The only adversary in the Marine Corps housed at MCAS Yuma

Inside the Marine Corps Air Station Yuma is a squadron that isn’t quite like the others, where a squadron shows up every day to pretend to be the enemy.

The Marine Fighter Training Squadron 401 (401 Squadron) was established decades ago to assist in training during the weapons and tactics instructor course, which is underway in the Yuma region.

The squadron is made up of several positions including pilots, tactical air controllers, and mechanics intended to teach Marines how to fight the enemy while in the air.

The aircraft, that pilots like Lieutenant Colonel Fitzgerald fly, are the F-5’s that can be seen and heard over the Yuma airspace.

Lt. Col. Fitzgerald explained the 401 Squadron is able to go against all aircraft in the air to teach those who fight in the air how to be successful in battle.

“The [most fun] thing that we get to do is fly against every single aircraft in the Marine Corps, in all types of flight regimes, whether it be low altitude or high altitude, or slow or fast,” explained Lt. Col. Fitzgerald.

Fitzgerald, who has served for 19 years, would not be able to do his job without his eyes and ears on the ground, the tactical air defense controller.

The tactical air defense controller tells him what other aircraft are nearby and keeps him safe.

“It’s a very stressful feeling knowing that the pilot relies on you to ensure that there are no mishaps that happen, make sure the mission is accomplished in a safe and effective way,” described Corporal Joseph Rios, tactical air defense controller assigned to the 401 Squadron.

Corporal Rios explained that he drives the fight in the air for his pilot.