Lack of range capability hampers training
The USAF is looking to boost its training outcomes by upgrading ranges and moving squadrons closer to those ranges — but a recent report from the RAND Corporation questions the methods used to maintain pilot combat readiness.
The USAF has determined that its fast jet pilots do not have sufficient access to training ranges with associated airspace, threat emitters, targets and electronic support measures that are capable of representing near-peer potential adversaries.
This shortfall is particularly relevant to fifth-generation aircraft such as the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II, the RAND Corporation concluded in a recent report.
The USAF is considering a twin-track approach to solving the situation by a series of range upgrades and moving some squadrons closer to some of its more capable ranges (this is known as 'restationing').
Both options come with a cost,
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