Holloman Air Force Base holds 49ers elephant walk displaying aircraft power and capabilities

​Forty-nine aircraft assigned to the 49th Wing lined the runway for an incredible display of airpower at Holloman AFB, April 21, 2023. This display of airpower is known as an “elephant walk," a tactic used by the U.S. Air Force to display personnel, power and aircraft all at once.

The term “elephant walk," dates back to World War II when large bomber aircraft formations were commonplace. During this time, observers commented that the nose-to-tail formations that the bombers formed resembled that of elephant nose-to-tail formations when going to a watering hole.

Since the term was coined back in World War II, elephant walks are much more common and are used as a display of power for not just the Air Force, but also the Air Force bases that are conducting the event. They can also be used as a means of celebration and a morale booster.

“I think elephant walks are important as it shows our NATO partners and other allies around the world that we care about producing pilots and operators," said U.S. Air Force Maj. Sean Robere, 311th Fighter Squadron, assistant director of operations. “It also shows other parts of the world that we are continuing to produce capable Airmen and aircraft."

The elephant walk was only made possible by the incredible effort put in by the Airmen across the wing, to include a huge lift from the 49th Maintenance Group, displaying their own skill and capabilities by launching 49 aircraft in such a short window.

The 49th Wing is the largest F-16 and MQ-9 formal training unit in the Air Force, producing hundreds of combat-ready fighter pilots, remotely piloted aircraft pilots and sensor operators every year. These Airmen go on to support American and Allied operations across the globe.