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| US Air Force Tests Chemical Warfare Techniques at Kunsan Air Base in South Korea |
Seoul - US Air Forces (USAF) Pacific Air Forces Main Command (PACAF) conducted the first tests to validate tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP) against chemical warfare. The tests were conducted by a joint PACAF team consisting of subject matter experts and other representatives deployed at USAF Kunsan Air Base in South Korea.
This testing was conducted as part of an advanced crew protection program, to ensure that crew members have adequate access to chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear protective equipment (CBRN). In addition, this test is also to ensure that the CBRN techniques implemented by the troops are modernized and can effectively combat future threats.
PACAF Crew Equipment Command Chief Functional Manager Staff Sergeant Charles Hall said the CBRN protective gear for USAF crew and pilots is currently effective, but restricts movement and is burdensome, hindering combat effectiveness. The USAF then allocated a budget of around 16 million USD to conduct surveys of aircraft, ground and air tests on various platforms to collect quantitative and qualitative data.
The tests were carried out in a simulated environment filled with chemicals to allow researchers to fine-tune the TTP to maintain combat readiness. This is to support a free and open Indo-Pacific region, said PACAF.
PACAF Command Manager AFE Senior Sergeant Ryan Rios stated, with data integration and TTP enhancements, wing commanders will have additional information to help them make difficult decisions when the CBRN war occurs.