The 85th Fighter Group, a geographically separated unit of the 33rd Fighter Wing, was activated in July 2024. Its primary mission is to lead the international F-35 training effort at Ebbing ANGB, serving as the U.S. Air Force’s latest hub for allied fighter training.
Colonel Dave Skalicky, commander of the 33rd Fighter Wing, expressed his appreciation for the collaborative effort that made this milestone possible. “Today’s milestone reflects the incredible teamwork between Airmen, allies, and the local Fort Smith community,” he stated. “The 33rd Fighter Wing has a legacy of forging the future of combat airpower, and now, through the 85th Fighter Group, we’re extending that legacy by training allied pilots who will fly shoulder-to-shoulder with us in future conflicts. This is deterrence in action.”
Poland is the first of seven partner nations expected to send F-35 students through Ebbing’s training pipeline by 2030. Other countries, including Finland, Germany, Switzerland, and Singapore, are also slated to participate, with 12 F-16s from Luke AFB being relocated to Ebbing ANGB.
Colonel Nick Ihde, commander of the 85th Fighter Group, reflected on the process of establishing the unit. “Standing up a fighter group is the easy part of this project,” said Ihde. “Building an international training centre, getting requirements to align, and training and teaching with allies like Poland makes it truly meaningful. The relationships built amongst these countries will benefit global security for decades to come.”
More than 200 guests attended the ceremony, including senior defence officials, industry partners, local civic leaders, and international dignitaries. Attendees had the opportunity to tour mobile flight simulators, view static displays of Polish F-35s and Singaporean F-16s, and interact with U.S. Air Force instructors and maintainers.
The ceremony highlighted Ebbing ANGB’s transition from a conceptual project to a vital international training hub. Robert Ator, Secretary for Veteran and Military Affairs for the State of Arkansas, underscored the community’s commitment to supporting the mission. “The State of Arkansas and the city of Fort Smith is honoured to stand alongside our military partners as Ebbing becomes a global centre for allied airpower,” said Ator. “The activation of the 85th Fighter Group and today’s IOC milestone are monumental achievements in securing global deterrence.”
Source: U.S. Air Force.
