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Airman Aerials 2022

Published Dec. 19, 2022
By AIRMAN Staff
Airman Magazine

Since its early days as a service, the Air Force has embraced technological advances in air and space capabilities and played an integral role as a global airpower.

Every day, Airmen and Air Force civilians around the globe document that display of airpower.

Each year, Airman Magazine creates "Airman Aerials", a photographic art gallery, to honor their efforts by featuring some of the best aerial photography from around the service in the previous 12 months.

Airman Aerials — Maj. Joshua Gunderson, F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team commander and pilot, performs during the Orlando Air and Space Show at the Orlando Sanford International Airport, Fla., Oct. 30, 2022. The F-22A is a fifth-generation fighter incorporating fourth-generation technology, heightened maneuvering capabilities, the ability to fly at supersonic speed without afterburners and enhanced pilot situational awareness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Joshua Hastings)

Airman Aerials — A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer assigned to the 37th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., undergoes post-flight maintenance at Andersen AFB, Guam, after completing a Bomber Task Force mission, Oct. 27, 2022. BTF missions demonstrate lethality and interoperability in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Yosselin Campos)

Airman Aerials — The Thunderbirds, the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, flying their F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft, perform precision aerial maneuvers during the 2022 Aerospace Valley Open House, Air Show and STEM Expo at Edwards Air Force Base, California on Oct. 14-16.

Airman Aerials — A U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle aircraft assigned to the 335th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron conducts aerial refueling operations in the U.S. Air Forces Central area of responsibility Oct 13, 2022. The 335 EFS delivers airpower and showcases U.S. commitment to deterrence and regional stability. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Daniel Asselta)

Airman Aerials — A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron flies alongside two Polish F-16s in formation during the NATO Air Shielding media day, Oct. 12, 2022, at Łask Air Base, Poland. The event showcased the importance of NATO’s Air Shielding mission and the interoperability among the U.S. and NATO allies to international media through trilateral aerial demonstrations and interviews with service members. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Danielle Sukhlall)

Airman Aerials — A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron flies alongside two Polish F-16s in formation during the NATO Air Shielding media day, Oct. 12, 2022 at Łask Air Base, Poland. The Raptors uphold the Air Shielding mission alongside Polish F-16s and Italian Eurofighter Typhoons. The event showcased the importance of NATO’s Air Shielding mission and the interoperability among the U.S. and NATO Allies to international media through trilateral aerial demonstrations and interviews with service members. The U.S. remains dedicated to our security commitments with our NATO Alliance and postured to defend NATO territory. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sergeant Danielle Sukhlall)

Airman Aerials — A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron flies alongside two Polish F-16s in formation during the NATO Air Shielding media day, Oct. 12, 2022 at Łask Air Base, Poland. The Raptors uphold the Air Shielding mission alongside Polish F-16s and Italian Eurofighter Typhoons. The event showcased the importance of NATO’s Air Shielding mission and the interoperability among the U.S. and NATO Allies to international media through trilateral aerial demonstrations and interviews with service members. The U.S. remains dedicated to our security commitments with our NATO Alliance and postured to defend NATO territory. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sergeant Danielle Sukhlall)

Airman Aerials — A CV-22 Osprey from the 21st Special Operations Squadron flies in support of exercise Resolute Dragon 22 over Kamifurano Maneuver Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Oct. 11, 2022. Resolute Dragon 22 is an annual bilateral exercise designed to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the U.S.-Japan alliance by exercising integrated command and control, targeting, combined arms and maneuver across multiple domains. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jessica Avallone)

Airman Aerials — Special tactics Airmen from the 24th Special Operations Wing are hoisted into a UH-1N Huey provided by Fairchild Air Force Base at Long Lake, Wash., Oct. 6, 2022. The Airmen used the opportunity to test for their medical evacuation and water operations certification. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Morgan Dailey)

Airman Aerials — A special operations Airman rappels from a MH-139A Grey Wolf Oct. 6, 2022, at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. This was the first test of the fast rope system and rappelling on the new aircraft since the Air Force took ownership Aug. 12. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Blake Wiles)

Airman Aerials — The 412th Test Wing launched 419 Flight Test Squadron’s B-1B Lancer from Edwards Air Force Base, California, to conduct a flyover during NFL Monday Night Football’s San Francisco 49ers vs Los Angeles Rams game at Levi's Stadium, October 3.

