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New intelligence squadron stands up at Langley

  • Published
ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  A ceremony at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., June 7 marked the activation of a new Air Force Reserve Command unit at that installation.

The 718th Intelligence Squadron reports to the 940th Operations Group at Beale AFB, Calif. The squadron is authorized nine officers and 79 enlisted Airmen.

The reservists integrate with the Regular Air Force's 497th Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group in support of Distributed Ground Station-1 at Langley. DGS-1 is a major component of the Air Force Distributed Common Ground System. Through Total Force Integration, the 718th IS reservists will work alongside active-duty and Air National Guard Airmen at the DGS-1.

"The 718th will provide continuity and long-term experience to the DCGS mission, providing timely, relevant ISR support to warfighters at every level of combat," said Col. Jon M. Ellis, 940th Operations Group commander. "In short, they will deliver the right support to the right warfighter at the right time."

The Air Force's DCGS is the service's premier globally networked intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance weapon system. The DCGS produces, exploits and disseminates intelligence information collected from multiple sources, including the U-2 Dragonlady, RQ-4 Global Hawk, MQ-9 Reaper and MQ-1 Predator, in direct support of overseas contingency operations."

Through total force integration, the reservists work with the Regular Air Force's 497th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group to support the Distributed Common Ground System at Langley.

The 718th IS is gained by the Air Force Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Agency.

The squadron traces its origin to the 718th Bombardment Squadron, which was activated April 6, 1943. The squadron's lineage includes the 718th Strategic Reconnaissance Squadron.