, offi- role in August 2020. at Eglin Air Force Base, Flor- “As the council continues and awareness. At all levels, cial email and an individual’s With the exception of ida. The four work closely to meet and share experienc- we continue to lean further organizational chain of com- Layne and co-chair Mike together to synergize D&I es, we are hopeful for the dis- into diversity and inclusion mand. Dent, the council is comprised efforts across AFTC as initi- covery of new ways in which through our new assignments, Membership to the Ar- completely of volunteers. ated by AFMC. AEDC can further expand experiences and education. nold D&I Council is open to Five members of the 25-mem- In late May, Layne submit- on diversity and inclusion,” However, our greatest teach- DOD civilians and military ber council are from the 704th ted the Arnold D&I Council’s Layne said. ers will always be each other. wishing to directly contrib- Test Group, located at Hol- Command Action Plan, or In an article published By remaining accountable to ute and support the success loman Air Force Base, New CAP, for D&I to AFTC. Ar- for the AFTC D&I second ourselves and each other, we of local D&I initiatives. Any- Mexico. The remaining vol- nold’s plan, along with those quarter newsletter, Layne hold steadfast at the heart of one interested in joining the unteers are local to Arnold Air of Eglin AFB and Edwards wrote, “Though we are the matter. The Air Force Core team may contact Layne for Force Base, headquarters of AFB, were briefed in June to many, diversity and inclu- Values and D&I signify where further information.

INCLUSIONARY from page 1 ally bespoke pieces of range Detachment conducted VHF “It might seem trivial to completed to make this capabil- is in the art of possible at our user test articles that are fab- measurements to determine think that all it took was con- ity an operational reality.” range,” said Lesman. “As the ricated with a single mounting the best placement of the ra- ducting measurements to en- The Detachment is continu- U.S. is always looking to im- point that fits onto the rotator dar system in relation to the able this capability,” said Les- ing to look for ways to improve prove the capabilities of our assembly of the Detachment’s turntable to optimize the back- man. “But, there were signifi- the capabilities they offer, in- warfighting platforms, so too large, 128-foot pylon. While ground and minimize ring- cant geometry considerations, cluding efforts to enable RCS are we looking to be able to most operational versions of the down, or feedback induced on as well as signal fidelity issues and antenna measurements be- support the ever expanding test articles are non-penetrable. the system. The placement of to work through, as indicated low 60 MHz. range of capabilities the U.S. As part of the efforts to the radar is one way ringdown by the optimized backgrounds “We are always looking to can employ in its collective de- add the VHF capability, the can be mitigated. [or] ringdown work that was expand the envelope of what fense posture.” July 19, 2021 • 5 Around Arnold Splashing in safety

By AEDC Safety The ARC recommends that org, for when someone is going • Swim sober. learning the following five everyone achieve water com- to be around water: swimming skills for every type Summer has arrived and with • Understand the dangers petency, use layers of protec- • Know your limitations, of water environment an indi- it long, hot days. A dip in a pool of hyperventilation and tion and know what to do in an including physical fitness, vidual may encounter. or natural body of water can emergency. hypoxic blackout. medical conditions. • Enter water that’s over your be a great source of relief, but Water Safety USA, a consor- • Know how to call for help. head, then return to the exercising caution is important tium of ARC and other leading • Never swim alone; swim to prevent a day of summer fun national governmental and non- surface. with lifeguards and/or water • Understand and adjust for from turning to one of tragedy. governmental organizations, watchers present. the unique risks of the water • Float or tread water for at According to the American defines water competency as environment you are in, such least 1 minute. Red Cross, or ARC, drown- “being able to anticipate, avoid • Wear a U.S. Coast Guard- as river currents, ocean rip ing is the leading cause of and survive common drowning approved life jacket currents, water temperature, • Turn over and turn around in death for children. While situations, as well as being able appropriate for your weight shallow or unclear water, and the water. risks may be higher for to recognize and provide assis- and size and water activity. underwater hazards, such as children and weak swimmers, tance to those in need.” Always wear a life jacket • Swim at least 25 yards. even strongswimmers can find The following are listed as while boating, regardless of vegetation and animals. themselves in danger. “Water Smarts” on redcross. swimming skill. The ARC recommends • Exit the water. Cop Corner: Active shooter incidents

