“Our participation in REFORAC demonstrates our unwavering commitment to the security and stability of the Indo-Pacific,” said Lt. Col. Sharon Cortney, 163rd Attack Wing operations group commander. “Our integration with allied nations showcases our shared objectives and demonstrates our agility to respond to contingencies around the world. The 163rd Attack Wing is committed to finding innovative solutions with the MQ-9 by adapting our tactics and strategies to meet the unique challenges of this dynamic environment.”
Throughout the exercise, the 163rd Attack Wing worked closely with allied nations to demonstrate agility across diverse domains, from the maritime environment to the Pacific Island chain. The training emphasised operational readiness in complex scenarios, underscoring the wing’s role as a responsive combat force in the region.
The unit also hosted Airmen from the 492nd Attack Squadron, U.S. Marine Corps, and Air National Guard members from Arkansas, Iowa, Texas and New York. These collaborations focused on building highly adaptable MQ-9 teams to ensure readiness and effectiveness in sustaining operations across the Indo-Pacific.
“Sustaining MQ-9 operations during REFORPAC, and across INDOPACOM [U.S. Indo-Pacific Command] takes more than just skill, it takes confidence, teamwork and trust in our training. As the maintenance lead, my focus is making sure our Airmen are equipped to operate in any environment, with the tools and agile mindset to get the job done right the first time,” said Master Sgt. Eric Hurley, 163rd Attack Wing maintenance tactics superintendent. “That kind of readiness doesn’t just keep our birds in the fight, it strengthens our ability to support our allies and partners across the region. When we show up mission ready, we send a clear message: We’re reliable, we’re capable and we’re in this together.”
