The US Seventh Air Force in South Korea is significantly enhancing its operational capabilities by expanding the F-16 “Super Squadron” at Osan Air Base. This strategic initiative aims to maximize combat effectiveness and optimize airpower on the Korean Peninsula, a critical region for regional security and stability.
This ambitious expansion, termed “Super Squadron Test Part II,” is scheduled to commence in October and continue through October 2026. During this period, approximately 31 additional F-16 multirole fighters, along with around 1,000 US Air Force airmen, will be strategically reassigned from Kunsan Air Base to Osan Air Base.
The transfer of these vital aircraft and personnel will unfold over several months, with initial steps already underway. As a crucial first phase, aircraft maintainers at Osan Air Base are integrating with the 36th Fighter Generation Squadron, ensuring a seamless transition and operational readiness for the incoming assets.
Captain Bryce Hughes, the 51st Maintenance Group Officer and Sortie Generation Flight commander, articulated the core purpose behind this maneuver. He explained that the “Super Squadron Test Part II” is a comprehensive force-optimization test designed to evaluate whether a larger, consolidated F-16 squadron can generate superior combat power and operate with increased efficiency.
According to the Air Force, Phase II will strategically build upon valuable data and insights gleaned from the initial phase of the test. Key focus areas include a thorough assessment of aircraft maintenance protocols, meticulous evaluation of manpower requirements, and a detailed review of logistical support needs to ensure sustained operational tempo.
The service actively seeks to ascertain how a larger, more integrated squadron structure can bolster training opportunities while simultaneously achieving reductions in manpower and streamlining logistical support. This move underscores a broader strategic effort to achieve greater operational agility and resource optimization.
Importantly, this temporary redeployment of assets will not alter the overall number of F-16s permanently stationed in South Korea. The relocation distance between Kunsan Air Base and Osan Air Base is notably insignificant, spanning only about 105 miles, ensuring minimal disruption to ongoing operations.
Globally, the United States Air Force currently operates a vast fleet of approximately 840 F-16 variants, while the Republic of Korea Air Force (RoKAF) maintains its own formidable fleet of 180 F-16C/D aircraft. Historically, the RoKAF holds the distinction of being the second air force in the world to fly this specific F-16 variant, highlighting its long-standing commitment to advanced air defense.
Osan Air Base is well-equipped to accommodate the influx of additional F-16 Fighting Falcons. This capacity has been made possible by the ongoing retirement of its two dozen Fairchild Republic A-10 close air support fighters, which have been stationed in South Korea since the early 1980s. Plans are in place for the final A-10s to depart Osan by the conclusion of fiscal year 2025.
