Air Force Pilots and Aircraft

Images of military pilots in aircraft cockpits, showcasing various fighter jets. The mood is focused and professional, highlighting air force mechanics and operations.

U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon pilots with the 510th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron prepare to return home to Aviano Air Base, Italy from 86th Air Base, Romania, July 20, 2022. The 510th EFS was deployed to Romania to support the enhanced Air Policing operations over NATO airspace.

U.S. Air Force Col. Michael D. Stohler, commander of the 122nd Fighter Wing, Indiana Air National Guard, stands in the cockpit of an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft April 23, 2022, at the 122nd Fighter Wing, Fort Wayne, Indiana. Stohler flew his last military flight during a regularly scheduled drill.

Canadian Air Force CF-18 Hornets await clearance for takeoff.

011017-F-0308N-195. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Al Udeid Air Base, Doha Country: Qatar (QAT) Scene Major Command Shown: CENTCOM

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Jessy Jolivette, a fixed-wing aircraft mechanic with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232, sends off an F/A-18D Hornet aircraft during Cope North 24 at Northwest Field, Guam, Feb. 20, 2024. Allies and partners train together during the multilateral exercise, Cope North 24, to improve shared tactics and multilateral defense capabilities. Jolivette is a native of California. Marine Corps

111005-N-TU221-427 PACIFIC OCEAN (Oct. 5, 2011) Sailors push back an F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the Vigilantes of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 151 aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln is underway conducting a composite training unit exercise.

AIRMAN 1ST Class Michael Von Busch, a crew chief with the 53rd Fighter Squadron gives LT. COL. Bob Turner the signal to shut down the engines of his F-15C Eagle aircraft following a mission during Operation Deny Flight, the enforcement of the United Nations-sanctioned no-fly zone over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Subject Operation/Series: DENY FLIGHT Base: Aviano Air Base State: Pordenone Country: Italy (ITA)

050118-F-0986R-072. Base: Langley Air Force Base State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

US Air Force Captain Butch Wiemuth preforms a check of the flight control instruments on his F-16 "Fighting Falcon" before flying a mission. CPT Wiemuth is assigned to the 181st Fighter Wing, Hulman Regional Airport, Indiana, and is deployed to the region in support of Operation NORTHERN WATCH. Subject Operation/Series: NORTHERN WATCH Country: Unknown

U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon pilots with the 510th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron prepare to return home to Aviano Air Base, Italy from 86th Air Base, Romania, July 20, 2022. The 510th EFS was deployed to Romania to support the enhanced Air Policing operations over NATO airspace.

Maj. Stanley Cheng, 122nd Expeditionary Fighter Squadron project officer, left, adjusts his seat straps while Tech. Sgt. Dustin Gagliano, 159th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, right, prepares the cockpit of an F-15C Eagle for flight at Muniz Air National Guard Base in Carolina, Puerto Rico in support of North American Aerospace Defense Commands (NORAD) Operation Noble Defender (OND), 29 June, 2022. As a part of OND, which is a recurring operation, the Continental U.S. NORAD Region (CONR) coordinated and conducted joint operations with the U.S. Navy while concurrently launching jets from different locations across the United States' gulf coast and Puerto Rico. OND, is an integrated air and missile defense operation designed to ensure the defense and security of the northern and southern approaches to North America. This particular OND allowed NORAD units to exercise maneuvers designed to defend the southern approach to the United States from simulated cruise missile threats. NORAD is a b

U.S. Marine Corps Master Gunnery Sgt. Margarito Casarez Jr., Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 101 (VMFAT-101) avionics chief, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, completes post-flight maintenance checks on an F/A-18 Super Hornet during Weapons System Evaluation Program East-22.12 at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 12, 2022. WSEP is a formal, two-week evaluation exercise designed to test a squadrons capabilities to conduct live-fire weapons systems during air-to-air combat training missions.

