The training activity for rapid refuelling took place on 14 May at the 36th Fighter Wing in Gioia del Colle (Bari), with an F-35B aircraft from the 32nd Wing in Amendola (Foggia).
The procedure, known as capacity Air Landed Aircraft Refuelling Point (ALARP) for advanced aerotactical aircraft refuelling, has focused on the operational regeneration of an F-35B aircraft. Once it landed at Gioia del Colle Airport, the fighter jet refuelled on the ground with its engines still running, an operation known in technical jargon as “Hot Refuelling“.
The activity was conducted using the ALARP configuration, a unique capability of the 3rd Wing of Villafranca (VR) employed in synergy with the 46th Air Brigade of Pisa. This system enables rapid refuelling in complete safety, allowing aircraft to take off again immediately to continue the mission.
The element of absolute novelty has been the readiness of the activity in night mode. Under the coordination of the Air Squad Command – 1st Air Region of Milan, the exercise saw the synergistic participation of various assets of the Armed Force: the 36th Fighter Wing has guaranteed maintenance activity, aircraft assistance and cross-servicing; the 46th Air Brigade in Pisa he took part in the operation with a unit Tanker KC-130J; yes 17th Attack Wing in Furbara (RM) deployed three operators; the 3rd Wing has finally managed refuelling operations safely thanks to qualified FARP (Forward Arming and Refuelling Point), who ensured the conduct of’Hot refuelling even in the dark.
In this training event, the use of the F-35B (STOVL aircraft – Short Take-Off and Vertical Landing – with short take-off and vertical landing) has concretely demonstrated the projection and flexibility capabilities of aerospace power. This result was achieved by leveraging the operational characteristics of the fifth-generation fighter, combined with the professionalism of the specialised personnel of the 101st Flying Group of the 32nd Wing.
This scenario allows for the full exploitation of the adaptability of the F-35B and the ALARP system, enabling effective operations even from short or damaged runways. The Air Force thus trains in peacetime according to the philosophy. “Train as you fight”, perfecting the NATO concept Agile Combat Employment (ACE). This is an operational manoeuvre framework designed to enhance Aerospace Power's resilience and survivability, ensuring the ability to rapidly deploy and regenerate operational readiness from any location, under any circumstances.
