The mission of Training Air Wing TWO is to fully prepare jet Naval Aviators for follow-on operational and combat training. Each year, approximately 150 Navy and Marine Corps student pilots report to Training Air Wing TWO, commanded by CAPT Aaron Rybar, for intermediate and advanced flight training. These students conduct their training as members of either Training Squadron TWENTY ONE or Training Squadron TWENTY TWO, ultimately earning the coveted Wings of Gold before moving on to follow-on training in a Fleet Replacement Squadron. The Air Wing consists of approximately 175 Naval Flight Students (NFS), 100 active duty instructor pilots and 40 selected reservist instructor pilots, 45 civilian personnel, and 84 T45C “Goshawk” aircraft. Introduced to NAS Kingsville in 1992, the T-45 is used to teach basic tactics including weapons delivery, close formation flying, air combat maneuvering, and carrier qualification.
The Training Air Wing TWO ground training department provides classroom and simulator instruction using computer-based software, flight simulators, and virtual reality devices. Contract maintenance and support detachments provide the Navy with aircraft and engine maintenance, flight line services, and aircrew flight equipment support.
Training Air Wing TWO is fortunate to be based in an area with convenient airspace, favorable weather, and most importantly, strong community support. The residents of Kingsville have always been ardent supporters of the base and encourage service members to participate in a wide variety of recreational, educational, and social activities throughout their community.