Lakenheath's F-35 Training Facility: Enhancing Skills and Readiness

Published June 18, 2024
By Airman 1st Class Austin Salazar

ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --

man grabs a nut — Airman 1st Class Michael Macedo, 495th Fighter Generation Squadron technician, works on a F-135 engine at the F-35A Lighting II field training detachment facility RAF Lakenheath, England, June 6, 2024. The courses are designed for technicians who have been working on the aircraft for six to 12 months and have already completed technical training. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Austin Salazar)

The 48th Fighter Wing's training facility is dedicated to the education and training of maintainers who support the fifth-generation aircraft of the Liberty Wing. The facility primarily serves the 372nd Training Squadron and the 2,500 members supporting the F-35A Lighting II mission.

The F-35 field training detachment facility is integral to formal training courses essential for maintaining and operating the F-35 platforms assigned to 493rd and 495th Fighter Squadrons. The facility also hosts a principle of instruction course, which prepares and certifies members of both fighter squadrons and the 493rd and 495th Fighter Generation Squadrons to lead specialized training within their organizations.

“The training equips and sharpens the skills of members who perform maintenance day in and day out 24/7,” said Master Sgt. David Cook, 372nd TS senior enlisted leader. “This forges maintenance capabilities and competence, ensuring the readiness of aircraft, equipment, and manpower to be ready to own the skies when called upon.”

men talk about a oil part — Airmen from the 493rd and 495th Fighter Generation Squadrons discuss the different parts of a F-135 engine at RAF Lakenheath, England, June 6, 2024. The infrastructure of the new facility supports 13 instructors and can host up to 65 students daily at maximum training demand. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Austin Salazar)

The courses are designed for technicians who have been working on the aircraft for six to 12 months and have already completed initial technical training. They delve deeper into system theory and troubleshooting techniques to address any anomalies that may arise with the avionics and mission systems. This training ensures the jet maintains its multi-capable role as a fifth-generation fighter.

The infrastructure of the new facility supports 13 instructors and can host up to 65 students daily at maximum training demand. This capability enhances overall readiness in the region, ensuring the Liberty Wing remains prepared to meet dynamic challenges in the area of responsibility. It also bolsters the ability to provide combat-ready forces in support of NATO missions.

“The classrooms we have offer more than just lecture based teaching,” said Staff. Sgt. Huston Womack, 372nd TS instructor. “It offers student interaction, self paced learning, and gives the technicians an opportunity to learn on an aircraft with no negative impact to the mission.”

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VIDEO | 01:48 | Lakenheath's F-35 Training Facility: Enhancing Skills and Readiness

With these increased training capabilities, the Liberty Wing aims to elevate its operational readiness and effectiveness, ensuring that its personnel are well-prepared to respond to any mission with precision and excellence.

men look for tool needed — Airmen from the 493rd and 495th Fighter Generation Squadrons gather tools needed for the task at the F-35A Lighting II field training detachment facility RAF Lakenheath, England, June 6, 2024. The infrastructure of the new facility supports 13 instructors and can host up to 65 students daily at maximum training demand. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Austin Salazar)

men stand and watch a video — Airmen from the 493rd and 495th Fighter Generation Squadrons watch a training video at the F-35 Lightning II training facility on RAF Lakenheath, England, June 6, 2024. The F-35 FTD facility is integral to the formal training courses essential for maintaining and operating the F-35 platform. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Austin Salazar)

man unscrews bolt — Airman 1st Class Michael Macedo, 495th Fighter Generation Squadron technician, works on a F-135 engine at the F-35A Lighting II field training detachment facility RAF Lakenheath, England, June 6, 2024. The infrastructure of the new facility supports 13 instructors and can host up to 65 students daily at maximum training demand. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Austin Salazar)