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 The 53rd Wing deployed the 85th Test and Evaluation Squadron to Nellis AFB, Nevada, in July to test the next-generation avionics for the F-16 and F-15 in an operationally representative environment. The avionics, the Modular Mission Computer and its latest software, were tested for about three weeks to ensure they will work as advertised before they are fielded to the entire USAF fleet of Fighting Falcons and Eagles. The wing deployed every 85th aircraft—five F-16s, five F-15Cs, and one F-15E—to join nearly fifty other aircraft, including MiG-29s, F-18s, A-10s, E-3 Sentry AWACS, and RC-135V/W Rivet Joint. Other 53rd Wing units brought B-1 and B-52 bombers from 53d Test and Evaluation Group detachments and additional F-15s and F-16s from the 85th’s sister squadron at Nellis, the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron. The enhanced avionics add color displays, an improved data link, and modular computer design construction. |