Airman Aerials — An F-16 Fighting Falcon with the Viper Demonstration Team at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., lines up with a KC-135 Stratotanker from Altus AFB, Okla., to receive fuel Sept. 29, 2022. An F-16 holds 450 gallons, or about 3,060 pounds of fuel. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kayla Christenson)

Airman Aerials — The United States Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, known as the Thunderbirds, perform at the Frontiers in Flight Open House and Air Show on McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas, Sept. 25, 2022. The Thunderbirds represent the pride, precision and professionalism of 695,000 total force American Airmen across the globe. (Courtesy photo)

Airman Aerials — A P-51D Mustang and F-22 Raptor participate in a traditional "Heritage Flight" during the 2022 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 24, 2022. The theme for the 2022 MCAS Miramar Air Show, “Marines Fight, Evolve and Win,” reflects the Marine Corps’ ongoing modernization efforts to prepare for future conflicts. (U.S. Air Force photo by Adam Bowles)

Airman Aerials — A KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing departs from MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 23, 2022. Air Mobility Command manages an inventory of more than 480 Stratotankers which are used for aerial refueling and airlift missions. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster)

Airman Aerials — An F-35A Lightning II, flown by Maj. Kristin Wolfe, F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team commander, performs aerial displays during the Joint Base Andrews 2022 Air and Space Expo, at JBA, Md., Sept. 18, 2022. Wolfe demonstrated several difficult maneuvers throughout her performance at the expo, providing an opportunity for people to see U.S. military air capabilities in action. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Isabelle Churchill)

Airman Aerials — The U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, perform an aerial demonstration during the Air & Space Expo at Joint Base Andrews, Md., Sept. 17, 2022. The team performs precision aerial maneuvers demonstrating the capabilities of Air Force high performance aircraft to people around the world. (U.S. Air Force photo by Dean Markos)

Airman Aerials — An A-10 Thunderbolt II assigned to the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron, flies over the Nevada Test and Training Range, Nev., during a weapons evaluation mission Sept. 15, 2022. The A-10 offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Makenna Gott)

Airman Aerials — A B-1B Lancer assigned to the 7th Bomb Wing at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, sits on the flightline at Eielson AFB, Alaska, during the Baked Alaskan exercise, Sept. 9, 2022. During the exercise, Dyess AFB Airmen and reserve mission partners deployed two B-1s from home station to Eielson AFB where they tested fly-away communication kits, conducted routine maintenance and armament reloading, and integrated with a variety of joint force aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Colin Hollowell)

Airman Aerials — An A-10 Thunderbolt II, from Idaho National Guard’s 124th Fighter Wing, performs a strafing run during the Hawgsmoke 2022 gunnery competition at the Saylor Creek Bombing Range, south of Mountain Home, Idaho, Sept. 8, 2022. The competition traces its heritage back to 1949 and the Gunsmoke gunnery competition. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Joshua C. Allmaras)

Airman Aerials — An Air Force Global Strike Command unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile launches during an operational test Sept. 7, 2022, at Vandenberg Space Force Base, Calif. ICBM test launches demonstrate that the U.S. ICBM fleet is relevant, essential and key to leveraging dominance in an era of strategic competition. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Ryan Quijas)

Airman Aerials — U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles, assigned to the 335th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, fly alongside Saudi Arabian Air Force F-15E aircraft during an Agile Combat Employment exercise within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, Sept. 5, 2022. Joint training enhances international partnership and interoperability in the interest of regional security. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Christian Sullivan)

Airman Aerials — The U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron “the Thunderbirds” perform an aerial demonstration at the KC Air Show in Gardner, Kan., Sept. 2, 2022. The Thunderbirds are scheduled to perform nearly 70 shows this year across more than 30 show sites around the world. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Andrew D. Sarver)

Airman Aerials — Staff Sgt. Erik Carlson, 58th Rescue Squadron pararescue team leader, ensures pararescuemen exit the aircraft at the correct time to ensure landing on target over Spring Valley, during routine jump training at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., Aug. 31, 2022. The Airmen train regularly to ensure when they are called to do their job, every member of the team can perform at their peak. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Zachary Rufus)

