Aircraft Cockpits and Missions

Showcases military pilots and aircrews operating various aircraft, focusing on cockpit views, equipment handling, and mission preparations during tactical operations.

U.S. Air Force Airmen participate in the Hispanic Heritage Flight at Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England, Oct. 06, 2022. Hispanic Airmen from various squadrons came together for a flight to honor their heritage and share cultural experiences with one another during Hispanic Heritage Month.

OVER AOMORI PERFECTURE, Japan -- Aircrews from the 36th Airlift Squadron fly from Yokota Air Base to Misawa Air Base to deliver four pallets of mission essentual equipment, March 25. This payload will help sustain relief operations taking place at Misawa Air Base. Since the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, Yokota aircrews have worked around the clock delivering vital supplies in support of Operation Tomodachi.

Hawaii - Uh-3H Helicopter Pilot Stays Hydrated While Flying A Mission

B-52H Stratofortress co-pilot from the 2 Air Expeditionary Group dials in radio frequencies as his crew prepares to launch cruise missiles at targets in Yugoslavia (not shown) in support of NATO Operation Allied Force.). Subject Operation/Series: ALLIED FORCE Base: Raf Fairford State: Gloucestershire Country: England / Great Britain (ENG)

U.S. Marines with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 fly a KC-130J Super Hercules from Darwin, Australia to Queensland, Australia during a Transpacific (TRANSPAC) flight, Sept. 13, 2022. TRANSPAC was a long-range tactical redeployment from Darwin to Hawaii with stops in Fiji, American Samoa, and Kiribati.

The last C-130H Hercules departs from the 179th Airlift Wing at Mansfield Lahm ANGB, Ohio, July 7, 2022. This aircraft, tail 88-4401, will retire and become a static display at the MAPS Air Museum (Military Aviation Preservation Society), an internationally known museum of aviation in North Canton, Ohio. After being selected to become the nation's first Air National Guard Cyber Wing, the unit is transitioning from flying the C-130H Hercules to a new mission assigned to Air Combat Command.

Royal New Zealand Air Force Flight Lieutenant Lachlan Newbery, a C-130H(NZ) Hercules pilot assigned to No. 40 Squadron, RNZAF Base Auckland, conducts a familiarization flight during RED FLAG-Alaska 23-1 over the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex, Oct. 7, 2022. The JPARC airspace provides a realistic training environment, allowing Airmen to train for full spectrum engagements, ranging from individual skills to complex, large-scale joint engagements.

U.S. Air Force Airmen participate in the Hispanic Heritage Flight at Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England, Oct. 06, 2022. Hispanic Airmen from various squadrons came together for a flight to honor their heritage and share cultural experiences with one another during Hispanic Heritage Month.

Aerial photo of the Claiborne Pell/Newport Bridge and Connecticut Air National Guard during a multi-element flight lead training mission, Nov. 26, 2019, over Newport, R.I. Rhode Island and Connecticut Air National Guard aircrew flew four C130 Hercules from Rhode Island to a drop zone at Westover Air Reserve Base, Mass. and performed airdrops in a formation. The training allowed pilots to lead and command large numbers of aircraft in formation to achieve rapid delivery of equipment in a short amount of time.

CAPT. Erdie O. Lansford II of the 37th Tactical Airlift Squadron checks his manifest while piloting a C-130E Hercules on a container delivery system (CDS) airdrop during a training exercise. Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU)

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Michael A. Loh, director, Air National Guard, participates in a mission orientation flight on a C-17 Globemaster III assigned to the 105th Airlift Wing, New York National Guard (NYNG), while visiting Stewart Air National Guard Base, Newburgh, New York, on June 3, 2022. Loh observed NYNG Airmen conduct a joint training mission with a KC-46A Pegasus tanker from the 157th Air Refueling Wing, New Hampshire National Guard, and two F-35A Lightning II fighter jets from the 158th Fighter Wing, Vermont Air National Guard.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. John D. Ruck, a UH-1Y Venom Pilot with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, configures the AN/ALQ-231(V)3 for the Intrepid Tiger II system in-flight during exercise Summer Fury 22 in Bradley, California, August 1, 2022. The Intrepid Tiger II enhances the airborne electronic warfare capability for fixed and rotary wing aircraft while maintaining a distributed and adaptable network to defend against current and future threats. Summer Fury 22 enhances Marine-Air-Ground Task Force integration and increases aviation operations proficiency with realistic, relevant training to ensure the Marine Corps largest aircraft wing remains operationally excellent, interoperable, deployable on short notice and lethal when called into action.