By Arnold AFB Security as well. They can be applied to secured area or lie flat on the following information: endangering yourself or Forces some degree at outdoor gather- the floor. others in the attempt. If • Your name, location ings, shopping venues and even there is any doubt, do not 6. Stay clear of doors and (building and room Violence in society across within the congregation where attempt this action. America has shown a gradual in- you worship. The basic concepts windows, and silence number) and contact crease over the last two decades. are: escape/run, barricade/hide, cellular telephones or other number. Once Security Forces (Po- This is evident in the nightly or fight. All actions are driven by similar devices. • Number of friendly news reporting. Incidents of your proximity to the violence lice/Security) units have con- personnel at your violence occur multiple times being conducted. 7. If outside the affected area, trol of the area: location and their status in most weeks. These events are find cover and stay there. (wounded, dead, etc). 12. Remain calm and follow all not limited to major metropoli- Immediate actions: 8. Do not attempt to enter the directions and commands tan areas and rural areas are not 1. Move quickly away from affected area for any reason. • Type and number of from Security Forces exempt. The first recorded active the threat if able. weapons (handgun, 9. If you cannot find a secure personnel shooter incident in Tennessee rifle, shotgun, automatic location, either play dead was not far from here, in Fay- 2. Shout and echo the order, weapon, etc). etteville, Tennessee. Random “Lockdown, lockdown, or attempt to overpower the 13. Always keep hands visible. acts of violence are more com- lockdown.” shooter. Personnel should • Description or identity, mon now than in the years past. only attempt to overpower if known, of shooter. 14. Do not attempt to grab or The following actions in re- 3. Relocate from hallways or the shooter as a last resort, make any quick movements sponse to an active shooter inci- other common areas to a using the minimum force • Direction of travel and/ towards responding or location of shooter, if dent are specific to the Air Force secure location. necessary, up to the use of personnel. known. and Arnold Air Force Base. deadly force. 4. Turn off lights and barricade If you need additional infor- These actions are required any- doors with available items, 11. Attempt to rescue other Once in a secure area: mation or have other questions, where on Arnold AFB during an such as desks, bookcases, personnel and treat any please contact AEDC/TSD Se- incident. However, these prac- file cabinets, etc. 10. Contact the Emergency injured personnel. This tices could be useful in the civil- Control Center (ECC) at is only to be attempted curity Forces by email at AEDC. ian environment outside the base 5. Take cover inside the 931-454-5662 and provide if it can be done without [email protected]. Information technology infrastructure provides foundation for digital change

By Estella Holmes Network, Air Force Life Cycle networks, data centers, end- Management Center. warfighting capabilities. -Suc Air Force Materiel Command Management Center. user devices, and data across Objective three began as cess in transformation requires To satisfy these outcomes, multiple security levels and the development of playbooks a supportive IT infrastructure WRIGHT PATTERSON three primary objectives sup- boundaries would support the for digitizing processes, but that can sustain enterprise AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio port the overarching LOE common digital engineering has evolved into a support digital modernization into the – Establishing the required goals. tools environment and provide hub for digital “Quick Wins.” future. information technology infra- The first objective is to a benchmark security strategy These are digital process suc- “Properly implemented, structure for a digitally-trans- identify and inform the on- for future software develop- cesses with immediate impact digital automation unlocks formed service is the first line going corporate IT infrastruc- ment. to users. agility and innovation, in- of effort in the Air Force Ma- ture improvement initiatives Active collaboration is One process success is the creases efficiency and accel- teriel Command Digital Cam- of Digital Campaign-driven underway with the Office of electronic DD 2875, or e2875 erates the pace by which ad- paign. requirements. To achieve this, the Secretary of Defense- program led by Robins Air vanced capabilities are fielded The main goal of this ef- the team is working closely sponsored Digital Engineer- Force Base. The e2875 pro- to Department of the Air Force fort is to clearly express the with Air Force and Depart- ing Working Group to meet gram digitizes the computer users,” said Richard Kutter, IT infrastructure needs of ment of Defense stakeholders this objective and a new Au- account application process. Technical Advisor, Embedded a digitally-transformed ac- to establish the requirements thorization to Use process for The Digital Campaign has Computer Systems and Soft- quisition system and influ- for digital-based acquisition application software is being helped this software mature ware, Cybersecurity Authoriz- ence the necessary improve- systems to support current and piloted. into an enterprise capability, ing Official for Aircraft at the ment investments to enable future needs. “The initial application scaling it for widespread com- AFLCMC and the Air Force a strong, secure environment While many of the new IT of Authorization to Use will mand use. Acquisition Digital Campaign for the enterprise-wide cam- initiatives from across the Air be for digital engineering- “Time matters. Digital LOE #0 (IT Infrastructure) paign. Force such as Enterprise IT as focused software applications tools and processes can im- champion. “Delivering a robust, ag- a Service are beneficial to the and will provide digital en- prove time and efficiency in For more information on ile and secure IT infrastruc- overall digital effort, the team gineering environment pro- each acquisition phase, re- current Digital Campaign ef- ture that includes everything continues to seek additional viders a means to assess and ducing the time for delivering forts, internal Air Force au- from the device each Airman solutions and best-practices lessen the risk associated with new capabilities from con- diences can visit the Digital uses, the networks that con- from industry and academia proposed tools on an ongoing cept exploration to sustain- Guide team site for guidance, nect Airmen to the data center, to augment efforts in this area. basis. In other words, means ment,” saidFrancis Stepic, references, templates and and the data centers where the The proposed modeling of are provided to determine Information Technology Sub- more. The team also hosts digital engineering tools are an F-16 ‘digital twin’ offered and eliminate risks associated ject Matter Specialist, Center a public version of theDigi- deployed, is essential to en- through the AFLCMC’s F-16 with proposed tools as they Information Technology Of- tal Guide for industry and abling the digital transforma- Program Office in cooperation change,” said Eric Chamber- fice, Air Force Sustainment academia to access at https:// tion,” said Glenn Townsend, with Wichita University, is a lin, Chief, Cyber Systems Center. wss.apan.org/af/aflcmc. Director of Engineering and current example Airmen can Engineering Division, Air The AFMC digital cam- General information on the Program Executive Officer, see. Force C2 Security Control paign team is transforming AFMC Digital Campaign is Command, Control, Com- Establishing cybersecu- Assessor and Cyber Risk As- how the Air and Space Forces available at https://www.afmc. munications, Intelligence and rity guidance to better secure sessor, Air Force Life Cycle acquire, deliver and sustain af.mil/Digital/. 6 • July 19, 2021 Test Flag Enterprise integrates autonomy into Orange Flag