Airman Aerials — A F-22 Raptor pilot with the Demonstration Team from Joint Base Langley-Eustis receives fuel from a KC-135R Stratotanker with the 155th Air Refueling Wing, Aug. 25, 2022. F-22 pilots received fuel from the 173rd Air Refueling Squadron in order to arrive and prepare for their air show in South Padre Island, Texas. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Alexander D. Schriner)

Airman Aerials — A F-22 Raptor with the Demonstration Team from Joint Base Langley-Eustis flies next to a KC-135R Stratotanker with the 155th Air Refueling Wing, Aug. 25, 2022, during an air refueling. F-22 pilots received fuel from the 173rd Air Refueling Squadron in order to arrive and prepare for their air show in South Padre Island, Texas. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Alexander D. Schriner)

Airman Aerials — A C-17 Globemaster III from the 305th Air Mobility Wing, and its associate reserve unit the 514th AMW, based at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., dispenses flares during a resupply mission with a low-level ingress into a hostile location while responding to simulated surface to air missiles fired by an enemy at Bollen Range on Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., Aug. 22, 2002. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Jon Dahms)

Airman Aerials — U.S. Army paratroopers assigned to the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division, also known as Arctic Angels, conduct airborne operations at Malemute drop zone after exiting an Air Force C-17 Globemaster III at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Aug. 24, 2022. Training jumps allow the Arctic Angels to stay proficient at their primary function — being a joint forcible entry unit, able to respond and project power across the Pacific within 18 hours. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Patrick Sullivan)

Airman Aerials — An F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 64th Aggressor Squadron, flies over the Nevada Test and Training Range during a routine training mission at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., Aug. 15, 2022. The principal testament to the value of the aggressor program is the consistent dominance of the U.S. Air Force during recent conflicts. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Zachary Rufus)

Airman Aerials — The “Wall of Fire” explodes behind two U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors during the Joint Air-Ground Task Force Demonstration as part of the 2022 Kaneohe Bay Air Show at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Aug. 13, 2022. The air show provided an opportunity to demonstrate the capabilities of a joint force in the Indo-Pacific Region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Arianna Lindheimer)

Airman Aerials — A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor departs after receiving fuel from a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker over Poland, Aug. 10, 2022. The NATO Air Shielding mission provides a near-seamless shield from the Baltic to Black Seas, ensuring NATO Allies are better able to safeguard and protect alliance territory, populations and forces from air and missile threat. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Kevin Long)

Airman Aerials — An MQ-9 Reaper sits on the 361 Expeditionary Attack Squadron flightline at an undisclosed location, Aug. 6, 2022. The MQ-9 is an unmanned aircraft capable of remote controlled or autonomous flight. The 361 EAS operates the aircraft in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Jim Bentley)

Airman Aerials — Four U.S. Air Force T-38A Talons assigned to the 2nd Fighter Training Squadron fly over the Florida Panhandle, Aug. 6, 2022. The 2nd FTS, stationed at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., provides air-to-air threat replication in support of combat and formal training units. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Betty R. Chevalier)

Airman Aerials — The U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, perform for the Abbotsford International Air Show in Abbotsford, British Colombia, Aug. 5, 2022. The air show is one of two stops the Thunderbirds will make in Canada during the 2022 show season. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Andrew D. Sarver)

Airman Aerials — An A-10 Thunderbolt II from the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron, Nellis Air Force Base, flies over the Nevada Test and Training Range, Nev., Aug. 3, 2022. The NTTR provides the warfighter a flexible, realistic and multidimensional battlespace to conduct testing tactics development, and advanced training in support of U.S. national interests. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Trevor Bell)

Airman Aerials — An F-35A Lightning II arrives at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., Aug. 1, 2022. The aircraft is the first of six F-35s the 461st Flight Test Squadron and F-35 Lightning II Integrated Test Force will receive in the next few years. The upgraded fleet will be used to test the Technical Refresh 3 and Block 4 configurations of the Air Force’s newest fighter that will create tactical and operational advantages over peer competitors. (U.S. Air Force photo by Chase Kohler)

