2nd Bomb Wing Activates New Bomber Generation Squadrons at Barksdale AFB | Aviation

The 20th and 96th Bomber Generation Squadrons were established to boost operational efficiency and flexibility.

On Aug. 22, 2024, the 2nd Bomb Wing established two new Bomber Generation Squadrons (BGSs), following the deactivation of the 2nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. This unit was restructured into the 20th and 96th BGSs as part of a mission-focused maintenance transformation designed to enhance operational efficiency and boost combat capabilities.

The BGS concept, originally developed by Maj. Ian P. Rohde, the outgoing commander of the 2nd AMXS, during his time at Air Combat Command, aims to revamp traditional aircraft maintenance squadrons by converting them into mission-specific generation units. These squadrons are organized, trained, and equipped to operate in any theater where bomber capabilities are needed to fulfill combatant commanders’ objectives.

A crucial element of the BGS model is the ability for these squadrons to function independently from their parent wing, enabling them to align more closely with their partnered operational bomb squadrons throughout deployment cycles.

“The current threat environment necessitates a shift away from static…