Nellis AFB, Nevada, is arguably one of the most important installations when it comes to the US Air Force fighter community. Spearheading the tactics and capabilities charge here is the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron, which boasts a mightily impressive inventory that arguably eclipses many complete air forces
RAPTORS, EAGLES, LIGHTNING IIs, Fighting Falcons and Thunderbolt IIs — all in one squadron. Most air forces would be envious of this roll-call, but for the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron (TES) this dream team represents a cross-section of the USAF fighter community and the staple of its daily work. It’s an inventory that allows the squadron to be at the center of capabilities and tactics development for these types in the continual journey involved in maintaining the cutting edge.
The 422nd TES ‘Green Bats’ was 75 years old on August 1, 2018. It charts its history back to the 422nd Night Fighter Squadron, which was established in 1943 and flew the P-61 Black Widow during the final year of World War Two as part of the Ninth Air Force in the UK. Current commander Lt Col Brad ‘Split’ Darling comments, ‘I’m very fortunate to be the guy in this seat while we celebrate our 75th anniversary. Lo…