US Marine Corps aviator prepares to launch a Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier from Al Asad Air Base, Al Anbar Province, Iraq

011107-F-0308N-131. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Country: Unknown Scene Major Command Shown: CENTCOM

An F-16 crew chief from the 162nd Wing at Morris Air National Guard Base in Tucson parks an F-16 for engine shutdown after its final flight today. The RNLAF has commenced transition from the F-16 to the F-35.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor pilot assigned to the 43d Fighter Squadron, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, performs preflight checks at Savannah Hilton Head International Airport, Georgia, May 2, 2022. The 325th Fighter Wing sent more than 200 personnel and 22 aircraft to participate in Sentry Savannah, a near-pear training exercise hosted by the Air National Guards Air Dominance Center.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Brendan McNeely, 35th Fighter Generation Squadron crew chief, marshals an F-16 Fighting Falcon during RED FLAG-Alaska 22-3 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Aug. 1, 2022. RF-A 22-3 offers U.S. and allied service personnel and aircraft the opportunity to leverage forces in support of bilateral or multilateral exercises.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Nicholas Gibson, an F-35B Lightning II pilot assigned to Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1), prepares for flight during Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) course 2-22, at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, on April 15, 2022.  WTI is a seven-week training event hosted by MAWTS-1, providing standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation training and readiness, and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics.

A U.S. Air Force maintainer assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron guides an F-22 Raptor to park after landing at Leeuwarden Air Base, Netherlands, Oct. 16, 2022. The 90th EFS forward deployed from Poland to the Netherlands to conduct agile combat employment (ACE) and integrate with the Royal Netherlands Air Force. This integration marks the first time in history that USAF F-22 Raptors have operated out of the Netherlands and highlights the importance of our shared commitment to defend NATO territory. Continued collaboration and integration on ACE alongside our RNLAF counterparts and other NATO Allies improves the resilience and survivability of coalition airpower.

U.S. Air Force aircrew assigned to the 492nd Fighter Squadron at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, perform preflight checks before forward deploying to Łask Air Base, Poland, to support NATO Air Shielding efforts, Aug. 5, 2022. The 48th Fighter Wing is engaged, postured, and ready to assure, deter and defend in an increasingly complex security environment.

A U.S. Air Force pilot assigned to the 77th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron climbs into the cockpit of an F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft, Jan. 12, 2023 at King Fahad Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The 378th Air Expeditionary Wing conducted this exercise in coordination with Royal Saudi Air Force partners training to help forge a resolute partnership and deter regional aggressors.

Col. Matthew Wolf 64 Gaetke, 8th Fighter Wing commander, steps into an F-16 Fighting Falcon to participate in Joint Exercise Cobra Gold 24 at Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, 29 Feb. 2024. Aircraft 89-2060, also known as Wolfs jet, is painted in honor of U.S. Air Force legend, Gen. Robin Wolf 1 Olds and the F-4 Phantom he used to lead Operation Bolo from Ubon Air Base. The familiar paint has returned to Thailand to lead 80th Fighter Squadron participation in Cobra Gold 24, the largest joint exercise in mainland Asia. Air Force

021010-F-4649H-020. Subject Operation/Series: NORTHERN WATCH Base: Incirlik Air Base, Adana Country: Turkey (TUR)

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Shane White, a fixed-wing aircraft mechanic, right, signals to Capt. Evan Staton, a fighter pilot, both with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242, at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, May 17, 2022. Following successful completion of Exercise RED FLAG 22-1, VMFA-242 achieved full operational capability, allowing them to execute a full set of missions as an F-35B Lightning II squadron.

040721-F-0017C-073. Base: Osan Air Base Country: Republic Of Korea (KOR)

A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle pilot assigned to the 494th Fighter Squadron from Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, exits their aircraft after landing at the Tactical Leadership Programme 22-3 at Los Llanos Air Base, Spain, Sept. 9, 2022. The Liberty Wings F-15s were the first foreign aircraft to arrive in Spain for the two-week NATO course.

030930-M-3843B-001. Base: Mcas, Beaufort State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A Ninth Air Force (AFCENT) member initiates hot-pit refueling operations on a F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft assigned to the 48th Fighter Wing out of Royal Air Force Base Lakenheath, United Kingdom July 15, 2022. Two U.S. Air Force F-15Es conducted the flight from Souda Bay, Greece to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility in an effort to exercise cross-combatant command Agile Combat Employment operations. AFCENT members led the hot-pit refueling, an ACE technique which cuts refueling time by hours, allowing AFCENT and incoming partner aircrews to generate multiple consecutive sorties from the same aircraft as well as increase airpower staging options in theater.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Richard Newman, 169th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, assigned to the 169th Fighter Wing at McEntire Joint National Guard Base, South Carolina, marshals Maj. Luke Weyhmuller, 157th Fighter Squadron F-16 fighter jet pilot, to taxi for a routine flight from Columbia Metropolitan Airport in West Columbia, South Carolina, September 15, 2022. The 169th Fighter Wing is temporarily using the Columbia Metropolitan Airport while runway repairs occur at McEntire Joint National Guard Base.

