Starting July 28, the first F-16 Fighting Falcons relocated from Kunsan Air Base to Osan AB marking a major step in preparation for the continuation of the U.S. Air Force's Super Squadron Test. These F-16s are the first of many being temporarily re-assigned to Osan AB for Phase II of the test, the temporary transfer supporting Seventh Air Force's efforts to maximize capabilities and increase combat effectiveness on the Korean Peninsula.
"Osan is receiving additional F-16s as part of the Air Force's Super Squadron Test Part II initiative, which is a force-optimization test designed to see if a larger, consolidated squadron can generate more combat power and operate more efficiently," said Capt. Bryce Hughes, 51st Maintenance Group Officer and Sortie Generation Flight commander.
Over the next several months, approximately 31 F-16s and 1,000 Airmen will be re-assigned from Kunsan AB to Osan AB in time for the start of Phase II, beginning in October 2025. To complement these efforts, maintainers already assigned to Osan AB are also integrating with the 36th Fighter Generation Squadron to learn how to maintain the F-16s and help maximize combat airpower generation.
"It's truly impressive how our Airmen have been able to adjust," said Senior Master Sgt. Jason Thomas, 51st Maintenance Group Sortie Generation Flight chief. "I hear a lot about concepts like Multi-Capable Airmen or Mission Ready Airmen, but our Airmen are truly making the concept a reality."
Phase I of the test began in October 2024, bringing nine F-16s and 150 Airmen to the 36th Fighter Squadron and FGS at Osan AB. Phase II of the test is expected to continue through October 2026, capitalizing on data from the first phase and assessing focus areas like maintenance, manpower and logistics requirements at a larger scale.
Throughout the test, the 51st Fighter Wing will continue to maintain Osan AB's "Fight Tonight" defensive posture, while working to capitalize on opportunities to increase combat readiness and expand bilateral training with the Republic of Korea Air Force.
"We're working hand-in-hand with the Wolfpack to ensure a smooth transition of both personnel and equipment in preparation for Phase II," said Col. Ryan Ley, 51st Fighter Wing commander. "The 51st Fighter Wing is leading the charge on the Super Squadron Test. I'm proud of what the Mustangs have accomplished already, and I look forward to testing the limits of what we can do over the next year."
