This maintenance cross-servicing effort develops and matures the capabilities of the two allies to recover, service and launch each other’s aircraft in support of combat air operations.
“It was an honor to witness the professionalism and dedication of the 38th FG during this mission,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Kathryn “Wolf” Gaetke, 8th Fighter Wing commander. “This is only the start – we will continue to seize opportunities this year to sharpen our tactics and deepen our bonds with the ROKAF.”
Wolf led a flight of two F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft to DAB, where ROKAF maintainers from the 38th Fighter Group received and serviced the aircraft. Events like this deepen the ties between the two services and strengthen the alliance.
The first cross-servicing demonstration occurred on October 18, 2024 at Kunsan Air Base, and was refined throughout the year between the ROKAF’s 38th FG and the U.S. Air Force’s 8th Maintenance Group, providing a blueprint for expansion across the region.
Col. Blair “Phoenix” Byrem, 8th MXG commander, credited the success of the operation to the skill of his ROKAF counterpart, Lt. Col. Lee “Lion” Ho Geol and the flexibility of the bilateral team members, who caught and turned the aircraft.
“I am immensely grateful to Lion for taking the lead and allowing the Wolf Pack to support the ROKAF in this event—it was flawlessly executed,” said Phoenix.
The continued focus on interoperability between ROKAF and USAF units is vital to bringing our shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific.
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