Photo By Maj. Nicole Ashcroft | Members of the 179th Airlift Wing work in Iraq with the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade...... read more read more
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IRAQ - Amidst the sandy desert grounds of Iraq, 64 members of the 179th Airlift Wing are working with members of the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade in a ground-breaking concept of operations test between the Army and the Air Force. The troops from the 179th were assigned to the 25th Nov. 5 when they began the assignment and will continue through late December, returning home in time for Christmas.
In preparation for the arrival of C-27 Spartans, the 179th answered the call from Air Mobility Command for a unit to participate in this test to watch and document how an Air Force squadron integrates with Army command and control and scheduling processes. This type of mission has not been done since Vietnam. At that time, it was only done for the purpose of transferring C-7 Caribous to the Air Force from the Army —having Air Force units remain attached while deployed is a new concept. It is a new and bold concept that members of the 179th and 25th have embraced and work diligently toward ensuring its success.
The 179th has special capabilities that will greatly assist the 25th in completing their mission. As a "slick" (non-special operations) unit, they're qualified in airdrop/airland and adverse weather aerial delivery and certified in flying with full-up night vision goggles. This will enable the 25th to haul more cargo and personnel, relieving the stress on the general support helicopters (UH-60 Black Hawks and CH-47 Chinooks). In most instances, the 179th can execute direct support plus time-sensitive and critical missions with more robust and quicker delivery.
Both the Air Force and the Army have their unique tactics, techniques and procedures. This study is focused on learning how to combine the two in order to forge a blend that will make the two services successful in future missions. This is particularly important as the C-27 Spartans are scheduled to begin arriving at 179th in the near future.
Additionally, in preparation for the new mission, a group of pilots and loadmasters will begin training on the C-27J Spartan at Robins Air Force Base, Ga., in December.
| Date Taken: | 12.21.2009 |
| Date Posted: | 12.21.2009 09:33 |
| Story ID: | 43000 |
| Location: | IQ |
| Web Views: | 381 |
| Downloads: | 358 |
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