Line of Effort: Allies and Partners

  • Published
  • Airman Magazine
 

  "We're seamlessly integrating our deterrence efforts to make a basic truth crystal clear to any potential foe. That truth is that the cost of aggression against the United States or our allies and partners far outweigh any conceivable gains. Integrated deterrence isn't just about steps that we take on our own. It also means working even more closely with our unparalleled network of allies and partners to deter aggression in region after region."

 

01:01
  Department of Defense and Department of the Air Force leadership describe a shift in the national security environment towards great power competition during the Air and Space Forces Association’s 2023 Air, Space, and Cyber Symposium Sept. 11-13, 2023, National Harbor, Maryland.


  In 2022, the Department of Defense released the public versions the National Defense Strategy (NDS), the Nuclear Posture Review and the Missile Defense Review  together for the first time. This was also the first time both classified and unclassified versions of the three strategic documents were developed in conjunction with one another.

  The republished 2022 NDS emphasizes the importance of building and maintaining relationships with our allies and partners around the globe. Through multi-national training exercises the United States Air Force ensures interoperability with our allies and partners which has a direct impact on the global security environment and the great power competition.

 

 

Indo-Pacific


Indo-Pacific


Europe


Middle East


Africa


Latin America

Photo by Staff Sgt. Dwane Young
U.S. Air Force pilots from the 25th Fighter Squadron greet South Korea air force pilots assigned to the 102nd FS after completing exercise Buddy Squadron 23-2 at Osan Air Base, South Korea, March 8, 2023. The exercise is a recurring, pre-planned training that provides air and ground operations the ability to improve readiness and train joint interoperability. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Dwane R. Young)
Download
Details
  ​Pacific Air Forces Command coordinates with other service components, allies, and partners, to provide United States Indo-Pacific Command with continuous unrivaled air, space, and cyberspace capabilities to ensure regional stability and security. They accomplish this through codified agreements like the Australia-United Kingdom-United States (AUKUS) enhanced security partnership, the on-going alliance with Japan and the 70-year alliance with the Republic of Korea.

Japan Air Self-Defense Force and U.S. Air Force pararescuemen carry a simulated search and rescue victim to safety during an exercise, Jan. 19, 2023, at Ukibaru Island. The annual bilateral training exercise strengthens trust and interoperability capabilities between JASDF and U.S. Air Force rescue teams. (U.S. Air Force photo by 1st Lt. Robert Dabbs)

Japan Air Self-Defense Force and U.S. Air Force pararescuemen carry a simulated search and rescue victim to safety during an exercise, Jan. 19, 2023, at Ukibaru Island. The annual bilateral training exercise strengthens trust and interoperability capabilities between JASDF and U.S. Air Force rescue teams. (U.S. Air Force photo by 1st Lt. Robert Dabbs)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
Japan Air Self-Defense Force Maj. Gen. Hideaki Kajiya, deputy commander of Air Support Command, and U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. John Klein, U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center commander, exchange gifts on the flightline as part of Mobility Guardian 23 at Yakumo Air Base, Japan, July 13, 2023. A multilateral endeavor, MG23 featured seven participating countries: Australia, Canada, France, Japan, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and the United States—operating approximately 70 mobility aircraft across multiple locations spanning a 3,000-mile exercise area from July 5-21. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Alexander Cook)

Japan Air Self-Defense Force Maj. Gen. Hideaki Kajiya, deputy commander of Air Support Command, and U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. John Klein, U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center commander, exchange gifts on the flightline as part of Mobility Guardian 23 at Yakumo Air Base, Japan, July 13, 2023. A multilateral endeavor, MG23 featured seven participating countries: Australia, Canada, France, Japan, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and the United States—operating approximately 70 mobility aircraft across multiple locations spanning a 3,000-mile exercise area from July 5-21. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Alexander Cook)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
Australian, New Zealand, and U.S. Air Force medical teams work together in flight over Australia on a C-17 Globemaster aircraft during a combined medical interoperability aeromedical evacuation activity as part of Exercise Mobility Guardian 23. MG23 saw Air Mobility Command Airmen work with joint and combined forces, including members of the U.S. Armed Forces and its allies and partners across the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Amy Picard)

