OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- The 51st Fighter Wing completed it’s first-ever wing combat agility verification at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Dec. 8, 2023.
Various units around the base wrapped up a week’s worth of academics, mission planning and simulations by presenting their knowledge and mission strategies to 51st FW command teams,
earning their respective verification status.
“The process involved 20 verifiers and 15 mentors,” said Maj. Christina Rodrigues, 51st Logistics Readiness Squadron director of operations. “Each function is critical in allowing the 51st FW to execute combat sorties and all the verifiers learned a little about how different functions play a role in the bigger picture and how important they all are.”
The primary objective identified how the wing can effectively execute aircraft dispersal to increase survivability and continue to project airpower against an adversary no matter the situation or location.
In this unique verification, commanders focused on assessing whether their subject matter experts were adequately prepared for potential combative environments.
“[This verification] was the first of its kind at Osan,” said Rodrigues. “[Subject-matter experts] from all functions across the base, including pilots, intel, maintenance, and mission support Airmen, brought their knowledge together to gameplan a combat agility plan to the 51st FW leaders.”
Following the briefing, the wing, squadron, and group commanders challenged the verifiers with directed questions that required an in-depth knowledge of various topics to affirm their readiness and likelihood of mission success. Feedback was also provided to the participants, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.
Verifiers were then removed for a brief panel discussion to ensure all questions were answered correctly and any inaccuracies were addressed.
Upon their return, Col. William McKibban, the 51st Fighter Wing commander, told the group they had successfully been verified, and proceeded with closing remarks.
“These are the conversations we need to be having,” said McKibban. “These discussions ensure that when the time comes, we are ready to defend the skies over the ROK and execute combat operations in any situation.”
The Wing plans to conduct more combat agility verifications in the future, using the lessons learned to develop innovative ACE experts around the base, and ensure the 51st FW stands ready to fight tonight, anytime, anywhere.