Kraków 2013-01-01
Lockheed Martin PL F-16 C, D Block 52 + Jastrząb.
315 Section 2006-11-08. Poland.
Fifth and sixth year of operation, from January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2012.
January 4, 2011.
On January 4, 2011, the first flights in the new year were made. These flights were instructor-methodical flights. These were flights intended only for instructors who will train, check and perform instructor flights with subordinate flying personnel this year.
Training of F-16 pilots in the use of night vision goggles – Night Vision Goggles.
On February 2, 2011, pilots of F-16 Block 52+ multi-role aircraft from 31 BLT started training in the use of night vision goggles – Night Vision Goggles. The training consisted of a two-day ground preparation and flights using night vision goggles (NVG). During the ground training, the following topics were discussed: procedures and techniques for using night vision goggles. The pilots were familiarized with special cases in flight with the use of NVG and recovering the aircraft after losing spatial orientation. After theoretical classes, flights on the simulator began. Only the last stage were flights in real conditions. This is the first NVG training for Polish F-16 pilots. Flights using night vision goggles. They will allow optimal use of the F-16 aircraft during night flights. Training flights were performed until the end of April 2011.
Another Polish pilot has exceeded 1,000 hours in the air on the F-16 Block 52+.
On February 8, 2011, during another training flight, Col. drink Dariusz Malinowski, Commander of the 32nd Tactical Air Base, has exceeded 1,000 hours in the F-16 Block 52+ multirole aircraft. We congratulate you and wish you thousands more hours at the helm of Jastrzębie!
Aerial refueling of F-16 aircraft.
On February 17, 2011, the first refueling of F-16 aircraft in 2011 was carried out in Polish airspace. The refueling aircraft was a French KC-135, from the 125th Istre Air Base. A total of twenty-one pilots (thirteen from the 31st BLT and eight from the 32nd BLT) will practice the approach maneuver to air refueling without a real transfer in the north-western zone of Poland.
F-16 exercise from Krzesiny and Łask in Eagle Talon.
In the period from February 15, 2011 to February 18, 2011, eight F-16 aircraft from 31 BLT and four from 32 BLT took part in the cyclical exercise EAGLE TALON, the main objective of which was to check the defense system in the Polish airspace as an integrated element, the NATINADS alliance system. In addition to Polish F-16s, the exercise involved, among others, Su-22 and MiG-29 divided into "Blue" and "Red" Forces. In the exercise, Polish F-16s flew a total of 19 missions with a flight time of 42 hours and 6 minutes.
On March 16, 2011, one of the EAGLE TALON 2011 tasks was held, in which pilots from the 8th Air Transport Base, flying CASA C-295 M aircraft, and F-16 pilots from the units in Krzesiny and Łask took part. As part of the exercise, the C-295 M crew included; crew commander Capt. Jacek KĄDZIOŁKA, second lieutenant Piotr URBANIAK and Warrant Officer Zbigniew ROMANOWSKI performed two missions that simulated an aircraft hijacking. The first flight, during which CASA C-295 M was intercepted as a hijacked plane by two F-16 aircraft from Krzesiny, was performed without radio communication, which made the task much more difficult. The second flight took place with two-way radio communication, and CASA C-295 M was intercepted by F-16 aircraft, this time from Łask. A forced landing of the "hijacked aircraft" was simulated at the indicated airport. CASA C-295 M was brought for a forced landing by two F-16 aircraft. During the exercises, the pilots showed very good piloting skills as well as proper mastery of the applicable procedures.
TLP Tactical Leadership Program in Spain. From March 7, 2011 to April 1, 2011.
In March 2011, the first TLP (Tactical Leadership Programme) trainings in Spain took place this year. The commander of the flight from 31 BLT – Capt. drink Adam Wójcik. In addition, four pilots and about 50 security personnel took part in the training. On March 7, 2011, 4 Polish F-16 aircraft from 31 BLT flew to Spain. For the next two days, the pilots explored their knowledge and learned how to conduct tactical operations in large LFE (Large Force Employment) aviation groups. On March 10, 2011, the process of planning the flight mission began. The main objective of the task was to eliminate the enemy’s headquarters. Several aircraft were involved in the task. Pilots from France, Denmark, Italy and Poland were tasked with determining the amount of armament needed to complete the mission, assessing the number of owned aircraft, enemy air defense resources (i.e. assessing the real threat from the enemy). After collecting the above data, the pilots started coordinating the attack. Fighters were planned for the first line. When they gained control of the air, more planes began to eliminate the enemy’s fortifications. The difficulty level of the missions performed each day was constantly increasing. The tasks became more and more complicated. The second week of stay at the TLP training is a new challenge. A large number of enemy planes, restrictions on the use of weapons imposed by the TTO (TLP Tactical Order), interference with radio correspondence, proved to the pilots that it was not an easy task. The risk level of this mission was very high.