Airman Aerials — Two U.S. Air Force MC-130J Commando IIs fly behind a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker during a training mission over the North Sea, July 21, 2022. The Commando II flies a variety of low-level air refueling missions for special operations aircraft, while also supporting infiltration, exfiltration and resupply of special operations forces. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Kevin Long)

Airman Aerials — Two U.S. Air Force B-2 Spirits assigned to the 509th Bomb Wing, Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., fly a Bomber Task Force mission alongside two Royal Australian Air Force F-35A Lightning IIs during exercise Koolendong 22 over Royal Australia Air Force Base Curtin, Australia, July 18, 2022. The exercise is a combined and joint force training focused on expeditionary advanced base operations conducted by U.S. service members and Australian Defence Force personnel. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Dylan Nuckolls)

Airman Aerials — A U.S. Air Force pilot with the 510th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron adjusts his oxygen mask after boarding an F-16 Fighting Falcon at 86th Air Base, Romania, July 12, 2022. The 510th EFS deployed from Aviano Air Base, Italy, to support NATO’s Enhanced Air Policing operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Nathan Lipscomb)

Airman Aerials — A Republic of Korea air force KA-1 Woongbi flies alongside two 25th Fighter Squadron A-10 Thunderbolt IIs during Buddy Squadron 22-5 at Wonju Air Base, South Korea, July 12, 2022. The exercise was the first of its kind since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic for pilots, maintenance technicians and support personnel to build trust, introduce new tactics and exchange ideas. (Courtesy photo by South Korea air force Senior Master Sgt. Hyung Kwon)

Airman Aerials — A U.S. Air Force CV-22 Osprey and MC-130J Commando II conduct a tiltrotor air-to-air refueling exercise near Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, July 8, 2022. TAAR utilizes the Osprey’s tiltrotor capabilities, combining vertical flight qualities with fuel efficiency and speed. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Gary Hilton)

Airman Aerials — Brad Bollig, a LIFT team member, secures a battery to one of the Hexa’s motors, July 6, 2022, before its first flight at a military airfield at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., July 7, 2022. The electric, vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, which used 18 motors and propellors, flew for approximately 10 minutes and reached a height of about 50 feet with the Hexa team operating it via remote control. (U.S. Air Force photo by Samuel King Jr.)

Airman Aerials — A B-52H Stratofortress sits on the flightline at Minot Air Force Base, N.D., July 7, 2022. The B-52H can achieve speeds up to 650 mph and cover an 8,800 mile operating range, giving the U.S. and its allies unique fighting capabilities and flexibility. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Michael A. Richmond)

Airman Aerials — Fireworks explode behind a C-130J Super Hercules at Yokota Air Base, Japan, July 4, 2022. The fireworks show was part of the Independence Day celebration hosted by the 374th Force Support Squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo by Machiko Arita)

Airman Aerials — A 413th Flight Test Squadron UH-1 Huey picks up a bucket of water from Anderson Pond during a training mission at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., June 28, 2022. The water bucket operations training is required for flight crews to maintain their firefighting proficiencies. The 413th FLTS helicopters can be tasked by the 96th Test Wing to supporting with fire management. (U.S. Air Force photo by Samuel King Jr.)

Airman Aerials — Lt. Col. Ralph Shoukry greets the audience before the Optical Bar Camera's final flight out of the 9th Reconnaissance Wing at Beale Air Force Base, Calif., June 24, 2022. Although the OBC will no longer reside at Beale, U-2 Lady Dragon pilots will retain the knowledge and skills to employ the sensor through a variety of mission sets and operation locations around the world. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Colville McFee)

Airman Aerials — An F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the 335th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron conducts aerial refueling operations in the U.S. Air Forces Central area of responsibility, June 22, 2022. The 335th EFS delivers airpower and showcases U.S. commitment to deterrence and regional stability. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Matthew Plew)

Airman Aerials — A B-1B Lancer, assigned to the 34th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, flies over the Pacific Ocean during a Bomber Task Force mission, June 20, 2022. Bomber Task Force missions provide opportunities to train alongside allies and partners building interoperability and bolstering collective ability in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Nicholas Priest)