Australian, New Zealand, and U.S. Air Force medical teams work together in flight over Australia on a C-17 Globemaster aircraft during a combined medical interoperability aeromedical evacuation activity as part of Exercise Mobility Guardian 23. MG23 saw Air Mobility Command Airmen work with joint and combined forces, including members of the U.S. Armed Forces and its allies and partners across the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Amy Picard)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center leaders pose for a group photo with Japanese Air Self Defense Force Airmen during a site visit to Yakumo Air Base, Japan July 13, 2023, in support of Mobility Guardian 2023. A multilateral endeavor, MG23 features seven participating countries – Australia, Canada, France, Japan, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and the United States – operating approximately 70 mobility aircraft across multiple locations spanning a 3,000 mile exercise area from July 5th through July 21. Our Allies and partners are one of our greatest strengths and a key strategic advantage. MG23 is an opportunity to deepen our connections with regional Allies and partners using bold initiatives. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Alexander Cook)

U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center leaders pose for a group photo with Japanese Air Self Defense Force Airmen during a site visit to Yakumo Air Base, Japan July 13, 2023, in support of Mobility Guardian 2023. A multilateral endeavor, MG23 features seven participating countries – Australia, Canada, France, Japan, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and the United States – operating approximately 70 mobility aircraft across multiple locations spanning a 3,000 mile exercise area from July 5th through July 21. Our Allies and partners are one of our greatest strengths and a key strategic advantage. MG23 is an opportunity to deepen our connections with regional Allies and partners using bold initiatives. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Alexander Cook)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

 
Japan Ground Self-Defense Force paratroopers assigned to the 1st Airborne Brigade descend from a U.S. Air Force C-130J Super Hercules assigned to the 36th Airlift Squadron over JGSDF East Fuji Maneuver Area, Japan, during Airborne 23, Jan. 31, 2023. 300 JGSDF paratroopers performed a static-line jump from Nine U.S. Air Force C-130J’s, showcasing the strategic importance of engaging in joint airborne operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Yasuo Osakabe)

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force paratroopers assigned to the 1st Airborne Brigade descend from a U.S. Air Force C-130J Super Hercules assigned to the 36th Airlift Squadron over JGSDF East Fuji Maneuver Area, Japan, during Airborne 23, Jan. 31, 2023. 300 JGSDF paratroopers performed a static-line jump from Nine U.S. Air Force C-130J’s, showcasing the strategic importance of engaging in joint airborne operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Yasuo Osakabe)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

Airborne 23: Where US airlift meets Japan tactical insertion

  ​The 374th Airlift Wing worked alongside Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members, assigned to the 1st Airborne Brigade, and U.S. Army paratroopers, assigned to the 1st Special Forces Group from Kadena Air Base, Japan, in support of Airborne 23.


Pacific Air Chiefs Symposium 2023

Air Marshal Rob Chipman, Chief of the Royal Australian Air Force, speaks during a multilateral knowledge exchange for Pacific Air Chiefs Symposium 2023 alongside Air Force Chief of Staff, Gen. David Allvin, and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne Bass at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Nov. 13, 2023. This year's symposium holds a special significance, not only as the largest-ever PACS with more than 20 countries scheduled to attend, but also due to the unprecedented numbers of senior enlisted leaders attending and participating. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Hailey Haux)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

Largest-ever PACS concludes, enhancing competitive advantages for 22 nations

  The four-day symposium was held to foster regional security, stability, interoperability, leadership development, knowledge exchanges, and to ensure a shared understanding of challenges throughout the Indo-Pacific.


 

Europe


Indo-Pacific


Europe


Middle East


Africa


Latin America

Photo by Capt. Katie Tamesis
Spanish soldiers secure the perimeter of a U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook during Defender Europe 2023 at Zaragoza Air Base, Spain, May 15, 2023. Defender Europe 2023 (DE23) is a U.S. European Command multi-national, joint exercise aimed to increase readiness and interoperability between U.S. and NATO allies. Three Staff Weather Officer (SWO) Airmen from the 93 AGOW supported the 159 General Support Aviation Battalion (GSAB), a U.S. Army reserve unit based out of Fort Eustis, Virginia, during the exercise by enabling operations that showcased the U.S. military’s ability to rapidly deploy combat-capable troops and equipment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Katie Tamesis)
Download
Details
  U.S. European Command and U.S. Africa Command or USAFE-AFAFRICA executes the Air Component missions with forward-based airpower and infrastructure to enable global operations  in a theater spanning three continents and covering more than 19 million square miles.  On the USAFE side, this mission is accomplished through the interoperability that is strengthened through military training exercises with NATO allies.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Francina Matos, 86th Maintenance Group avionics quality assurance inspector, explains the process of loading and unloading flares onto a U.S. Air Force C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, June 5, 2023. Chaff and flare cartridges are considered live munitions. Airmen from the 86th MXG conduct frequent systems checks to ensure no electrical surges or signals exist to potentially cause a misfire during installation. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Edgar Grimaldo)

