The U.S. Air Force 435th Air Ground Operations Wing worked with the Slovak Air Force to install a new Barrier Arresting Kit-12 system at the Malacky Air Base for the fleet of F-16 Fighting Falcons operated by U.S. Air Forces in Europe–Air Forces Africa.
Martin Vojtasovic, the Slovakian state defense secretary, said the strategic introduction of the F-16s to the area and the BAK-12 system are in line with the Slovak Republic’s cooperation ties with the U.S.
According to Col. Matthew A. Bartlett, commander of the 435th Air Ground Operations Wing, the new capability at the military airport also strengthens deterrence and reinforces U.S. commitment to NATO.
“U.S. forces are ready and postured to integrate seamlessly with Slovak allies and other NATO partners to deter threats and defend our alliances,” the colonel said.
BAK-12 technology helps in aircraft deceleration during landing.
To certify the aircraft arresting system, the installation of the mechanical barrier included a final test that saw the BAK-12 bring an F-16 to a full stop.
Following the installation and certification, the 435 AGOW turned over the responsibility of maintaining the BAK-12 to the Slovak AF.