144th FW Stands Up Munitions Squadron

Official Statements

• 144th Fighter Wing, November 9: “FRESNO AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, CA. — The 144th Fighter Wing welcomed the activation of the 144th Munitions Squadron (MUNS) on Oct. 10, 2026. The activation supports the 144th Maintenance Group’s (MXG) mission to provide combat ready aircraft capable of conducting effective and sustained operations in support of our nation and state.

  The activation of the 144th MUNS follows a National Guard Bureau initiative to ensure the 144th FW munitions structure matches its current operational demands and future mission requirements. Assuming squadron commander is to be determined.

  The activation marks a historic milestone for the 144th MXG, standing up its first new squadron in more than two decades when maintenance separated from logistics to form its own group in 2002.

  Beyond meeting immediate operational needs, the initiative aligns with the future Deployable Combat Wing structure and establishes a clear career development pathway for munitions and maintenance officers.

  “Establishing the squadron now allows the [144th FW] to deliberately develop its people, processes, and partnerships for future mission requirements while counting to support current operations,” said Master Sgt. Leo Moya, former interim 144th Munitions superintendent.

  Munitions duties encompass the assembly and disassembly of missiles, command and control oversight for daily operations and emergency response, and flight line dispatches.

  Munitions personnel coordinate with the Aircraft Maintenance Squadron on flight operations to schedule weapon loading requirements, safely transport missiles between the Munitions Storage Area and the flight line, inspect explosive components for serviceability and proper environmental storage, and issue ammunition to base units such as Security Forces and Explosive Ordnance Disposal.

  Operating as a flight within the 144th MXG presented organizational hurdles.

  Geographical separation from core squadron activities between munitions and the Maintenance Squadron on base created logistical delays and isolated personnel, complicating the execution of a specialized, resource-intensive mission.

  According to 2nd Lt. Jacob Meyer, maintenance officer with the 144th MXG, standing up as a squadron will enhance accountability, improve the ability to deploy and streamline operations.

  A dedicated squadron will also equip Airmen with focused leadership, technical expertise, training structure and accountability necessary to sustain readiness as the wing transitions to the F-15EX Eagle II and assumes an air-to-ground mission.

  “Munitions operations demand attention to detail, strict adherence to safety and security standards, and trust among Airmen and mission partners. Every Airman’s work contributes directly to the wing’s ability to generate combat airpower,” said Moya. “The goal is [to have] a team of capable mission-focused Airmen who take ownership of their profession, invest in one another’s development, and provide safe, reliable, and responsive munitions support whenever the 144th FW is called upon.”

  By building on the flight’s strong foundation, the 144th MUNS activation will strengthen the wing’s combat readiness, operational efficiency and long-term capability to support national and state missions.”