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Francina Matos, 86th Maintenance Group avionics quality assurance inspector, explains the process of loading and unloading flares onto a U.S. Air Force C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, June 5, 2023. Chaff and flare cartridges are considered live munitions. Airmen from the 86th MXG conduct frequent systems checks to ensure no electrical surges or signals exist to potentially cause a misfire during installation. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Edgar Grimaldo)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
Spanish paratroopers with the Grupo De Artilleria attach their static lines on a C-17 Globemaster III assigned to Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, during DEFENDER 23 over Spain, May 10, 2023. DEFENDER 23 is a U.S. Army Europe and Africa-led exercise, supported by U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa, focused on the strategic deployment of continental United States-based forces and interoperability with Allies and partners. Taking place from April 22 to June 23, DEFENDER 23 demonstrates the U.S. Air Force’s ability to aggregate U.S.-based combat power quickly in Europe; increase lethality of the NATO Alliance through the U.S. Air Force’s Agile Combat Employment; build unit readiness in a complex joint, multi-national environment; and leverage host nation capabilities to increase USAFE-AFAFRICA’s operational reach. DEFENDER 23 includes more than 7,800 U.S. and 15,000 multi-national service members from various Allied and partner nations. (U.S Air Force photo by Senior Airman Callie Norton)

Spanish paratroopers with the Grupo De Artilleria attach their static lines on a C-17 Globemaster III assigned to Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, during DEFENDER 23 over Spain, May 10, 2023. DEFENDER 23 is a U.S. Army Europe and Africa-led exercise, supported by U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa, focused on the strategic deployment of continental United States-based forces and interoperability with Allies and partners. Taking place from April 22 to June 23, DEFENDER 23 demonstrates the U.S. Air Force’s ability to aggregate U.S.-based combat power quickly in Europe; increase lethality of the NATO Alliance through the U.S. Air Force’s Agile Combat Employment; build unit readiness in a complex joint, multi-national environment; and leverage host nation capabilities to increase USAFE-AFAFRICA’s operational reach. DEFENDER 23 includes more than 7,800 U.S. and 15,000 multi-national service members from various Allied and partner nations. (U.S Air Force photo by Senior Airman Callie Norton)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
Dutch paratroopers assigned to 11 Luchtmobiele Brigade fly a C-17 Globemaster III assigned to the 62d Airlift Wing for a static line jump during Exercise Swift Response over Greece, May 12, 2023. Swift Response is an exercise related to DEFENDER 23. DEFENDER 23 is a U.S. Army Europe and Africa-led exercise, supported by U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa, focused on the strategic deployment of continental United States-based forces and interoperability with Allies and partners. Taking place from April 22 to June 23, DEFENDER 23 demonstrates the U.S. Air Force’s ability to aggregate U.S.-based combat power quickly in Europe; increase lethality of the NATO Alliance through the U.S. Air Force’s Agile Combat Employment; build unit readiness in a complex joint, multi-national environment; and leverage host nation capabilities to increase USAFE-AFAFRICA’s operational reach. DEFENDER 23 includes more than 7,800 U.S. and 15,000 multi-national service members from various Allied and partner nations. (U.S Air Force photo by Senior Airman Callie Norton)

Dutch paratroopers assigned to 11 Luchtmobiele Brigade fly a C-17 Globemaster III assigned to the 62d Airlift Wing for a static line jump during Exercise Swift Response over Greece, May 12, 2023. Swift Response is an exercise related to DEFENDER 23. DEFENDER 23 is a U.S. Army Europe and Africa-led exercise, supported by U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa, focused on the strategic deployment of continental United States-based forces and interoperability with Allies and partners. Taking place from April 22 to June 23, DEFENDER 23 demonstrates the U.S. Air Force’s ability to aggregate U.S.-based combat power quickly in Europe; increase lethality of the NATO Alliance through the U.S. Air Force’s Agile Combat Employment; build unit readiness in a complex joint, multi-national environment; and leverage host nation capabilities to increase USAFE-AFAFRICA’s operational reach. DEFENDER 23 includes more than 7,800 U.S. and 15,000 multi-national service members from various Allied and partner nations. (U.S Air Force photo by Senior Airman Callie Norton)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
U.S. Airmen assigned to the 124th Fighter Wing, Idaho National Guard attend a briefing at Lechfeld Air Base, Germany with German and Greek counterparts during exercise Air Defender 2023 (AD23), June 13, 2023. Exercise AD23 integrates both U.S. and allied air-power to defend shared values, while leveraging and strengthening vital partnerships to deter aggression around the world. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Becky Vanshur)

