Holloman selected as preferred base for future Unmanned Aircraft System Formal Training Unit

  • Published
  • By 49th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  Gen. John D.W. Corley, Air Combat Command commander, with concurrence from the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, announced today Holloman is the preferred location for an additional Unmanned Aircraft System Formal Training Unit.

This is the first step in a series of actions that would lead to the initial stand-up of FTU operations, estimated to begin by the year 2009, pending a favorable Environmental Impact Analysis, ground control station availability and other operational factors that may impact UAS specific beddown timing and plans.

"Team Holloman is thrilled about the Air Force's strong interest in establishing Unmanned Aircraft System training in the Tularosa Basin," said Col. Jeff Harrigian, 49th Fighter Wing commander. "Our ability to provide the right mix of existing facilities, restricted airspace, strong community support and good weather will ensure this vital mission is successful here."

The announcement is part of an overall effort within the Air Force to identify and lead opportunities to further secure Global Vigilance, Reach and Power objectives.

Like manned aircraft, highly flexible and effective UAS operations require a pilot's ability to fly the unmanned aircraft in any airspace and make split second, life-and-death decisions. With over 26,000 miles of controlled airspace, Holloman allows UAS operators to work within the medium to high altitude ranges alongside aircraft such as the F-22, A-10, B-1, C-130 and a number of other military aircraft.

Holloman has a proud legacy of being at the forefront of UAS technology. In 1947, then Alamogordo Army Air Field, was chosen by Air Materiel Command to be its primary site for the testing and development of pilot-less aircraft. In January 1948, in honor of Col. George V. Holloman's research and development in the unmanned aerial vehicle field the base was renamed.

"The establishment of an additional FTU is an important step by ACC to provide the right training and right force development and to meet future requirements, not just for U.S. Central Command, but for all combatant commanders while maintaining an operational focus at Creech AFB," said Gen. Corley.

Currently, the 432nd Wing at Creech AFB, Nev., is the only UAS FTU location. Base support limitations at Creech make it impossible to expand the training capacity to the degree needed to keep up with planned weapons system growth. The new FTU at Holloman will provide the increased training capacity at a base well-equipped to support additional training activities.

For more information, please contact the 49th Fighter Wing Public Affairs office at 575-572-7383 or check the Holloman web site at www.holloman.af.mil.