NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- The 337th Test and Evaluation Squadron deployed 2 B-1B Lancers to Nellis AFB from November to December 2020 to support the 77th Weapons Squadron during U.S. Air Force Weapons School Integration, known as WSINT, helping to produce two Weapons Officers for the B-1 community.
“This year’s WSINT was very challenging due to COVID restrictions, but the combined efforts of the 337th TES and 7th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron made sure there were no issues with the mission,” said Tech Sgt. Chris Lee, lead crew chief. “Both groups learned from each other and had a good give-and-take on how to streamline operations, not only for WSINT, but for future B-1 deployment processes.”
In addition to the B-1s, the 337th TES also sent 27 personnel to Nellis to support WSINT. This included 11 aviators, 15 maintenance troops, and 1 admin. The maintenance team included a production superintendent, crew chiefs, and specialists. In all, the squadron flew 29.6 flight hours with 92% mission capable rate, encompassing the Thanksgiving holiday and overcoming challenging COVID protocols.
In addition to supporting WSINT and the B-1 community, the event also provided a unique opportunity for the 337th TES.
“WSINT offers our test aircrew a great opportunity to fly in the most robust training environment the Air Force has to offer, where they are exposed to the latest tactical challenges facing the warfighter,” said Lt. Col. Matt Tull, Director of Operations for the 337th TES. “It also provides an unparalleled opportunity for the B-1 to integrate in a joint warfighting environment to improve interoperability. Ultimately, this helps inform future OT efforts to ensure we are providing the most operationally realistic environment for testing.”
The 337th Test and Evaluation Squadron manages, executes, and reports on Operational Test & Evaluation and Tactics Development & Evaluation for B-1 hardware, software and weapons upgrades to maximize combat capabilities prior to fielding to operational units. As part of the 53d Wing, the 337th TES provides tactical advantage to the warfighter at the speed of relevance. By testing new, operational capabilities, evaluating fielded capabilities, and optimizing electronic warfare capabilities, the 53rd Wing is bringing the future faster while answering the warfighter’s demands for integrated, multi-domain capabilities.