U.S. Airmen assigned to the 124th Fighter Wing, Idaho National Guard attend a briefing at Lechfeld Air Base, Germany with German and Greek counterparts during exercise Air Defender 2023 (AD23), June 13, 2023. Exercise AD23 integrates both U.S. and allied air-power to defend shared values, while leveraging and strengthening vital partnerships to deter aggression around the world. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Becky Vanshur)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

 

A U.S. Air Force HH-60G Pave Hawk assigned to the 56th Rescue Generation Squadron from Aviano Air Base lands to pick up survivors during exercise Jolly Vihar

A U.S. Air Force HH-60G Pave Hawk assigned to the 56th Rescue Generation Squadron from Aviano Air Base lands to pick up survivors during exercise Jolly Vihar at a training range near Pápa Air Base, Hungary, June 28, 2023. The 56th Rescue Squadron provides a rapidly deployable, worldwide combat rescue and reaction force response. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Synsere Howard)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

Jolly Vihar 23 enhances US, Hungarian air forces interoperability

  ​Exercise Jolly Vihar is aimed to enhance the U.S. and Hungarian forces’ ability to conduct integrated combat search and rescue scenarios and perform maintenance operations.


European theater CSELs participate in Nordic Regional Engagement

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Travis Siegwart, a 52nd Fighter Wing SERE specialist, briefs command senior enlisted leaders visiting the NATO Aircrew Winter Survival Course during a Nordic Regional CSEL Engagement, Jan. 21, 2023, in Rauland, Kingdom of Norway. The purpose of the course is to give international NATO students a basic knowledge in survival techniques during a long-term survival situation situated at enemy occupied territories in cold weather climate and various terrain, to include areas above the tree line. The course provides an answer to the raising demands of survival skills and bush crafting in the high north from allied nations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Michael Battles)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

European theater CSELs participate in Nordic regional engagement

  The two-week engagement provided a platform for the CSELs to discuss Agile Combat Employment across the Nordic nations, explore multinational, professional military education exchange opportunities and discuss the operational environment in the High North.



 

Middle East


Indo-Pacific


Europe


Middle East


Africa


Latin America

Photo by Tech. Sgt. Alexander Frank
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jonathan Miles (right), 125th Expeditionary Fighter Generation Squadron (EFGS) crew chief, inspects a maintenance hatch on a Eurofighter Typhoon with a maintainer from the Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) during Operation Agile Spartan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Aug. 21, 2023. During the exercise, RSAF and 125th EFGS maintainers toured each other's aircraft to see how each partner nation performs their maintenance duties. Agile Spartan 23.2 is a multinational operation aimed at strengthening interoperability, improving response capabilities, and furthering security cooperation initiatives throughout the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Alexander Frank)
Download
Details
  ​Air Force Central Command is the air component to United States Central Command and is responsible for air operations unilaterally or in concert with regional partners. They develop contingency plans in support of national objectives for USCENTCOM's 21-nation area of responsibility to include 17 partner nations in Southwest Asia.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Michael Freeman, left, 378th Expeditionary Maintenance Squadron Crash Damaged and Disabled Aircraft Recovery team member, works with a member of the Royal Saudi Air Force during a CDDAR training at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, March 1, 2023. The 378th EMXS CDDAR team showcased their equipment and training to members of the RSAF to reinforce operational readiness and enhance partnership capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Aiman Stephani Barge)

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Michael Freeman, left, 378th Expeditionary Maintenance Squadron Crash Damaged and Disabled Aircraft Recovery team member, works with a member of the Royal Saudi Air Force during a CDDAR training at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, March 1, 2023. The 378th EMXS CDDAR team showcased their equipment and training to members of the RSAF to reinforce operational readiness and enhance partnership capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Aiman Stephani Barge)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Haydon Korob, 60th Aeromedical Evacuation (AE) Squadron AE technician paramedic, instructs Egyptian Armed Forces service members during exercise Bright Star 23 at Cairo East Air Base, Egypt, Sept. 13, 2023. Bright Star 2023 is a multilateral U.S. Central Command exercise held with the Arab Republic of Egypt across air, land and sea domains that promotes and enhances regional security and cooperation while improving interoperability in irregular warfare against hybrid threat scenarios. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jacob Cabanero)

