PACAF (Pacific Air Forces) Red Shirt/Farm Club: a New Look

摘要

Remote flying locations have always had to contend with adversity. Close proximity to potential threats, extreme weather conditions and high personnel turnover are all factors that affect the unit's ability to maintain combat capability. Aircrew training is the key to combat capability and, at remote locations, the training load is three times that of a CONUS unit. In addition, personnel policy requires that every unit receive its fair share of new UPT/RTU graduates to train. This extra load on remote units results in extensive resources dedicated to initial training of pilots. This project proposes an assignment program that would reduce amount of Mission Qualification Training at remote locations while providing the opportunity to increase combat capability without adversely affecting the overall assignment system or training program in the tactical air forces. The report recommends implementing a 4-year controlled tour for new inexperienced fighter pilots going to remote flying locations. The proposal includes one year at a CONUS TAC base for initial training, one year at a remote base, then a return to the original TAC base for the remaining two years. Combat capability at remote flying locations would be given the best opportunity to improve with the reduced training requirements while adverse effects on the personnel and training systems would be minimal.