US Marines establishes forward arming, refuelling point on Tinian near Guam

Tinian is located near Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, which provides the ability to rapidly refuel and support aircraft, making it a valuable training area for aviation training relocation operations and projecting power throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

“We are out here training to show we can set up a FARP anywhere quickly and provide support wherever the fight is happening,” according to Marine Corps Sgt Kuyler Brown, an expeditionary fuels technician assigned to the support squadron.

“Having a FARP allows us to stay in the fight … It cuts down on flight time, keeps our jets in the air longer and shows we can set up anywhere and operate.

“This kind of training builds the Marines’ confidence not only in their own capabilities but in each other.

“Our Marines know how to do their jobs, and exercises like this prove we can make it happen.”

The forward arming and refuelling point (FARP) was used to conduct simulated real-world scenarios that gave Marines on the ground experience operating a live FARP and pilots the ability to operate away from their main operating base while receiving continuous support.

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Conducting training from island locations like Tinian also allows Marines to gain real-world experience practicing FARP assembly, disassembly and sustained aviation operations in austere environments.

The successful set-up and operation of the FARP at Tinian demonstrated Marine Wing Support Squadron 171’s ability to deploy and support aviation operations in austere environments.

Robert Dougherty

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.