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Haydon Korob, 60th Aeromedical Evacuation (AE) Squadron AE technician paramedic, instructs Egyptian Armed Forces service members during exercise Bright Star 23 at Cairo East Air Base, Egypt, Sept. 13, 2023. Bright Star 2023 is a multilateral U.S. Central Command exercise held with the Arab Republic of Egypt across air, land and sea domains that promotes and enhances regional security and cooperation while improving interoperability in irregular warfare against hybrid threat scenarios. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jacob Cabanero)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
U.S. Airmen from the 378th Expeditionary Medical Squadron (EMDS) listen to a nurse from a local hospital during Operation Agile Spartan 23.2, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Aug. 22, 2023. 378th EMDS Airmen visited a local area hospital as part of a familiarization tour to assess the medical infrastructure within the exercise area. Agile Spartan 23.2 is a multinational operation aimed at strengthening interoperability, improving response capabilities, and furthering security cooperation initiatives throughout the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. (U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Marie Ortiz)

U.S. Airmen from the 378th Expeditionary Medical Squadron (EMDS) listen to a nurse from a local hospital during Operation Agile Spartan 23.2, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Aug. 22, 2023. 378th EMDS Airmen visited a local area hospital as part of a familiarization tour to assess the medical infrastructure within the exercise area. Agile Spartan 23.2 is a multinational operation aimed at strengthening interoperability, improving response capabilities, and furthering security cooperation initiatives throughout the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. (U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Marie Ortiz)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, Ninth Air Force (Air Forces Central) commander, and Combined Forces Air Component Commander for U.S. Central Command, right, and Lebanese Armed Forces Brig. Gen. Michel Assad Al-Saifi, Air Force commander, tour the Task Force 99 facility during a visit Sept. 22, 2023, at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar. The visit allowed the leaders to discuss opportunities for improving interoperability and strengthening the partnership between the two forces, as well as learn about the TF-99 mission and capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jennifer Zima)

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, Ninth Air Force (Air Forces Central) commander, and Combined Forces Air Component Commander for U.S. Central Command, right, and Lebanese Armed Forces Brig. Gen. Michel Assad Al-Saifi, Air Force commander, tour the Task Force 99 facility during a visit Sept. 22, 2023, at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar. The visit allowed the leaders to discuss opportunities for improving interoperability and strengthening the partnership between the two forces, as well as learn about the TF-99 mission and capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jennifer Zima)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

 
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jonathan Miles (right), 125th Expeditionary Fighter Generation Squadron (EFGS) crew chief, speaks with a maintainer from the Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) during Operation Agile Spartan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Aug. 21, 2023. During the operation, RSAF and 125th EFGS maintainers toured each other's aircraft to see how each partner nation performs their maintenance duties. Agile Spartan 23.2 is a multinational operation aimed at strengthening interoperability, improving response capabilities, and furthering security cooperation initiatives throughout the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Alexander Frank)

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jonathan Miles (right), 125th Expeditionary Fighter Generation Squadron (EFGS) crew chief, speaks with a maintainer from the Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) during Operation Agile Spartan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Aug. 21, 2023. During the operation, RSAF and 125th EFGS maintainers toured each other's aircraft to see how each partner nation performs their maintenance duties. Agile Spartan 23.2 is a multinational operation aimed at strengthening interoperability, improving response capabilities, and furthering security cooperation initiatives throughout the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Alexander Frank)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

AFCENT, coalition partners integrate during Agile Spartan

  ​U.S. Air Forces Central successfully concluded Operation Agile Spartan 23.2 Aug. 26, showcasing the power of collective military efforts and a proactive approach to combat readiness.


Qatar Emiri Air Force Commander Maj. Gen. Jassim Al-Mannai greets Brig. Gen. David Cochran, commander of the West Virginia Air National Guard, after a meeting at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., March 16, 2023. As part of the visit, Al-Mannai received a full-honors arrival, was awarded a Legion of Merit at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington, D.C. and attended both an office call with Brown and staff talks at the Pentagon. (U.S. Air Force photo by Eric Dietrich)

Qatar Emiri Air Force Commander Maj. Gen. Jassim Al-Mannai greets Brig. Gen. David Cochran, commander of the West Virginia Air National Guard, after a meeting at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., March 16, 2023. As part of the visit, Al-Mannai received a full-honors arrival, was awarded a Legion of Merit at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington, D.C. and attended both an office call with Brown and staff talks at the Pentagon. (U.S. Air Force photo by Eric Dietrich)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

CSAF’s counterpart visit with Qatar Emiri Air Force Commander Maj. Gen. Jassim Al-Mannai

  ​Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. hosted Qatar Emiri Air Force Commander Maj. Gen. Jassim Al-Mannai for an official counterpart visit March 16 to further deepen the strong U.S.-Qatar defense and security partnership.


