Dice Troopers from the 90th FS (Fighter Squadron) have returned to JBER (Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson) from a rapid deployment in the Middle East.
Airmen from the 90th Fighter Squadron’s 3rd Wing and 477th Fighter Group have returned from the Middle East after rapid deployment to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Area of Responsibility (AOR).
More than a dozen F-22The aircraft were deployed “to counter threats posed by Iran and Iranian-backed groups to Israeli and U.S. forces in the region” and arrived in the area of responsibility on August 8, 2024. August 6.
December 17 – The U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor fighter jets have returned to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska from the Central Command area of responsibility after rapid deployment since August 8.
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— Ryan Chan 陈家奇 (@kakiuchan.bsky.social) December 18, 2024 10:44 am
In addition to the F-22s, a dozen U.S. Navy F/A-18E Super Hornets and an E-2D from VFA-25 (Strike Fighter Squadron 25) were temporarily transferred from the USS Theodore Roosevelt Muwafak Sarti Air Force Base, Jordan, is operated by the U.S. Air Force’s 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing.
The deployment also demonstrates the U.S. military’s ability to project power and respond quickly to any threats that may arise, and reinforces its commitment to Middle East security.
In fact, it’s the fastest ever F-22 Combat sortie deployment: Fighters arrive in the Central Command area of responsibility within 72 hours after leaving the JBER base in the continental United States.
Lieutenant Colonel Dustin Johnson, 90th Squadron commander said:
“I am extremely proud of what our team accomplished during this deployment, especially given the tight timeline and dynamic strategic situation we arrived in,” he said. The ability” to inform the world at short notice and provide combatant commanders with immediate operational capabilities. “
During its deployment, the aircraft performed a range of missions, including counter-drone systems and anti-cruise missile patrols. The squadron also used master Wide deployment (agile combat deployment) tactics involve rapidly forward deploying large numbers of F-22s, along with some personnel and equipment, to various locations in the region. In fact, F-22 operations span “five operating locations throughout the theater,” according to JBER’s official statement on its website.
Colonel Charles Schuck, 3rd Wing commander, also said he was “extremely proud of the team’s quick and effective response during this deployment” and that “the success of our mission with the F-22 demonstrates that we A strong commitment to safeguarding the security” interests of the United States and its allies in the region. This rapid deployment demonstrates the superior capabilities of our personnel and aircraft, enhancing U.S. presence and deterrence in volatile environments. “
From December 17 to 19, 2024, a total of 12 F-15E Strike Eagles from the 492nd Fighter Squadron, 48th Fighter Wing, returned to RAF Lakenheath, England, along with F-22s. Deployed to the Middle East. Their deployment begins on November 7, 2024. As we reported, the Strike Eagle returns with interesting nose art and battle markings, which you can read here and here.
ACE concept
this master is a strategic concept that improves the Air Force’s resiliency, flexibility and operational effectiveness, especially in contested environments.
The main idea is to spread forces and reduce vulnerability while allowing for rapid, unpredictable deployment in specific threat areas. Instead of operating from large, centralized air bases, it will focus on smaller, dispersed locations that will make it harder for adversaries to target effectively. It is particularly important in modern conflict scenarios where adversaries have sophisticated capabilities to attack large fixed installations.
As highlighted, one of the most critical components of ACE is decentralized operations. Because aircraft and personnel operate within a network of small, austere locations, it makes it difficult for adversaries to focus attacks or predict operations. Its network capabilities and the rapid, almost constant movement of aircraft, equipment and personnel between locations ensure strategic unpredictability. Supplies, equipment and aircraft fuel are also strategically stored at dispersed locations to support ongoing operations without relying on traditional supply lines.
The MCA (Multi-Action Pilot) amplifies this. An MCA is a person who is trained to serve in a variety of roles outside of their primary role, allowing them to form smaller teams. This allows operations centers to be set up quickly with fewer personnel at each location.
master Advanced threats can be countered because assets are spread across multiple bases, making it more difficult for an enemy to wipe out an entire force with a small number of strikes. It also ensures that air operations can continue even if under attack. Additionally, its mobility and unpredictability make it more difficult for potential enemies to plan or react effectively in advance.
3rd Wing’s Groundbreaking Effort 2013 Rapid Raptor Kit Conceptwhich laid the foundation for what later evolved into the current ACE framework. By demonstrating the ability to rapidly deploy a small fleet of F-22s and necessary support within 24 hours, the 3rd Wing demonstrated the value of agility, scalability and minimal logistics footprint, principles that remain at the core of ACE today. Through innovative approaches to forward-deploying advanced airpower while denying adversaries predictable targeting opportunities, the 3rd Wing has helped shape modern doctrine for dispersing and sustaining warfighting capabilities in dynamic environments.
