C-5s cut to eight?

  • Published
WESTOVER AIR RESERVE BASE, Mass. --  The Air Force Reserve Command announced force structure changes Jan. 24 authorized by the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal 2013.

The changes include a proposed transfer of eight C-5M aircraft from Westover ARB to Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland  in 2016, contingent upon a Congressionally-mandated Mobility Requirements and Capabilities Study.

"Although this announcement could mean changes for Westover, it also underscores the essential role we play in national defense," said Col Steven Vautrain, 439th Airlift Wing Commander.

"Under this announcement, the 439th remains operational and vital to military strategic airlift. We will notify the public when a final decision is made concerning the future number of aircraft and personnel at Westover."

Reserve Command officials announced nationwide changes, including 6 new intelligence and cyber-operations units, and aircraft and structure changes in another nine units.