 

Africa


Indo-Pacific


Europe


Middle East


Africa


Latin America

Photo by Airman 1st Class Mitchell Corley
U.S. Air Force Senior Airman William Rio Rosado, a member of the 1st Combat Camera Squadron, engages with local villagers alongside U.S. Army Civil Affairs in Chebelley, Djibouti, Jan. 18, 2023. Civil Affairs soldiers are the principal experts in assisting a commander on the conduct of civil-military operations, and the sole force trained and tasked to conduct Civil Affairs Operations. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Airman 1st Class Mitchell Corley)
Download
Details
  ​U.S. Air Forces Europe and U.S. Africa Command or USAFE-AFAFRICA executes the Air Component missions with forward-based airpower and infrastructure to enable global operations  in a theater spanning three continents and covering more than 19 million square miles. On the AFAFRICA side, this mission is accomplished through the sustained security engagement and operations that promote air safety, security and development on the African continent. 

U.S. Army soldiers from the 173rd Airborne Brigade based out of Vicenza, Italy, prepare to perform a joint operations jump from U.S. Air Force and Royal Moroccan Air Force C-130H Hercules aircraft at Ben Guerir Air Base, Morocco, June 10, 2023. African Lion 23 provides an opportunity to conduct realistic, dynamic and collaborative readiness training. Approximately 8,000 personnel from 18 nations will participate in African Lion 2023, U.S. Africa Command's largest annual combined, joint exercise that will take place in Ghana, Morocco, Senegal and Tunisia from May 13 to June 18, 2023. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Steven Adkins)

U.S. Army soldiers from the 173rd Airborne Brigade based out of Vicenza, Italy, prepare to perform a joint operations jump from U.S. Air Force and Royal Moroccan Air Force C-130H Hercules aircraft at Ben Guerir Air Base, Morocco, June 10, 2023. African Lion 23 provides an opportunity to conduct realistic, dynamic and collaborative readiness training. Approximately 8,000 personnel from 18 nations will participate in African Lion 2023, U.S. Africa Command's largest annual combined, joint exercise that will take place in Ghana, Morocco, Senegal and Tunisia from May 13 to June 18, 2023. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Steven Adkins)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
Moroccan Air Force medics learn how to properly carry a litter during hands-on training on in-flight aeromedical evacuation procedures led by the 86th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron from Ramstein Air Base at Kenitra Air Force Base, Morocco, June 7, 2023. AL23 provides an opportunity to conduct realistic, dynamic and collaborative readiness training in an austere environment that intersects multiple geographic and functional combatant commands including U.S. Africa Command, U.S. European Command, and U.S. Central Command; as well as strategic maritime choke points and global shipping lanes. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jan K. Valle)

Moroccan Air Force medics learn how to properly carry a litter during hands-on training on in-flight aeromedical evacuation procedures led by the 86th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron from Ramstein Air Base at Kenitra Air Force Base, Morocco, June 7, 2023. AL23 provides an opportunity to conduct realistic, dynamic and collaborative readiness training in an austere environment that intersects multiple geographic and functional combatant commands including U.S. Africa Command, U.S. European Command, and U.S. Central Command; as well as strategic maritime choke points and global shipping lanes. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jan K. Valle)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Lorenzo Bennette, 409th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron, Quick Reaction Force (QRF) member, hands a water bottle to a local child near AB 201, Niger, Jan. 6, 2023. QRF postures in and around the base to be able to rapidly respond to developing hostile threats on or immediately around the base. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Michael Matkin)

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Lorenzo Bennette, 409th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron, Quick Reaction Force (QRF) member, hands a water bottle to a local child near AB 201, Niger, Jan. 6, 2023. QRF postures in and around the base to be able to rapidly respond to developing hostile threats on or immediately around the base. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Michael Matkin)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
Members of the U.S. Air Forces in Europe Air Forces Africa Band, and the Senegalese Armed Forces Band play the U.S. national anthem during the opening ceremony of the African Air Chiefs Symposium 2023, Feb. 28, 2023, at Dakar, Senegal. The AACS aims to increase the number of partner nations involved in the Association of African Air Forces. AACS seeks to identify key challenges confronting African air chiefs and seeks to strengthen partner networks within Africa by expanding membership of the AAAF. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Peter Thompson)

