KORAT ROYAL THAI AIR FORCE BASE, Thailand -- Marine Aerial Refeuler Transport Squadron 452 provided aerial refueling for Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 as they worked together during Exercise Cope Tiger, Jan. 31.
The training was part of VMGR-452’s, the “Yankees,” primary mission and provided both squadrons with valuable training.
“We’re a refueler squadron. Everything we do is in support of units, whether it’s refueling or carrying cargo,” said Capt. Andrew J. Pushart, VMGR-452 pilot and Camp Hill, Penn., native. “Our job was to give (VMFA-122) gas to continue their tactical mission.”
During aerial refueling, a drogue connects from the KC-130 Hercules, to the front of an F/A 18C Hornet to provide gas. One of the challenging aspects is the discrepancy in air speed between the jets and the cargo plane. Load masters on the back of the KC-130 act as additional eyes for the pilots.
“We observe any movement of the aircraft and relay it to the pilots” said Lance Cpl. Jonathan D. Prack, VMGR-452 load master and native of Chatham, N.Y.
On this occasion, VMGR-452 provided 13,500 pounds of fuel for VMFA-122 extending the Crusader’s mission capabilities and improving their combat readiness.
“It allowed us to continue our multi-plane, air-to-air engagement with the Thais,” said Capt. Devin R. Myler, VMFA-122 pilot and native of Washington, D.C.
Because of the training, VMGR-452 was able to improve their refueling skills, while keeping VMFA-122 pilots in the skies longer to train.