KADENA AIR BASE, Japan –
More than 280 Langley Airmen and 12 of the Air Force's most capable fighters successfully deployed to Kadena as part of a theater security package sent to the Western Pacific.
The deployment of the 94th Fighter Squadron, along with members of the Virginia Air National Guard's 192nd Fighter Wing, was a historic event. It was the first deployment for the 94th FS since transitioning to the F-22 Raptor.
"It's an honor and privilege to be the commander at a time when the 'Spads' are going half way across the world in the Raptor," said Lt. Col. Adrian Spain, 94th Fighter Squadron commander. "It's a great opportunity for both operations and maintenance to come together as a squadron and work in an environment where we can develop a closer relationship and better prepare for the day we may be asked to do this in combat."
This is the third time the F-22s have deployed to Kadena, but it's a new experience for most of the pilots and maintainers in this group.
"Anytime you move 12 Raptors, over 280 people, all the associated gear, equipment and luggage across an ocean, there are bound to be some snags and challenges," said Maj. Steve Frodsham, 94th FS pilot and project manager for the Kadena deployment. "This deployment has been going very smoothly for us so far."
While deployed to Kadena the F-22s will train with the Navy, Army, and Japan Air Self Defense Force as well as the 18th Wing aircraft.