Airman Aerials — A B-1B Lancer assigned to 34th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron takes off from Andersen Air Force Base, Guam to join the Royal Australian Air Force for a Bomber Task Force mission, June 20, 2022. Bomber Task Force missions provide opportunities to train alongside allies and partners to build interoperability and bolster the collective ability to support a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Air Force photo by 2nd Lt. Michael Caggiano)

Airman Aerials — Maj. Josh Gunderson, F-22 Demonstration Team commander, and Stuart Milson, Air Force Heritage Flight Foundation P-51 Mustang pilot, fly in formation during the Midsouth Airshow in Millington, Tenn., June 17, 2022. The Air Force Heritage Flight Foundation highlights U.S. Air Force air power history and memorializes those who have served by providing approximately 60 events around the world annually. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Don Hudson)

Airman Aerials — The U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, pass over spectators during the Ocean City Air Show in Ocean City, Md., June 10, 2022. The Thunderbirds are scheduled to perform nearly 70 air shows in almost three dozen locations during the 2022 season. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Andrew D. Sarver)

Airman Aerials — A C-130J Super Hercules flies over central Arkansas during a formation flight, June 1, 2022. The formation was led by the 61st Airlift Squadron, which is a flying squadron assigned to world's largest C-130 unit, the 19th Airlift Wing. (U.S. Air Force photo by 1st Lt. Charles Rivezzo)

Airman Aerials — The United States Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, known as the Thunderbirds, fly over Indianapolis Motor Speedway during the opening ceremonies of the 106th running of the Indy 500 in Indianapolis, Ind., May 28, 2022. This was the second time in Indy 500 history that the Thunderbirds provided the flyover for the opening ceremonies. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Andrew D. Sarver)

Airman Aerials — An AC-130 gunship is refueled by a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 50th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, May 27, 2022. Aerial refueling is the process of transferring fuel from a military tanker aircraft to another military aircraft, including fixed-wing jets and helicopters. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Matthew Plew)

Airman Aerials — A spectator climbs a rock wall during the 2022 Thunder Over Dover Airshow at Dover Air Force Base, Del., May 22, 2022. The airshow gave visitors the opportunity to see Air Force aircraft spanning the last 75 years and enabled them to talk face-to-face with military personnel about how they execute and sustain rapid global mobility every day. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. J.D. Strong II)

Airman Aerials — A 353rd Special Operations Support Squadron Deployed Aircraft Ground Response Element team member fast-ropes out of an HH-60G Pave Hawk at Kadena Air Base, Japan, May 16, 2022. This training started with controlled fast roping operations in a rappel tower, followed by helicopter iterations with and without equipment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Stephen Pulter)

Airman Aerials — Maj. Kristin Wolfe, F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team commander and lead pilot, showcases the unique aerial capabilities of the U.S. Air Force’s most advanced fifth-generation, multi-role stealth fighter during Wings Over Solano at Travis Air Force Base, Calif., May 15, 2022. The open house and air show provided an opportunity for the local community to interact directly with Travis AFB and its Airmen. (U.S. Air Force photo by Nicholas Pilch)

Airman Aerials — U.S. Air Force operators with the 492nd Special Operations Wing conduct a free-fall jump mission out of the back of an MC-130J Commando II assigned to the 27th Special Operations Wing during an Emerald Warrior 22.1 mission over Eglin Range, Fla., May 4, 2022. Emerald Warrior is the largest joint special operations exercise involving U.S. Special Operations Command forces training to respond to various threats across the spectrum of conflict. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Harrison Winchell)

Airman Aerials — Staff Sgt. Caleb Nicola, 9th Special Operations Squadron loadmaster, and Senior Airman Albert Washington, 9th SOS direct support operator, prepare for a static-line jump mission from an MC-130J Commando II during exercise Emerald Warrior 22.1 over the Gulf of Mexico, May 4, 2022. Emerald Warrior is the largest joint special operations exercise involving U.S. Special Operations Command forces training to respond to various threats across the spectrum of conflict. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Harrison Winchell)

Airman Aerials — A California Air National Guard C-130J Super Hercules assigned to the 146th Airlift Wing flies a training route during the 2022 Modular Airborne Firefighting Systems Spring Training in Boise, Idaho, April 29, 2022. The MAFFS units are training to support USDA Forest Service-National Interagency Fire Center requests for fire suppression support. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Thomas Cox)

