Fighter Pilot Podcast The Merge-2: Going to NAS Fallon
Jul 22, 2025
Tony Roy, a retired Navy captain with two decades of experience flying the F-18, F-16, and F-5, shares his incredible journey at NAS Fallon. He recounts the vital role of Fallon in fighter pilot training, the camaraderie formed during intense exercises, and the unique characteristics of the F-5, likening its simplicity to that of a trusty car. The discussion also highlights personal flight stories, mentorship, and the emotional impact of a tragic mid-air collision that changed lives forever.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Tony Roy's VFC-13 Experience
- Tony Roy loved the adversary squadron VFC-13 for its intense flying and laid-back environment.
- He quickly felt he was in the right place with backseat rides and meaningful flying opportunities.
Fallon Training Phase Progression
- Fallon training phases progress from basic familiarization to complex large force exercises.
- Squadrons learn to integrate and apply mission sets progressively with increasing complexity.
Adversary Missions at Fallon
- Adversary pilots at Fallon flew tough missions against Top Gun students and air wing forces, pushing pilots to fight hard.
- Simpler FRS missions were less intense, focusing on basic flying skills.