319th Reconnaissance Wing, Grand Forks AFB
On June 28, 2019, Grand Forks AFB was redesignated from the 319th Air Base Wing to the 319th Reconnaissance Wing. This isn't just a change in name but a change in authority of the RQ-4B Global Hawk program. Aligning the RQ-4B under the 319 RW allows the leadership and its airmen to separate themselves from the historical U-2 program at Beale AFB.
The RQ-4B Global Hawk is a High Altitude Long Endurance, flown operationally by the 319 RW. With the move to Grand Forks, operators in the 319 OG will have dedicated leadership to help focus on RQ-4B instead of competing with other squadrons that may not operate the RQ-4B. This is a historic move for the program and will help bring it up to equal footing with other Major Weapon Systems in the USAF.With these changes, we should expect to see the RQ-4B expand its capabilities while leadership advocates for emerging Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures. With the creation of the 319 RW and the future Reconnaissance WIC, the RQ-4B's future is bright.