OCTOBER 8, 2025 – This year, the 2024 Air National Guard nomination for the United States Air Force Alison Award for Character and Innovation was awarded to Lt. Col. Kurt Fox of the 163d Attack Wing, California Air National Guard.
Lt. Col. Fox has been honored for his transformative contributions to integrating the MQ-9 Reaper into the National Airspace System, significantly enhancing operational flexibility and efficiency.
Fox spearheaded the development of “File and Fly” procedures, enabling MQ-9 operations above 18,000 feet without pre-defined routes, a capability previously unavailable. This initiative eliminates administrative delays, allowing commanders to respond to dynamic mission requirements with unprecedented agility.
“Lt. Col. Fox’s leadership has fundamentally reshaped MQ-9 operational capabilities,” said Lt. Col. Sharon Cortney, 163d Operations Group commander. “His innovative approach has not only streamlined processes but also unlocked new avenues for mission execution.”
The “File and Fly” program serves as the Department of Defense standard for integrating remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) into the national airspace.
Beyond “File and Fly,” Fox has driven key advancements including:
- Facilitating Satellite Communication Automatic Takeoff and Landing Capable approaches for the 162nd Attack Squadron (Ohio ANG), enhancing Agile Combat Employment capabilities.
- Integrating the Air and Marine Operations Surveillance System for FAA-approved instrument departures and arrivals at March Air Reserve Base, mitigating weather-related sortie attrition and establishing safe instrument procedures for MQ-9s.
- Pioneering a $2.5 million Ground Based Detect and Avoidance System, enabling extended MQ-9 transits through complex airspace by linking geographically separated air surveillance radars. This eliminates the need for chase aircraft, generating $500,000 in annual cost savings.
These advancements contributed to 1,455 flight hours and 258 sorties, while supporting the training of 36 aircrews at the Formal Training Unit.
Fox’s ability to synchronize MQ-9 technical advancements with internal and external agencies underscores his dedication to innovation and mission relevance in a dynamic global environment.
The USAF Alison Award for Character and Innovation recognizes one commissioned officer of the United States Air Force in recognition of demonstrated outstanding character and innovation in a single act or a series of related events.
Story by Maj. Eve Derfelt
163d Attack Wing