JULY 17, 2024 – Airmen from the 435th Air Ground Operations Wing completed the installation of a new Barrier Arresting Kit-12 allowing U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa F-16 Fighting Falcons to land at Malacky Air Base, July 10.
The BAK-12 installation demonstrates teamwork by strengthening the Slovak partnership as a North Atlantic Treaty Organization ally and emphasizes the importance of initiatives to maintain and reinforce readiness, collaboration, and interoperability, said Col. Matthew A. Bartlett, 435th Air Ground Operations Wing commander.
A team of 435th Air Ground Operations Wing Airmen, 31st Fighter Wing pilots and the Slovak air force worked together to ensure the successful installation of the BAK-12. The final test to certify the system was successfully performed on July 10, 2024. Following the certification testing, the Slovak AF assumed responsibility for maintaining the new BAK-12 system at Malacky AB during a handover ceremony.
“The BAK-12 system at Malacky Air Base not only enhances our deterrence posture but also demonstrates our unwavering commitment to NATO’s defensive alliance,” said Bartlett. “U.S. forces are ready and postured to integrate seamlessly with Slovak allies and other NATO partners to deter threats and defend our alliances.”
The new BAK-12 system is a tangible example of how the United States and allies can work together to ensure global security, said Bartlett.
The BAK-12 system and strategic introduction of F-16’s into the Slovak AF fleet reinforces Slovak national security and demonstrates the Slovak dedication to maintaining a robust and modern military force, said Martin Vojtašovič, Ministry of Defence of the Slovak Republic state secretary.
“This initiative is part of a broader framework of cooperation and partnership with the United States,” said Vojtašovič.
USAFE-AFAFRICA implements concepts such as Agile Combat Employment, which promotes unification with allies and partners to deter, defend and win across the spectrum of conflict. ACE allows the U.S. to work closely with European allies and partners to deliver lethal combat power, remain agile in execution, and strategic in deterrence, said Bartlett.
“This new capability allows Airmen and aircrews to conduct agile combat operations, delivering lethal combat power wherever and whenever needed,” said Bartlett.
Bartlett expressed how this adaptive capability is crucial in today’s dynamic security environment, where the ability to rapidly deploy and sustain operations is essential. Installation of the BAK-12 at Malacky AB adds to the operational agility of the U.S. and Slovak Air Force by allowing F-16’s to utilize Malacky AB.
The BAK-12 is a mechanical barrier that aids in decelerating aircraft when landing. The certification test was performed by a successful pass of an F-16 through the system, bringing the aircraft to a complete stop. Once the F-16 was at a stop, the BAK-12 system and the aircraft were thoroughly inspected.
The 435th AGOW has dedicated significant effort to ensure the BAK-12 system was a success.
By Airman 1st Class Eve Daugherty
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs