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Pilots hone skills at night

A U.S. Air Force pilot assigned to the 55th Fighter Squadron prepares for night training in a F-16CM Fighting Falcon at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., Jan. 15, 2008. Night flying prepares pilots and ground crew members for tasks they may face during real combat operations while deployed. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class William Coleman)

Pilots hone skills at night

Published April 21, 2017
By Airman 1st Class Kathryn R.C. Reaves
20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- This week’s flashback Friday focuses on Airmen who work day and night to complete their missions and prepare for deployments.

The night of Jan. 16, 2008, U.S. Air Force pilots flew F-16CM Fighting Falcons at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., to practice skills needed during real combat operations.

Flying while the sun is down gives pilots the opportunity to use night vision equipment, which can be crucial to locating targets and suppressing enemy air defenses.