Page 1 - Luke AFB Thunderbolt January 2026

“We train the world’s greatest fighter pilots and combat ready Airmen”
U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Katelynn Jackson
An F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 56th Fighter Wing, Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, performs a strafing run during exercise Haboob Havoc, March 29, 2025, over Barry M. Goldwater Range, Arizona. This photo made www.af.mil’s Air Force Year in Photos 2025 roundup.
2025
Year in review
U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Belinda Guachun-Chichay
U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Cody Solomon (left), a flight paramedic assigned to Charlie Company, 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 1st Aviation Regiment, 1st Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, secures U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Elias Saavedra (right), 56th Civil Engineer Squadron explosive ordnance disposal technician, into a 420 rescue seat for a hover hoist operation from a moving aircraft, Sept. 10, 2025, at Gila Bend, Arizona. This exercise, which involved securing Saavedra for a medical evacuation simulation, trains Airmen
in vital personnel recovery techniques, improving
the 56th Fighter Wing’s ability to respond to contingencies and enhance overall readiness.
U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Tekorey Watkins
U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning IIs assigned to the 56th Fighter Wing, fly in a close formation
in preparation for refueling Dec. 2, 2025, over
the skies of Arizona. The F-35A, equipped with advanced sensors, stealth technology and superior aerodynamics, stands as the Air Force’s leading fifth-generation fighter. Joint training with the 161st ARW highlights combat readiness.
Jan. 9, 2026 Vol. 25, No. 1