Category: AFRICOM

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USS Mount Whitney arrives in Larnaca, Cyprus

Source: United States EUROPEAN COMMAND

USS Mount Whitney arrives in Larnaca, Cyprus

Sailors assigned to the Blue Ridge-class command and control ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) participate in a memorial ceremony off the coast of Normandy, France, while in the English Channel, May 26, 2020. Mount Whitney is the U.S. 6th Fleet flagship, homeported in Gaeta, Italy, and operates with a combined crew of U.S. Sailors and Military Sealift Command civil service mariners. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Damon Grosvenor)

USS Mount Whitney arrives in Larnaca, Cyprus

Sailors assigned to the Blue Ridge-class command and control ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) participate in a memorial ceremony off the coast of Normandy, France, while in the English Channel, May 26, 2020. Mount Whitney is the U.S. 6th Fleet flagship, homeported in Gaeta, Italy, and operates with a combined crew of U.S. Sailors and Military Sealift Command civil service mariners. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Damon Grosvenor)

The U.S. 6th Fleet Blue Ridge-class command-and-control ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) arrived in Larnaca, the Republic of Cyprus, for a scheduled port visit, Nov. 30, 2023.

The USS Mount Whitney is conducting U.S. operations in the U.S. European Command area of responsibility, where the ship’s crew and embarked staff will work alongside Allies and partners in support of maritime operations, which encompass naval diplomacy and national efforts to build comprehensive maritime power. The USS Mount Whitney, forward deployed from Gaeta, Italy, operates with a combined crew of U.S. Sailors and Military Sealift Command civil service mariners in the U.S. Sixth Fleet. The fleet operates in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa.

U.S. Sixth Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners, including NATO Allies and partner nation naval assets.

The Republic of Cyprus is an important regional partner. Port visits aim to strengthen security and stability and build enduring relationships. Liberty for the ship’s crew and embarked personnel is an opportunity to demonstrate a common commitment to ensure goodwill.

U.S. Sixth Fleet is permanently assigned to U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. Naval Forces Africa and employs maritime forces through the full spectrum of joint and naval operations. Also headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF operates U.S. naval forces in the U.S. European Command and U.S. Africa Command areas of responsibility.

U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. Naval Forces Africa has forged strategic relationships with Allies and partners, leveraging a foundation of shared values to preserve security and stability for over 80 years.

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Statement: Five Servicemembers Killed in U.S. Military Aircraft Mishap in Mediterranean

Source: United States EUROPEAN COMMAND

EUCOM logo Shadowed 500×500

During a routine air refueling mission as part of military training, a U.S. military aircraft carrying five service members suffered a mishap and crashed into the Mediterranean Sea. All five of the service members onboard the aircraft were killed. 

Out of respect for the affected families, and in accordance with Department of Defense policy, the identities of the crewmembers are being withheld until 24 hours after next of kin notifications have been completed.

Search and rescue efforts began immediately, including nearby U.S. military aircraft and ships.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the fallen. An investigation into the crash is underway.

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U.S. European Command is responsible for U.S. military operations across Europe, portions of Asia and the Middle East, the Arctic and Atlantic Ocean. EUCOM is comprised of more than 65,000 permanent military personnel supported by rotational forces and DoD civilians working closely with NATO Allies and partners. The command is one of two U.S. forward-deployed geographic combatant commands headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany.

