Brigadier General Mark Massaro dedicates 26 years to the U.S. Air Force

Brigadier General Mark Kelvin Massaro, aged 48, has dedicated the past 26 years to serving in the United States Air Force. He currently commands the 96th Test Wing at Eglin Air Force Base. Throughout his career, Massaro has accumulated substantial experience flying the F-16 fighter jet, a platform he notes has evolved significantly over the decades. He compares piloting the F-16 to driving a Corvette, stating that while it remains an excellent fighter in certain scenarios, advances in technology have led to the creation of superior capabilities in newer aircraft like the F-35. Massaro emphasizes the importance of adapting to both high-end and less advanced threats in contemporary military operations, showcasing his understanding of the necessity for versatile airpower in modern combat situations. Reflecting on advancements, he acknowledges the complexity introduced by modern software systems, noting how they differ from the simpler systems he trained with early in his career. Despite these complexities, Massaro values the training and procedures ingrained in military culture, which support pilots in high-pressure situations, particularly in combat scenarios like those experienced in Iraq. The insights he provides serve as a reminder of the ongoing evolution of military aviation and the strategic considerations involved in aircraft design and deployment as global threats evolve.