Iraqi pilots start training on F-16D fighter aircraft at Tucson US National Guard airbase

The wing, based at Tucson International Airport, is home to pilots in training from many nations, including the Netherlands, Norway, Singapore, Japan, and most recently Iraq. While working with airmen from foreign nations can present challenges, it's nothing new to the men and women of the 162nd.

"As with any new country there are certainly challenges, mostly communication -- learning their culture and how they learn new things," Pacheco said. "(But) it's basically training a pilot to fly a different aircraft. All the Iraqi pilots have gone through U.S. pilot training and then move to Arizona for their F-16 training."

Of the 36 aircraft on order, U.S. and Iraqi Airmen made history Dec. 16, as they delivered the first two Iraqi air force F-16D aircraft to Tucson. The most advanced Iraqi student in Tucson, captain Hama, celebrated the arrival of the aircraft with his fellow students.

"It's a nice feeling to finally have them here," Hama said. "They're not home yet, but we're going to start flying them and get them ready. Soon enough we'll be home flying them over Iraq."

Hama knew from an early age he would follow his father into military service, but his desire to fly led him in a slightly different direction.

"I've had a passion for flying since I was a kid," he said. "I started with the army, but I just wanted to be a pilot. I had the chance to join the air force and become a pilot so I did it."

All of the Iraqi pilots in the training pipeline are eager to complete their training and return home to defend their country.

“The arrival of Iraqi purchased and owned F-16s is a tremendous step towards Iraqi air force pilots providing organic air power for their country,” said Maj. Gen. Lawrence Martin, the assistant deputy under secretary of the U.S. Air Force for international affairs.

“They are one of many countries joining a partnering coalition in the fight against ISIS and this delivery will greatly add to their capability in this ongoing fight,” he said. “This type of partner aircrew training is mutually beneficial for students and instructors and promotes safe, integrated operations in a cost-effective environment.”

Additionally, Pacheco said it is the instructors' goal that when that day comes, the newly minted fighter pilots are as ready as they can be.

"It's very important to get these pilots trained up in the F-16 as best we can," Pacheco said. "Once they're done with their training here in Tucson they'll go home and go right into operations. Every lesson we can impart to the students, is critical because they'll be using those skills as soon as they go home."