The Tactical Leadership Program is the most difficult, but also the most prestigious "aviation school". Among other things, due to weather conditions, she moved from Florennes (Belgium) to Spain in 2010. This international organization, by definition, is established to develop the ability to use tactics, selection of flight techniques and standardized (NATO) procedures during the implementation of multinational air operations. TLP uses NATO doctrine, but does not belong to its structures or the Spanish Air Force. Poland has the status of a guest and pays for the participation of its pilots in the courses.
Certification of combat duty in 31 BLT. March 8, 2011.
On March 8-9, 2011, at the 31st Tactical Air Base, certification of the dedicated forces and means of the base ready for combat duty took place. Certification is obtaining authorization to perform specific tasks. The team from the Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces checked documents, equipment, equipment, knowledge, practical performance of tasks in the air and readiness to perform Air Policing missions in the NATINADS system. During certification, missions were carried out during which civilian and military aircraft were intercepted (identified and escorted to the designated airport). Obtaining certification for combat duty is the culmination of the efforts of the entire base staff. They will perform these duties from June 2011, thus joining the crews of F-16 aircraft from 32 BLT in Łask and MiG-29, with whom they will perform combat duty.
The commander of the Ukrainian Air Force visited the bases of the 2nd SLT. March 9, 2011.
Both bases of the 2nd Tactical Air Wing, due to modern equipment and purpose, are often an element of cooperation and visits of delegations of the Air Force of various countries. This was also the case on March 9, 2011, during the visit of the Commander of the Ukrainian Air Force together with the delegation. Gen. Sehii ONYSCHENKO at the 31st Tactical Air Base was acquainted with the tasks and structure of the base, equipment of the base’s combat equipment, F-16 C/D, fuel hangar, parachutist and watchtower of the Military Fire Brigade. The climax of the visit was the flight simulator and catapult demonstration. Another element of the meeting in Poland was the flight of the Ukrainian Air Force Commander to the 32nd Tactical Air Base and a visit to the Backbone early warning system post near Łask in Wiewiórczyn.
Tactical Leadership Program training in Albacete. May 2, 2012.
In May 2011, five F-16 multi-role aircraft, seven pilots with security personnel in the number of about 55 people, took part (for the second time) in Spain, in the training under the code name Tactical Leadership Programme. The pilots practiced the planning and execution of air operations with the participation of international coalition forces in accordance with the documents functioning in the NATO Air Forces in the field of (Offensive Counter Air), (Surface Attack Tactics), (Defensive Counter Air). For the first time in the history of the Polish Air Force, Polish MiG-29 crews from the 23rd Tactical Air Base in Mińsk Mazowiecki took part in the TLP training together with Polish F-16 crews. The exercises lasted from May 2, 2011 to May 27, 2011. The commander of the Polish group was Maj. pilot Piotr Osrouch.
Poland had the status of a guest and paid for the participation of its pilots in the courses. Currently, it is created and financed by 9 Member States – Belgium, Denmark, France, Greece, Spain, the Netherlands, USA, UK and Italy. These countries bear the financial costs of TLP functioning and collectively decide on its shape. Because what is most important, what is the pillar and at the same time the strength of the program, is collective action and interoperability.
NATO Tiger Meet.
In May 2011, Polish F-16 crews took part in exercises code-named Tiger Meet. The exercises took place in the French base – Cambrai. They were exceptional, because they were jubilee, held for the 50th time. At that time, Poland had the status of preliminary membership in them. These exercises are not only about perfecting the skill of piloting and commanding, but also the integration of representatives of aviation brothers from different countries. Five Polish F-16 multi-role aircraft at NATO Tiger Meet flew 32 missions with a total flight time of about 84 hours and 55 minutes. A total of over 60 aircraft took part in the exercise, including from France, Turkey, Greece, Portugal, Spain, Austria, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Italy, England. Due to the military operations in Libya, several NATO aircraft canceled their participation.
There was also a unique event for the Polish F-16 crews, because in 1940, in Cambrai, a group of MORANE SAULNIER 406 (MS 406) aircraft was stationed in Cambrai, commanded by a Pole – Capt. pil of Stefan Łaszkiewicz, who scored four confirmed kills during the French campaign.
In celebration of this event, the fuselage tank of one of the Polish F-16 aircraft was decorated with a special foil with the image of the Morane Saunier 406 aircraft, thus referring to these events.
Every year, all participants of the Nato Tiger Meet exercise decorate the planes with occasional painting, which is one of the distinguishing features of these exercises. The F-16 planes from Krzesiny flew to France for an exercise also in a specially prepared tiger tail wrapping.
The explanation for the participation of Polish F-16s in the Tiger exercises is as follows. 6 ELT from 31 BLT historically referring to the tradition of the 6th Fighter-Bomber Regiment from Piła and later the 6th Air Squadron (stationed – initially – in Powidz) in its symbolism refers to the distinctive sign with a jumping tiger.
Exercise "Hawk 11". May 30, 2012.
