At the heart of US Navy operations is its logistical support units. Ted Carlson discovers the vital role it plays in supporting the fleet
The Fleet Logistics Support Wing (FLSW) is the US Navy’s muscle behind-the-scenes, responsible for keeping the supply lines expeditiously moving with parts, people and cargo.
Headquartered at NAS JRB Fort Worth, Texas, the FLSW operates the C-40A Clipper and C-130T Hercules, along with C-37A (GV) and C-37B (G550) aircraft oversight. There are 11 units – often referred to as Fleet Logistics Support Squadrons (VRs)– that make up Navy Unique Fleet Essential Airlift (NUFEA) tasked by the Navy Air Logistics Office (NALO) in New Orleans, Louisiana. When detached overseas, they report directly to theater commanders and there are separate liaison offices in the Pacific, CENTCOM and European areas of responsibility that task the assets.