Maj. Josiah Sirius” Gaffney, pilot of the F-16 Viper Fighter Jet and Commander of the Pacific Air Forces F-16 Demonstration Team readies his jet at the Kaneohe Bay Air Show from August 12th through August 14th, 2022 at US Marine Corps base Kaneohe Bay. The Air Show at Kaneohe Bay demonstrated military prowess while entertaining many visitors with local vendors and demonstration teams such as the Blue Angels. (U.S. Army photograph by Spc. Joshua Oller/28th Public Affairs Detachment)

A Ninth Air Force (AFCENT) member initiates hot-pit refueling operations on a F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft assigned to the 48th Fighter Wing out of Royal Air Force Base Lakenheath, United Kingdom July 15, 2022. Two U.S. Air Force F-15Es conducted the flight from Souda Bay, Greece to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility in an effort to exercise cross-combatant command Agile Combat Employment operations. AFCENT members led the hot-pit refueling, an ACE technique which cuts refueling time by hours, allowing AFCENT and incoming partner aircrews to generate multiple consecutive sorties from the same aircraft as well as increase airpower staging options in theater.

011012-F-0308N-282. Subject Operation/Series: SOUTHERN WATCH Country: Unknown Scene Major Command Shown: CENTCOM

040818-F-4884R-012. Base: Balad Air Base Country: Iraq (IRQ)

A U.S. Navy F-14 Tomcat pilot and radar intercept officer get out of their aircraft after arriving at the Roswell Industrial Air Center. The sailors and aircraft are part of the Command Air Group (CAG) operations deployed to support the world's largest joint service, multi-national tactical air operations exercise. Subject Operation/Series: ROVING SANDS '97 Base: Roswell State: New Mexico (NM) Country: United States Of America (USA)

010120-F-8513A-003. Base: Syracuse State: New York (NY) Country: United States Of America (USA)

California Air National Guard Tech. Sgt. Christopher Moya, 144th Fighter Wing crew chief, readies Louisiana Air National Guard Col. David Anderson, 159th Fighter Wing commander, for a flight during Cope North 24 at Andersen Air Base, Guam, Feb. 20, 2024. The California and Louisiana units deployed to Kadena Air Base, Japan, to ensure continuous fighter presence through the phased return of Kadenas fleet of F-15C/D Eagles to the U.S. To support this presence, the teams participated in Cope North 24 to build upon multilateral aerial tactics that strengthen the capabilities of Allied and partnered mission throughout the Indo-Pacific. Air Force Master Sgt. Natasha Stannard/Released)

The crew of a U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet with Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA-32), Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia, prepare to disembark the aircraft after arriving for Checkered Flag 22-2 at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, May 6, 2022. Checkered Flag is a large-force aerial exercise held at Tyndall which fosters readiness and interoperability through the incorporation of 4th- and 5th-generation aircraft during air-to-air combat training. The 22-2 iteration of the exercise was held May 9-20, 2022.

DF-ST-85-01367. Subject Operation/Series: COPE THUNDER '84 Base: Clark Air Base State: Luzon Country: Philippines (PHL)

US Air Force Colonel Gary North goes through preflight checks in F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft prior to flying a training mission from Luke Air Force Base, Arizona. The green star on the aircraft represents the Iraqi Mig-25 that he shot down. COL Gary North became the first US Air Force pilot to achieve an aerial kill in a Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft during Operation SOUTHERN WATCH when he successfully engaged an Iraqi Mig-25 Foxbat that violated the Iraqi southern no-fly zone. Base: Luke Air Force Base State: Arizona (AZ) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Almeria, October 16, 2014. NATO Noble Mariner 2014 maneuvers. Juan Carlos I aircraft carrier, aircraft carrier, and Harrier aircraft. Photo: IGNACIO GIL...archdc.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Kellyn Orick assigned to the 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard, receives instructions from F-16 Fighting Falcon Pilot, U.S. Air Force Lt. Col Ben "Scrappy" Couchman, 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard, before being taken out on an incentive ride at Miramar Marine Corp Air Station, San Diego, California on Aug. 2, 2022. The 140th Wing is performing aerial maneuver training exercises with the F-18 fighter jets, stationed at Miramar Marine Corp Air Station, to enhance their wartime readiness capabilities utilizing the latest combat scenarios.