PACIFIC OCEAN (Feb. 9, 2024) U.S. Marine Capt. Victor Macias-Angel, assigned to the White Knights of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 165 (Reinforced), conducts preflight checks inside a CH-53E Super Stallion aboard the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Somerset (LPD 25) while underway in the Pacific Ocean, Feb. 9, 2024. Somerset is currently underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 7th Fleet with elements of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Navy

030813-M-7837W-017. Base: Ahmed Al Jaber Air Base State: Al Ahmadi Country: Kuwait (KWT) Scene Major Command Shown: VMGR-234

Tech. Sgt. Kevin Bell, 459th Airlift Squadron flight engineer, looks over the flightline during Friendship Festival 2022, at Yokota Air Base, Japan May 22, 2022. The two-day festival was an opportunity for visitors to learn more about the U.S. and Japan bilateral partnership, while strengthening the bonds between Yokota and the local communities. Yokota was able to host the event with the support of Japan Self-Defense Force, sister services and the local community.

U.S. Air National Guard Tech Sgt. Cory Corcoran, Boom Operator, 185th Air Refueling Wing, refuels an F-16 Fighting Falcon from the 114th Fighter Wing while traveling to Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) course 2-22 at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., April 1, 2022. WTI is a seven-week training event hosted by Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (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.

U.S. Air Force Maj. David Larson, a C-17 Globemaster III pilot assigned to the 16th Airlift Squadron, flies a mission near Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, June 30, 2022. The aircrew members also performed touch-and-go, assault landings, and combat offload maneuvers in South Carolina to sharpen their mission readiness.

Pilots assigned to the 105th Airlift Wing from the New York Air National Guard perform preflight procedures aboard their C-17 Globemaster at March Air Reserve Base in California on April 1st, 2023 before transporting Airmen assigned to the 163d Attack Wing to Exercise Balikatan in the Philippines. The 163d will lead the way as part of the first large-scale integration of an unmanned platform into Philippine Air Space. They will work shoulder to shoulder with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to provide Intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, maritime domain awareness and simulated offensive air support for the exercise.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Edward Rubio, a KC-135 Stratotanker pilot assigned to the 50th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron, flies a refueling mission for a U.S. and Royal Bahrain air force aerial operation over the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, May 25, 2022. The U.S. and Bahrain work jointly to enhance interoperability in the interest of regional security.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Andrew Jones, left, and U.S. Air Force Maj. Paul Whitaker, 535th Airlift Squadron pilots, navigate the C-17 Globemaster III as it approaches the landing strip at Bradshaw Army Airfield, Hawaii, in support of the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center (JPMRC) exercise 23-01, Nov. 4, 2022. The 15th Wings ability to provide rapid global mobility and surge combat-ready forces across the theater is critical to supporting regional alliances and the existing security architecture.

View from inside the cockpit of a B-52 Stratofortress bomber pilot and co-pilot as they fly their gaint aircraft on a training mission. Exact Date Shot Unknown. Country: Unknown

U.S. Army Paratroopers and International Paratroopers participate in the International Airborne Leapfest Competition in Exeter, Rhode Island, Aug. 1-10, 2022. Leapfest is the largest, longest-running, international static line parachute training event and competition hosted by the 56th Troop Command, Rhode Island Army National Guard to promote high level technical training and esprit de corps within the International Airborne community. (U.S. Army National Guard photos by Officer Candidate Deirdre Salvas)

