Nighttime Training Elevates Squadron's Airdrop Proficiency

This February, four C-130J Super Hercules aircraft from the 36th Airlift Squadron conducted a highly synchronized, multi-element formation flight over the Mount Fuji drop zone in Yokota Air Base, Japan. The exercise showcased the squadron’s agility and readiness. This routine, also known as a "night tac," involved the swift and precise delivery of container delivery system (CDS) bundles and heavy equipment.

The exercise focused on airdrop proficiency, with crews performing visual low-level maneuvers and executing airdrops in the challenging night environment.

“This particular one was a multi-element formation lead flight,” said Capt. Zachary Norton, 36th Airlift Squadron C-130J pilot. “We also trained on airdrops, so we did visual low-levels over the Mount Fuji drop zone with heavy equipment and CDS bundles.”

Night tacs present unique challenges and provide pilots and loadmasters an opportunity to implement tactics and techniques under limited visibility. These missions rely on critical tools such as aircraft station-keeping equipment, avionics systems used to maintain formation flight in low-visibility or night operations. Aircrew also utilized night vision goggles (NVGs) during the flight.

“NVGs bring a whole different challenge because you lose depth perception when using them.” said Senior Airman Blake Janssen, 36th AS loadmaster. “We do this because in the event we have to conduct night operations, we’re just as proficient as we are at day operations.”

The night sortie was part of the squadron’s commitment to maintaining peak proficiency and meeting the demands of region-wide airlift support. Their rigorous training schedule includes drumbeat, scenario-based events, and exercise injections to ensure aircrews meet all training objectives and maintain readiness.