Project Elbow Rub
In early January of 1980 a fifth Combat Talon crew was formed
at the 8th SOS under the command of Capt John Arnold. His crew
flew initial missions from 9 to 24 January 1980 testing the
feasability of new technology that was designed to seriously
degrade Tehran's ability to produce and transport electrical
power through its grid network. The program was code-named
Project Elbow Rub and continued throughout 1980 in
anticipation of employment against Iran. In early April
Arnold and his primary loadmaster, Rudy Blazek, deployed
to the Pacific with the capability, and two 1st SOS Combat
Talons (aircraft 62-1843 and 63-7785) were modified to
deliver it. A third 1st SOS crew, commanded by John Pearson,
was trained for the Elbow Rub mission. Lt Col Ray Turczynski
was selected by PACOM as the mission commander should the
mission be employed. When Turczynski deployed to Diego Garcia
in mid-April, Arnold and Blazek moved the Elbow Rub equipment
by way of C-141 to Diego Garcia to provide Turczynski the
capability to use it should the situation dictate. Although
neither the gunship strike nor the capability developed by
Arnold and his crew was ever used against Iran, the OPG had
both options ready in case they were needed.
Project Elbow Rub remained highly classified throughout the
1990s. The exact nature of the capability developed during
1980 remained on the cutting edge of military technology.
John Arnold continued to be associated with Special Operations
and became known for his intellect and keen ability to grasp
difficult concepts and then apply them to unique military
requirements.
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