AFREP pushes for self-sufficient base Published July 24, 2023 By Airman 1st Class Kevin Martinez 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho -- The 366th Fighter Wing’s Air Force Repair Enhancement Program utilizes innovative solutions for difficult repairs or items that are marked for disposal. The Gunfighter AFREP intends to help MHAFB be self-sufficient and maintain mission readiness at all times. The program works with base entities and assists in any repairs or in creating 3D printed components. “Master Sgt. Brian Burbank helped us design 3D printed custom parts for the Solar Portable Power Cell and provided technical insight in the development process,” said Tech. Sgt. Steven Pyott, 366th FW Innovation Cell chief project officer. “The custom parts he helped design ensure the agile capabilities of the SPPC in deployed environments.” The SPPC is a self-sufficient power solution which can provide electricity in deployed environments and field training exercises. Burbank and the Gunfighter AFREP team have successfully developed solutions that have saved the wing a considerable amount of money and man-hours. “We developed a 3D printed Sniper pod protective cover for the 389th Fighter Squadron and the 391st Fighter Squadron, along with the potential for integration throughout all sniper pod equipped aircraft,” said Burbank. “This has piqued the interest of higher headquarters to put this part on every single aircraft.” Burbank said that implementing these protective covers safeguarded nearly $700,000 in annual replacement cost along with the reduction of unnecessary man hours associated with replacing the damaged antenna at Mountain Home alone. The Gunfighter AFREP developed two innovative solutions for the non-destructive inspection sections; one for their aircraft x-raying system which averted damage to four $30,000 non-procurable x-ray tube heads. The second is a 3D printed supporting device for their weld varication x-raying station. Which saved man hours along with streamlining the process that helped to renew the metals technology section aircraft welding certificates for 20 Airmen. In addition to meeting the Air Force’s original vision for AFREP to save money through repairs and fixes, Gunfighter AFREP Airmen participate in courses and programs to further their education and knowledge, making them better subject matter experts. “We’ll also travel to things like the Department of Defense Maintenance symposium, where we can meet people and exchange knowledge,” said Burbank. “This gives the Airmen an opportunity to network and have that constant flow of different perspectives.” Burbank and the Airmen of the Gunfighter AFREP have a passion for helping others and encourage everyone to bring any ideas or problems to them. Units with items that need repair can contact the Gunfighter AFREP team by calling, 728-2050.