EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- U.S. Navy Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 32 from Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia Beach, Va. conducted F/A-18 Hornet training June 10-21, 2018, at the 33rd Fighter Wing Eglin Air Force Base, Fla.
The purpose of this training is to integrate flight operations with the F/A-18 and the F-35A Lightning II to prepare for joint warfare in the future.
“With F-35s just starting to become operational in the Navy, we are getting an inside look on how to work alongside with them and how they operate,” said Navy Lt. Jeffrey Davis, VFA-32 F/A-18 pilot.
This training familiarizes F/A-18 pilots and maintainers with the F-35 for better communication in different environments.
“This training not only helps the Navy pilots and maintainers, but also teaches our Airmen how to operate in the joint environment,” said Air Force Lt Col Erik Axt, 33d Fighter Wing Director of Staff and F-35A instructor pilot. “Changing the people and the assets we’re working with adds training value for all of us.”
There are challenges that come when training with other military branches, but the integration provides mission essential training necessary to succeed.
“We do things our own way but we are all fighting the same fight,” said Davis.