Members of the U.S. Air Forces in Europe Air Forces Africa Band, and the Senegalese Armed Forces Band play the U.S. national anthem during the opening ceremony of the African Air Chiefs Symposium 2023, Feb. 28, 2023, at Dakar, Senegal. The AACS aims to increase the number of partner nations involved in the Association of African Air Forces. AACS seeks to identify key challenges confronting African air chiefs and seeks to strengthen partner networks within Africa by expanding membership of the AAAF. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Peter Thompson)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

 
Officials representing the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center's Air Force Security Assistance and Cooperation Directorate, Nigerian Air Force, contractors and others pose for a picture at Kainji Air Force Base in Nigeria following ceremonies celebrating recently completed base infrastructure improvements there April 27, 2023. They participated in ribbon cutting ceremonies highlighting the completion of several construction projects supporting recently delivered A-29 Super Tucano aircraft. The construction was part of the historic $500 million U.S. foreign military sale to Nigeria, which also includes the delivery of the 12 A-29 Super Tucano aircraft, munitions, and training. (U.S. Embassy in Nigeria photo by Olaoluwa Aworinde)

Officials representing the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center's Air Force Security Assistance and Cooperation Directorate, Nigerian Air Force, contractors and others pose for a picture at Kainji Air Force Base in Nigeria following ceremonies celebrating recently completed base infrastructure improvements there April 27, 2023. They participated in ribbon cutting ceremonies highlighting the completion of several construction projects supporting recently delivered A-29 Super Tucano aircraft. The construction was part of the historic $500 million U.S. foreign military sale to Nigeria, which also includes the delivery of the 12 A-29 Super Tucano aircraft, munitions, and training. (U.S. Embassy in Nigeria photo by Olaoluwa Aworinde)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

Nigerian Air Force receives new facilities for A-29 Super Tucano fleet

  ​Less than two years after 12 A-29 Super Tucano aircraft were inducted into the Nigerian Air Force, a $38 million project to construct new facilities for the aircraft was successfully completed at Kainji Air Base.


37 African nations, U.S. kick-off AACS 2023 in Senegal

Members and guests of the African Air Chiefs Symposium 2023 watch a video greeting from U.S. Air Force Gen. Charles Q. Brown, U.S. Air Force chief of staff, during the opening ceremony Feb. 28, 2023, at Dakar, Senegal. African Air Chiefs Symposium 2023 is focused on trans-national threats to African airpower. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Peter Thompson)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

37 African nations, US kickoff AACS 2023 in Senegal

  ​The Senegalese Air Force, along with the Association of African Air Forces sponsored by U.S. Air Forces Africa, officially kicked off the 12th annual African Air Chiefs Symposium with an opening ceremony, Feb. 28, in Dakar.


 

Latin America


Indo-Pacific


Europe


Middle East


Africa


Latin America

Photo by Senior Airman Bryan Guthrie
U.S. Air Force pararescuemen assigned to the 23rd Special Tactics Squadron at Hurlburt Field, Florida, U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook flight engineers assigned Joint Task Force-Bravo, 1-228th Aviation Regiment, and Colombia Aerospace Force special forces fly in a CH-47 during exercise Ángel de los Andes in Palanquero, Colombia, Aug. 17, 2023. This Colombian-led, combined exercise focuses on building our strong partnership with Colombia while emphasizing joint force interoperability. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Bryan Guthrie)
Download
Details
  ​U.S. Southern Command's mission is to deter aggression, defeat threats, rapidly responds to crises, and build regional capacity by working with allies, partner nations, and U.S. government team members to enhance security and defend the U.S. homeland and our national interests. SOUTHCOM's area of responsibility encompasses 31 countries and 12 dependencies/areas of special sovereignty.  

