Photo By Senior Airman Kylie Barrow | A member assigned to the 556th Test and Evaluation Squadron educate personnel assigned...... read more read more
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As the requirements of the Air Force continue to evolve, the strategic environment of the U.S. Department of the Air Force and Air Combat Command remains committed to enabling our force to succeed and deliver combat-effective, agile and adaptive airpower.
To showcase these adaptive advancements, the 25th Attack Group conducted a two-day, total-force integrated “Software Roadshow” at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., Feb. 7, 2025, showcasing new software updates improving the automated takeoff and landing capabilities of the MQ-9 Reaper.
These features focus on Agile Combat Employment, enabling the MQ-9 to operate from less established airfields—vital for modern combat operations.
“Future conflicts require the Air Force to follow an agile combat employment scheme of maneuver,” said Capt. Nathaniel Lewis, 25th Operations Support Squadron chief of future operations. “Not just for active duty, but also with the twelve Air National Guard attack squadrons that fight alongside us.”
These changes not only advance the aircraft’s automated take-off, landing, satellite launch and recovery capabilities but also ensure a shared understanding of best practices across active-duty personnel and our total-force partners.
"This update enhances our ability to adapt quickly to changing operational requirements," Lewis explained. "The software allows for better integration with our systems, facilitating future operations."
Operational test pilots from the 556th Test and Evaluation Squadron and contract partner specialists introduced and familiarized personnel on recent software modernizations for the MQ-9 and its targeting pod. These updates occur approximately every two years, fostering interoperability and readiness across active duty and Air National Guard units.
The event was also streamed live, ensuring broader participation and allowing aircrew members the opportunity to engage directly with subject matter experts.
“In-person events allow for essential side conversations that enhance understanding and collaboration,” said Capt. Robert Brutto, 244th Attack Squadron chief of training. “So, we not only made it a TDY for members, but also set up a Teams video chat. That way, personnel that couldn’t make it in person can still engage in discussions and ask questions with the subject matter experts that are here.”
This event created an interactive platform for aircrews to learn about new software features, ask questions, and gain insights crucial for mission readiness, which allowed for direct engagement and real-time questions about the software capabilities.
"It's essential that we all have a shared mental model and understand the differences in operations," said Brutto. “This connection is crucial for maintaining readiness across the board and this information is vital for us to ensure we can support both state and federal missions without compromising our operational capabilities.”
Events like this roadshow play a crucial role in ensuring that aircrews are equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to succeed in a rapidly evolving operational environment.
As the Air Force continues to modernize its capabilities, the 25th Attack Group's commitment to enhancing operational capabilities while ensuring preparedness for future missions remains at the forefront.
| Date Taken: | 02.07.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 03.12.2025 11:09 |
| Story ID: | 492590 |
| Location: | SOUTH CAROLINA, US |
| Web Views: | 67 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, “Software Roadshow” paves way for MQ-9 modernization, enhances readiness, by SrA Kylie Barrow, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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