Photo By Staff Sgt. Collette Brooks | The 8th Aircraft Maintenance Unit F-16 Viper flagship sits at the 8th AMU, June 4,...... read more read more
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Airmen with the 8th Aircraft Maintenance Unit painted their F-16 Viper flagship during late May to early June, here.
The repainting tradition to showcases the legacy and heritage of the AMU’s flagship while also giving the aircraft distinguishing and identifiable markings. On average a repainting takes a team of approximately six Airmen 5 -11 days to complete.
Prior to being painted, the tail reflected the standard Air Force aircraft markings which showcases the base and assigned tail number. After painting the tail, horizontal stabilizers and ventral fins the aircraft now displays the 8th AMU’s heritage colors and squadron emblem.
“We submitted designs we created to the 19th AF for authorization, to custom paint the flagship in a way that honored the legacy and tradition of the unit,” said Master Sgt. Brandon Daniel, 49th Equipment Maintenance Squadron aircraft structural maintenance section chief.
The painting process requires multiple steps to include preparation, execution and clean-up.
“Painting is a very tedious task that requires a lot of preparation to be successful,” said Daniel. “We began the tail painting process by removing the old marking and roughly sanding the aircraft’s surface with different degrees of sandpaper. After that is complete we began laying down barrier paper and tape to prevent overspray. Before we begin any painting it’s paramount that the surface is clean and free from debris, so we take our time to make sure of that.”
After preparing the jet, the 49th EMS Airmen begin to facilitate the painting process, coating the jet in multiple colors and designs. Repainting the aircraft tails, while also completing touch-ups on the fuselage, helps ensure the aircraft structure remains protected and visually appealing.
“Full paint frequency varies depending on the environmental conditions to which an aircraft is exposed and here at Holloman we expect ours to require full paints every 10-12 years,” said Tech. Sgt. William Garcia, 49th EMS wing corrosion manager. “Aircraft receive paint touch-ups as the condition of the coating worsens and based on the availability of the aircraft.”
Not only are aircraft evaluated on their performance, but so are the 49th EMS Airmen.
“Our Airmen have been nothing short of amazing,” said Garcia. “They’ve maintained our fleet and equipment using minimal capabilities to paint custom designed aircraft. They take great pride in their work and have always strived to do their best. The skills needed to paint a heritage tail or any other design in general takes a person who is self-motivated, hardworking and determined to see the project through.”
| Date Taken: | 06.08.2020 |
| Date Posted: | 06.08.2020 13:36 |
| Story ID: | 371677 |
| Location: | HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, NEW MEXICO, US |
| Hometown: | HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, NEW MEXICO, US |
| Web Views: | 66 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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