Deactivation of the 80FS
Headhunters;
The United States Air Force is conducting a significant operational test called the "Super Squadron" initiative, which involves relocating F-16 fighter jets from Kunsan Air Base to Osan Air Base. This relocation, starting around late July 2025 and extending through November, aims to consolidate combat aircraft at Osan to increase combat force generation and enhance readiness. The initiative is currently a test phase (Super Squadron Phase 2), intending to evaluate whether a permanent basing decision should be made to assign the aircraft permanently to Osan. During this period, aircraft and approximately 1,000 airmen will transition from Kunsan to Osan, with Kunsan continuing to host rotational exercises and deployments rather than a permanent fleet presence.
The movement includes merging some operational squadrons, notably the 80th Fighter Squadron being put into dormant status and merging personnel with the 35th Fighter Squadron, which will relocate from Kunsan to Osan. There is ongoing discussion about unit designations, such as whether the 35th FS will carry on its own flag or adopt the 25th Fighter Squadron's identity. Pilots from 35 FS are set to have their duty assignments curtailed and PCS (Permanent Change of Station) to Osan, while some personnel will remain at Kunsan for continuity and safety roles. This organizational change underscores a focus on streamlining operations under the Super Squadron test concept.
From a family and personnel perspective, the relocation is part of broader efforts towards tour normalization across US Forces Korea, with adjustments to assignment lengths and living arrangements. For Osan and other bases, a 3-2-1 tour model is being implemented, offering command-sponsored accompanied tours of three years and unaccompanied two-year tours. While Kunsan currently has shorter tour assignments and limited family support infrastructure, there is a push towards normalizing tours there too, potentially allowing families to live off-base in nearby Gun-san City, with access to local services and medical care. Challenges remain around schooling and childcare, but solutions like homeschooling and local preschools are being considered.
Overall, the aircraft relocation reflects strategic shifts in force posture on the Korean Peninsula aimed at enhancing combat readiness and sustainability of air operations. The Super Squadron test at Osan is a key part of this transformation, consolidating air combat capabilities while testing new operational concepts. It also dovetails with broader USFK efforts to improve the quality of life for airmen and their families, through more predictable and stable assignment cycles. Final approval for permanent basing remains pending based on the outcomes of the ongoing Super Squadron test phase and multiple public news articles on the relocation plan and execution.