U.S. Air Force Special Warfare operators assigned to the Kentucky Air National Guard’s 123rd Special Tactics Squadron conduct a casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) training scenario with the U.S. Army’s 7th Special Forces Group, Peru’s Defensa y Operaciones Especiales and other Special Operations Forces (SOF) assets during exercise Resolute Sentinel 23, Peru, July 20, 2023. Resolute Sentinel improves readiness of U.S. and partner nation military and interagency personnel through joint defense interoperability training, engineering projects and knowledge exchanges. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Chris Hibben)

U.S. Air Force Special Warfare operators assigned to the Kentucky Air National Guard’s 123rd Special Tactics Squadron conduct a casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) training scenario with the U.S. Army’s 7th Special Forces Group, Peru’s Defensa y Operaciones Especiales and other Special Operations Forces (SOF) assets during exercise Resolute Sentinel 23, Peru, July 20, 2023. Resolute Sentinel improves readiness of U.S. and partner nation military and interagency personnel through joint defense interoperability training, engineering projects and knowledge exchanges. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Chris Hibben)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
U.S. Air Force Special Warfare operators assigned to the Kentucky Air National Guard’s 123rd Special Tactics Squadron conduct a casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) training scenario with the U.S. Army’s 7th Special Forces Group, Peru’s Defensa y Operaciones Especiales and other Special Operations Forces (SOF) assets during exercise Resolute Sentinel 23, Peru, July 20, 2023. Resolute Sentinel improves readiness of U.S. and partner nation military and interagency personnel through joint defense interoperability training, engineering projects and knowledge exchanges. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Corban Lundborg)

U.S. Air Force Special Warfare operators assigned to the Kentucky Air National Guard’s 123rd Special Tactics Squadron conduct a casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) training scenario with the U.S. Army’s 7th Special Forces Group, Peru’s Defensa y Operaciones Especiales and other Special Operations Forces (SOF) assets during exercise Resolute Sentinel 23, Peru, July 20, 2023. Resolute Sentinel improves readiness of U.S. and partner nation military and interagency personnel through joint defense interoperability training, engineering projects and knowledge exchanges. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Corban Lundborg)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
U.S. Air Force Reserve Aeromedical technicians and their Peruvian counterparts perform a casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) training scenario on board a C-130H Hercules assigned to the 64th Air Expeditionary Wing in Callao, Peru, July 17, 2023, during exercise Resolute Sentinel 23. Resolute Sentinel improves readiness of U.S. and partner nation military and interagency personnel through joint defense interoperability training, engineering projects and knowledge exchanges. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Chris Hibben)

U.S. Air Force Reserve Aeromedical technicians and their Peruvian counterparts perform a casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) training scenario on board a C-130H Hercules assigned to the 64th Air Expeditionary Wing in Callao, Peru, July 17, 2023, during exercise Resolute Sentinel 23. Resolute Sentinel improves readiness of U.S. and partner nation military and interagency personnel through joint defense interoperability training, engineering projects and knowledge exchanges. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Chris Hibben)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
U.S. Air Force Capt. Aimee “Rebel” Fiedler, F-16 Viper Demonstration Team commander and pilot, meets an air show attendee during F-AIR Colombia International Aeronautics and Space Fair at José María Córdova Airport in Rionegro, Colombia, July 16, 2023. The U.S. is an enduring, committed partner with robust engagement in Colombia and throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Madeline Herzog)

U.S. Air Force Capt. Aimee “Rebel” Fiedler, F-16 Viper Demonstration Team commander and pilot, meets an air show attendee during F-AIR Colombia International Aeronautics and Space Fair at José María Córdova Airport in Rionegro, Colombia, July 16, 2023. The U.S. is an enduring, committed partner with robust engagement in Colombia and throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Madeline Herzog)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

 
Inter-American Air Forces Academy

The Inter-American Air Forces Academy’s mission, Lackland AFB, San Antonio, Texas, is to provide military education and training to military personnel of eligible partner nations. To accomplish this, IAAFA partners with 23 countries to teach 32 curricula to include Professional Military Education, aircrew training and technical training. (U.S. Air Force photo)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

Inter-American partnerships

  ​The Inter-American Air Forces Academy’s mission, Lackland AFB, San Antonio, Texas, is to provide military education and training to military personnel of eligible partner nations. To accomplish this, IAAFA partners with 23 countries to teach 32 curricula to include Professional Military Education, aircrew training and technical training.


Inter-American Allies

The Inter-American Air Forces Academy’s mission, Lackland AFB, San Antonio, Texas, is to provide military education and training to military personnel of eligible partner nations. To accomplish this, IAAFA partners with 23 countries to teach 32 curricula to include Professional Military Education, aircrew training and technical training.
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

Inter-American allies

  ​Airman Magazine initially photographed and interviewed these students and instructors on their very first day of a 12-week Pilot Instrument Procedure Course, or PIP-C, offered by IAAFA. In this follow-up, we photographed and interviewed them days ahead of their graduation.



 
 
AIRMAN MAGAZINE