LO section maintains stealth

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Alexandra M. Boutte
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  The Air Force Global Strike Command Airmen of the 509th Maintenance Squadron low observable section of the fabrication flight do not design new planes or construct new aircraft for tomorrow.

But the low observable structural maintenance section does make sure the B-2 Spirits here today stay in the air.

"Our mission is to maintain the stealth capabilities of the B-2 by repairing low observation coatings and internal and external structural hardware," said Tech. Sgt. Aaron Dubs, 509th Maintenance Squadron low observation production assistant NCO in charge. "We also maintain the paint coatings on all Aerospace Ground Equipment assigned to Whiteman Air Force Base."

More than 200 personnel, including Department of Defense civilians, contract civilians, Air National Guard employees and active-duty Airmen design, repair, modify and fabricate the B-2 and T-38 Talon aircraft specific parts.

"We inspect and maintain structural equipment for advanced composites and sheet metal usage," Sergeant Dubs said. "We use core automated maintenance system to document aircraft maintenance."

The LO section uses a variety of tools to get the job done correctly, including: paint guns, sanding equipment, razor blades, blasting tools, compressed hot air systems and digital measuring systems.

"Our mission is important because the LO characteristics of the B-2 are the only means of defense this aircraft has during combat missions," Sergeant Dubs said.

The LO section was instrumental in the successful implementation of munitions during the recent Operation Odyssey Dawn in Libya said Sergeant Dubs.

"We strive to maintain the B-2 in a quick and high-quality manner," said Senior Airman Kyle Miller, 509th MXS LO structural maintenance technician. "I love being able to work on the world's most advanced bomber."

Sergeant Dubs added he is proud to be a part of this technologically advanced weapons system.

The section is also responsible for specific T-38 Talon aircraft parts and for on-going maintenance of all the static display aircraft throughout base.