U.S. Air Force Capt. McCall Kerkman, 555th Fighter Squadron F-16C Fighting Falcon pilot from the 31st Fighter Wing, Aviano Air Base, Italy, places his flight helmet on before taxiing his aircraft at Royal Air Force Base Lakenheath, United Kingdom, Sep. 7, 2022, during the Royal Air Forces Cobra Warrior 2022 exercise. These missions enhance the readiness necessary to respond to any potential challenge in the region.

Maintainers from the 151st Air Refueling Wing learn essential functions of an F-18 Super Hornet from the Sailors assigned the Naval Air Station during an unprecedented joint exercise on Aug. 30, 2022 at Fallon, Navada. This joint force exercise will develop new operational concepts, capabilities and plans to bolster deterrence and maintain the U.S. militarys competitive advantage for the future.

DF-ST-87-03959. Subject Operation/Series: COPE NORTH '86-3 Base: Komatsu Air Base Country: Japan (JPN)

A ground crew member signals to the pilot of a 614th Tactical Fighter Squadron F-16C Fighting Falcon aircraft as it prepares to takeoff on the first daylight strike against Iraqi targets during Operation Desert Storm.. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT STORM Country: Saudi Arabia(SAU)

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Jessy Jolivette, a fixed-wing aircraft mechanic with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232, signals to an F/A-18D Hornet aircraft during Cope North 24 at Northwest Field, Guam, Feb. 20, 2024. Allies and partners train together during the multilateral exercise, Cope North 24, to improve shared tactics and multilateral defense capabilities. Jolivette is a native of California. Marine Corps

030727-F-6449C-025. Base: Nellis Air Force Base State: Nevada (NV) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: USAFE

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Carson Driver, an aviation ordnance technician with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232, signals to an F/A-18C Hornet aircraft during Cope North 24 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Feb. 19, 2024. Allies and partners train together during the multilateral exercise, Cope North 24, to improve shared tactics and multilateral defense capabilities. Driver is a native of Maryland. Marine Corps

U.S. Air Force Maj. Easy”, 43d Fighter Squadron F-22 Raptor pilot, climbs into the cockpit of an F-22 at Savannah Hilton Head International Airport, Georgia, May 3, 2022. The 325th Fighter Wing sent more than 200 personnel and 22 aircraft to participate in Sentry Savannah, a near-peer training exercise hosted by the Air National Guard’s Air Dominance Center.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Daniel Belet, a U.S. Marine Corps Pilot, climbs aboard an AV-8B Harrier, attached to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), Oct. 07, 2022. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd MEU, are operating in U.S. 2nd Fleet in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security across the Atlantic in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

Airman 1st Class John Esquivel, 52nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron assistant dedicated crew chief, checks in with Capt. Shawn Webster, 480th Fighter Squadron pilot, after his flight at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, Sept. 21, 2022. The F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft was later readied in preparation for a future night sortie.

US Marine Corps aviator prepares to launch a Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier from Al Asad Air Base, Al Anbar Province, Iraq

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Michael K. Long, 119th Fighter Squadron commander, taxis his F-16C+ Fighting Falcon, with the 177th Fighter Wing of the New Jersey Air National Guard, at the Atlantic City Air National Guard Base, New Jersey, Mar. 9, 2023, en route to train at Red Flag 23-2., Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada.

030226-F-6449C-004. Base: Aviano Air Base State: Pordenone Country: Italy (ITA)

View of an F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft assigned to the 77th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, prior to a sortie from Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Oct. 22, 2022. During their deployment rotation to PSAB, he 77th EFS will rapidly integrate into theater air training, as well as joint, coalition and partnered missions, highlighting the Air Force's ability to rapidly deploy and employ forces anywhere around the globe at any moment.

020520-F-6911G-005. Subject Operation/Series: NORTHERN WATCH Base: Incirlik Air Base, Adana Country: Turkey (TUR)

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Bernard Mutz, a 35th Civil Engineer Squadron readiness and emergency manager, climbs into the back seat of an F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Oct. 22, 2010. Sergeant Mutz said he couldn't sleep the night before due to his excitement. The 35th Fighter Wing gives incentive flights to outstanding Airmen each year to reward their exceptional work and dedication.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Noah Kincel, A-10C Thunderbolt II Demonstration Team crew chief, performs post-flight inspections in Tyler, Texas, June 29, 2022. The A-10 Demonstration Team is made up of 11 personnel, including a pilot, nine maintenance personnel and a public affairs specialist. The mission of the A-10 Demonstration Team is to recruit, retain and inspire.

