More airmen, F-35s from Hill AFB deploy overseas to Europe

HILL AIR FORCE BASE — Combat F-35s and associated crews from Hill Air Force Base continue with a heavy deployment load.

According to a press release from the base, one squadron of F-35As, airmen and other equipment from Hill’s 388th and 419th fighter wings have deployed to Aviano Air Base in Italy. The group is in Italy to participate in exercises and complete training with other European aircraft as part of a “Theater Security Package,” the release says.

In the release, 388th spokesman Micah Garbarino said the mission is funded through the European Deterrence Initiative and “provides a more robust U.S. military ... presence in the European theater, capable of deterring adversaries and assuring partners and allies of U.S. commitment to regional security.”

The F-35s and members of the 421st and 466th Fighter Squadrons arrived at Aviano on Friday, Garbarino said, and will remain in Europe for several weeks.

Read more: https://www.standard.net/news/military/more-airmen-f--s-from-hill-afb-deploy-overseas/article_1f1a0bec-7af9-5ea9-9707-c512c8923a97.html