By by 1st Lt. Christine Saunders Air Force Test Center

EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Orange Flag 21-2 brought in two new objectives to the large force test event: autonomy and Emerald Flag collaboration. The test event hosted by Air Force Test Center’s 412th Test Wing at Edwards AFB, California, oc- curred June 24. In addition to testing “kill web” in- tegration and advanced survivability for aerial platforms against adversar- ies, Orange Flag 21-2 aimed to provide a large force, multi-domain test envi- ronment for autonomy participants. The autonomy participant included the Air Force Vanguard program Sky- borg. “As the nation’s premier, large force, multi-domain test event, it is critical that we provide the opportunity to test emerging technologies, includ- ing autonomy,” said Maj. Brandon Burfeind, Orange Flag Director. As a part of Orange Flag, the team conducted a flight test of the Skyborg Autonomy Core System aboard a General Atomics MQ-20 Avenger un- manned vehicle. “Providing these programs opportu- nities to look at integration regardless of technical readiness level is incred- ibly important for future value to the A General Atomics MQ-20 Avenger unmanned vehicle prepares for taxi at El Mirage Airfield, Calif. June 24. The MQ-20 warfighter,” said Burfeind, a U.S. Air Avenger was flown during the Edwards Air Force Base’s Orange Flag 21-2. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Tabatha Arellano) Force F-22 Raptor Test Pilot. The goal of the Skyborg test was to demonstrate an open, modular archi- tecture which can autonomously avi- ate, navigate and communicate safely in a manned-unmanned environment. Autonomous systems like Skyborg can significantly increase capability and be a force multiplier for the U.S. Air Force. “This was the first known testing of an unmanned vehicle operated autono- mously in a large force test event,” said Maj. Daniel Prudhomme, Orange Flag Operations Director. Tests occurred in geographically separated locations within the R-2508 complex in California and the Eglin Gulf Test and Training Range in Flor- ida. Test flag collaboration included the preparation for Project Convergence, the U.S. Army’s contribution to Joint All Domain Command and Control. The Program Executive Office Mis- siles and Space’s Tactical Systems In- tegration Lab utilized the Integrated Battle Command System to provide dispersed infrastructure, enabling transcontinental connections between geographically separated large force An F-35 Lightning II participating in the large-scale test event Orange Flag 21-2 prepares for take-off as a B-1 Lancer test events. taxis in the background at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., June 24. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Robert Cloys) “This iteration of Orange Flag is a shining example of Test Flag Enterprise collaboration. This event incorporated Skyborg experimentation into the com- bined Orange and Emerald Flag scenar- io, consistent with our charter to bring next-generation capability at the speed of relevance,” said Maj. Gen Christo- pher Azzano, Air Force Test Center commander. Collaboration among the Test Flag Events makes multi-domain test avail- able to participants who require long- range integration or non-geo-centric locality models. “Our ability to perform large-force testing in an operationally representa- tive environment is a game changer, and will continue to bring night-one combat advantage to our warriors in the field,” said Azzano. Emerald Flag is a quarterly event for rapid experimentation of multi-domain kill-web technologies to participants that leverages the unique test and geo- graphic assets of the southeast United States, particularly the Eglin Gulf Test and Training Range, hosted by the 96th Test Wing at Eglin AFB, Florida. Orange Flag is the large force test Capt. Samantha “FIGI” Thorn, Orange Flag Skyborg Integration, synchronizes efforts between the Skyborg autono- event carried out three times annually mous MQ-20 and fighter aircraft during Orange Flag 21-2 test from the Ridley Mission Control Center at Edwards Air by AFTC’s 412th Test Wing at Edwards Force Base, Calif., June 24. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Robert Cloys) AFB, California. Orange Flag, Emerald Flag, and Defense Strategy. These Test Flags The next Orange Flag is As material solutions advance, the Black Flag work in concert as part of are key large force test events which scheduled for October 2021 and distinction between tech and tactics the larger Test Flag Enterprise to pro- support testing of JADC2 and the Ad- will occur in R-2508 and the will blur; Orange Flag and Black Flag vide robust test environments geared vanced Battle Management System to Nevada Test and Training Range. It large force test events are uniquely toward the advancement of Joint All- validate new tactics and technologies will include collaboration with Black postured to explore and exploit this Domain Operations and the National for warfighting forces. Flag and Emerald Flag. environment together. July 19, 2021 • 7 Test Flag Enterprise integrates autonomy into Orange Flag 8 • July 19, 2021 Air Force to develop F-16 ‘digital twin’