DF-ST-87-13419. Subject Operation/Series: TEAM SPIRIT '85 Base: Suwon Air Base Country: Republic Of Korea (KOR)

A maintenance specialist gathers safety pins and wheel chocks as a 53rd Fighter Squadron F-15C Eagle aircraft prepares to takeoff on a mission during Operation Deny Flight, the enforcement of the United Nations-sanctioned no-fly zone over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Subject Operation/Series: DENY FLIGHT Base: Aviano Air Base State: Pordenone Country: Italy (ITA)

Ground Crew Member Inspects an F-16 Just Prior to Launch

The Bloody Hundredth hosted Team Seymour's F-15 Strike Eagles as they stopped by Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England, on their way home to Seymour-Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, October 2022.Team Mildenhall provided support for the Airmen and jets from the 335th Fighter Squadron and 335th Fighter Generation Squadron.

US Air Force Brigadier General Bob DuLaney, co-commander for coalition forces assigned to Operation NORTHERN WATCH, and his "co-pilot" Stanley prepare to launch in an F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft. The real mission of the sortie is to educate the children of America on the mission being preformed here at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey. Subject Operation/Series: NORTHERN WATCH Base: Incirlik Air Base, Adana Country: Turkey (TUR)

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Robby Benson, A-10C Thunderbolt II Demonstration Team electrical and environmental technician, and Senior Airman Caleb Spencer, A-10C Thunderbolt II Demonstration Team engines specialist, performs pre-flight inspections at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, July 14, 2022. The A-10 Demonstration Team performed a capability demonstration of the A-10 Thunderbolt II in front of cadets from the U.S. Air Force Academy as part of a routine practice sortie.

DN-SC-90-03960. Base: USS Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69) Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED)

Crew chiefs from the 14th Aircraft Maintenance Unit, Misawa Air Base, Japan, discuss preflight checks on F-16Cs belonging to the 14th Fighter Squadron that are deployed to Yokota Air Base, Japan, as part of a week-long Agile Combat Employment training exercise geared to enhancing multi-capable Airmens skillsets, May 11, 2022. Yokota Airmen practicing rapid airlift capabilities fielded four C-130Js belonging to the 36th Airlift Squadron that were escorted by eight F-16Cs belonging to the 14th Fighter Squadron, Misawa Air Base, Japan, in a joint airdrop training mission. During the ACE training event, Misawa and Yokota Airmen worked together to sustain a competitive edge over adversaries, and execute their mission - to protect U.S. interests in the Pacific, defend Japan, and deter adversaries through presence, readiness, and ability to project agile combat air power.

GUNNERY SGT. Rome M. Holcomb from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron Five Three Three (VMFA-533) conducts post flight checks on one of four F-18 "Hornet" fighters at Rock Hampton Airport, Australia, on April 29, 2001. The Hornets flew in from Guam to participate in "Exercise TANDEM THRUST," a combined US and Australian military training exercise. The biannual exercise is held in the vicinity of Shoalwater Bay training area, Queensland, Australia. More than 27,000 Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines are participating, with Canadian units taking part as opposing forces. The purpose of the exercise is to train for crisis action planning and execution of contingency response operations. Subject Operation/Series: TANDEM THRUST 2001 Base: Rock Hampton State: Queensland Country: Australia (AUS)

DN-ST-89-05120. Base: USS Ranger (CV 61) Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Zachary Summers, powerline Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 312, Marine Aircraft Group 31, hugs his daughter after a flight at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, Sept. 19, 2022. VMFA-312 offered flights for Marines who reenlisted as a way to reward their dedication to the Marine Corps.

U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 323, Marine Aircraft Group 11, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, prepare F/A-18C Hornets to deploy to Poland from Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, June 6, 2022. VMFA-323 remains ready to deter aggression, and stand shoulder to shoulder with our Allies.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Andrew Gray, 71st Fighter Squadron commander, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, signals a thumbs up at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, March 29, 2023. Gray piloted the first F-22 Raptor to depart the 325th Fighter Wing en route to JBLE where the mission of training Raptor pilots will continue with the 71st FS.

