After coming up short last fall, the 341st Missile Wing at Malmstrom AFB, Mont., announced yesterday that it successfully passed a five-day limited nuclear surety inspection held earlier this month at the base. The wing received a grade of satisfactory, the highest possible rating under the demanding inspection regime, which leaves no margin for error. “Our airmen at the 341st MW performed in an exceptional manner during this re-inspection,” said Col. Michael Fortney, 341st Missile Wing commander. Air Force inspectors found deficiencies of a limited nature during last November’s NSI, which prevented the wing from passing and necessitated a re-inspection within 90 days. The retest was conducted Feb. 4-9. The revamped inspection regime is one of the Air Force’s myriad activities to reinvigorate its nuclear mission. The 90th MW at F.E. Warren AFB, Wyo., fell short in its NSI last December and is due for a re-inspection soon.
Ukraine’s fleet of F-16 fighters has played a vital role in protecting the country against Russian aerial attacks, including the jet-powered drones the Russians have used to try to overpower Ukrainian air defenses, senior Ukrainian officials said. But Ukraine has a chronic need for spare parts to keep the venerable jets…