From 30/05/2011 to 03/06/2011, at the airport in Łask, separate forces and resources from the 31st and 32nd Tactical Air Base participated in a tactical exercise with the land forces under the code name JASTRZĄB 11. The organizer of the exercise was the Air Force Command. During the four days of the exercise, the 400-person air component from the 31st Tactical Air Base was checked by Belgian and Polish TACEVAL inspectors in three areas – operational, logistic and protection of own forces. During the four days of the exercise, the participants’ task was to respond to 325 signals and incidents. They had to face a mortar attack, chemical contamination, demonstrations of the local population, sniper attack, air assault and many other situations that can happen in war conditions while securing the ability to perform tasks.
Another pilot with 1000 hours on the F-16. June 15, 2011.
Capt. drink Jerzy MARUT is another pilot in Poland who spent 1000 hours in the cockpit of the F-16 aircraft. So far, only the commanders of both tactical air bases – Colonel pil. Cezary WIŚNIEWSKI, commander of the 31 BLT and Col. pil. Dariusz MALINOWSKI, commander of the 32nd BLT. Capt. Jerzy MARUT, (pilot of the year 2008), will be the third pilot in Poland to wear the "F-16 1000 h" badge. After the jubilee flight, on Capt. Jerzy Marut was greeted by his colleagues from the 3rd and 6th ELT, who congratulated him. We also congratulate you, wishing you thousands more hours at the helm of Jastrzębie!
First combat duty in 31 BLT. June 20, 2011.
On June 20, 2011, combat duty was started in the 31st BLT. On that day, the first combat duty, consisting of two machines and a set of weapons, was sworn in. Thus, Krzesiny joined the crews of F-16 aircraft from Łask and MiG-29 from Minsk and Malbork, with whom they will defend the Polish sky. The solemn swearing-in of the combat duty, in the presence of the base commander, Col. Cezary WIŚNIEWSKI, made by Capt. Marcin STASIAK.
F-16 flight during the Wrocław Festival. June 25, 2011.
During the Wrocław Festival at 20:00 on Saturday, June 25, 2011, a flight of four F-16 multi-role aircraft from 31 BLT made a spectacular flight over the Wrocław market square. The formations were led by Lt. Col. Rafał ZADENKI. The flight was admired by thousands of spectators.
Joint F-16 exercises with Eurofighters. July 14, 2012.
Four multi-role F-16 C/D aircraft from the 32nd Tactical Air Base took part in joint tactical flights with EF – 2000 Eurofighter aircraft from the 73rd Fighter Wing of the German Air Force. The exercises took place on July 14 – 15, 2011, in the airspace of Germany.
Ferrying F-16 from Krzesiny to Malbork. July 18, 2011.
On July 18, 2011, an airport maneuver was performed consisting in the transfer of 16 Jastrząb aircraft from Krzesiny to Malbork. The stationing of the F-16 aircraft at the Malbork Airport lasted until August 10, 2011, and was related to the maintenance works of the plane of the Krzesiny Airport. Of course, the fact that F-16 and MiG-29 aircraft were stationed at one airport was used for joint exercises.
F-16 from Lask over Ukraine. July 25, 2011.
Two F-16 multi-role aircraft from the 32nd Tactical Air Base took part in the SAFE SKIES 2011 exercise organized by the Ukrainian Air Force and the US National Guard Air Force. The exercise was carried out on the territory of Ukraine and Poland on July 25-26, 2011. The main message and purpose of the exercise was to prepare the Polish and Ukrainian Air Forces to ensure airspace security during the Euro 2012 European Football Championship. Ukrainian Su-27 (from Mirgorod) and MiG-29 (from Ivano-Frankivsk) and an American F-16 from the Mirgorod airport took part in the exercise. The general scenario of the exercise assumed the implementation of episodes in the airspace of the Republic of Poland – picking up the Polish duty pair (QRA), separated from the composition of the 32nd Tactical Air Base, intercepting the aircraft and escorting it to the border. 32 BLT has been on combat duty in the Polish air defense system since the beginning of 2010. and has already participated in a similar exercise (BRTE – Baltic Region Training Event), assuming the security of the Baltic states. Recently, the crews of Polish F-16s from Krzesiny also took part in an exercise with Muscovites pk. VIGILANT SKIES 2011, assuming a similar scenario.
Joint flights of F-16, Mig-29 and Su-22.
In the period from July 26, 2011 to July 28, 2011, joint exercises of Polish combat aircraft took place in the 22nd BLT in Malbork; F-16, MiG-29 from Malbork and Su-22 from Świdwin. On July 28, 2011 SPOTTERS DAY was held in the 22nd BLT in Malbork during the ongoing flight training of F-16, MiG-29 from Malbork and Su-22 from Świdwin.
Ready to fight outside the borders of the Republic of Poland. September 9, 2011.
This day will forever go down in the history of the Polish Air Force. On September 9, 2011, after two years of work, the JASTRZĄB Aviation Component, declared as Deployable Forces under NATO operations, received a positive certification assessment under the TACEVAL program. Certification of the JASTRZĄB Aviation Component took place on September 5-7, 2011. On the last day, NATO inspectors started preparing reports with the assessment of each of the three areas (operational, logistics and protection of own troops). Congratulations to the entire JASTRZĄB AIR COMPONENT!