Vice Admiral Robert J. Spane, commander, Naval Air Force, US Pacific Fleet, takes a turn at the controls of a C-130 Hercules aircraft of Antarctica Development Squadron Six (VXE-6) enroute to McMurdo Station on a transport run. Subject Operation/Series: Operation Deep Freeze Country: Antarctica (ATA)

Captain Don Maraska, USMC, co-pilot, Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR-352), 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)) in the cockpit of a Marine KC-130 enroute to a forward area refueling point at a forward operating base in the ENDURING FREEDOM area of operations during Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Country: Unknown Scene Major Command Shown: 26 MEU

110512-N-JI215-462PACIFIC OCEAN (May 12, 2011) Lt. j.g. Michael Lindsey, assigned to the Eightballers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8, checks communications in an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter as it prepares to land aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is participating in a composite training unit exercise off the coast of Southern California.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. David Huffstetler, a pilot assigned to the 317th Airlift Squadron, flies into position to be refueled by a U.S. Air Force KC-135R Stratotanker aircraft, assigned to the 63th Aerial Refueling Squadron, during proficiency sortie over South Carolina, Jan. 27, 2022. A proficiency sortie is a routine training flight aircrew conduct in regularly order to maintain readiness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Taylor Crul)

Photos from Aviation Training Center, Mobile - 26-HK-426-221. Showing the Admiral around. Hurricane Katrina

Co-pilot CPT John Gustafson at his crew position on the C-130 Hercules assigned to the 136th Airlift Wing, 181st Airlift Squadron, Dallas, Texas ANG in route with relief supplies from Moi International Airport to Entebbe, Uganda. Subject Operation/Series: RESTORE HOPE Base: Mombasa Country: Kenya (KEN)

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Zachary Duncavage, left, a UH-1Y Venom pilot assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269, Marine Aircraft Group 29, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and Maj. Katrina Lamsa, a UH-1Y Venom pilot assigned to Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1), participate in a day-guns exercises during Weapons and Tactics Instructors (WTI) course 1-23 near Yuma, Arizona, on Oct. 13, 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.

Pilot Major Emma Steinbar, a 328th Aerial Refueling Squadron pilot, flies a KC-135 Stratotanker on an aerial refueling mission scheduled to strengthen military relationships, meet local training requirements, and gain flying hours. Members of the 328th ARS joined forces with the 93rd Bomb Squadron, assigned to the 307th Operations Group at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, to complete annual training requirements, continuing the efforts to keep pilots safe and flying high.

230411-N-YV347-1036 PHILIPPINE SEA (April 11, 2023) U.S. Navy Damage Controlman Fireman Liam McKean, from Pleasanton, Calif., simulates the rescue of a pilot during an aviation firefighting drill on the flight deck of the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52). Bunker Hill, part of the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group, is in U.S. 7th fleet conducting routine operations. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navys largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

An F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the 492nd Fighter Squadron at RAF Lakenheath, U.K., approaches a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 100th Air Refueling Wing, RAF Mildenhall, U.K., to receive fuel over Scotland during exercise Joint Warrior 19-1, April 4, 2019. Joint Warrior is hosted by the U.K. biannually and aims to allow NATO forces to conduct joint operations in a complex environment, involving different military branches and units from different countries against a range of current and future threats.

A U.S. Air Force boom operator from Fairchild Air Force Base refuels a B-52 Stratofortess from Minot Air Force Base, departing McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base, for a 72-hour endurance mission Oct. 6, 2022. The endurance mission covered over 36,000 miles and included total force operational support from numerous units across the country.

