EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — For the fifth straight year, the U.S. Air Force (USAF) Air Demonstration Squadron “Thunderbirds” have landed at Spaceport America, where they will train for their 2026 performances. Throughout much of January, the Thunderbirds, comprised of roughly 70 team members, will log dozens of training hours at the Sierra County site to hone their individual and collective skills.“Winter training is an absolutely critical time for this team,” said Lt. Col. Alexander Prevendar, commander/leader of the Thunderbirds. “It’s an incredible opportunity to come together and rehearse every piece of our operations. The public demonstration you will see in March would not be possible without this time together — learning from one another — to forge Team 2026.”During demonstration routines, the Thunderbirds’ pilots operate six F-16 Fighting Falcons, the Air Force’s legendary and combat proven multi-fighter. The 2026 edition of the team will integrate three new pilots into its…..