Delaware Air National Guard airlift wing slated to gain additional C-130
WILMINGTON, Del. -- Delaware's 166th Airlift Wing is slated to gain an additional C-130 Hercules aircraft in 2014. This comes as a result of the Fiscal Year 2013 National Defense Authorization Act Intratheater Airlift Working Group's recommendations last month.
This additional aircraft, added to enhance mission effectiveness, will bring the wing's total assigned aircraft to nine. While the additional C-130 is classified as a backup, it will provide an additional resource for operational missions that include airlift and airdrop.
"We are pleased with the addition of this aircraft," said Maj. Gen. Frank Vavala, Adjutant General, Delaware National Guard. "Not only does it strengthen Delaware's Air Guard, it also advances our planning as an active associate unit and puts us in a more secure long-term position to support our state and nation."
Details on the backup C-130 are not currently available, however, it is known that the aircraft is not newly acquired. It will be an aircraft that was scheduled to retire by 2014. In some cases, personnel associated with the aircraft will be restored.
"An additional C-130 will add depth to our current aircraft inventory and be beneficial as the wing supports concurrent training requirements and overseas deployments," said Col. Mike Feeley, 166th Airlift Wing commander.
The 166th Airlift Wing is based at the New Castle Air National Guard Base and is Delaware's only ANG flying unit. Approximately 1,100 Airmen are assigned, with about 400 of them being full-time.
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Delaware National Guard
First Regiment Road
Wilmington DE 19808
For more information please contact Tech. Sgt. Benjamin Matwey at (302) 593-2126