LT. COL. George London, 6517th Test and Evaluation Squadron, sits in the cockpit of a C-17 aircraft. London piloted the C-17 on its inaugural flight from the Douglas Aircraft Co. facility in Long Beach, Calif., to Edwards. Base: Edwards Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

DF-ST-89-00656. Subject Operation/Series: FLINTLOCK Base: Unknown

Capt. Trevor Tomlin, 89th Airlift Squadron C-17 pilot, performs a pre-flight check while wearing Mission Oriented Protective Posture (MOPP) gear, Sept. 13, 2022.More than 180 Reserve Citizen Airmen from the 445th Airlift Wing and members of the 5th Battalion, 159th Regiment General Support Aviation Battalion, Fort Knox, Kentucky, participated in an aeromedical patient movement exercise named Operation Merciful Valkyrie, Sept. 11-14, 2022. Four C-17 Globemaster IIIs conducted eight launches a day, three days in a row, for a total of 24 launches roundtrip from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio to Fort Campbell, Kentucky. The exercise focused on transporting patients from an austere environment (Fort Campbell) and bringing them to a more secure location (Wright-Patterson AFB) while providing en route medical care.

Capt. Christopher Robertson, 96th Bomb Squadron aircraft commander, navigates a B-52H Stratofortress from Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana into position during the 28th Rim of the Pacific exercise July 21, 2022. RIMPAC 2022 a network of capable, adaptive partners train and operate together to strengthen collective forces.

A KC-135 Stratotanker from the 171st Air Refueling Squadron, Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Michigan (SANGB) refuels A-10 Thunderbolt II's from the 107th Fighter Squadron, also from SANGB, during the bases Air Show Family Day on July 8, 2022. Many world-renowned aerial demonstration teams performed for thousands of spectators during the Air Show to honor the ‘Next 100 years of SANGB Aviation.

U.S. Airmen with the 506th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron conduct pre-flight checks on a KC-135 Stratotanker at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, May 28, 2022. Airmen with 506th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron provided Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA(AW)) 533 aircraft with aerial refueling while en-route to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. Marines with VMFA(AW)-533 traveled from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam to enhance squadron readiness and conduct joint-level training as part of an Aviation Training Relocation Program.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Daniel Ha and Capt. Jessica Wallander, 909th Air Refueling Squadron KC-135 Stratotanker pilots, run through the pre-flight checklist prior to a refueling flight in support of Exercise Southern Beach at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Sept. 15, 2022. Bilateral training builds trusting relationships among foreign and domestic forces and ensures the 18th Wing and host-nation allies are able to come together to effectively respond to demanding scenarios.

Commonly known as an Elephant Walk, a group of six U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft from the Georgia Air National Guards 165th Airlift Wing are on the taxiway prior to take off in Garden City, Georgia on Sept 11, 2022. This elephant walk showed the wing's ability to synchronize large-scale take-offs and showcased the recently completed modernization of the C-130 Hercules fleet, now called "Iron Hercs".

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. "Lee" Humphries prepares to take off in a UH-1N Huey at the Joint Base Andrews 2022 Air & Space Expo at JBA, Md., Sept. 18, 2022. Airshows provide an opportunity for people to see U.S. military air capabilities in action and meet the service members who fly and maintain the equipment.

Captain Kyle Underwood, aircraft commander of the KC-135 Stratotanker, and Captain Kyle John Rudsenske, co-commander, both from the 136th Air Refueling Group, make adjustments to the instrument panels to prepare the aircraft for take-off. Subject Operation/Series: JOINT TASK FORCE 95-3 Base: Seymour Johnson Air Force Base State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Two U.S. Air Force,Georgia Air National Guard pilots, Capt. Daniel Thurber and Maj. Robert Hegler, assigned to the 165th Airlift Wing conduct pre-flight checklists for a C-130 Hercules prior to its departure from Savannah, Georgia on March 30, 2022 en route for Europe. The Airmen are deploying in support of U.S. Air Forces Europe by providing logistical support and a tactical airlift package supplying military aid.

Staff Sgt. Amanda Helton, 1st Combat Camera Squadron combat aerial videographer, Joint Base Charleston, S.C., documents an air refueling mission aboard a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 340th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron over the skies of Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, May 8, 2011.

