Between 1993 and 1994, 6 pilots and approximately 120 technicians were selected to form the first F-16 Squadron in the Air Force. They were sent to various United States Air Force bases, where they received intensive training in maintenance across various areas and in the operation of the F-16 fighter jets.

This program primarily took place in Tucson, Arizona for the pilots and in Fort Worth, Texas for the technicians. It included both theoretical and practical classes, as well as exercises on advanced simulators. The goal was to ensure that the pilots and maintenance technicians acquired the necessary knowledge and skills to independently sustain and operate the F-16 fleet of the Air Force in optimal conditions.

In addition to the challenge posed by the need for proficiency in the English language, it became clear from the outset that operating the F-16 involved significant changes in existing maintenance paradigms. One notable example was the creation of Crew Chiefs, who had direct responsibility for preparing and readying the aircraft on the front line. Additionally, innovative materials such as "composites", which form part of the F-16's structure and fuselage, were introduced.