The first set of Guardian Angel Air-Deployable Rescue Vehicles to enter the Air Force’s inventory last week arrived at Nellis AFB, Nev., for testing by the 88th Test and Evaluation Squadron. GAARV operational testing is scheduled to start in March to gauge the vehicle’s suitability and effectiveness, according to Nellis’ Nov. 15 release. “This delivery marks the first vehicles delivered for operational testing of a new combat search and rescue capability that ultimately may enhance the Air Force’s personnel recovery core function,” said MSgt. Michael Butler, the squadron’s Guardian Angel test division section chief. The GAARV is designed to give pararescuemen a robust means of moving in rugged, difficult terrain to recover isolated military personnel. These vehicles could also support humanitarian-assistance and disaster-relief activities by transporting survivors and rescue equipment, states the release. (Nellis report by A1C Jason Couillard)
A three-month continuing resolution that ended in December inflicted less pain on the Department of the Air Force than it had expected, as procurement and construction continue in the new year. The federal government operated under a stopgap spending measure that stretched from the beginning of the fiscal year on…