California Air National Guard (ANG) SENIOR MASTER Sergeant Bill Wunderlin, a Load MASTER with the 129th Rescue Wing, California Air National Guard, Moffett Field stands on the open ramp of an MC-130 "Combat Shadow aircraft at 3,500 feet above the Pacific Ocean with the RAM-Z deployment package. The RAM-Z has a rubber Zodiac inflatable boat with outboard motor and a complete medical kit that is parachuted into the water. Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

030613-F-8688O-018. Base: Mcguire Air Force Base State: New Jersey (NJ) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Connor Chavez, 22nd Airlift Squadron C-5M Super Galaxy pilot, operates a C-5M over the U.S. Midwest as part of a Major Command Service Tail Trainer mission Aug. 24, 2022. During the trip, the aircrew also delivered over 90,000 pounds of humanitarian aid to Soto Cano Air Base, Honduras.

U.S. Army Col. Travis McIntosh, 10th CAB Commander, finishes his final flight in his Army career on Fort Drum, Ny. July 15, 2022. CW5 Rolando Sanchez, 10th CAB Command Chief Warrant Officer, also conducted his last flight with the brigade.

U.S. Air Force Col. Brian Helton, 492nd Special Operations Training Group commander, pilots and MC-130H Combat Talon II for its final flight under the 492nd Special Operations Wing at Hurlburt Field, Florida, May 31, 2022. The MC-130H has played a vital role in Air Force Special Operations Command operations, and its highlights include the evacuations of non-combatant Americans and other civilians from conflicts in Liberia in 1996.

A C-130 Hercules air crew from the 165th Airlift Wing, Georgia Air National Guard, takes part in an elephant walk to showcase force and the new modifications to the aircraft prior to takeoff on September 11, 2022 in Savannah, Georgia. The wing's maintenance and operations groups showed their efficiency and force by synchronizing a 6-ship start up and taxi.

Sea of Japan (May 17, 2022) - Lt. j.g. Juan Suarez attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25, Detachment 6 conducts flight operations in a MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter during Exercise Noble Vanguard. Noble Vanguard serves as an enabler to reinforce tactics and techniques of different mission sets that contribute to regional stability.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Andrew Smithhisler (left) and Capt. Thomas Wharton (right), pilots with the 121st Air Refueling Wing, fly a KC-135 Stratotanker during multiple flyovers across Ohio, June 27, 2023. The flyover commemorated 100 years of the Air Forces air refueling capabilities, which deliver unrivaled rapid global reach for U.S. forces and Allies through deployment of the fleet of KC-46, KC-135 and KC-10 tankers.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. David Cummings, a KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft loadmaster with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 152, conducts systems checks on a KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Aug. 3, 2022. U.S. Marines with VMGR-152 conduct routine flight operations in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Colin Sullivan, a KC-135 Stratotanker pilot assigned to the 50th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron, checks his flight instruments during a refueling mission for U.S. and Royal Bahrain air force aerial operation over the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, May 25, 2022. The U.S. and Bahrain work jointly to enhance interoperability in the interest of regional security.

040901-F-0007M-006. Base: Mcguire Air Force Base State: New Jersey (NJ) Country: United States Of America (USA)

970906-F-7910D-027. Subject Operation/Series: JOINT GUARD Base: Tuzla Air Base Country: Bosnia And/I Herzegovina (BIH)

Mr. Shinya Ito, director general of Okinawa Defense Bureau, uses an MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft simulator at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 27, 2024. The director generals visit fostered communication regarding VMM-262 operations around Okinawa. Marine Corps

Aviation Training Center - Mobile, Alabama - 26-HK-339-30. Hurricane Katrina

A UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter departs a Louisiana Army National Guard Aviation Support Facility to assist with Hurricane Ian emergency response efforts, Hammond, Louisiana, Sept. 28, 2022. In accordance with the guidelines of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) process and at the request of the Florida Department of Emergency Management, the LANG is deploying personnel and equipment to support the Florida National Guard in their response to the hurricane.

Material from Vice Admiral Allen - VIP Tours - 26-HK-375-102. Hurricane Katrina

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Ricky D. Buria, a pilot with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 266, guides an MV-22 Osprey over the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of N.C., April 14, 2014. A KC-130J Hercules property of Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 252, refueled two MV-22 Ospreys during an aerial refueling training exercise with VMM-264 and 266.