In 2008, the Air Force Command declared the Aviation Component, consisting of four F-16 aircraft, service personnel and military security, as Deployable Forces as part of NATO operations, both on its territory and beyond. In order for combat operations to be possible, it is in this area that the Aviation Component must undergo a special NATO certification, according to the TACEVAL (Tactical Evaluation Program). This program is designed to verify the Air Component’s ability to undertake combat operations for a period determined by the NATO command, in conditions where assistance from the host nation is limited. The "Jastrząb" Aviation Component, consisting of 483 soldiers, has been preparing for this certification for 2 years. In September 2010, a preliminary tactical assessment of the STARTASSESS took place, the purpose of which was to check the current status of the Component’s preparation for the FORCEVAL (Force Evaluation) tactical assessment. As a result of the inspection, NATO inspectors provided the Polish Air Force with a descriptive assessment, suggesting in which areas further training or improvement of operational procedures is still required. STARTASSESS went very well. This gave motivation for further hard work to make this first historical test a real success. However, the last two weeks were the most important and decisive. On September 1, 2011 the dedicated personnel of the Jastrząb Aviation Component started the DEMO phase for TACEVAL certification. It began with shooting exams and individual soldier skills on the battlefield. On the following day, in accordance with the tasks presented, NATO inspectors were presented with, among others, : ABDR (Aircraft Battle Damage Repair – removal of damage and destruction of the aircraft as a result of combat operations), VBDR (Vehicle Battle Damage Repair – removal of damage to vehicles), CCA (zone of controlled contamination), Pilot Extraction – taking an injured, unconscious pilot from the aircraft, ACR (Aircraft Crash Recovery – dealing with the aircraft in emergency situations), as well as extinguishing a large-area fire. It should be mentioned that three areas are subject to certification: operational (performing air missions), logistics and protection of own troops. Soldiers from the Logistic area presented the inspectors with a method of removing damage to the aircraft in field conditions – ABDR. The purpose of these actions is to restore the aircraft to a condition that allows it to perform the mission. This action is aimed at the maximum effect in the shortest possible time. During this demo, the following were presented: fairing repair, wing cover repair, radar fairing repair, aircraft hydraulic system repair. During the VBDR, the soldiers presented the method of replacing car tires in contaminated conditions, welding steel elements and repairing the power cable. From the same area (logistics), an ACR demo was presented, including: Lifting, i.e. lifting an aircraft with a damaged landing gear with a crane (soldiers attached the crane sling, the aircraft was lifted and placed on a special platform. Towing, towing an aircraft with a damaged landing gear on trolleys enabling removal of the aircraft from the runway (a method of assembling trolleys with genuine towing was presented in order to verify the correctness of the task). the point was the decontamination of the soldier’s equipment, elimination of contamination of protective clothing, decontamination of the mask and removal of clothing.Then the degree of contamination was checked, the mask was removed and the soldier was taken to the colpro (collective protection) – a special tent. Another Force Protection demo was the EOD (Explosive Ordinance Disposal) ) an improvised explosive charge in the room with the help of a robot (EXPERT), picking up the explosive located by the road in order to clear it and disarming the aerial bomb. Pilot Extraction is about taking an injured pilot out of a plane. Three fire brigades attended the show. Firefighters, after an unsuccessful attempt to make contact with the pilot, secured the aircraft’s legs, its armament, and hydrazine. They then prepared the equipment to pick up the wounded pilot. After opening the plane’s fairing, firefighters secured the ejection seat, unhooked the pilot from the harness and handed him over to the medical service. All the presented episodes were observed by 40 NATO inspectors. During the demonstrations, they asked questions about how to perform individual tasks.
However, it is impossible not to mention that the above-mentioned certification paved the way for the participation of the F-16 in the mission of the Polish Military Contingent Orlik 4 in the Baltic countries in the following year (2012).
The certificate itself was officially handed over on September 13, 2011. The certificate means that the F-16 Jastrząb aircraft are ready to take up combat in NATO and beyond at any time. Congratulations to the Polish soldiers on their success!
The Polish Soldier perfectly fulfills the tasks set before him, which cannot be said about the Masonic-liberal Government of the Republic of Poland, under the direction of Prime Minister Donald Tusk. It is a scandal that the F-16 will not be sent to the Baltic countries in 2012, for the missions of PKW Orlik 4. Aircraft acquired through the great effort of the entire nation. MiG-29s were sent, which have their glory far behind them.
Celebration of 31 BLT. September 16, 2011.
