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12th Flying Training Wing

The 12th Flying Training Wing, headquartered at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, develops the next generation of Air Force aviators and enlisted aircrew by providing world-class flying training and education. The wing trains Airmen in the fundamentals of airmanship, instruction and leadership, preparing them for success in operational units across the Air Force. Through undergraduate Combat Systems Officer training, Pilot Instructor Training, Introduction to Fighter Fundamentals, Remotely Piloted Aircraft pilot indoctrination, enlisted aviator training, and other specialized programs, the 12th FTW produces skilled, adaptable, and combat-ready professionals capable of meeting the demands of today's complex operating environment while strengthening the future of American airpower.

 

 

12FTW Units

aircraft mechanic, performs maintenance 12th Maintenance Group
12th Maintenance Group
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Photo of an undergaraduate combat systems officer graduation 479th Flying Training Group
479th Flying Training Group
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An Airman inspects an aircraft 12th Operations Group
12th Operations Group
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Articles

T-38 Maintenance Depot Visit Highlights Program's Role in Extending Trainer's Lifespan

  • Published
  • By Benjamin Faske
  • 19th Air Force Public Affairs
Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas --  

The 19th Air Force commander and command chief toured the T-38 Maintenance Depot here, Feb. 10, 2025.

The visit by Maj. Gen. Gregory Kreuder and Chief Master Sgt. Keith Scott highlighted the critical role the depot plays in extending the lifespan of the aging T-38 Talon, a cornerstone in the Air Force pilot training program over the past six decades.

The depot, operated by the 575th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, is responsible for the T-38 Pacer Classic III (PCIII) and Talon Repair, Inspection, and Maintenance (TRIM) programs. These programs, part of the Legacy Training Aircraft Division within the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center’s Training Directorate, oversee the maintenance and overhaul of all T-38 models (A, B and C).

“The work being done here is vital to ensuring we have enough T-38s available to meet the Air Force’s pilot training demands,” Kreuder said.  “The TRIM program’s focused maintenance approach is key to keeping these aircraft safe and operational until they are replaced by the T-7A Red Hawk.”

The T-38 Talon, first introduced in 1961, has been instrumental in training generations of fighter and bomber pilots. The PCIII and TRIM program’s comprehensive maintenance and overhaul efforts are expected to extend the aircraft’s service life to an unprecedented 80 years.

“The dedication and expertise of the men and women of the 575th AMXS are remarkable," Kreuder said. "They are breathing new life into these aircraft, enabling our pilots to train in safe and reliable training platforms as they develop the flying skills they need to defend our nation."

John Anderson, a 575th AMXS production flight chief, relies on years of expertise to handle the in-depth structural overhaul of the T-38.  "The 575th AMXS is the world’s T-38 subject matter expert," Anderson said. "We play a vital role in the sustainment of the T-38 fleet, providing service life extension into the 2030s and beyond."

All undergraduate pilot training bases will eventually transition from the T-38 to the T-7A Red Hawk.  Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph is expected to get the first delivery in fiscal 2026 with the other UPT bases receiving theirs in the coming years. Until then, the T-38 depot program will continue to play a vital role in maintaining the Air Force’s pilot training pipeline.

 

Public Affairs Information

Tours of the 12th Flying Training Wing are provided to various community organizations, high schools, businesses, and academic military recruitment programs to educate their members about the 12th FTW mission.

Due to the high volume of requests and limited public affairs resources, tours and static displays are limited.

Please submit all requests in writing to the 12th FTW Public Affairs by email to 12ftw.pa.1@us.af.mil at least three weeks but no more than six weeks in advance. You may also call 210-652-1272.

Tours are not available on weekends and may be cancelled at any time because of increased security measures or mission requirements. The 12th FTW does not host tours of Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph at-large. To schedule a tour of JBSA-Randolph, please contact JBSA-Randolph Public Affairs at 502abw.pa.official@us.af.mil or dial 210-652-4410.

If desired, requestors must arrange all meals. PA will provide contact information to base eateries. Modified tours will be granted for those with limited mobility - this must be stated on the tour request. If not stated, it is assumed that mobility is not an issue.