Photo By Staff Sgt. Erika Chapa | U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Patricio Escanilla, command chief of the 116th Wing,...... read more read more
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Airmen assigned to the 116th Air Control Wing, Georgia Air National Guard, and distinguished guests from across the state marked the official redesignation of the 116th ACW to the 116th Wing, the activation of the 116th Battle Management Control Group and the 107th Battle Management Control Squadron and the assumption of command for the group and squadron, during a ceremony at the Museum of Aviation, Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, Sept. 11, 2026.
The redesignation and activation reflect the wing’s evolving battle management mission, positioning the 116th Wing to synchronize with the Air Force’s command-and-control operations and provide critical decision-making support.
“The question facing our Air Force is no longer simply, ‘How much information can we collect?’” said U.S. Air Force Col. Christopher Dunlap, commander of the 116th Wing. “It is: ‘How quickly can we turn that information into action?’ That is the mission space the 116th Battle Management Control Group and the 107th Battle Management Control Squadron will help shape.”
As part of a multi-mission organization, the 116th Wing’s Airmen continue to combine battle management capabilities, communications, cyber, intelligence and support functions to meet operational demands within daily operations. The assumption of command gave the new commanders an opportunity to address their Airmen directly.
“By actively leading and participating in major CONUS (Continental United States) and OCONUS (Outside the Continental United States) exercises, as well as elite weapons school events, you have sharpened our tactical edge,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Elmer McDaniel, commander of the 116th BMCG. “Because of this high-tier training, you are exceptionally prepared for the realities of modern combat operations.”
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Phillip B. Gellins, commander of the 107th BMCS, added, “This team will provide the tactical edge that directs our forces to the right place, at the right time, to achieve the most lethal mission objectives, and I am humbled to be a part of this team.”
This milestone propels the 116th Wing’s mission forward following the unit’s divestment of its E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System aircraft in 2023 and reinforces the 116th Wing’s commitment to deliver battle management capabilities, while advancing its role as a Georgia-based, globally engaged force.
“Today’s redesignation is an important change, but not a departure from the 116th’s legacy,” said U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Konata A. Crumbly, commander of the GAANG. “It is the next expression of a legacy that is defined by readiness, operational excellence and the consistent willingness to adapt to the needs of our great nation.”
| Date Taken: | 09.11.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 09.14.2026 10:48 |
| Story ID: | 574603 |
| Location: | ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, GEORGIA, US |
| Web Views: | 138 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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