Range Squadron provides realistic training

Range Squadron provides realistic training
366th Fighter Wing


MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho  - While flying low in order to drop a training round on a target, aircrew suddenly perform evasive maneuvers due to the training flare that emerges from a concealed position.

Airmen from the 266th Range Squadron have been using GTR-18 Smokey Sam training rockets to assist aircrew with safe, realistic training.

"We provide a realistic, high-density electronic threat environment and visual projectile cueing to assist in training aircrew on multiple situations they will see in real-world combat," said Tech Sgt. Ronald Warren, 266th RANS ground radar systems craftsman. "We simulate missiles, guns and ground personnel threats during missions, giving pilots additional threats to engage, maneuver and destroy. It also helps them ensure all their combat systems inside their aircraft are functioning properly."


These Idaho National Guard airmen arrived at the range complex at the crack of dawn in order to meet with a group of Joint Tactical Air Controllers and make a battle plan.

"We have two remote sites set up and we will be coordinating with the JTACs to provide visual cues by launching our flares or Smokey Sams, giving the aircrew a more realistic combat experience and a bit of a surprise," said Staff Sgt. Joshua Lee, 266th RANS ground radar systems craftsman. "We also assist the JTACs by giving them targets to call in airstrikes while being inside a controlled environment."

By utilizing both ground radar and visual cues, 266th RANS personnel are able to give the aircrew the opportunity to train by flying low to attack targets, while giving the JTACs an opportunity to hone their own skill sets.

"Obviously, we don't want to learn in the field during war," said Warren. "The range is utilized by multiple units and we have set up our simulated threats inside the impact area. We want to consistently be able to provide a wide variety of scenarios so the lessons-learned become like second nature to everyone.

"I've been working on the range for 17 years and have been able to help train Special Forces and JTAC personnel," he continued. "For us, it's the knowledge that when we do our job correctly, the people who leave here are well-trained and ready to go to war and survive. That's most important."

This kind of realistic training is useful to all personnel who utilize the range complex.

"I think one of the unique things about our squadron's mission here on Mountain Home Air Force Base is that we provide Gunfighter aircrew, other U.S. Air Force bases, other branches of service and other nations combat training here at our range," said Lee. "Think about it, aircrews from around the world come here to our base because they can get an unmatched training opportunity on one of the best ranges anywhere."