In May 2024, our team unveiled new sunshade structures at Truax Field in Madison, WI, to support the Continuous Training and Deployable Missions of the 115th Fighter Wing’s F-35 Fighter Jet operations. The new structure will allow up to four F-35 fighter jets to be prepped and made ready for flight operations while keeping the planes, pilots and crews out of the sun and other elements.

Our work entailed installing new concrete footings, foundations, and paving, raising a new 16,000 SF steel canopy structure, installing standing seam metal roofing, bird control netting, new electrical systems, extensive grounding protection, and restriping the pavement. 

A significant component of the project involved the patching of full-depth airfield apron pavement, a challenge that our KPH team rose to meet. This type of specialty airfield concrete pavement was not regionally available; however, our team was able to procure and deliver the concrete from a limited source for successful project completion.

Another unique moment during the completion of this project involved hosting visiting F-35s from Tyndall Air Force Base for specialized training with the 115th Fighter Wing. We completed the structure to an acceptable condition that would allow these teams to utilize our space during their sessions. Once the pilots were wheels-up on their way back to Tyndall, our team continued with the project. 

We are very thankful to have such a flexible and hardworking team that goes above and beyond for our partners and is able to rise to meet any challenge. We hope that the 115th Fighter Wing and surrounding Air Force bases continue to utilize this structure for protection from the elements during operations for years to come.