Tyndall Air Force Base is advancing its combat readiness by equipping aircrew with specialized chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) gear. Designed to protect personnel against potential threats, the aircrew CBRN equipment represents a critical step in ensuring mission readiness.
The Air Force said in a release that the 325th Operations Support Squadron Aircrew Flight Equipment Flight (AFE) has set a goal to fit and train current and new pilots with the gear by February 2025. This proactive approach aims to guarantee that pilots are always prepared for operational demands. “We need to be prepared for anything,” said Senior Airman Kaitlin Wells, an aircrew flight equipment journeyman with the 325th Operations Support Squadron. “That includes having all their equipment sized, fit, inspected, tested, and ready so that if something does happen tomorrow, we won’t have limited time to fit up every single pilot to fight a war.”
The aircrew CBRN equipment is tailored for high-performance aircraft, integrating respiratory protection with full-body coverage. The gear is compatible with other essential items, such as thermal protection layers and cold-water immersion garments, and is designed to withstand the g-forces experienced during flight and emergency egress scenarios. Pilots operating with the equipment carry an additional 10-15 pounds of gear, underscoring its comprehensive protection capabilities.
Training on the equipment involves detailed fittings, classroom instruction, and practical exercises. Pilots learn the purpose and maintenance of the gear before undergoing hands-on training, which includes processing through the Air Crew Contamination Area and Air Crew Contamination Station. These mock CBRN events simulate testing, removal, and decontamination procedures.
While the chemical line process is typically conducted every three years, the AFE plans to implement quarterly exercises to ensure consistent readiness. “I think it gets us back to a combat-ready mission,” said Tech. Sgt. Kevin Terry, flight chief of the 301st Fighter Squadron. “It makes it so there are no limitations as to where we can go and where we can take our aircraft to fight the fight, making us a more agile and a more prepared force.”
The implementation of aircrew CBRN gear at Tyndall underscores the base’s commitment to enhancing operational reach and maintaining readiness. By preparing personnel for the challenges of contested environments, Tyndall AFB is ensuring it remains a key asset in the Air Force’s mission.