220830-N-GF955-1952BALTIC SEA (Aug. 30, 2022) U.S. Navy Lt. Christopher Stevenson, assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 79, Detachment 2, pilots a MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter during a maneuvering exercise with the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and Swedish navy, Aug. 30, 2022. Paul Ignatius is part of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Scott Skibitsky, 909th Air Refueling Squadron KC-135 Stratotanker pilot, watches the gauges during engine start-up at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Jan. 22, 2024. Kadena serves as a hub for airpower in the Pacific, ensuring readiness to project force capabilities and provide support to regional allies and partners when called upon.

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jan. 25, 2023) Lt. Jim Ruck, from Alameda, Calif., flies in formation with a CMV-22B Osprey, assigned to Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) 30. VRM 30, assigned to Carrier Air Wing 9, is currently based out of Naval Air Station North Island in support of routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

U.S. Air Force Captains Dillon Simmons, left, and Marcus Malecek, C-17 Globemaster III pilots with the 7th Airlift Squadron, fly by Mt. Rainier during an orientation flight at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, Aug. 20, 2022. The spouse orientation flight is a way to show support for the Airmen and their families and give an inside look into what their loved ones do each day.

011102-F-4406B-015. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Naval Air Station, Sigonella State: Sicily Country: Italy (ITA) Scene Major Command Shown: AMC

Members from the Utah Air National Guards 151st Wing and Air Force Reserves 419th Fighter Wing prepare to unload an AIM 120 missile coffin from a KC-135R at Hill Air Force Base Feb. 4, 2024 as part of Exercise PERSES. Exercise PERSES is a dynamic exercise serving as a platform for exploring innovative ideas and refining communication practices in a challenging operational environment for both Utah Air and Army National Guard. Air Force

A flight crewman in protective clothing prepares a C-141 Starlifter aircraft for takeoff during a chemical warfare exercise. Base: Ramstein Air Base State: Rheinland-Pfalz Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU)

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Kaylee Cason, an aerial observer with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 464, prepares for takeoff in a CH-53E Super Stallion during a Battalion Distributed Operations Course at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, April 26, 2022. HMH-464 and other squadrons assigned to 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW) trained to integrate with and support Marine ground units during Service Level Training Exercise (SLTE) 3-22. SLTE is a series of exercises designed to prepare Marines for operations around the globe. 2nd MAW is the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

The co-pilot and pilot of a Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 6 (HC-6) CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter look back from the cockpit after landing aboard the combat stores ship USNS SIRIUS (T-AFS-8). The SIRIUS is operating in support of Naval units in the Red Sea following Operation Desert Storm.. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT STORM Country: Red Sea

MAJ Sam Via and CPT Chuck Simpson, weapon systems officer, 2874th Test Squadron, Sacramento Air Logistics Center, prepare to take a recently repaired F-111 aircraft on a test flight. Squadron members test refurbished aircraft to make certain that the planes are ready for return to regular duty. Base: Mcclellan Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

1LT Lorne Eshelman, pilot, 33rd Rescue Squadron, with an application of moulage to simulate facial burns, waits for rescue teams to arrive. Members of the 33rd Rescue Squadron, Detachment 1 51st Civil Engineer/Fire department and 51st Medical Group, Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, team up during a simulated emergency landing of a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter. The landing, with fire, smoke, and all but one aircrew member injured, was simulated during a Combat Employment Readiness Exercise held in conjunction with exercise Foal Eagle. Subject Operation/Series: FOAL EAGLE '98KOREA CD Base: Osan Air Base Country: Republic Of Korea (KOR)

Tech. Sgt. Austin Schwier, 39th Rescue Squadron loadmaster, scans the sky during a turkey shoot competition off the coast of Florida, June 16, 2022. During the competition aircrew members competed on skills such as aircraft weapons employment, helicopter air to air refueling, degraded navigation, degraded search, and confined hoisting.

JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -Air Force Lt. Seth Lake, 41st Airlift Squadron, right and Maj. Joseph Framptom, 19th Airlift Wing, go through their pre-flight checklist April 4. Their C-130 J Model was from the 19th AW, Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas. This They were preparing for a heavy drop and personnel drop performed with 3rd Battalion, 377th Parachute Field Artillery Regiment.

Col. Bryan Preece, 130th Airlift Wing Commander, speaks at the Summer U.S. Air Force Junior Reserve Officer's Training Corps Flight Academy Graduation on July 29, 2022, at the Fairmont State Aviation Center of Excellence Fairmont, West Virginia. The Air Force sponsored program targets High School Juniors, JROTC members, and Air Force Academy cadets, teaching them to fly in about six and a half weeks and awarding them private pilot certifications. Preece spoke about his journey as an Air Force Aviator and pinned the wings on the graduates.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Arnold Duell, a 909th Air Refueling Squadron boom operator assigned to Kadena Air Base, Japan, conducts aerial refueling from a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker during RED FLAG-Alaska 22-1 over the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex, Alaska, May 3, 2022. RF-A is a Pacific Air Forces-directed field training exercise allowing forces to practice interoperability by providing unique opportunities to integrate into joint and multilateral training.

Maj. Dennis Menjivar, the 436th Airlift Wing Inspector General chief of exercises and a C-17 Globemaster III pilot, monitors the approach to contact position with a KC-135R Stratotanker during a training mission over Ohio July 13, 2015. The KC-135R is assigned to the 171st Air Refueling Wing, Pennsylvania Air National Guard.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Jeffrey Batres, left, UH-1Y Huey crew chief, and Lance Cpl. Austin Ortiz, right, UH-1Y Huey mechanic, Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 167, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, conducts maintenance on a corrosion cart on Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New River in Jacksonville, North Carolina, Sept. 14, 2022. HMLA-167 aviation maintenance Marines conduct routine preventative maintenance on the AH-1Z Vipers and UH-1Y Hueys to ensure a constant state of readiness. MCAS New River provides aviation support, force protection, infrastructure, and community services to promote the readiness, sustainment and quality of life for II Marine Expeditionary Force and other military forces, tenant commands, personnel and their families.

Members of the 54th helicopter squadron survey the missile field around Minot Air Force base, April 18, 2022. The helicopter squadron plays a vital role in maintaining the safety of our missile fields. (

U.S. Air Force Majors, Matt Ables and Andy Tarnowski, both pilots with the 328th Air Refueling Squadron, operate a KC-135 Stratotanker May 12, 2022 over Northeastern U.S. The aircrew just finished a refueling exercise with the 512th Airlift Wing, Delaware.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Taylor Divinney, 9th Air Refueling Squadron KC-10 Extender flight engineer, looks out the window of a KC-10 during a mission over Southern California, Nov. 7, 2022. The 9th ARS aircrew refueled 10 A-10C Thunderbolt IIs in support of Green Flag 23-02.

Maj. Chris Weir, left, and Capt. Greg Lepper, 96th Bomb Squadron B-52H Stratofortress navigators, navigate a B-52 during a Green Flag-East training mission over Fort Polk, La., Aug. 21, 2013. GF-E is a realistic air-land integration combat training exercise meant to replicate deployed warfare conditions.

050509-F-9629D-045. Base: Camp Warrior, Kirkuk Country: Iraq (IRQ) Scene Major Command Shown: U.S. AIR MOBILITY COMMAND

040420-F-7709A-013. Country: Gulf Of Mexico

U.S. Rep. Mary Peltola, representative of Alaska, looks out of the cockpit window of a Coast Guard C-130 Hercules airplane from Air Station Kodiak, Sept. 24, 2022. Rep. Peltola worked with the Coast Guard to assess damage to Western Alaska villages and communities caused by Typhoon Merbok. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Ian Gray.