By Brian Brackens the hydraulic system, fuel sys- Air Force Life Cycle tem, and environmental control Management Center system,” explained Col. Tim Public Affairs Bailey, F-16 System Program Manager. “This integrated digi- WRIGHT-PATTERSON tal engineering environment AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio enables never-before possibili- – The U.S. Air Force plans to ties for sustainment and modi- make a digital replica of the fication through automation F-16 Fighting Falcon, in an ef- and much greater insight into fort to improve the sustainment the performance loads on our and modernization of F-16s op- structure and systems during de- erating around the world. velopment. With the combined The Air Force Life Cycle efforts of NIAR and Lockheed Management Center’s F-16 Martin we will push the bound- Program Office is sponsoring aries of digital engineering the project through a new con- across the USAF’s largest fleet.” tract with Wichita State Univer- Leaders at Lockheed-Martin sity’s National Institute of Avi- and NIAR expressed their ex- ation Research or NIAR, which citement about the collabora- will disassemble, and scan two tion. F-16s – located at 309th Aero- “We are proud to partner space Maintenance and Regen- with the Air Force and NIAR eration Group (AMARG) at to further digital engineering Davis-Monthan Air Force Base approaches for the F-16,” says – to create the ‘digital twin.’ Danya Trent, vice president, The project is expected to An F-16 Fighting Falcon in storage at the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona. The aircraft is one of two that will be used to Lockheed Martin F-16 Pro- last four years, and will collect create a digital replica of the fighter. (Courtesy photo) gram. “The use of advanced and data essential for future efforts emerging technologies across to keep the F-16 fleet opera- draulic and fuel systems on the break out an aircraft for updates F-16 Program Manager and Di- F-16 development, production tional and effective. This effort aircraft. and repairs,” said Capt. Jamee rector of Sustainment. “Devel- and sustainment ensure the F-16 lays the groundwork for a mul- Lockheed-Martin is also ac- Boyer, an F-16 structural en- oping a virtual engineering en- remains cost-effective, digitally titude of potential future efforts tively engaged in this digital gineer. “It also costs money to vironment that integrates struc- connected and ready for any in F-16 digital engineering. engineering effort and excited develop a solution that doesn’t tures and systems components mission.” Part of the initiative includes about the possibilities. really work. With a 3D model, will provide a virtual test bed “Wichita State’s partnership creating an adjustable 3D mod- “Using a proven platform like we can model different solutions for future modifications and oth- with the F-16 SPO and Lock- el of the plane. the F-16 to advance digital twin in a virtual environment and er sustainment actions prior to heed Martin supports sustain- “Our goal is to create a data models allows our team to see if they work, before having physical implementation. Virtu- ment efforts for weapons sys- full-scale 3D model of the air- demonstrate a further reduction maintainers remove parts that ally testing prior to implementa- tems, like the F-16C, that will craft, with the exception of the in lifecycle cost for sustainabil- may not need to be removed. tion will streamline the process, immediately impact the pre- engine,” said 1st Lt. Connor ity while also introducing addi- Consequently, this would re- reduce airframe downtime, and paredness of the warfighter,” Crandall, Digital Twin Pro- tional capability through digital duce maintenance workload, increase mission readiness of added Dr. John Tomblin, Senior gram Manager within the F-16 thread continuity,” says Aaron provide an innovative tool for this key military asset.” Vice President for Industry and Program Office. “The data will Martin, StarDrive program man- engineers, and prevent aircraft Top leaders in the F-16 Pro- Defense at Wichita State Uni- be used to help address future ager, Lockheed Martin Skunk being removed from the flying gram Office, NIAR, and Lock- versity. “In addition, these pro- parts obsolescence, and miti- Works®. “This project is indica- schedule.” heed-Martin have already con- grams provide applied learning gate supply chain risks because tive of how Lockheed Martin’s While not the focus of the vened on multiple occasions to opportunities for Wichita State we won’t have to rely on legacy technology investments will al- project, the digital twin effort discuss the effort and the pos- graduate and undergraduate stu- manufacturing sources and pro- low us to make even faster prog- lays the foundation for the po- sibilities it can unlock for the dents, which, in turn, allows the cesses. We’ll have the 3D mod- ress on future programs.” tential future use of augmented future. military to grow its future work- els, and designs that we can Upon completion of the proj- reality, and virtual reality train- “As part of AFMC’s [Air force.” send to the manufacturers we ect, the Air Force expects to save ing for F-16 aircrew members Force Materiel Command’s] Currently, the aircraft at choose.” time and money on sustainment. and maintainers. Digital Campaign we are mod- AMARG are waiting to be NIAR will also create 3D “Maintainers and engineers “NIAR is eager to transition eling not only the structural por- disassembled for transport models of some of the larger work diligently to deliver air- sustainment of the legacy F-16C tion of the F-16 but breaking to Wichita. The move is systems on the aircraft such as craft to the fight, and it costs a into the 3D digital age,” said Dr. new ground by also developing expected to be completed by the environmental control, hy- lot of time, money, and effort to Melinda Laubach-Hock, NIAR digital performance models of September 30, 2021. Big Berthas used to measure laser power

