Kadena proves able in Tactical Ammunition Rapid Response Package exercise

by Staff Sgt. Lauren Snyder
18th Wing Public Affairs

9/27/2013 - KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- Airmen of the 18th Munitions Squadron practice readiness with a Tactical Ammunition Rapid Response Package exercise, Sept. 23-27 on Kadena Air Base.

The week-long exercise tests the squadron's ability to move munitions from storage bunkers to the awaiting aircraft in times of war. Every missile, container and pallet built is inspected numerous times during the exercise, regardless of the specific simulated mission tasking.

The September '13 TARRP mission is to move approximately 40,000 munitions items, weighing 124,000 pounds and valued at more than $148 million, which is still only a fraction of what Kadena and the 18 MUNS are capable of supplying if U.S. forces are called on to assist countries in the region, defend host-nation sovereignty or maintain regional stability.

To pass the exercise, each completed pallet must receive proper inspection and information documentation by Airmen of the 18 MUNS, together with the 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron and 733rd Air Mobility Squadron. Once the chains and straps are aligned and tightened, the pallets are ready to be sent on their way.

"We're getting assets to the fight as quickly, proficiently, and safely as possible," said 2nd Lt. Patrick Stanton, 18 MUNS System Flight commander. "We are practicing efficiency in movement, doing it right the first time quickly, and effectively getting munitions to where they are needed."

While the TARRP simulates how the squadron would respond in times of war, the Airmen handle live missiles and every care is given to follow procedures. Nothing is simulated in how dangerous the munitions truly are.

With just a one-week break between Kadena's local operational readiness exercise earlier in September and the TARRP exercise, 18 MUNS practices another scenario with this exercise. They are ready at a moment's notice to prepare missiles for transport.