49th FTS / VT-35

49th FTS

VT-35

Inspired from the real world unit, the 49th FTS "Black Knights" is loosely based upon the Air Force Fighter Training Squadron stationed at Columbus AFB, Mississippi. As with the real world counterpart, FTS Candidates have the option to fly the T-38 (F-5E Tiger II) or the aircraft they will be flying once assigned to their combat Squadron. That is, the unit operates the Fairchild Republic A-10C Thunderbolt II along with the Lockheed F-16C Block 50 Viper.

The pilots of the 49th FTS use the tactical callsign of “Black”, mimicking the real world’s counterpart.

For more inspirational reading here is some quick historical synopsis of the real world unit, information can be found on wikipedia here. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/49th_Fighter_Training_Squadron)

Inspired from the real world unit, VT-35 "Stingrays" is loosely based upon the US Naval Training Squadron stationed in Corpus Christi, Texas. In the real world, VT-35 flies the Beechcraft T-44C Pegasus and is one of only two Advance Multi-Engine Training Squadrons responsible for providing the highest quality, professional Naval Aviators to the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. The squadron executes more than 14,000 flight hours annually encompassing over 52,000 landings and nearly 9,500 student flight events. Training at VT-35 includes advanced contact and instrument flight, formation flying, overwater navigation, and low level tactical formation flying with a heavy focus on Crew Resource Management and automated flight. Upon successful completion of their respective syllabi, our Student Naval Aviators receive their "Wings of Gold" and are assigned to fly the U.S. Navy P-8 Poseidon, U.S. Navy CMV-22B Osprey, or Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey in our Nation's operational forces.

In JTF501, specifically CVW-5, VT-35 will utilize the T-45C as a training aircraft to test candidates and help instruct early skillsets.

49th FTS Commanding Officer Refueling (LTC "Swampy" Turner)

Training Philosophy

Assess

Not every candidate has the same set of skills or knowledge. In the Assessment Stage, Instructors identify where there are strengths and potential areas of concentration.

Engage

Instructors work with the trainee to improve on skill sets emboldening them and making them confident in their skills and value to the overall Wing.

Invest

Putting all of our time and effort into building these skills, both the Wing and the individual inherit another asset and valued piece of the team.

WHAT THEN?
As with the real 49th Fighter Training Squadron, the members of the squadron are temporarily placed in this unit until they have reached a training state deemed "Fully Mission Qualified". This simply means that the trainee has been able to meet the minimum requirements per the training regiment and has passed his/her check ride. Once FMQ'd, the trainee is placed in a "line" position and assigned to an applicable Combat Squadron.