By Daryl Mayer AFLCMC Public Affairs

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB, Ohio (AFLCMC) – The Air Force Me- trology and Calibration Division is us- ing some unique mobile “Big Bertha” series High Energy Laser primary refer- ence calorimeters to support Air Force Research Laboratory’s national defense programs work on lasers. The HEL calibration supports the Laser Hardened Materials Evaluation Laboratory (LHMEL) of the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Materials and Manufacturing Directorate at Wright Patterson AFB and the AFRL Directed Energy Directorate at Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque, NM. For over 35 years, AFRL’s LHMEL has provided the aero- The calorimeter designated Big Bertha 1, left, will eventually be replaced by the Air Force’s new High Energy Laser space community with a comprehensive standard Radiation Pressure Power Meter, right. (Courtesy photo) source for high temperature characteriza- tion of current and emerging materials for laser power and energy meters have a part of the U.S. Department of Com- BB, according to Landry. Through this using a variety of infrared laser sources been provided by use of calorimeters that merce, and the Air Force. Each calo- process AFMETCAL is able to accurately and environmental simulation capabili- were electrically calibrated and directly rimeter system weighs more than 1000 calibrate these calorimeters and determine ties. traceable to SI units through electrical pounds, and both calorimeter systems the energy levels these items can support. The calibrations performed by AF- standards. are mounted on a specialized HEL Mo- This enables LHMEL to perform laser/ METCAL enable LHMEL to accurately “There are only two of them that bile Calibration Van to go on site for cus- materials interaction testing that deter- simulate high service life temperatures actually exist in the in the world,” said tomer support mines the amount of energy a material experienced by parts within a jet engine. Jennifer Landry, AFMETCAL Electrical “This van was prepared specifically can absorb before damage is incurred, and These calorimeters, designated BB1 Engineer and project lead. for this purpose. So it is reinforced to be Kirtland to be able to accurately support and BB2 (Big Bertha 1 and 2), which are Landry with AFMETCAL engineers, capable of carrying the weight and it has the Directed Energy efforts. the national standards for HEL measure- Thomas Jenkins, Tyler Youngman, and all the necessary electrical hookups in The request to support the research ments very precisely measure the energy Tesfatsion Sereke teamed with Air Force it,” Landry said. “It also has physical tie presented a challenge, especially during in a laser shot. AFMETCAL is the di- Primary Standards Laboratory (AFPSL) downs that provide stability so we’re not the pandemic. In preparation for the on- vision of the Air Force Life Cycle Man- personnel transporting primary reference worried about shipping problems in the site calibration deployment, the AFMET- agement Center responsible to ensure Air standards to the Kirtland on-site location. entire transportation process.” CAL team of engineers provided pre- Force systems and equipment are accu- Upon request, these BB series calo- During the test, the device actually calibration support, updated software and rate, uniform, reliable and traceable to rimeter standards are used to perform captures energy from the laser source to went onsite to provide troubleshooting as National Institute of Standards and Tech- NIST SI traceable calibrations at DoD measure it. needed to ensure mission success, accord- nology (NIST) or other approved sources research and development facilities. “It is a large, roughly 30 inches wide ing to Youngman. for SI units of power and energy for opti- “These calibrations support materials by 72 inches long by 48 inches high, me- “The calibration support effort also in- cal radiation measurements. testing by Air Force Systems Command tallic rectangle with a cavity about 10 cludes testing of the Air Force’s new HEL Typically, calibration work of this laboratories and are also used to provide inches in the middle,” Landry said. “The standard Radiation Pressure Power Meter type is done at the AFMETCAL facili- accurate measurement for Strategic De- laser shot gets directed into that cavity (RPPM), which will eventually be replac- ties in Heath, Ohio. In this instance, the fense Initiative programs on laser weap- and on the inside of it is absorbed by ing the bulky BB standards mentioned AFRL Directed Energy Directorate at onry,” said Sereke, AFMETCAL Senior some sensitive electronic gear that pre- above,” Landry said. “The RPPM is the Kirtland AFB, NM needed on-site High Metrology and Calibration Engineer. cisely measures the energy.” product of a RDT&E project developed Energy Laser calibration support using These calorimeters were developed AFPSL technicians configure the by NIST. The footprint of the RPPM is some very specialized pieces of equip- through a collaborative research and de- measurement set-up where a laser is shot much smaller and will alleviate the Air ment. AFMETCAL calibration services velopment effort between NIST, which is through a “chopper wheel” and into the Force’s reliance on a HEL van.” July 19, 2021 • 9 Second iteration of successful Vanguard incubation process approaches summit

