Army realigns digital ‘hunters’ for rising electronic warfare

Col. Christopher Albus (left) and Master Sgt. Michael LeBel (right) unveil the IEWTD Headquarters and Headquarters Company guidon as Cpt. Jamil Gangcuangco awaits becoming the HHC commander during ceremonies at Fort Huachuca, Ariz. May 8. (Staff Sgt. Alexandria Kyasky/Army)

WASHINGTON ― The Army’s Intelligence Electronics Warfare Test Directorate (IEWTD) was realigned under U.S. Army Operational Test Command Center at a ceremony in Fort Huachuca, Arizona on May 8.

The IEWTD is returning to command under the USAOTC after a seven-year stint with the Fort Huachuca’s Electronic Proving Grounds. The directorate conducts operational tests of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, electronic warfare, biometrics and counter improvised explosive device systems.

Cpt. Jamil Gangcuangco accepted the guidon from Col. Christopher Albus, USAOTC’s chief of staff.

“I am truly grateful to command again, I love what I do, and I am very passionate about everyone, the organization, and our mission success,” Gangcuangco said.

Re-alignment with USAOTC will enable mission command to be re-established for more efficient testing, according to IEWTD Senior Test Officer Clay Huntley.

“Today’s ceremony marks the beginning of a new era in the U.S. Army Operational Test Command,” Albus said.

“As we stand up our [Headquarters and Headquarters Command] — the Hunters — here at Fort Huachuca, and also officially recognize the reorganization of IEWTD under USAOTC.”