Airman Aerials — F-16 Vipers from the 55th Fighter Squadron fly over Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, April 27, 2022. The 55th Fighter Squadron and Fighter Generation Squadron returned from a six-month deployment supporting U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Madeline Herzog)

Airman Aerials — A combat controller with the Kentucky Air National Guard’s 123rd Special Tactics Squadron jumps from a Kentucky Air Guard C-130J Super Hercules for a parachute demonstration during the Thunder Over Louisville air show at Louisville, Ky., April 23, 2022. Members of the 123rd STS kicked off the show by jumping with banners for the United States of America and Kentucky. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Clayton Wear)

Airman Aerials — A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II performs maneuvers during The Great Texas Airshow, Apr. 22, 2022, at JBSA-Randolph, Texas. The Great Texas Airshow, featuring the Thunderbirds, is scheduled for April 23 thru 24 at JBSA-Randolph. The Thunderbirds perform for people all around the world to display the pride, precision and professionalism the U.S. Air Force represents. Through air shows and flyovers, they aim to excite and inspire. In addition to showcasing the elite skills all pilots must possess, the Thunderbirds demonstrate the incredible capabilities of the Air Force's premier multi-role fighter jet, the F-16 Fighting Falcon. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tristin English)

Airman Aerials — The United States Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron "Thunderbirds" perform a series of high show demonstrations during the Great Texas Airshow April 22 - 24, 2022, at Joint Base San Antonio, Texas. Along with this year marking the Air Force’s 75th anniversary, Joint Base San Antonio was celebrating the 80th birthday of Air Education and Training Command. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Nicolas A. Myers)

Airman Aerials — A KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 168th Air Refueling Wing refuels F-22 Raptors from the 3rd Wing alongside F-15 Eagles from the 144th Fighter Wing over the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex, Alaska, April 18, 2022. The aircraft trained together as part of Alaska Dissimilar Aircraft Combat Training. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Charles Vaughn)

Airman Aerials — Two F-35A Lighting IIs assigned to the 354th Fighter Wing fly over Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex, April 14, 2022. The F-35As assigned to Eielson Air Force Base will join a team of joint and international partners in the Indo-Pacific theater, modernizing defense capabilities in the region and enabling international interoperability. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jose Miguel T. Tamondong)

Airman Aerials — An F-15D Eagle assigned to the 67th Fighter Squadron is prepared in a hangar before departing for RED FLAG-Alaska at Kadena Air Base, Japan, April 15, 2022. RED FLAG-Alaska is a Pacific Air Forces directed field training exercise focused on improving the combat readiness of U.S. and international forces and provides training for units preparing for air and space expeditionary force tasking. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Sebastian Romawac)

Airman Aerials — A T-38 Talon and two F-35 Lightning IIs fly in formation over Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., April 5, 2022, during exercise Agile Tiger. The exercise promoted resilience and competitiveness for today's complex challenges. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Joseph Garcia)

Airman Aerials — The Hexa, an electric, vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, hovers in the air during its first test flight April 4 at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. The Hexa team completed the aircraft’s first unmanned flight test via remote control. The aircraft, which used 18 motors and propellors, flew for approximately 10 minutes and reached a height of about 50 feet. (U.S. Air Force photo/Samuel King Jr.)

Airman Aerials — Three B-2 Spirit stealth bombers assigned to the 509th Bomb Wing, take off from Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, April 4, 2022. The stealth bombers integrated with B-1 Lancers from Ellsworth AFB and Dyess AFB, as part of Exercise Agile Tiger. Agile Tiger tests the ability to equip, sustain, move and maneuver deliberately trained Airmen across a network of bases to complicate adversary targeting, preserve combat power, and fight from a position of advantage. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Victoria Hommel)

Airman Aerials — Maj. Kristin Wolfe, F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team pilot and commander, flies at the Wings over South Texas air show at Naval Air Station Kingsville, Texas, April 2, 2022. The F-35A Demo Team is an Air Combat Command single-ship jet demonstration team that travels to air shows across the country. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Codie Trimble)