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USEUCOM, USAFRICOM and Space Force activate U.S. Space Forces in Europe and Africa as new service component command

Source: United States AFRICOM

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USEUCOM, USAFRICOM and Space Force activate U.S. Space Forces in Europe and Africa as new service component command

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, U.S. Africa Command commander, gives U.S. Space Force Col. Max E. Lantz, U.S. Space Forces Europe & Africa commander, command of SPACEFOREUR-AF at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Dec. 8, 2023. The activation of SPACEFOREUR-AF provides the ability to rapidly bolster theater space capabilities to further support security and stability in Europe and Africa. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Madelyn Keech)

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USEUCOM, USAFRICOM and Space Force activate U.S. Space Forces in Europe and Africa as new service component command

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, U.S. Africa Command commander, gives U.S. Space Force Col. Max E. Lantz, U.S. Space Forces Europe & Africa commander, command of SPACEFOREUR-AF at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Dec. 8, 2023. The activation of SPACEFOREUR-AF provides the ability to rapidly bolster theater space capabilities to further support security and stability in Europe and Africa. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Madelyn Keech)

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USEUCOM, USAFRICOM and Space Force activate U.S. Space Forces in Europe and Africa as new service component command

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, U.S. Africa Command commander, gives U.S. Space Force Col. Max E. Lantz, U.S. Space Forces Europe & Africa commander, command of SPACEFOREUR-AF at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Dec. 8, 2023. The activation of SPACEFOREUR-AF provides the ability to rapidly bolster theater space capabilities to further support security and stability in Europe and Africa. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Madelyn Keech)

RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany – December 8, 2023 – U.S. European Command, U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Space Force officially activated the U.S. Space Forces Europe and Africa (SPACEFOREUR-AF) component command at a ceremony in Ramstein, Germany, on Dec. 8, 2023.

SPACEFOREUR-AF is the newest service component under EUCOM and AFRICOM with their permanent headquarters at Ramstein Air Base. EUCOM and AFRICOM are the latest combatant commands to establish a space component, following in the footsteps of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and U.S. Central Command.

“For Germany, the U.S. are the most important partner in developing and expanding space capabilities. The activation of the U.S. Space Forces Europe and Africa component at Ramstein Air Base emphasizes both the fast-growing military significance of the space domain and the importance of Germany as a reliable ally and base for the U.S. Armed Forces.” said Boris Pistorius, the German Defense Minister “I am confident that this important step will strengthen our already excellent bilateral military partnership in space and accelerate our practical cooperation on this topic of strategic relevance.”

“The activation of SPACEFOREUR-AF highlights our dedication to strengthening collaborative space capabilities across the African continent,” stated U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, commander for AFRICOM. “Our emphasis extends beyond protecting our space assets; we are equally devoted to fostering partnerships and augmenting the command’s capacity to deliver space-related benefits in support of shared missions with African partners.”

SPACEFOREUR-AF will be staffed by approximately 30 service members and commanded by U.S. Space Force Col. Max Lantz. The command will play a significant role in supporting EUCOM’s growing need for space-based capabilities such as satellite navigation, communications and integration with NATO Allies and partners.

RAMSTEIN, Germany “The activation of SPACEFOREUR-AF is a testament to our commitment to strengthening the joint space capabilities in this region,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Steven Basham, deputy commander for EUCOM. “Our focus is not only on protecting our space assets but also on enabling and enhancing the command’s ability to provide space effects in support of our missions alongside Allies and partners.” 

The ceremony also featured remarks from the Chief of Space Operations for the U.S. Space Force, Gen. Chance Saltzman, who emphasized that SPACEFOREUR-AF‘s activation marks a pivotal step in advancing U.S. commitment to space security and cooperation and ensures the continued protection and resilience of U.S. and Allied space assets.

“Today, we will integrate our Space Forces at the component level — something that will provide a cadre of space experts who can work with the Joint Force, our Allies, and partners to integrate space activities into our shared operations, activities, and investments,” Saltzman said. “The joint force’s missions increasingly rely on space and the Space Force is committed to ensuring that the force has the space resources it needs to succeed.”

SPACEFOREUR-AF‘s presence in Europe and Africa will enhance both EUCOM and AFRICOM’s ability to promote security and regional stability, while also building strong and strategic relationships within the realm of space.

