The VAQ-140 Patriots, an EA-6B Prowler squadron that traditionally deploys to an aircraft carrier, welcomes Capt. Alain Martinez, the first U.S. Air Force aircrew member to the squadron. Martinez will be the first Weapons System Officer (WSO) to become an Electronic Counter Measures Officer (ECMO) flying with the Navy Electronic Attack (EA) squadron.

Although numerous Air Force WSOs have been assigned duty at NAS Whidbey Island to become ECMOs in the Prowler, it is almost unheard of that they join carrier-based Prowler squadrons. Traditionally, Air Force crewmembers are assigned to “expeditionary” or land-based squadrons. 

With the face of Electronic Attack now transitioning to the EA-18G Growler, expeditionary Prowler units are shifting to carriers as “gap fillers” for squadrons currently transitioning to the Growler. To support the transition, Prowler Air Force ECMOs now report to a fleet squadron that deploys on a carriers, after completing the Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) curriculum. The FRS has started training Air Force aircrews in the Growler pipeline, but for the time being, all USAF students coming out of the EA training command will be destined for carrier-base squadrons.

One of the challenges facing all new ECMOs joining an operational squadron is learning carrier procedures. One of the most challenging tasks is properly gauging the eye when flying an approach in the front right seat, especially at night, and using good crew resource management to help the pilot land on the flight deck. Other key study points that new aviators must learn before going to the carrier are the flow and vernacular of flight operations along with the different approach types that are used depending on weather and available sunlight.

“It is definitely a challenge and a little daunting, but I see it as a great experience that few Air Force aviators ever get a chance to partake in,” said Martinez, a San Diego, Calif. native. ”I am looking extremely forward to going to the “boat” and doing work-ups from the front right seat.”

Martinez attended San Diego State University under an AFROTC scholarship. Upon graduation, he reported to NAS Pensacola for WSO training in tactical Air Force aircraft, earning his wings in July 2005. He reported to Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in December of 2005, training in the F-15E Strike Eagle with 333rd Fighter Squadron (FS) and later assigned to the 494th FS in Lakenheath, England.

Martinez has flown in joint conducted exercises with the Israeli Air Force, participated in live fire operations at Tindell AFB, Fla., and deployed to Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan, in support of operation Enduring Freedom.  He arrived at NAS Whidbey Island in July 2009, for training in the EA-6B Prowler.

“It’s really not too much different than being in the 494th Fighter Squadron,” said Martinez when asked what his thoughts were on being in a Navy squadron. “It’s always nice to be in a flying club.”

The Patriots are happy to have Martinez on board and look forward to sharing his knowledge of Air USAF tactical aircraft and implementing it during upcoming detachments to Nellis AFB and NAS Fallon in Nevada. Additionally, The Patriots look forward to introducing Pedro into Naval Aviation and familiarize him with Navy tactical air deployment and aircraft carrier operations.