Airman Aerials — A C-17 Globemaster III assigned to Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., takes off from a runway during Exercise Rainier War 22A at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, March 18, 2022. The exercise is designed to demonstrate the wing’s ability to operate and survive while defeating challenges to the U.S. military advantage in all operating domains — air, land, sea and cyberspace. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Charles Casner)

Airman Aerials — A B-52H Stratofortress assigned to the 69th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron at Royal Air Force Fairford, United Kingdom, flies over the Arctic Sea, March 16, 2022. The BTF integrated with allies in North America to demonstrate the bomber’s ability to operate over long ranges. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Wright)

Airman Aerials — Maj. John Appleby and BETA test pilot Camron Guthrie are pictured in the in the ALIA cockpit, mid-flight test, at BETA’s Plattsburgh, N.Y., hangar and testing facility, March 14, 2022. Appleby was one of two U.S. Air Force pilots to fly an electric aircraft with a military airworthiness for the first time. (BETA Technologies photo by Brian Jenkins)

Airman Aerials — Airman 1st Class Lillian Oliver, a KC-135 Stratotanker in-flight refueling specialist assigned to the 97th Air Refueling Squadron, refuels a 180th Fighter Wing F-16 Fighting Falcon during U.S. Northern Command’s Exercise Arctic Edge 2022 over Northern Alaska, March 11, 2022. AE22 is a biennial homeland defense exercise designed to provide high quality and effective joint training in austere cold weather conditions. The F-16 is a compact, multirole fighter aircraft that is highly maneuverable and delivers airpower for the United States. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Trevor T. McBride)

Airman Aerials — Two F-16 Fighting Falcons assigned to the 64th Aggressor Squadron fly past downtown Las Vegas, Nev., following exercise aerial combat operations during Red Flag-Nellis 22-2 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., March 9, 2022. Red Flag-Nellis 22-2 is an exercise demonstrating tactical integration of airpower from the U.S. and its primary allies. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Alexandre Montes)

Airman Aerials — A U.S. B-52H Stratofortress assigned to the 69th Bomb Squadron at Royal Air Force Fairford, United Kingdom, flies over the Alpine Mountains during a Bomber Task Force operation, March 7, 2022. The operations are predetermined deployments with NATO partners and allies to demonstrate and strengthen the shared commitment to global security and stability. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Wright)

Airman Aerials — F-22 Raptors assigned to the Hawaii Air National Guard 199th Fighter Squadron and 19th Fighter Squadron, are staged on the flightline of Marine Corps Base Kaneohe, Hawaii, March 3, 2022, during Agile Combat Employment exercise Hoʻoikaika. ACE is an operational concept that leverages networks of well-established and austere air bases, multi-capable Airmen, pre-positioned equipment, and airlift to rapidly deploy, disperse and maneuver combat capability throughout a theater. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by 2nd Lt. James Ro)

Airman Aerials — U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Lance Lynch and Senior Airman Gregory Hogle, 96th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chiefs, conduct a pre-flight inspection on a B-52H Stratofortress prior to takeoff from Andersen Air Force, Guam, to support a bomber mission, March 4, 2022. The missions contribute to joint force lethality and deter aggression in the Indo-Pacific by demonstrating the ability to operate anywhere in the world at any time. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jonathan E. Ramos)

Airman Aerials — A formation of F-15C/D Eagles assigned to the 44th and 67th Fighter Squadrons, a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 909th Air Refueling Squadron, an E-3 Sentry assigned to the 961st Airborne Air Control Squadron, and an HH-60 Pavehawk assigned to the 33rd Rescue Squadron taxi during a routine wing readiness exercise at Kadena Air Base, Japan, March 2, 2022. Similar training is routinely conducted at U.S. Air Force bases across Japan and around the globe to ensure U.S. Airmen’s readiness to respond to a range of potential contingencies. (U.S. Air Force photo by SSgt Kyle Johnson)

Airman Aerials — Two loadmasters assigned to the 1st Special Operations Squadron prepare to airdrop a memorial wreath over the coast of the Philippines, Feb. 26, 2022. The wreath is dropped over the approximate area where an MC-130E Combat Talon I, assigned to the 1st SOS, call sign STRAY 59, crashed in 1981 during exercise SPECWAREX 81. (U.S. Air Force photo by 1st Lt. Rachael Parks)

