2nd Special Operations Squadron is the Mitchell Institute, RPA Squadron of the Year (Photo credits: Jud McCrehin)
In a momentous ceremony recently held at the Air Force Association’s Air, Space & Cyber Conference, the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) jointly awarded the prestigious 2022 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) Squadron of the Year Award upon the 2nd Special Operations Squadron (SOS).
This distinguished honor is presented annually to the Squadron that exemplifies excellence in the use of RPAs in meritorious service, and the Scorpions of the 2nd SOS, based out of Hurlburt Field, Florida, earned this accolade with their exceptional contributions throughout the year.
A Year of Unparalleled Achievement
The Scorpions of the 2nd SOS demonstrated an unwavering commitment to their mission, flying over an astounding 16,000 hours in 2022. These flight hours were dedicated to supporting critical operations, including Operation ENDURING SENTINEL, Operation OCTAVE SHIELD, and Operation INHERENT RESOLVE. The Squadron’s versatility and dedication extended beyond these missions as they played a pivotal role in satellite launch and recovery operations during Emerald Flag.
Quick side note: Emerald Flag, held at Eglin Air Force Base in October last year, is a pivotal multi-domain exercise that connects air, land, sea, space, and cyberspace to advance complex weapon systems and enhance military readiness.
One of the standout achievements that propelled the Scorpions to victory was their groundbreaking demonstration of Reaper Agile Combat Employment. This innovative concept showcased how the future of unmanned systems in the Department of the Air Force, both in the 2020s and beyond, could be realized. Their efforts exemplified the adaptability and transformative potential of remotely piloted aircraft.
Acknowledging Excellence
The 2022 Remotely Piloted Aircraft Squadron of the Year Award was presented to the 2nd SOS by esteemed figures in the field of aviation and defense. Lt. Gen. Jim Slife, Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations for the US Air Force, was joined by GA-ASI President David R. Alexander and Lt. Gen. (Ret.) David A. Deptula, the Dean of the Mitchell Institute, in recognizing the Scorpions’ outstanding accomplishments.
David R. Alexander expressed his thrill at presenting the award, highlighting the Scorpions’ exceptional use of MQ-9A Reapers in the defense of the nation.
“I was thrilled to present the award to the Scorpions for their extraordinary use of MQ-9A Reapers in the defense of our country,” said Alexander, cited in a Thursday press release.
He added that their ability to expand Reaper utilization and execute operations like Automatic Takeoff and Landing from US home units to anywhere in the world using satellite beyond-line-of-sight connectivity was truly remarkable.
The 2nd SOS left an indelible mark on the RPA landscape in 2022. Their contributions extended beyond routine operations as they undertook groundbreaking demonstrations during Large Force Exercises.
Notably, they were the first to execute Agile Combat Employment with an MQ-9A as part of Emerald Flag 2022. This milestone represents a significant advancement in the capabilities and flexibility of remotely piloted aircraft.
Moreover, the Scorpions ventured into uncharted territory by employing these procedures in combat environments for the first time, operating in two different classified areas of responsibility (AOR). Their ability to adapt and excel in high-stakes situations underscored their expertise and dedication to the mission.
Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration
A defining feature of the 2nd SOS’s success was its commitment to knowledge sharing and collaboration within the MQ-9A enterprise. The Squadron went above and beyond by developing and training instructors who could pass on their valuable insights and techniques to other squadrons and aircrew. This collaborative spirit not only elevated the Scorpions but also contributed to the overall advancement of RPA operations.
The Future of Unmanned Systems
The Scorpions of the 2nd SOS have not only excelled in the present but have also accelerated progress towards realizing the future concepts of operation for unmanned systems in the Department of the Air Force. Their innovative approaches and willingness to embrace new technologies and strategies have paved the way for a more capable and adaptable force in the years to come.
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In conclusion, the 2nd Special Operations Squadron, known as the Scorpions, has rightfully earned the 2022 Remotely Piloted Aircraft Squadron of the Year Award through their unwavering dedication, groundbreaking achievements, and commitment to advancing the capabilities of remotely piloted aircraft.
Their story serves as an inspiring example of what can be accomplished through innovation, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to excellence in the defense of our country. As we look to the future, the Scorpions’ legacy will undoubtedly continue to shape the evolution of unmanned systems within the Department of the Air Force.
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