Photo By Airman 1st Class Arnet Tamayo | U.S. Air Force Airmen from the 356th Fighter Generation Squadron prepare training...... read more read more
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KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- U.S Air Force Airmen assigned to the 356th Expeditionary Fighter Generation Squadron conducted hot pit refueling operations with the 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron during as part of a USAF-led operational exercise Beverly Midnight 26 at Kadena Air Base, March 10, 2026.
The training paired deployed Airmen from Eielson Air Force Base with Kadena-based logistics specialists to rapidly refuel and rearm multiple F-35A Lightning II aircraft assigned to the 356th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron. The scenario required maintainers and fuel specialists to coordinate closely while aircraft remained running, simulating conditions that allow fighters to return to the air as quickly as possible during combat operations.
“As an expeditionary squadron, deploying to different locations is part of what we do,” said U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Cooper Meszaros, 356th Expeditionary Fighter Generation Squadron F-35 avionics technician. “Exercises like this demonstrate the training and readiness that allow us to respond anytime, anywhere.”
Hot pit refueling allows aircraft to be refueled while their engines remain running, reducing turnaround time and increasing sortie generation during high-tempo operations. The process requires close coordination between maintenance personnel, fueling specialists and pilots to ensure aircraft are safely serviced and quickly returned to flight.
“With so many units cycling through Kadena, tight coordination during hot pit operations is essential,” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Chandler Chase, 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron special fuels handling team chief. “When we synchronize our procedures and operate as one team, we keep fighters fueled, airborne and ready to deliver combat airpower at a moment’s notice.”
Exercises like BM26 allow deployed and home-stationed units to integrate their capabilities while operating in a dynamic training environment.
Through exercises like these, Airmen continue to strengthen interoperability, refine rapid aircraft generation capabilities and enhance their ability to project airpower in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.
| Date Taken: | 03.09.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 03.13.2026 01:59 |
| Story ID: | 560317 |
| Location: | KADENA AIR BASE, OKINAWA, JP |
| Web Views: | 12 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, BM26 : Hot pit operations keep Kadena fighters airborne, by A1C Arnet Tamayo, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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