FORT WAYNE — The Indiana National Guard’s 122nd Fighter Wing has successfully completed conversion to new F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft, earning the right to regain active combat certification and deployment readiness in support of the community, state and nation.
The monumental task of converting to a new airframe has taken the 122nd Fighter Wing about three years, culminating in multiple inspections, including the successful demonstration of full mission readiness and the ability to employ live munitions during the recent Checkered Flag 26-1 exercise at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla.
“I am extremely proud of my fellow Blacksnakes who poured their heart and soul into the mission every single day to make this F-16 conversion a resounding and historic success,” said Col. Scott T. Boatright, commander, 122nd Fighter Wing. “The Blacksnakes now stand ready to do the nation’s business as a lethal, mission-ready and combat-capable fighter wing. We could not have achieved this outstanding triumph without the innovation, technical expertise and embracing of the warrior ethos by every Airman at the 122nd.”…