On September 16, 2011, the celebration of the 31st BLT took place. The solemn celebrations of the Base Day began with a holy mass attended by the staff and employees of the base army. Then, everyone took part in a solemn collection, which was graced by the performance of the Air Force Representative Orchestra under the baton of Maj. Paweł JOKS. The base commander, Col. drink Cezary WIŚNIEWSKI awarded distinguished soldiers and military employees, as well as former base commanders, with the 31 BLT commemorative badge for special merits. Capt. drink Jerzy MARUT for achieving 1,000 flight hours in the F-16 aircraft. During the family festival, the invited guests presented military equipment, off-road vehicles, Slavic customs and traditions and many other attractions. The garrison club 31 BLT prepared a performance of the Afera cabaret for the participants of the festival. Base Day is celebrated on September 4. This year’s celebrations were moved to September 16 due to the FORCEVAL certification taking place at that time (03-05.09).
Aviation festival in 32 BLT. September 17, 2011.
On September 17, 2011, an aviation festival was held in Łask. The organizer was the commander of the 32nd Tactical Air Base in Łask together with the Surei No Mon Foundation, supporting young people practicing Karate Shorin-Ryu and Kobudo. Among the numerous invited guests was also the vice-chairman of the Senate National Defense Committee, Senator Andrzej OWCZAREK, representatives of voivodeship, poviat and commune local government authorities, commanders of friendly units, representatives of the police, fire brigade, associations, social organizations and residents of Łask and the surrounding area. The festival was officially opened by the Marshal of the Łódź Voivodeship, Mr. Witold STĘPIEŃ and the deputy commander of the 32nd Tactical Air Base, Lieutenant Colonel Zbigniew ROSIAK. During the event, the organizers planned a number of different attractions: a static display of military equipment, where you could see the F-16, and planes that are part of the 32 BLT aviation museum.
F-16 at the French proving ground. October 6, 2011.
In the period from October 6, 2011 to October 12, 2011, two Polish F-16s (C and D) took part in the exercise code-named EMBOW XIII, taking place at the DGA Biscarrosse Test Range in Cazaux, France. The exercise was aimed at mastering the performed task in a difficult electromagnetic environment. The exercise used the Link 16 tactical data exchange system with air and ground assets. The commander of the 35-person Air Component, designated from the 32nd Tactical Air Base, was Colonel pil. Cezary Wiśniewski – Commander of the 31 BLT.
TLP – Tactical Leadership Programme. November 5, 2011.
From November 5, 2011 to December 2, 2011, six F-16 multi-role aircraft took part in a cyclical training called TLP – Tactical Leadership Program in Albacete, Spain. For a month, a component separated from the 31st Tactical Air Base under the command of Capt. drink Arkadiusz Pietrzak, he performed both defensive and offensive air operations (DCA/OCA), which included, among others, aviation isolation (AI missions). In addition, pilots undertook rescue missions (CSAR) or escort missions (ESCORT). During their stay in Spain, the pilots flew 55 missions with over 120 hours of flight time.Another pilot with over 1,000 hours on the F-16.
Maj. pilot Paweł Marcinkowski, as another Polish pilot, scored 1000 hours on the F-16. He performed flights on: TS-11, MiG-21 bis, T-38C and F-16. Total flying time: 1,750 hours. Congratulations, wishing the Major more thousands of hours at the controls of Jastrzębie!
2012.
Visit of Maj. Gen. David Scott in 32 BLT. February 8, 2012.
On February 8, 2012, Major General David SCOTT – Director of Operations at the US Air Forces Europe Command, together with a delegation and Deputy Air Attache of the US Air Force – Major Jeff SMITH, visited the 32nd BLT in Łask. The visit was also attended by the commander of the 2nd Tactical Air Wing, Brig. drink Wlodzimierz USAREK. The purpose of the meeting was to get acquainted with the structure and tasks of the unit, infrastructure and security equipment, as well as aviation training. The above-mentioned issues were discussed by the Commander of the 32nd BLT Col. drink Krystian ZIĘĆ along with the commanding staff of the 32nd BLT. During the tour of the airport infrastructure, the American delegation was also familiarized with the capabilities of the F-16 aircraft simulator, the functioning of the Military Airport and the history of the 32 BLT. At the end, Gen. Scott thanked for the opportunity to get to know one of the most important units in Poland, and congratulated Colonel Zięć for commanding such a prestigious unit and wished him further success in service.
6th Tactical Air Squadron. February 22, 2012.
6 ELT Tiger became the best unit in the Air Force in 2011. 6 ELT, commanded from January 4, 2010 to December 31, 2011, by Col. Pilot Krystian ZIĘCIA (in 2012, Commander of the 32nd Tactical Air Base) was among the three subunits awarded this honorable title by the Commander of the Air Force – Lt. Gen. Lech MAJEWSKI pilot. The main task of the squadron, which is part of the 31st BLT, is to perform combat missions to defend the territory of the Republic of Poland. In order to carry out this task, in 2011 the designated aviation personnel performed missions such as:Quick Reaction Alert (QRA); Defensive Counter Air (DCA); Close Air Support (CAS); Defensive elements of Strike Coordination and Reconnassion (SCAR). The flight time of the 6th ELT in 2011 amounted to 2,531.59 hours, with the average flight time per pilot: 168.47 hours.
