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36th FS hosts Buddy Exchange program

  • Published
  • By the 36th Fighter Squadron
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  In a continuing effort to strengthen the U.S.-ROK alliance, the 36th Fighter Squadron hosted the Buddy Wing exchanged program Sept. 8 to the 11.

The purpose of the program is to enhance the interoperability between Air Force and Republic of Korea Air Force fighter and aircraft maintenance squadrons.

Four ROK KF-16 pilots and twelve maintainers from the ROKAF's 20th Fighter Wing, Seosan Air Base, ROK, deployed to Osan to interact with Osan pilots and maintainers.

"The program fosters a healthy integration of culture, ideas, and tactics through daily interaction with our ROKAF counterparts," said Capt. Kip Johnson, 36th FS project officer. "Ultimately, the Buddy Wing program improves our ability to wage a combined Air Force and ROKAF air campaign."

During the four-day program, Air Force and ROKAF pilots flew in three sorties, including an integrated four-ships flying together in a tactical scenario.

Maj. Jongseo Park, ROKAF POC, stated he believes programs such as this is the best way for pilots from both countries to get to know each other and is better than any combined exercise.

"[Throughout the program] we do mission planning together, share ideas and fly together," he said. "This is the second time that I have participated in this program, but the first time employing as a four-ship. I feel we need to know each other better so we can employ air power better together. I believe that we will continue to improve our combined air power through the Buddy Wing Program."