KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- As the largest combat wing in Pacific Air Forces, Kadena Air Base strives for excellence in delivering decisive air and cyberspace capabilities, and that excellence was once again recognized by PACAF.
The Air Force Outstanding Unit Award recognizes units for exceptionally meritorious service or outstanding achievement over a period of one to two years, but this isn’t the first time Team Kadena received the honors. Since 1959, the 18th Wing has been awarded AFOUAs 26 times.
From Nov. 2, 2020 to Nov. 1, 2021, The 18th Wing generated more than 17 thousand flying hours across five major weapons systems, winning more than a hundred Fifth Air Force, PACAF, HAF and Department of Defense-level awards while supporting over 500 higher headquarters missions.
At the same time, Team Kadena developed over 200 multi-capable Airmen, further enhancing Agile Combat Employment proficiencies, but that’s not all.
The 18th Wing showcased its enhanced warfighting capabilities by initiating and leading two RUMRUNNER exercises with joint and coalition partners. These exercises also sparked the creation of a new benchmark setting ground radar system network.
Through these exercises and higher headquarter taskings, Team Kadena was able to strengthen the advanced readiness posture and solidify PACAF’s ACE concepts.
The 18th Wing goes on to compete for the Outstanding Unit Award at the Air Force level.