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522nd Special Operations Squadron training flight

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Ericka Engblom
  • 27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  The 522nd Special Operations Squadron ran a training mission July 22, to practice hot landings, where the aircraft lands and then almost immediately takes off; simulated airdrops, where food and other needed supplies are dropped into forward operating bases; and aerial refueling of two CV-22 Ospreys, as the aircraft would do while preforming support overseas.
 
The 522 SOS's real world goal is to plan, prepare and execute missions to directly support special operations commanders through daytime and nighttime low level infiltration/exfiltration, helicopter/tilt-rotor aerial refueling, and aerial delivery resupply of special operation forces. They support many special operations units from all branches of the military while operating the MC-130J Commando II aircraft.

During the training mission, pilots flew the Black Diamond flight pattern, a mountainous, low-level route that is used to simulate the conditions of a deployed location. Throughout the Black Diamond route, aircraft can be flown at altitudes lower than 200 feet, making it one of the most difficult flight patterns to maneuver.

"We try to make our training as realistic as possible," said Staff Sgt. Anthony Nestasie, 522 SOS loadmaster. "Our mission is multifaceted, dynamic and always important."

The 522 SOS flies approximately 20 training missions a month in order to keep themselves deployment ready at all times. These missions test how adaptable and resourceful the 522 SOS members are, and allow them to practice vital skills in a safe environment.

"It's crucial to find creative ways to train how we fight," said Capt. Michael Perry, 522 SOS evaluator pilot. "Quality training is how we guarantee proficiency to meet the nation's needs."

For more information on the 522 SOS and facts about the aircraft they operate visit the Cannon Air Force Base website.

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