SATAF team visits Yokota

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Delano Scott
  • 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan --  A Site Activation Task Force visited Yokota June 20-24 to help plan the integration of the C-130J Super Hercules, the newest iteration of the C-130 into the wing's fleet.

The SATAF team was comprised of subject matter experts from Pacific Air Forces, headquartered at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, and representatives involved in Yokota's transition to the C-130J.

The team spent five days with their wing counterparts to better understand processes and supplies used in supporting the two differing C-130 models, while determining the best course of action to tackle the challenging transition.

"Additional buildings and facilities including a composite repair facility, simulator building and added space to a fuels facility are just some of the challenges Yokota faces in this transition," said Maj. Dan Crow, 374th Airlift Wing plans and programs officer. "With the first C-130J aircraft scheduled for arrival October, 2016, and the rest of the fleet arriving by November, 2017, ensuring that the base is equipped to handle this change is crucial."

The SATAF headed back to their respective functional areas to begin a programming plan dictating the flow of J models into and H models out of Yokota.

"The C-130J model is physically larger than its predecessor, allowing it to carry more cargo," said Crow. "The engines are bigger, faster and more fuel efficient as well. With greater range and cargo hauling ability, the new model will modernize our fleet here at Yokota."

This transition to the newer aircraft in no way hampers the mission here.

"The mission of the base isn't changing with the C-130J model," Crow said. "The new model gives us more capability and brings more to the fight."

Another SATAF visit is scheduled for next year.