By Leslie Heck pre-EXCOM board. If a topic makes it Air Force Research Laboratory through the pre-EXCOM board to be a Public Affairs Vanguard candidate, it will then go to the summit. WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR The annual summit, which was first FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFRL) – As the held in summer 2020, includes partici- Department of the Air Force stands up pants from the operational community Rocket Cargo, its recently announced (Air Force Futures, U.S. Space Force fourth Vanguard program, the WART- Futures, major commands, combatant ECH incubator process that birthed commands), the acquisition community Rocket Cargo continues onward with (the Air Force technology executive the upcoming WARTECH 2.0 Summit officer; SAF/AQR; AFRL technology July 15-16, where more future Van- directorates; Air Force Life Cycle Man- guards could be fresh in the making. agement Center; and Space and Missile On June 15, a WARTECH pre-ex- Systems Center). Topics are reviewed ecutive committee board finalized its by a two-star level EXCOM board, recommendations concerning which which is a governing body represented advanced technology topic proposals by the Air Force Futures, USSF/S5B, should still receive consideration at the SAF/AQR, AFRL and the U.S. Space upcoming summit to be named a Van- Force’s Chief Technology Innovation guard. The pre-EXCOM, which repre- A General Atomics MQ-20 Avenger unmanned vehicle returns to El Mirage Air- Office. sents O-6 level leadership and directly field, California, June 24. The MQ-20 successfully participated in Edwards Air The summit leads to a prioritized reports to an executive committee, re- Force Base’s Orange Flag 21-2 to test the Skyborg Autonomy Core System. list of proposed programs that have the ceived presentations on each topic June (Photo courtesy of General Atomics) potential to be commissioned as DAF 8-9 and then conducted evaluations to make these challenging investment While there isn’t an open call for Vanguard programs by a four-star lev- June 10-15. decisions,” Palumbo said. “This col- ideas or proposals at any point, the en- el Executive Leadership Team, which Vanguards are premiere transfor- laboration not only builds enterprise try point for ideas is a Scoping phase, is chaired by the vice chief of staff of mational Science & Technology 2030 commitment to achieve the intended which involves the review of current the Air Force. Decisions coming out of initiatives with DAF commitment to capabilities sooner but informs other and projected threats as well as current the ELT may take time to be announced deliver game-changing capabilities to elements of capability development— operation plan briefs to identify opera- within the Department and may take meet warfighter requirements for future where do we need more technical matu- tional challenges, operational concepts even longer to be publicly announced operations, said WARTECH Execution ration, where do we need to experiment, that may address those challenges and because truly transformational efforts Lead, Jeff Palumbo. The Air Force Re- where do we need closer integration technologies that can perform or in- have security sensitivities associated search Laboratory’s Transformational across technical areas or mission do- tegrate those operational concept so- with them. Capabilities Office, the group appointed mains? WARTECH is not the only pro- lutions. At this point in the process, “However, not being selected as a in Fall 2019 to implement the trans- cess that helps answers these questions, those are the key elements that make Vanguard does not mean the operational formational warfighting component of but it’s bringing many talented people up a WARTECH topic. Any data calls challenge goes away or the S&T activi- the Air Force Science and Technology together across the DAF and DOD to for ideas are specifically targeted at the ties supporting the challenge ends,” said Strategy, introduced initiatives that in- discuss, debate, and move out.” operational problem and the associated Palumbo. “TCO is building a pipeline cluded the selection of the first Van- The ongoing work in AFRL’s tech- areas of uncertainty, Palumbo said. of transformational activities that con- guard programs: Golden Horde, Navi- nology directorates provides a key In late April’s Curation Phase six tinue to work toward the vision of the gation Technology Satellite 3 (NTS-3) source of technologies to form inte- topic teams presented the status of future force planners. I think of WART- and Skyborg. grated capability solutions. The tech- their proposals and received feedback ECH as an overarching process that is To help identify future Vanguards, nical experts across AFRL provide the from internal stakeholders, including targeted at identifying advanced tech- WARTECH was launched within the knowledge base that the TCO relies on the AFRL front office group, technol- nology demonstrations supporting the TCO in partnership with the Air Force to scope problems, leverage outside ex- ogy directors, chief scientists, the TCO most challenging DAF needs. Warfighting Integration Capability, U.S. pertise, and provide technical solutions and special guest, Dr. Victoria Cole- “The most visible will be Vanguard Space Force Strategic Requirements to the operational challenges, Palumbo man, Chief Scientist of the Air Force. In programs, but the process will inform (USSF/S5B) and the Office of the As- said. The TCO designs, coordinates, early May teams presented to enterprise many parts of the enterprise in both sistant Secretary of the Air Force for executes, communicates, and collects stakeholders, including at the major transformational and foundational ac- Acquisition’s Science, Technology and feedback on the process. command, combatant command, field tivities across budget categories. We Engineering Directorate (SAF/AQR) To be considered in the WARTECH command, U.S. Air Force Warfare Cen- may have WARTECH cycles where one as part of a new initiative. WARTECH process, the topic must align to the ter, program executive officer and PEO or more Vanguards are selected. We may teams the warfighter with technologists National Defense Strategy and DAF staff levels. also have cycles where no topics are se- to mature ideas into proposals for tech- priorities, must feasibly address mis- The Independent Advisory Board lected to be Vanguards but significant nological capabilities that meet these sion requirements within transition also provided continuous feedback and investments are made toward an initial future force needs. timelines, must have concurrence that held final sessions with teams in late curation phase. These investments will Big Berthas used to measure laser power “By nature, WARTECH is a highly it provides a “leap ahead” in advance- May, and teams incorporated feedback, position the topic for follow-on proto- collaborative process that brings to- ment or a significant cost imposition updated presentations and continued typing and demonstration activities as gether the technical, operational, ac- on adversaries and must include a to refine their proposals for the -afore an integrated capability addressing the quisition, and planning communities potential transition path. mentioned early June reviews to the original operational challenge.” AFRL leaps forward in NTS-3 spacecraft development

