General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies presented the 2024 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) Squadron of the Year Award to the 184th Attack Squadron (ATKS) from the Ebbing Air National Guard Base.
The award was initially announced at the U.S. Air Force’s annual Air, Space, and Cyber Conference, but GA-ASI and Mitchell held a formal presentation ceremony on January 30 in Fort Smith, Arkansas, the home of the 184th ATKS, in order to include the entire “Flying Razorbacks” squadron.
The award was presented by GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue and Lt. Gen. (Ret.) David Deptula of the Mitchell Institute. The RPA Squadron of the Year Award is given annually to the squadron that distinguishes itself through its employment of RPA in meritorious service.
Blue, commented, “Presenting this award is always one of the highlights of my year. I’m thrilled to recognize the Flying Razorbacks as the RPA Squadron of the Year.”
The 184th Attack Squadron distinguished itself by executing 314 combat sorties and delivering 5,972 hours of Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) in support of Operations INHERENT RESOLVE and PROSPERITY GUARDIAN. As the first unit tasked by the president of the United States to provide overwatch for humanitarian aid airdrops, the squadron demonstrated unparalleled innovation and mission versatility. Leading the Air Force in MQ-9A Reaper operations, the 184th Attack Squadron executed 66 percent of all non-traditional defensive counter-air and counter-small unmanned aerial system missions, significantly enhancing joint force lethality and integrated deterrence against adversarial threats.
Lt. Col. Jonathan Linn of the 184th Attack Squadron, added, “The important work of the Flying Razorbacks embodies the Air Force’s Units of Action and displays the agility, readiness, and multi-role capability of the MQ-9A, seamlessly transitioning from operational test to combat execution. Their contributions as citizen airmen not only advances remotely piloted aircraft operations but also solidifies the United States Air Force’s dominance in ISR.”
The 184th Attack Squadron’s exceptional performance reflects the highest standards of service, earning them recognition as the premier remotely piloted aircraft squadron in the Department of the Air Force.