In connection with the distinction, on February 22, 2012, the 6th ELT received the Pennant of Honor of the Frontier Unit of SP. It happened during a solemn collection. Punctually at 08.00 Commander of the 31st BLT. – Col. pilot Jacek PSZCZOŁA submitted to the Commander of the 2nd Tactical Air Wing, Brig. the pilot to Włodzimierz USAARK with a report about the readiness of the subunits for a solemn assembly. The acting commander of the squadron – Major Pilot Paweł MARCINKOWSKI in his speech thanked the entire squadron, as well as group commanders and all the soldiers securing flights, without whose work daily air training would not be possible. The former commander of the 6th el. – Col. pilot Krystian ZIĘĆ (currently commander of the 32nd BLT), former commander of the 31st BLT. – Col. pilot Cezary WIŚNIEWSKI and the commander of the 2nd SLT. – Brig. Gen. pilot Włodzimierz USArek. The rally ended with a parade of sub-units led by the commander of the ceremony, Lt. Col. Paweł ŁOZOWSKI.
Distant Frontier or Desert Hawk. March 7-16, 2012.
F-16 aircraft from 32 BLT in Łask flew to Israel. They took part in a multi-day exercise involving F-15s and F-16s of the Israeli Air Force. Distant Frontier 2012, these were exercises preparing Polish soldiers for RED FLAG. They had the opportunity to shoot at ground targets using laser-guided weapons or "JDAMs". You need to know that in Poland, F-16 pilots use only M61A120 mm cannons and drop BDU-33 practice bombs. The flights in mixed formations verified the tactics used.
Another pilot with over 1,000 hours on the F-16. March 14, 2012.
Mr. Col. pil. Mariusz PAWELEC is another pilot with 1000 hours of flight time on the F-16 Jastrząb. Lieutenant Colonel Mariusz PAWELEC holds the position of Senior Flight Safety Inspector from 31 BLT. Lt. Col. Mariusz Pawelec began his military service in 1991. in the Military Aviation Academy in Dęblin, from which he graduated in 1995. Its lifetime is over 1,920 hours. Aircraft types: TS-11, SU-22M4, SU-22UM3K, T-38C, F-16A/B/C/D. Pilot of the Year 2007 in 3 ELT, Poznań.
This is the fourth Polish pilot with such aviation achievements. The first wishes and congratulations from the air traffic controllers were heard by Lt. Col. Mariusz Pawelec on the radio during the flight. At the airport in Krzesiny in Poznań, pilots from the Aviation Action Group also expressed their best wishes and congratulations to Lt. Col. Pawelc. We join the wishes!
F-16 exercise at Eagle Talon. March 14, 2012.
The participation of the F-16 crews from Krzesiny in the Eagle Talon exercise was carried out on March 14-15, 2012, in the Polish airspace. More than a dozen F-16 multi-role aircraft from 31 BLT conducted joint exercises with Polish crews of Su-22, MiG-29, L-159 ALCA aircraft from the Czech Republic and Eurofighter aircraft crews from Germany, with the support of the E-3 AWACS early warning and command aircraft.
CASA C-295 M aircraft from 8 BLTr in Krakow also took part in the exercises. The C-295 M aircraft was flying on the route Kraków – Mińsk Mazowiecki – Kraków. It was a mission code-named RENEGATE – which means the procedure to be followed in the event of loss of communication with an aircraft on which unauthorized persons could take over the controls. The scenario of the exercise assumed that in the area of Warka there was a loss of communication with the aircraft, which changed its current course and did not respond to calls. In accordance with the procedures applicable in such circumstances, the duty couple was picked up. The C-295 M aircraft was intercepted by two MiG-29s from Mińsk Mazowiecki, whose task was to force the aircraft to land at the indicated airport.
Frisian Flag exercises. April 13, 2012.
Frisian Flag is a cyclical, annual training aimed at practicing cooperation between the air forces of NATO countries and countries participating in the "Partnership for Peace" program. The name of the exercise comes from the region of the Netherlands – Friesland, where the Leeuwarden air base is located, otherwise known as "Fighter Town" due to the courses for pilots responsible for developing current aviation tactics – "Fighter Weapon Instructor Training" taking place there. Graduates of such trainings are considered to be the elite of European pilots flying the F-16. The current edition was attended by crews of 64 F-16, F-15, F-18, EF-2000 and JAS-39 fighters from Sweden, Poland, the Netherlands, Norway, Belgium, the USA, Finland, Great Britain and Germany. The purpose of the exercise was also to check the tactics used, the pilot training system, to observe allies’ innovations related to combat operations, and to learn about the capabilities and limitations of individual types of fighters. The flights were performed on the North Sea, in the airspace of the Netherlands, Denmark and Germany. For this reason, a sea suit had to be worn on every flight.
Polish F-16s on RED FLAG. June 8, 2012.
