C-17s conduct 4-ship airdrop training

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Shane A. Cuomo
  • Air Force Print News
HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii (AFPN) --  It's not uncommon to see a lone C-17 Globemaster in the skies over Oahu flying a training mission. To see four flying in formation is another thing all together.
C-17 aircrews from the 535th Airlift Squadron conducted multi-element airdrop training over the Kahuku training range Aug. 13 allowing aircrew members to maintain currency while increasing proficiency and capability. 

"We've only conducted two other four ship formations here, both in 2006, " said Lt. Col. Scott Shapiro, 535th Airlift Squadron commander. "So, to get four jets for local training is a big deal," he said. 

Airdrop currency is crucial to 535th AS pilots and loadmasters in meeting on-going and future airdrop exercise requirements. According to Col. Shapiro, it gives aircrews the edge for potential real-world tasking in and outside the Pacific Command area of responsibility. 

In order to meet multi-element currency and lead upgrade requirements, an airdrop pilot must perform them in the aircraft. To best meet these currency and performance requirements at least four aircraft are desired to create two 2-ship elements. 

There are currently 19 airdrop aircraft commanders assigned or attached to the 535th. Of those, ten maintain lead-airdrop pilot certifications. In orders to maintain currency and proficiency as an airdrop aircraft commander or lead airdrop pilot, multi-element station keeping equipment and visual formation procedures are required semi-annually. Additionally, pilots in the lead airdrop upgrade certification require multi two element formation flights to complete training. 

"This training is critical for our C-17 aircrew members to stay fully qualified and proficient; and gives the 15th Airlift Wing the opportunity to fully deploy the airdrop capabilities of the aircraft, said Maj. Matt Zehr, a pilot with the 535th.