Photo by Senior Airman Patrick Boyle | 35th Fighter Wing | 08.04.2025
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Estella Gilbert, 35th Maintenance Squadron Nondestructive Inspection (NDI) supervisor, inspects a mechanical component at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Aug. 4, 2025. By detecting structural fatigue, corrosion and other forms of degradation early, NDI extends the lifespan of essential aircraft components, reducing the need for premature part replacement and enabling the USAF......
Photo by Senior Airman Patrick Boyle | 35th Fighter Wing | 08.04.2025
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Estella Gilbert, 35th Maintenance Squadron Nondestructive Inspection supervisor, washes a mechanical component before inspection at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Aug. 4, 2025. Timely inspections reduce the risk of in-flight malfunctions and unscheduled maintenance, ensuring that aircraft can launch on short notice and support operations, crisis response, or deterrence......
Photo by Senior Airman Patrick Boyle | 35th Fighter Wing | 08.04.2025
A mechanical component is inspected under black light at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Aug. 4, 2025. Nondestructive Inspection Airmen play a vital role in sustaining aircraft reliability by identifying hidden structural issues that could compromise performance or safety, directly enabling the 35th Fighter Wing to maintain operational readiness, fulfill security obligations with regional partners,......
Photo by Senior Airman Patrick Boyle | 35th Fighter Wing | 08.04.2025
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Estella Gilbert, 35th Maintenance Squadron Nondestructive Inspection (NDI) supervisor, inspects a mechanical component under black light at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Aug. 4, 2025. NDI technicians use advanced techniques such as ultrasonic testing, X-ray and dye penetrant inspection to locate cracks, corrosion and fatigue that aren't visible to the naked eye, allowing......
Photo by Senior Airman Patrick Boyle | 35th Fighter Wing | 05.01.2025
U.S. Air Force Airman Alejandro Ramirez, 35th Maintenance Squadron nondestructive inspection specialist, examines an aircraft part for defects at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 1, 2025. Early detection of cracks, corrosion, and other structural flaws allows maintenance teams to address issues before they lead to critical failures, directly enhancing aircraft safety and mission availability. (U.S.......
Photo by Senior Airman Patrick Boyle | 35th Fighter Wing | 05.01.2025
U.S. Air Force Airman Alejandro Ramirez, 35th Maintenance Squadron nondestructive inspection specialist, examines aircraft parts for defects at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 1, 2025. Strict compliance with inspection standards and technical data ensures that all findings are accurate and actionable, reinforcing mission reliability and readiness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Patrick Boyle)...
Photo by Senior Airman Patrick Boyle | 35th Fighter Wing | 05.01.2025
U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Jared Villalta, 35th Maintenance Squadron aircraft metals technology specialist, welds components at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 1, 2025. Through strict compliance with technical orders and fabrication standards, Metals Technology ensures every component meets required specifications, supporting aircraft reliability and interoperability with allied forces. (U.S.......
Photo by Senior Airman Patrick Boyle | 35th Fighter Wing | 05.01.2025
U.S. Air Force Airman Alejandro Ramirez, 35th Maintenance Squadron nondestructive inspection specialist, examines a part for defects at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 1, 2025. Inspection of materials and components ensures that systems meet structural and safety requirements, supporting modernization efforts and mission readiness of aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Patrick Boyle)...