The Alaska Air National Guard, 168th Wing invited the Eielson and the Fairbanks Civil Air Patrol Squadron cadets to tour the KC-135 Stratotanker and learn about the 168th Wings air refueling and aeromedical evacuation missions.

SENIOR AIRMAN Will Pernia, flight engineer from the 39th Airlift Squadron, reenlists while on headset aboard the C-130 during a mission to Tusla Air Base, Bosnia. Captain Benjamin Akins performs the ceremony. Subject Operation/Series: JOINT ENDEAVOR Base: Ramstein Air Base State: Rheinland-Pfalz Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU)

220712-N-YQ181-1136 BALABEC STRAIT (July 12, 2022) Naval Aircrewman (Helicopter) 3rd Class Jeremy Valdez, left, from Houston, and Naval Aircrewman (Helicopter) 2nd Class Tyler Williamson, from Inola, Oklahoma, fly in an MH-60S Seahawk assigned to the Golden Falcons of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 12, embarked aboard the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). HSC 12, originally established as Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 2 on March 7, 1952, is the oldest active operational Navy helicopter squadron. 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.

Staff Sgt. Daniel Massingill, C-5B Galaxy flight engineer with the 312th Airlift Squadron, preflights the aircraft for takeoff from Kadena Air Base, Japan, Aug. 15, 2014. Flight engineers control key systems on the aircraft, including fuel management, electronics and environmental systems. He was flying a mobility channel mission, moving high-priority cargo and passengers among air bases in the U.S. Pacific Command area of responsibility.

U.S. Air Force 23rd Expeditionary Bomb Squadron B-52H Stratofortress Pilot Capt. Levi Strike Hilgenhold pilots a B-52 during a Bomber Task Force mission as the sun sets over Saudi Arabia, Sep. 4, 2022. The two B-52s deployed for this BTF mission departed from RAF Fairford, United Kingdom, and flew nonstop over the East Mediterranean, Arabian Peninsula, and Red Sea before returning to RAF Fairford.

Oregon Army National Guard Blackhawk Pilot in command, Chief Warrant Officer 4 Joe Zeiner, (left ) from G/1-189 Aviation (MEDEVAC) out of Salem, Oregon, approaches a giant smoke plume in flight for aerial water drop operations, Eastern, Oregon, Aug. 22, 2020. The helicopters are activated for a two week span assisting the Oregon Department of Forestry and local agencies with forest fires that are currently taking place in Eastern Oregon. (Oregon National Guard

030922-F-7910D-009. Base: Eglin Range State: Florida (FL) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: AF Special Operations

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Robert Elsea, 351st Air Refueling Squadron boom operator assigned to the 100th Air Refueling Wing at Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England, controls the boom from a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft during a NATO-related vigilance activity over the Adriatic Sea, July 28, 2022. This exercise involved several NATO nations, led by the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) Carrier Strike Group. These type of activities enhance NATO interoperability and cohesion, providing NATO a valuable opportunity to integrate force capability and enhance Alliance cohesion. The 100th ARW provides the critical aerial refueling capability that expands the lethality of U.S., allied and partner-nation aircraft.

Capt. Heejoong Kim, 36th Airlift Squadron C-130 pilots, adjusts engine power while taxiing prior to take-off at Yokota Air Base, Japan, July 27, 2022. Routine flights typically pair experienced pilots with pilots that have less flight time, helping to impart acquired knowledge, maximizing opportunities for practice and on-the-job readiness training.

Aircrafts - C-130 - 26-HK-51-20. CG C-130 pilot in flight4. Hurricane Katrina

Cockpit View Of Pilots of a U.S. Marine Corps KC-130 Super Hercules in Afghanistan.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Michael Loh, director, Air National Guard, observes the Idaho Army National Guards Orchard Combat Training Center (OCTC) from an U.S. Army UH-60 Blackhawk assigned to 1st Battalion, 183rd Aviation Regiment, Idaho National Guard while flying near Gowen Field, Boise, Idaho, Aug. 20, 2022. The OCTC encompasses 143,000 acres of training area within the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area.

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