Training Air Wing TWO: Shaping the Future of Naval Aviation
Training Air Wing TWO (TW-2), also known as TRAWING 2, serves as a cornerstone of the United States Navy's aviation pipeline. Based at Naval Air Station Kingsville in Texas, this elite wing is dedicated to transforming Student Naval Aviators into skilled pilots capable of operating the Navy's most demanding aircraft.
As a vital component of the Naval Air Training Command, TW-2 provides the rigorous instruction necessary for pilots from the U.S. Navy, the U.S. Marine Corps, and various international allies. By bridging the gap between primary flight training and operational fleet assignments, TW-2 ensures that every graduate meets the exacting standards of naval aviation.
Key Facts
- Established: January 1972
- Location: Naval Air Station Kingsville, Texas
- Primary Aircraft: T-45C Goshawk
- Output: Produces approximately 50% of the U.S. Navy's tailhook pilots
- Command: Led by a Commodore (currently CAPT Raymond F. Barnes, Jr, USN)
- Tail Code: B
The Training Pipeline and Operations
Student Naval Aviators arrive at TW-2 after completing their primary flight training. Depending on their selected advanced training pipeline, students are assigned to one of two jet training squadrons. The curriculum focuses on two primary paths: intermediate and advanced strike pipeline training, or advanced E-2/C-2 training.
All training is conducted using the T-45C Goshawk, a specialized jet trainer designed to prepare pilots for the transition to high-performance carrier-based aircraft. Upon the successful completion of this grueling program, students are officially designated as Naval Aviators and are awarded their "Wings of Gold."
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Personnel and Resources
Maintaining a high volume of flight hours requires a massive logistical and instructional effort. TW-2 operates with a fleet of around 100 T-45C aircraft. The wing's workforce is a blend of military expertise and civilian support, consisting of approximately 200 students, 75 instructors, and over 500 civilian and contract employees.
Comparative Impact on Naval Aviation
The U.S. Navy splits its tailhook pilot production—pilots trained to land on aircraft carriers—between two primary wings. While Training Air Wing ONE operates out of NAS Meridian in Mississippi, TW-2 handles the other half of this critical requirement, ensuring a steady stream of qualified aviators for the fleet.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Parent Command | Naval Air Training Command |
| Garrison/HQ | NAS Kingsville, Texas |
| Aircraft Fleet | ~100 T-45C Goshawks |
| Student Body | ~200 Students |
| Instructional Staff | 75 Instructors |
Historic Milestones
Training Air Wing TWO has been the site of significant historical achievements. On July 7, 2020, Lieutenant JG Madeline Swegle made history by becoming the first African American female tactical jet pilot in the U.S. Navy after completing her undergraduate Tactical Air (Strike) pilot training with the wing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Training Air Wing TWO located?
TW-2 is based at Naval Air Station Kingsville in Kingsville, Texas.
What aircraft is used for training at TW-2?
The wing utilizes the T-45C Goshawk jet training aircraft for its instructional programs.
Who receives training at TW-2?
The wing trains Student Naval Aviators from the U.S. Navy, the U.S. Marine Corps, and international allies.
What percentage of Navy tailhook pilots are trained at TW-2?
TW-2 produces approximately 50% of the U.S. Navy's tailhook pilots, with the remaining 50% trained at Training Air Wing One.
What is the significance of the "Wings of Gold"?
The "Wings of Gold" are presented to Student Naval Aviators upon the successful completion of their training, marking their official designation as Naval Aviators.