By Jeanne Dailey industry companies for the bus government and industry users. ing on the overall NTS-3 system GPS and advanced signals gen- Air Force Research Laboratory development and integration. “The transfer of the bus al- architecture. erated by NTS-3.” Public Affairs “This is the first time an ES- lows L3Harris to move forward Besides the bus delivery, AFRL will continue its inte- PAStar bus has been built and building the NTS-3 spacecraft,” there are other advances in the gration efforts through 2022 to KIRTLAND AIR FORCE delivered as a commercially- said 2nd Lt. Charles Schramka, program. ensure all parts are working to- BASE, N.M. (AFRL) – The Air available commodity,” said Ar- the program’s deputy principal Schramka said, “This month gether for the fall of 2023 NTS- Force Research Laboratory’s len Biersgreen, the NTS-3 pro- investigator. “L3Harris will per- we took delivery of an experi- 3 launch. Navigation Technology Satel- gram manager. “NTS-3 is using form tests and begin integrating mental receiver known as Glob- “With the delivery of the lite-3 (NTS-3) satellite naviga- a unique acquisition model for the NTS-3 PNT payload onto al Navigation Satellite System bus we are entering into the tion program is closer in the the ESPAStar line that fully ex- the bus. Together the bus and Test Architecture (GNSSTA), next phase of payload integra- development of the spacecraft ercises the commercial nature payload will form the NTS-3 developed by our sister AFRL tion,” Biersgreen said. “These for its in-space demonstration, of Northrop Grumman’s prod- spacecraft.” unit, the Sensors Directorate at recent breakthroughs allow the thanks to the delivery of its uct line, in order to provide the Following L3Harris’s work, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio program to continue to move bus that will carry it to space in bus to another defense contrac- AFRL will test the bus with the and Mitre Corporation. GNS- forward and prepare for launch 2023. tor for payload integration using NTS-3 ground control and user STA is a reprogrammable soft- of the first U.S. integrated sat- In 2019, the U.S. Air Force standard interfaces.” equipment segments, and will ware defined signal receiver that ellite navigation experiment designated NTS-3 as one of The ESPAStar-D bus, built perform its own integrated test- allows us to receive the legacy in over 45 years.” three Vanguard programs, in Northrop Grumman’s satel- which are priority initiatives to lite manufacturing facility in deliver new, game-changing ca- Gilbert, Arizona, includes criti- pabilities for national defense. cal subsystems such as commu- The NTS-3 mission is to ad- nications, power, attitude deter- vance technologies to respon- mination and control, in addi- sively mitigate interference to tion to configurable structures position, navigation and timing to mount payloads. (PNT) capabilities, and increase A June 2021 press release system resiliency for the U.S. from Northrop Grumman ex- Space Force’s Global Position- plains the company built the ing System military, civil and ESPAStar-D bus “to provide af- commercial users. fordable, rapid access to space,” Northrop Grumman Cor- and that its configuration, using poration recently delivered an an Evolved Expendable Launch ESPAStar-D spacecraft bus to Vehicle (EELV) Secondary Pay- L3Harris Technologies of Palm load Adapter (ESPA), allows Bay, Florida in support of the multiple separate experimental NTS-3 mission scheduled to payloads to be stacked together launch to geosynchronous orbit on one launch vehicle. from Cape Canaveral in 2023. It should be noted that The AFRL Transformational AFRL developed the ESPA Capabilities Office at Wright- ring – a technology that revo- Patterson AFB and Space Vehi- lutionized the transport of cles Directorate, located at Kirt- space experiments, allowing land AFB in Albuquerque, N.M, for lower-cost and more fre- are in partnership with the two quent “rides” to space, for 10 • July 19, 2021 Air Force releases new B-21 Raider artist rendering

By Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (AFNS) – The Air Force released a new B-21 Raider artist ren- dering graphic with an accompanying fact sheet today. As with past renderings, this rendering is an artist’s interpretation of the B-21 design. The new rendering highlights the future stealth bomber with Edwards Air Force Base, California, as the backdrop. The 420th Flight Test Squadron based at Edwards AFB will plan, test, analyze and report on all flight and ground testing of the B-21 Raider. The B-21 program continues to execute the Engineering and Manufacturing Devel- opment phase and is focused on scaling the manufacturing infrastructure and capacity across the industrial supply base to prepare for low rate initial production. A critical de- sign review conducted in 2018 concluded the aircraft has a mature and stable design. Designed to perform long range conven- tional and nuclear missions and to operate in tomorrow’s high end threat environment, the B-21 will be a visible and flexible com- ponent of the nuclear triad. “Nuclear modernization is a top priority for the Department of Defense and the Air Force, and B-21 is key to that plan,” said Randall Walden, Air Force Rapid Capabili- ties Office director. “The built-in feature of open systems architecture on the B-21 makes the bomber effective as the threat environment evolves. This aircraft design approach sets the nation on the right path to ensuring America’s enduring airpower capability.” The Air Force plans to incrementally replace the B-1 Lancer and the B-2 Spirit bombers to form a two-bomber fleet of B-21s and modified B-52s. The B-21 pro- Shown is a B-21 Raider artist rendering graphic. The rendering highlights the future stealth bomber with Edwards gram is on track to deliver B-21s to the Air Force Base, Calif., as the backdrop. Designed to perform long range conventional and nuclear missions and to first operational base, Ellsworth AFB, operate in tomorrow’s high end threat environment, the B-21 will be a visible and flexible component of the nuclear South Dakota, in the mid-2020s. triad. (U.S. Air Force graphic) AFMC Connect broadens to encompass family

By Estella Holmes unit in its offerings of resiliency train- In a recent statement, Gen. Arnold family member to name a good thing Air Force Materiel Command ing for the command. W. Bunch, Jr., Air Force Materiel that happened during the day. Coming Family Connection stresses the im- Command Commander, once again together as a family and learning how WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR portance of coming together as a fam- referred to ‘our entire AFMC and Air to listen and respect one another can FORCE BASE, Ohio – The AFMC ily to reinforce the bonds that exist Force family’, acknowledging the all be positive outcomes. Connect is now including the family between those who share one’s life. connection which exists within the Each quarter the AFMC Con- command. nect Family Connection will further Those with similar ideas, back- magnify the importance of coming grounds and experiences who make up together as a family. The goal is to the support-providing nuclei within reinforce the bonds that exist within each Airman’s life may also be iden- this essential unit and provide tools to tified as family. Friends, coworkers, strengthen the significant branches of team members and fellow wingmen each Airman’s family tree. can all fall into this category. More information on AFMC The AFMC Connect Family Con- Family Connection can be found at nect Tool is intended as a guide for https://www.afmc.af.mil/Por- creating opportunities to bond. Ac- tals/13/AFMC%20Family% tions can be as simple as asking each 20Connections.pdf. July 19, 2021 • 11

Refueling on the fly

An HC-130J Combat King II refuels an HH-60G Pave Hawk and HH-60W Jolly Green II, both assigned to the 41st Rescue Squadron, during a heritage flight at Moody Air Force Base, Ga., June 15, 2021. The HC-130J can provide helicopter air-to-air refueling to almost every rotary wing platform in the world through its hose and drogue aerial refueling system. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Hayden Legg) 12 • July 19, 2021