The first two F-15Cs of the 33rd Fighter Wing at Eglin AFB, Fla., have departed for their new home in New Orleans with the Louisiana Air National Guard’s 159th Fighter Wing, which is picking up some newer model Eagles from the active force. The 33rd FW at Eglin is getting ready to take on its new role, serving as the international training center for the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter. Along with that new mission, the unit will move from Air Combat Command to Air Education and Training Command. Col. Todd Harmer, commander of the 33rd FW, said, “The 33rd Fighter Wing has played an integral part providing air dominance for America and that role will continue as we transition to the F-35.” (Includes Eglin report by SSgt. Bryan Franks)
Lt. Gen. Dan Caine, nominee to be chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told the Senate Armed Services Committee that the Defense Department needs to upgrade its electronic warfare capability and its EW training ranges; just as his predecessor said at his own confirmation hearing.