Deployed F-22s Arrive At Anderson AFB
Twelve F-22 Raptors deployed from Elmendorf Air Force Base,
Alaska, arrived in Guam January 18, for a three month Guam
deployment in support of Pacific Global Deterrence mission.
As part of the continuing force posture adjustments to address
worldwide requirements, additional forces like the 90th
Expeditionary Fighter Squadron continue to deploy throughout the
Western Pacific. More than 270 Airmen deployed with the unit.
"The F-22s from the PACAF base at Elmendorf, Alaska, bring a
phenomenal and exceptionally versatile capability to Pacific
Command," said Brig. Gen. Philip Ruhlman, 36th Wing commander.
"This strategic deployment to Andersen shrinks the tyranny of
distance across the Pacific by forward-basing an unmatched
multi-role fifth-generation combat capability."
While deployed here, the Airmen of the 90th EFS will fly
alongside those of the 23rd Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, in support
of numerous exercises and missions, showcasing the US commitment to
security and stability throughout the Pacific.
"Having the F-22 here deters and dissuades potential adversaries
and assures our regional partners and allies within the region,"
said General Ruhlman. "The F-22 Raptor represents a key element of
the Air Force's contribution to joint military operations with
unquestionable world class air dominance upon which all joint
forces rely."
Being deployed to Andersen provides Airmen with the 90th EFS
many unique opportunities.
"Many of our younger pilots don't get the opportunity to drop
many live weapons during training in Alaska, and with the ranges
and opportunities they have here at Andersen, many of them will get
the valuable experience required to truly be air dominant," said
Lt. Col. Orlando Sanchez, 90th EFS commander. "We will also get the
chance to participate in many of the joint exercises, and get that
experience to see how other services operate."
F-22s are the Air Forces newest and most advanced fighter,
combining stealth, maneuverability, supercruise capability and
superior avionics to provide the US with unmatched air
dominance.
"These aircraft take the air superiority of the F-15 (Eagle) to
the next level, ensuring that the US maintains air dominance," said
Maj. Chad Newkirk, an Air Force Reserve F-22 pilot assigned to the
90th EFS.
One of the biggest challenges the aircraft face while deployed
here is the climate, according to the squadron commander.
"These jets are still young, and it will be interesting to see
how they react to the dramatic climate differences between Alaska
and Guam." Colonel Sanchez said. "Our maintainers are the best, and
they know what it takes to keep these birds in the air."