Holloman and Ellsworth team up for MQ-9 Remote Split-Operations

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Leah Ferrante
  • 49th Wing Public Affairs
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M., --  Airman from Holloman Air Force Base's 29th and 9th Attack Squadrons are using state-of-the-art satellite technology to train the next generation of Remotely Piloted Aircraft. (RPA)

In collaboration with the 432nd Attack Squadron, Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota, Holloman aircrew and aircraft are conducting MQ-9 Reaper split-operations which allows Airmen stationed nearly one thousand miles apart the ability to fly and train on aircraft flown in New Mexico airspace. Using line-of-sight technology, Holloman launches the MQ-9, once airborne, control is switched to a satellite link and a Ground Control Station at Ellsworth takes command of the aircraft to conduct the training sortie. When the mission is complete the aircraft is switched back over to Holloman GCS's and is landed recovered by Holloman aircrews.

"This is an important operation especially for Ellsworth, because it provides them with a training opportunity,"  It gives them something they may not get at their base for certain reasons, the fact that they are now able to train and maintain their currency is good for the Air Force," said Capt. Timothy Cox, 29 Attack Squadron A flight commander.

The remote split-operations between Holloman and Ellsworth prepare the two bases to be proficient for real-world situations they use downrange. This joint training strengthens the bonds between aircrew in one of the fastest growing career fields in the U.S. Air Force.

"This is an important operation because it enhances the skills of our pilots conducting combat support missions world-wide," said Maj. Thomas Cook, 29 Attack Squadron, flight safety Officer In Charge.

"It takes a lot of planning to make this happen," said Cox. "There's definitely a lot of work involved and it's a huge team effort between both bases."

The remote split-operations have been successful and will be continuing at Holloman, it's also possible that similar arrangements could be made with other RPA units in the future.