380 AEW receives first RQ-4B Global Hawk in Southwest Asia

Crew chiefs from the 380th Expeditionary Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, tow in the newest addition to the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing’s airframes, an RQ-4B Global Hawk, shortly after its arrival May 11, 2011 in Southwest Asia. The Global Hawk is an unmanned aircraft that provides intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities over the world. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Maynelinne De La Cruz)

380 AEW receives first RQ-4B Global Hawk in Southwest Asia

Crew chiefs from the 380th Expeditionary Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, tow in the newest addition to the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing’s airframes, an RQ-4B Global Hawk, shortly after its arrival May 11, 2011, in Southwest Asia. The RQ-4B model outperforms its predecessor with a 50 percent increase in payload capacity of 3,000lbs and operates with 2.5 times more electrical power. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Maynelinne De La Cruz)

Arrival of the 493 EFS

The 493rd Expeditionary Fighter Squadron's F-15Cs, deployed from RAF Lakenheath, United Kingdom, arrived in Southwest Asia April 9, 2011 to enhance regional partnerships, support regional security exercises and demonstrate a continued commitment to regional stability. The F-15C is considered among the most successful modern fighters with over 100 aerial combat victories with no losses. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Maynelinne De La Cruz)

Chasing the Dragon Lady

The crew chases the U2 Dragon Lady down the flight line, providing the pilot insight via radio with ground to aircraft distance information as he approached the runway Mar. 25, 2011, in Southwest Asia. With several touch and go landings the pilot simulated several worst case scenarios such as a blown engine or broken flap, to demonstrate how he would strategically land the aircraft safely. (U.S. Air Force photo illustration by Senior Airman Maynelinne De La Cruz)

99th ERS Dragon Lady pilot accomplishes combat sortie milestone

U.S. Air Force major from the 99th Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron drives the chase car behind the U-2S pilot after completing 100 combat sorties, helping him land safely through radio transmissions for altitude and runway position April 7, 2011, in Southwest Asia. The U-2S Dragon Lady flies in support of overseas contingency Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom and Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa in the U.S. Central Command’s Area of Responsibility. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Julie Briden-Garcia)

99th ERS Dragon Lady pilot accomplishes combat sortie milestone

The 380th Expeditionary Aircraft Maintenance Squadron members get ready to place pogo wheels on the U-2S Dragon Lady moments after landing. These bicycle-type wheels are used to support the aircraft's extended wing span during taxi for all take offs and landings. It’s the unique design that gives the U-2 its remarkable performance and makes flying very challenging. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Julie Briden-Garcia)