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Relocation of Carrier Air Wing FIVE
Overview
Carrier Air Wing FIVE F-18 and EA-6B squadrons were identified to be moved from NAF Atsugi, near Tokyo, to MCAS Iwakuni in rural southwest Japan. The USMC was also considering the relocation of an Okinawa-based KC-130 squadron to MCAS Iwakuni. At the same time, Iwakuni was undergoing major modifications to the airfield: moving the main runway, relocating fuel pits and arms loading areas, and building new taxiways and ramps. Additionally, the Japanese government was considering placing a commercial air carrier terminal at the airfield. Special use airspace for training in the local area was limited and a source of concern to accommodate requirements.
Solution
NASMOD was used to model 12 different scenarios with different combinations of units relocated to the base and various runway/taxiway configurations. Capacity of the training airspace was studied for the ability to complete required training missions, runway throughput was studied for capacity and to identify any potential bottlenecks, and the new base infrastructure was studied for efficiency and capacity. Using the NASMOD results, the USMC was able to tailor construction requirements and plan for air training alternatives years in advance.
NASMOD animation of new airfield configuration at MCAS Iwakuni
Client: Marine Corps Forces, Pacific; Naval Facilities Engineering Command, U.S. Department of the Navy
Prime Contractor: ATAC Corporation
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