Airman Aerials — U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons assigned to the 332d Air Expeditionary Wing break away from behind a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 340th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron above the Red Sea, Feb. 16, 2022. The live fly event with U.S. and regional assets, tested information distribution capabilities during a simulated unmanned aircraft system threat scenario, improving collective counter-UAS capabilities and increasing theater security and stability. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Joseph Pick)

Airman Aerials — An F-35A Lightning II from the 388th Fighter Wing taxis out for launch from Hill Air Force Base, Utah, Feb. 15, 2022. F-35s from the 34th Fighter Squadron deployed to Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, to bolster readiness, enhance NATO's collective defense posture, and further increase air integration capabilities with allied and partner nations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Kip Sumner)

Airman Aerials — An F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the 144th Fighter Wing, approaches a KC-10 Extender assigned to the 60th Air Mobility Wing, to receive fuel so it can continue its security patrol Feb. 13, 2022, above Los Angeles. A KC-10 provides 83,000 pounds of fuel to three F-15E Strike Eagles over the course of Super Bowl LVI, so they can provide security. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Cameron Otte)

Airman Aerials — Maj. Garret Schmitz, F-16C Fighting Falcon pilot with the Viper Demonstration Team from Shaw Air Force Base, flies next to a KC-135R Stratotanker with the 155th Air Refueling Wing, Feb. 8, 2022, during an air refueling near Albuquerque, N.M. F-16 pilots received fuel from the 173rd Air Refueling Squadron in order to arrive and prepare for Super Bowl LVI flyover in Los Angeles, Calif. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Airman 1st Class Alexander D. Schriner)

Airman Aerials — A formation of 4th generation fighter jets from the 40th Flight Test Squadron flies near Eglin Air Force Base, Fla, Jan. 31, 2022. The 40th FLTS executes developmental flight tests for fourth generation fighter aircraft to include the A-10, F-15 and F-16. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. John Raven)

Airman Aerials — U.S. Tech. Sgt. Jean Vega, 55th Rescue Squadron Special Missions Aviator, hoists a survivor into an HH-60G Pave Hawk as part of a civilian search and rescue simulation in Flagstaff, Arizona, Jan. 25, 2022. The 55th RQS forward deployed to an austere location in high elevation to perform simulated combat search and rescue missions in an arctic like environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kaitlyn Ergish)

Airman Aerials — AU.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon flies alongside the Israeli Air Force during Desert Falcon in Israel, Jan. 16, 2022. Desert Falcon is a joint international exercise in which the Israeli and U.S. aircrews flew wing-to-wing and trained for various aerial scenarios and strikes. (Courtesy photo of Israeli Air Force)

Airman Aerials — A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon pilot assigned to the 480th Fighter Squadron at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, flies over Poland during a Close Air Support exercise Jan. 10, 2022. During CAS exercises, pilots communicate on the ground to Joint Terminal Attack Controllers to plan and execute simulated air strikes. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Ali Stewart)

Airman Aerials — U.S. Air Force Pararescuemen from the 57th Rescue Squadron static line jumps over Aviano Air Base, Italy, Jan. 12, 2022. The mission of the 57th RQS is personnel recovery, combat search and rescue. The Airmen perform various trainings to ensure they can accomplish their mission sets. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Thomas S. Keisler IV)

Airman Aerials — The United States Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron "Thunderbirds" practice during the team's inaugural winter training trip January 20, 2021 at Spaceport America, New Mexico. This trip provides the team a month of airshow practice in different conditions and terrains. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Nicolas Myers)

Airman Aerials — A U.S. Air Force pararescueman with the 31st Rescue Squadron jumps out of an HH-60G Pave Hawk from the 33rd Rescue Squadron during exercise Cope North 22 at the Island of Tinian near Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Feb. 14, 2022. Japanese and U.S. Air Force members trained together in participation of Cope North 2022, multilateral U.S. Pacific Air Forces-sponsored field training exercise conducted annually at Andersen AFB, Guam focused on combat air forces’ large-force employment and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief training to enhance interoperability among U.S., Australian, and Japanese forces. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Joseph P. LeVeille)

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