Red Flag is an advanced combat operations exercise carried out several times a year. The base for the exercising troops is Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada and Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska. Red Flag exercises have been conducted since 1975. and interestingly, with the collapse of the Warsaw Pact, they were not liquidated. Analyzes conducted during the Vietnam War showed that in the first days of the war, the first missions are the most dangerous and bring the most losses. In subsequent quests, the survivors gain experience and find ways to defeat the enemy. Therefore, in times of peace, exercises should be as real as possible so that soldiers overcome their first emotions and are able to use the previously acquired knowledge. The goal is to train pilots from the USA, NATO and other allied countries in real combat situations. The organizer is the United States Air Force (USAF) and other military units of the USA and allies. Each exercise lasts 14 days. They can engage over 100 planes and helicopters. They are very realistic, with the use of all available types of armament that is equipped with aviation (with the exception of nuclear weapons and special large-size loads). Laser-guided or GPS-guided bombs are used. It also includes the use of enemy equipment and ammunition as part of testing and learning the extent of their capabilities. Practicing soldiers also have the opportunity to familiarize themselves with older and new enemy weapons that they may encounter in combat; tanks, guns, helicopters, small caliber launchers. Each exercise has a detailed plan. The tasks are clearly set, but the method of their implementation is left to the practicing teams. Typically, the command post is on board the command aircraft.
Eielson Air Force Base (AFB) (IATA: EIL, ICAO: PAEI, FAA LID: EIL) is a USAF air base located in central Alaska, approximately 26 miles (42 km) southeast of Fairbanks. Eielson AFB was founded in 1943. The base was named after the polar aviator Carl Ben Eielson. The base not only takes care of its backyard, but also of a huge training ground where exercises take place. The Eielson base has been conducting Red Flag exercises since 1992. The bases in Alaska are almost 9,000 km from Poland.
Each exercise with the participation of Polish Hawks, outside the borders of the Republic of Poland, arouses great interest. However, participating in the RED FLAG exercise is something special. Simply, there is no better exercise in the world. For the first time in history, Polish aircraft took part in them. And not only the F-16 Jastrząb, but also the C-130 Herkules transport aircraft. 8 F-16 Jastrząb aircraft from both bases flew to Alaska, 24 pilots of these machines. The commander of the Polish unit was Maj. pil. Paweł Marcinkowski, commander of 6 ELT on a daily basis. The flight to the US Eielson base in Alaska was divided into stages. The first is a flight to Mildenhall in Great Britain, where, among others, american tankers. The further route led over the Atlantic Ocean. The hawks were divided into two groups of four planes each. Each group was accompanied by a tanker. Each F-16 fueled 6-8 times. The next stopover was at the airport in Bangor on the East Coast of the USA. Then it’s just a 6.5-hour flight to Eielson Base, during which aerial refueling is also planned. During RED FLAG, F-16 pilots from Krzesiny and Łask performed mainly offensive missions related to ground target strikes. The "air to air" missions were entrusted primarily to pilots of aircraft specialized exclusively in air combat, such as the F-15 C or Eurofighter.
The Polish C-130 Herkules, apart from the transport mission, had other tasks. For example, it simulated an air command post. The task of the F-16 was to cover this aircraft as an HVAA (High Value Airborn Asset). It should be noted that a significant part of the equipment needed to carry out the mission was transported on board the rented An-124 Ruslan, which took off from the Strachowice Airport. Some of the equipment and the remaining maintenance personnel flew to Germany at Cologne Airport in a C-295 M and then in an A 310 of the German Air Force.
The main phase of the exercise lasted from June 7, 2012 to June 22, 2012. Since the flight to the Red Flag exercises is a big expense for the Polish Air Force, our soldiers exercised in Alaska for over one month, which is much longer than the Red Flag exercises themselves. More than 80 aircraft and helicopters from; USA, Japan, Australia.
The exercise participants are divided into the "Blue" coalition forces and the "Red" aggressor forces ("White" is the peacemaker controlling the exercise). Aviation activities take place in the full spectrum of simulated threats, related to e.g. with the use of anti-aircraft weapons and electronic warfare measures, as well as the presence of aggressor aircraft.
F-16 livery. August 9, 2012.
It is no secret that the F-16 Jastrząb aircraft are covered with a malon anti-radar paint coating. The coating should be monitored and replaced every 5-6 years. On the other hand, due to the reduction of funding for the Air Force, the funds for the operation of the F-16 in 2012 were practically exhausted after the Red Flag exercise. Therefore, it was beneficial to replace the paint coating in the second half of the year. It should also be remembered that the regulations regarding the painting of recognition marks on airplanes have been changed. Now the White and Red Chessboards are to be painted also on the upper surfaces of the panels. By the way, this change should have been made decades ago.
The new painting of the Polish F-16s was made in Poland at Wojskowe Zakłady Lotnicze number 2 S.A. in Bydgoszcz. From the Americans, we received technologies for removing the old coating and new varnishes for the implementation of new coatings.
Squadron Exchange. December 3, 2012.
On December 3-14, 2012, exercises were held by Poland and Greece on the Peloponnese Peninsula. Six F-16 Jastrząb aircraft from 31 BLT and pilots from 3, 6, 10 ELT took part in them. The transport of support personnel and equipment was provided by two CASA C-295 M aircraft from 8 BLTr. The place of stationing was the Greek base of Araxos. The 335th squadron equipped with F-16 aircraft and the 336th squadron with A-7 Corsair II aircraft are located here. The main purpose of the exercise was to exchange experience in the operation of F-16 aircraft.
Another version of the F-16.
Soon, the F-16 C/D Block 50/52+ aircraft were the most modern aircraft in the F-16 family. Already in 2003, the F-16 E/F Block 60 version (aka F-16 C/D Block 60 Desert Falcon) was developed.
F-16 E/F Block 60 ( F-16 C/D Block 60 Desert Falcon ) United Arab Emirates. 2003.
The UAE, looking for a modern fighter, announced a competition. The winner was the F-16 C/D Block 60, which beat the Rafale and Eurofighter aircraft. The UAE set very high requirements for its aircraft, which is why over time the aircraft were officially designated F-16 E Block 60 and F-16 F Block 60. They represent a significant qualitative leap compared to the previous version of the F-16 C/D Block 50/52 . This is a variation that is a return to the idea of the F-16 ES aircraft.
The navigation and targeting system consists of 3 main elements. In addition to all modern solutions from the F-16 C / D Block 50, the aircraft received a modern Northrop Grumman AN / APG-80 radar station, with an active antenna made of miniature modules, i.e. phase scanning, known from MiG-31 aircraft. In addition, the possibility of vertical and horizontal movement was left, which greatly increased the observation space. The range of the radar exceeds 200 km. The beam is freely shaped. The station can simultaneously operate as search, track and homing. A thermal imaging camera with a wide field of view is an integral part of the radar station. The system provides precise flight avoiding terrain obstacles at the height of 30 – 300 m, and performs a map of the terrain, compares it with the data library, and thus updates the machine’s position in space in 100%. For the system, it does not matter whether it works in an air-to-air or air-to-ground system.
The second element of the complex is the suspended Lockheed Martin Pantera targeting pod, with a range of 50-60 km. Observation is carried out with a 3-5 um thermal imaging camera with a narrow field of view and electronic image stabilization. The pod is also equipped with a TV CCD camera, a laser rangefinder and a device for highlighting targets, as well as a device for tracking laser-highlighted targets from other sources.
The third element of the system is a data transmission system in the form of a Link 16 terminal and an IDM modem. It transmits not only the tactical situation, but also data on specific targets.
A significant change is the use of fiber-optic terminals, with approximately 1,000 times more bandwidth, instead of the already traditional MilStd 1553 B data bus. This solution was taken from the F-35 aircraft. Thanks to this, the system works without delays and tolerates much more complicated software written in C ++, while so far the F-16 C/D Block 50/52 used the ADA language for the navigation and targeting system and Jovial for the control system. The software was initially in Standard 0. It was gradually improved to make the most of the installed devices and in 2008 it reached Standard 4.
A third, middle, color display appeared in the cabin. All monitors measure 125 x 178 mm. 250 x 250 wide-angle head-up display. In the cabin, traditional analog instruments have been completely abandoned, even as emergency ones.
The WRe (radio-electronic warfare) system has been greatly expanded. It consists of a system for detecting and analyzing radar radiation operating in a very wide frequency band, a warning system against launched infrared guided missiles, a set of built-in jammers, flare launchers and large caliber dipoles, the number of which has doubled compared to Blok 50, and towed radar trap.
There is no mention in the information about the difficult detectability of the aircraft. However, the use of a low propable of intercept radar indicates that such measures have been taken. The surface of the machine was covered with materials that absorb part of the RAM radiation, i.e. approved by the USA for export, and therefore not the most modern.
The latest possible F-110-GE-132 engine with 1 x 145.0 kN afterburning thrust was used for the drive. It is possible to mount external conformal fuel tanks with a capacity of 1,700 liters, which increases the range to over 4,500 km.
The airframe structure was also modernized. The fuselage frames and wing spars were thickened and strengthened, as was the covering. New duralumin alloys and, to a greater extent, composites were used. The maximum takeoff weight is 23,130 kg (22,700 kg). A braking parachute was built in, as in the Polish F-16 C/D 52+.
The aircraft was commissioned by the United Arab Emirates. The initial contract was signed in 1998. The final agreement was signed in March 2002. The delivery was carried out in 2004-2007, and included 55 F-16 C Block 60 and 25 F-16 D Block 60 aircraft. The aircraft was also designated F-16 U, and the user F-16 E and F-16 F.
The first F-16 Block 60 prototype was made as a two-seat version of the F-16 F Block 60 and flew on December 6, 2003. The first machines were delivered in April 2004 to the Tucson base in Arizona, where Arab personnel were trained. At the same time, tests of the avionics equipment continued.
Written by Karol Placha Hetman