220919-N-WU964-2116 PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 19, 2022) Lt. Theodore Beck, front seat, and Lt. Timothy Cook, signal ready for take-off’ in an EA-18G Growler, attached to the Shadowhawks of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141, on the flight deck of the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), in the Pacific Ocean, Sept. 19. The primary role of EA-18G Growlers is to disrupt the ability to communicate between units in combat through the use of electronic warfare. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Air Force Airmen from the 389th Fighter Generation Squadron prepare to launch a U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle for a routine training mission at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, August 22, 2022. The FGS is comprised of maintainers and administrative personnel responsible for the health and generation of airpower and is aligned to the fighter squadron with the same numeric designation.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Cody Shepard, 315th Fighter Squadron crew chief, congratulates U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Christopher White, 315th Fighter Squadron commander, after the pilot reached his 1,000th flight hour milestone in the F-35A Lightning II at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, June 3, 2022. Airmen from the Vermont Air National Guard's 158th Fighter Wing are deployed to Europe to increase readiness and enhance NATO's collective defense.

DF-ST-89-05263. Subject Operation/Series: CRESTED CAP 87 Base: Nellis Air Force Base State: Nevada (NV) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Julian Flores, 47th Student Squadron student pilot, climbs into a T-38 Talon at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, July 25, 2022. Laughlin trains the most pilots of any training base in the Air Force and is dedicated to producing combat-ready Airmen, leaders and pilots.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Jessica Watts, 77th Expeditionary Fighter Generation Squadron commander, looks on as an F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft prepares to depart for a sortie from Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Oct. 22, 2022. During their deployment rotation, the 77th EFGS is responsible for maintaining jet engines, accessory and avionics components and systems of the F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft assigned to PSAB.

IRST sensor on a Ukrainian Air Force Su-27 Flanker jet.

Master Sgt. Joe Ray, a weapons loader assigned to the 180th Fighter Wing, Ohio Air National Guard, salutes as Capt. Justin Kreischer, an 180th FW F-16 Fighting Falcon pilot, prepares to take off for a training sortie at Kecskemet Air Base, Hungary. Approximately 150 Airmen and eight F-16 fighter jets from the 180th FW traveled to the air base to participate in Load Diffuser 17, a two-week Hungarian-led multinational exercise focused on enhancing interoperability capabilities and skills among NATO allied and European partner air forces by conducting joint operations and air defenses to maintain joint readiness, while also bolstering relationships within the U.S. Air National Guards State Partnership Program initiatives. Ohio became state partners with Hungary in 1993.

Before leaving for a mission on 22 February 1996, Captain Steve White, pilot from the 48th Wing, 494th Fighter Squadron, Lakenheath, England, checks the AIM-120 AMRAAM missile during a pre-flight check on his F-15E Eagle deployed to Aviano Air Base, Italy, as part of the 4190th Wing (P). Operation Decisive Edge supports Operation Joint Endeavor. Before leaving for a mission on 22 February 1996, Captain Steve White, pilot from the 48th Wing, 494th Fighter Squadron, Lakenheath, England, checks the AIM-120 AMRAAM missile during a pre-flight check on his F-15E Eagle deployed to Aviano Air Base, Italy, as part of the 4190th Wing (P). Operation Decisive Edge supports Operation Joint Endeavor.

HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- An F-22 crew chief begins the procedure of releasing the aircraft from the hangar Sept. 21, 2011. Four Raptors were launched as Holloman's premiere aircraft return to the sky. The decision by the commander of Air Combat Command to lift the stand-down ensures F-22 crews will return to combat mission readiness.

Ground crew members perform a preflight check on an F-15E Eagle aircraft of the 4th Tactical Fighter Wing prior to its deployment to Saudi Arabia in support of Operation Desert Shield. The aircraft is equipped with AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles.

Jason Delgado (right), 902nd Security Forces Squadron honorary commander, receives a tour in a T-38 from U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Benjamin Williams (left), 560th Flying Training Squadron commander, during an honorary commanders program tour, Aug. 17, 2022, at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas. The honorary commanders program enhances the knowledge of community leaders regarding the missions, policies, programs and people of the U.S. military, while fostering a supportive relationship between the military and the community.

A U.S. Air Force maintainer assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron conducts post-flight procedures for the F-22 Raptors arriving at Leeuwarden Air Base, Netherlands, Oct. 16, 2022. The 90th EFS forward deployed from Poland to the Netherlands to conduct agile combat employment (ACE) and integrate with the Royal Netherlands Air Force. This integration marks the first time in history that USAF F-22 Raptors have operated out of the Netherlands and highlights the importance of our shared commitment to defend NATO territory. Continued collaboration and integration on ACE alongside our RNLAF counterparts and other NATO Allies improves the resilience and survivability of coalition airpower.

