Marines assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 and Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232 traveled to Tinian, one of the Northern Mariana Islands, to establish and operate a forward arming and refueling point during an aviation training relocation program aimed at developing expeditionary aviation capabilities and ensuring security throughout the Indo-Pacific region.
"We are out here training to show we can set up a FARP anywhere quickly and provide support wherever the fight is happening," said Marine Corps Sgt. Kuyler Brown, an expeditionary fuels technician assigned to the support squadron.
The FARP was used to conduct simulated real-world scenarios that gave Marines on the ground experience operating a live FARP and pilots the ability to operate away from their main operating base while receiving continuous support.
"Having a FARP allows us to stay in the fight," Brown said. "It cuts down on flight time, keeps our jets in the air longer and shows we can set up anywhere and operate."
Tinian is located near Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, which provides the ability to rapidly refuel and support aircraft, making it a valuable training area for aviation training relocation operations and projecting power throughout the Indo-Pacific region.
Conducting training from island locations like Tinian allows Marines to gain real-world experience practicing FARP assembly, disassembly and sustained aviation operations in austere environments — a key aspect of the expeditionary execution of a FARP.
"This kind of training builds the Marines' confidence not only in their own capabilities but in each other," Brown said. "Our Marines know how to do their jobs, and exercises like this prove we can make it happen."
The successful setup and operation of the FARP at Tinian demonstrated Marine Wing Support Squadron 171's ability to deploy and support aviation operations in austere environments. Training events like this give Marines the chance to develop their skills and remain ready to support future operations focused on ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific region.