The Luftwaffe has been training its aircrews in the USA since 1958. This training took place at various bases throughout the States before it was moved (with F-4Fs) to Holloman in 1992. The Luftwaffe trains here as the area offers great flying weather and has suitable air space. The Tornado Training Squadron was redesignated German Air Force Flying Training Center (GAFFTC) on 1 July 1999 and provides academic and tactical flying training by Luftwaffe instructors for German Tornado aircrews. The first contingent of PA-200s arrived at Holloman in March 1996, after the F-4Fs left the base.