Senior Airman Conner Smith, 57th Maintenance Group Aircraft Armament Systems specialist, guides weapons onto an F-35A Lightning II during the third quarter Load Crew Competition at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Oct. 14, 2022 The F-35A is an agile, versatile, high-performance, 9g capable multirole fighter that combines stealth, sensor fusion and unprecedented situational awareness.

Airmen Troubleshooting A-10 Thunderbolt

Military Jets Fixed Wing Boeing Aviat Airplanes FA-18 Hornet grey ground crew runway

Secretary of the Navy John F. Lehman Jr. straps himself into an Attack Squadron 65 (VA-65) A-6E intruder aircraft being readied for launch on the deckof the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (CVN-69). Country: Unknown

A 36th Tactical Fighter Wing ground crew carries an AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missile to an F-15C Eagle aircraft. Base: Bitburg Air Base Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU)

A view of the stores on pylons under the right wing of an F-16A Fighting Falcon aircraft shows three Mark 82 500-lb bombs, left, and a crew-training device simulating a Mark 20 anti-tank bomb. The Fighting Falcon is on display on the flight line at a Department of Defense Joint Services Open House. Base: Andrews Air Force Base State: Maryland (MD) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Maj. Patrick Walsh, 560th Flying Training Squadron instructor pilot trainee, shows the inside of a T-38 Talons cockpit to Garrett Smithley, driver for Rick Ware Racings NASCAR Cup Series, on Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, May 4, 2022. Smithley, his racing crew and his show car toured JBSA over three days giving service members and their families an up-close look as part of their Military Salutes Program.

U.S. Air Force maintainers assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron perform maintenance inspections August 4, 2022 at the 32nd Tactical Air Base in Łask, Poland. The NATO Air Shielding mission is a joint integrated mission to increase the air and missile defense posture along the Eastern flank of the Alliance.

Participating in EXERCISE DESERT RESCUE IX, AIRMAN First Class Adam McNallen a crew chief for the 75th Fighter Squadron at Pope AFB, North Carolina, marshals in Captain Kevin Eilers an A-10 pilot from the 75th Fighter Squadron. AIRMAN McNallen is originally from East Brady, Pennsylvania. Desert Rescue IX is the premiere search and rescue (SAR) training exercise involving Navy, Army, Air Force, and Marine personnel. It is conducted at the ranges of Fallon Naval Air Station, Nevada. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT RESCUE IX Base: Naval Air Station, Fallon State: Nevada (NV) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: AMC

Fighter Pilot First Lieutenant (1LT) Dave "A-Bee" DeAngelis climbs the ladder of his F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 366th Air Expeditionary Group (AEG) deployed in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Country: Unknown Scene Major Command Shown: CENTCOM

The weapon systems officer of an F-15E Eagle aircraft is handed his flight bag by a ground crewman as the aircraft's pilot waits to climb aboard prior to a flight during Operation Desert Shield. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT SHIELD Country: Saudi Arabia (SAU)

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Nicholas Bolduc, an aviation ordnance technician with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 312, signals to an F/A-18C Hornet aircraft after it lands at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Jan. 26, 2023. VMFA-312 traveled from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam to conduct joint-level training as a part of the Aviation Training Relocation Program and enhance the squadrons readiness and combat capabilities.

Crew chiefs of two F-111F aircraft stand at attention in front of their planes during an arrival ceremony. The aircraft are part of a new wing that will eventually include 84 F-111F's. Base: Raf Lakenheath State: East Anglia Country: England / Great Britain (ENG)

DN-ST-85-07154. Base: USS Midway (CV 41) Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

220718-N-LM220-1045 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 18, 2022) Aviation Structural Mechanic (Safety Equipment) Airman Zhibin He, left, from Canton, China, and Aviation Structural Mechanic (Safety Equipment) 2nd Class Michaela Davies, from Oakland, Calif., cleans an F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to the Vigilantes of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 151, in the hangar bay aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group is underway conducting routine operations in the U.S. 3rd Fleet.

030714-F-3873G-005. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: RAF Lakenheath State: East Anglia Country: England / Great Britain (ENG) Scene Major Command Shown: USAFE

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