US Air Force officials announced 7 August 2014 that Eielson AFB, Alaska, was selected as the preferred alternative to host the first F-35A Lightning II squadrons in the Pacific area of responsibility. Officials noted basing the F-35s at Eielson will enable the Air Force to take advantage of approximately 65,000 square miles of available airspace in the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex for realistic training. The base is currently home to the 18th Aggressor Squadron, which flies F-16s and serves as adversary air during Red Flag-Alaska exercises. Red Flag-Alaska is a recurring series of Pacific Air Forces training exercises that provide joint offensive counterair, interdiction, close air support, and large force employment training in a simulated combat environment.
Source / Author: Lockheed Martin / Code One
Photo:Darin Russell