MORóN AIR BASE, Spain -- Airmen from the 9th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron completed a rapid engine change on a B-1B Lancer during Bomber Task Force 24-2 at Morón Air Base, Spain, Apr. 3, 2024.
Replacing an engine at home station typically takes around 24 hours to complete but within a deployed location it’s necessary the maintenance and support personnel are as quick and flexible as the B-1 itself during rapid repairs and engine changes. The process includes removing the old motor, transferring it, transporting and installing the new engine, performing checks and lastly running the motor.
"All of the other Air Force Specialty Codes helped us a great deal,” said Staff Sgt. Colby Sherman-Smith, 9th EBS aerospace propulsion technician. “They completed the tasks that would otherwise take our attention away from the jet, allowing us to complete the engine change quickly and efficiently."
Due to the variety of different AFSCs that are present in BTFs, there was no shortage of Airmen to help complete the repair. The task took a total of nine hours to complete with the help of crew chiefs, metal technicians, weapons technicians, avionics, aerospace ground equipment along with other support functions.
In deployed scenarios where resources and support are often limited, the ability to conduct heavy maintenance becomes vital. The capability to perform those tasks on-site enhances the agility of deployed Airmen, enabling them to adapt to operational demands.
“I'm immensely proud of our team's seamless collaboration, delivering impressive results,” said Chief Master Sgt. Justin Daigle, 9th EBS maintenance senior enlisted leader. “In fleet management, every minute is crucial, particularly in a contingent environment. The team grasped the urgency, executing with precision to swiftly resolve issues and restore aircraft, which allows the U.S. to maintain a credible strategic bomber force and strengthen the security and stability of our Allies and partners.”