Building the pilot force

JBSA-Randolph, Tex., serves as home to both Air Education and Training Command and the 12th Flying Training Wing. The unit provides basic and advanced pilot training, along with combat systems officer training. The Randolph flight line hosts three types of trainers, such as the Raytheon T-6A Texan II that all student pilots start out with, the T-1 Jayhawk, flown by students headed for tankers and transports, and the Northrop T-38C for pilots headed to fighters and bombers. T-38C takes off on a mission from Randolph with the C upgrade updating the vintage 'White Rocket' with cockpit amenities more similar to those enjoyed by modern fighter pilots, such as a head-up display and updated navigation, plus engine improvements. Air Education and Training Command and the 12th Flying Training Wing has demonstrated that formation flying is crucial in fighters to hold combat formations and to allow them to routinely practice aerial refueling, requiring precise station-keeping relative to another aircraft.