Airmen from the 916th Air Refueling Wing in collaboration with the 36th
Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, conducted an Aeromedical Readiness Mission
(ARM) aboard a KC-46A Pegasus from August 19-21 in Curaçao.
The 36th AES conducted hands-on training aboard the KC-46, practicing scenarios that
reflected real-world aeromedical operations, from setting up medical stations to treating
mock patients and tearing down equipment.
"Our squadron has operated alongside the 916th a few times, said Tech Sgt. Madison
Ross," a flight medic with the 36th AES. "It's been great to build that rapport and
integrate with other units. This aircraft provides a stable platform for us to refine our
skills and prepare for critical missions."
Similarly, Griswold emphasized the value of inter-unit training in maintaining Air Force
standards.
"Working with other units ensures we're sticking to the Air Force standard," said
Griswold. "We're able to execute regardless of who we're flying with, that's what keeps
us sharp."
The KC-46 can integrate into large-scale air operations while acting as a communication
hub, communicating real-time data, including fuel states, weapons load-outs, and
relaying critical information to fighters, ISR platforms, and command aircraft to enhance
coordination.
"One of our aircraft's biggest strengths is its versatility," said Griswold. “It can support
combat operations one day and then carry critical patients or cargo the next. This
exercise is just one example of our Reservist capability to support a diverse range of Air
Force operations."
The KC-46A Pegasus configuration allows the aircraft to accommodate up to 58
patients, an approximate 30% increase from the KC-135 Stratotanker. Its upgraded
electrical, oxygen, and communication systems provide reliable mission support for
medical operations.
The aircraft's reconfigurable floor system allows the crew to efficiently transition
between cargo, passenger, and aeromedical evacuation setups while being capable of
carrying up to 65,000 pounds and 18 standard military pallets (equal to the capability of
a C-17 Globemaster III)
"The KC-46's updated systems and quieter operation make it well-suited for
aeromedical evacuation," said Maj. Curtis Griswold, a pilot with the 77th Air Refueling
Squadron, 916th ARW. "It allows us to work seamlessly with medical teams."
| Date Taken: | 08.21.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 09.02.2025 18:54 |
| Story ID: | 546557 |
| Location: | NL |
| Web Views: | 12 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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