Test and Evaluation Support

The Test and Evaluation Support program is focused on enhancing the operational capabilities of the Air Force Test Center (AFTC) by supporting a wide range of test activities. This initiative is integral to the Department of Defense's Major Range and Test Facility Base, providing essential resources for various testing facilities such as wind tunnels, rocket and jet engine test cells, and hypersonic testing environments. The program's objectives include maintaining and modernizing test infrastructure, ensuring data collection and analysis capabilities, and supporting the USAF Test Pilot School. It also covers maintenance activities like Programmed Depot Maintenance (PDM) for aircraft, engine overhauls, and ground support equipment repairs.

The 704th Test Group is a key component of this program, offering specialized testing capabilities at several facilities. These include the Central Inertial and Global Positioning System Test Facility, which evaluates navigation systems' resilience to electronic interference. The Holloman High Speed Test Track provides full-scale testing in flight-like conditions. Additionally, the National Radar Cross Section Test Facility offers radar cross-section measurements crucial for low observable targets. The 586th Flight Test Squadron supports advanced avionics and weapons development across joint, international, and commercial programs. The group's objectives are to ensure comprehensive testing support for diverse defense projects through competitive service contracts.

The 412th Test Wing at Edwards AFB plays a significant role in weapons system development and evaluation for various aircraft systems. Its mission includes supporting aerospace research vehicles, unmanned systems, cruise missiles, and electronic warfare systems. The wing also hosts the USAF Test Pilot School, contributing to pilot training with cutting-edge technologies.

Meanwhile, the 96th Test Wing at Eglin AFB focuses on non-nuclear air armaments testing within a vast joint test complex. It supports developmental evaluations of munitions systems and C5ISR systems while providing a scientific process for tri-service digital weapons development.

The Test and Evaluation Support program is designed to sustain critical infrastructure while advancing technological capabilities across multiple Air Force facilities. By ensuring robust support for test operations through civilian pay allocations and infrastructure resources, the program aims to meet increasing demands in ground test evaluations and maintain readiness for future defense challenges. The strategic allocation of resources reflects an ongoing commitment to enhancing national defense capabilities through rigorous testing and evaluation processes.