A recent training exercise conducted by the 419th Fighter Wing, a US Air Force Reserve unit, focused on evaluating the effectiveness of the Multi-Capable Airmen (MCA) concept within the Agile Combat Employment (ACE) strategy. One key aspect of the exercise involved demonstrating the viability of using a Manually Operated Lift Truck (MOLT) for weapons loading in remote environments.
The USAF typically utilizes the MJ-1(also called a “jammer”), a motorized lift truck, for transporting and loading munitions onto aircraft. This equipment offers a 25-horsepower engine powering the drive wheels and a lift arm with a 3,000-pound capacity.
The exercise specifically highlighted the benefits of the MOLT for ACE scenarios. Unlike the MJ-1, the smaller MOLT can be easily loaded onto a KC-46A Pegasus tanker aircraft, enhancing deployability alongside fighter jets and reducing logistical requirements. Furthermore, the MOLT’s manual operation eliminates reliance on an onboard motor, allowing for weapons loading to proceed even if the unit encounters electrical or mechanical issues with the traditional equipment. The lack of an engine for the MLOT reduces potential maintenance issues in remote environments.
The 419th Fighter Wing’s MCA team successfully utilized the MOLT to upload missiles onto F-35A Lightning II fighter jets during the exercise, demonstrating its effectiveness as a potential solution for rapid weapons loading in austere locations. This capability aligns with the core principles of ACE, which emphasize adaptability and self-sufficiency in remote environments.
While the MJ-1 remains the standard lift truck for most USAF operations, the successful implementation of the MOLT during this exercise suggests it could be a valuable tool for units deploying under the ACE concept. The MOLT’s portability and operational flexibility offer advantages in situations where traditional equipment might be impractical.
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