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USAFRICOM Commander and Senior Enlisted Leader Travel to Mauritania

Source: United States AFRICOM

STUTTGART, Germany – U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, commander, U.S. Africa Command, and Sgt. Maj. Michael Woods, the command’s senior enlisted leader, traveled to Mauritania to meet with civilian and military leaders to discuss security cooperation, Oct. 22-24, 2023.

Langley and Woods further met with U.S. Embassy and military personnel and took part in a cultural event with Mauritanian citizens who participated in U.S. government exchange and English language programs. 

“U.S. Africa Command and Mauritania continue our work together to counter violent extremism in the Sahel and help provide for a more secure and peaceful region,” said Langley. “The relationship between our two countries is about protecting communities and fostering stability and economic opportunities for all Mauritanians.”

On Oct. 23,  Langley, Woods and U.S. Ambassador to Mauritania Cynthia Kierscht met with President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani and later with Minister of National Defense Mr. Hanana Ould Sidi.

Additionally, the commander met with Chief of General Staff of the Armed Forces Maj. Gen. Moctar Bollé Chabane and Mauritanian military service chiefs.

Discussions centered on shared security concerns, including violent extremist organizations and the expanding influence of other destabilizing groups. They also discussed future security cooperation opportunities between U.S. and Mauritanian militaries.

For over a decade, Mauritania has performed an important role in countering terrorist activity and preventing violent extremism as host of the G5 Sahel Executive Secretariat and the G5 Sahel Defense College.

Collaborative security programs between the nations’ militaries have also provided training for Mauritanian units within the country and professional growth opportunities of numerous Mauritanian officers in American military schools, which include training on the importance of civilian control of the military and respect for human rights.

The Mauritanian military has also traditionally participated in the U.S. Africa Command exercises Flintlock and Phoenix Express and hosted Flintlock 2020.

The collaborative programs have helped enhance security within the country, strengthening Mauritania’s defense capabilities and its ability to protect its borders, providing for safer communities, and promoting economic development and open trade.

During the trip, the delegation also met with a small group of Mauritanian citizens who graduated from various U.S. government exchange programs and Access English courses. During the event, Langley shared his thoughts on leadership and perseverance, and participants had the opportunity to ask questions.

More than 545 Mauritanian students and professionals have traveled to the U.S. as part of U.S. Embassy sponsored exchange programs to further academic or career goals. Access English is a global scholarship program supported by the U.S. Department of State that pays for disadvantaged youth to attend after-school English classes for two years, helping to equip students with skills that can lead to further educational and employment opportunities.

U.S. Africa Command is one of seven U.S. Department of Defense geographic combatant commands. The command is responsible for all U.S. military operations, exercises, security cooperation, and conducts crisis response on the African continent to advance U.S. interests and promote regional security, stability, and prosperity.

The visit highlights U.S. Africa Command’s 3D approach, which leverages diplomacy, development, and defense collaboration.

For more information, visit our website, Facebook and Twitter pages, or contact U.S. Africa Command Media Relations at africom-pao-media@mail.mil.

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Gen. Michael Langley’s Libya Visit Highlights USAID Humanitarian Aid Efforts and Bilateral Cooperation

Source: United States AFRICOM

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Gen. Michael Langley’s Libya Visit Highlights USAID Humanitarian Aid Efforts and Bilateral Cooperation

Gen. Michael Langley’s Libya Visit Highlights USAID Humanitarian Aid Efforts and Bilateral Cooperation

Gen. Michael Langley’s Libya Visit Highlights USAID Humanitarian Aid Efforts and Bilateral Cooperation

Gen. Michael Langley’s Libya Visit Highlights USAID Humanitarian Aid Efforts and Bilateral Cooperation

STUTTGART, Germany – U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, commander, U.S. Africa Command, traveled to Libya, September 20-21, to further cooperation between the United States and Libya, and highlight the robust U.S. humanitarian response to the devastating floods.

Langley met with host nation civilian and military leaders, U.S. State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) officials, and U.S. service members. 

During a visit to Benghazi, Langley and U.S. Special Envoy Ambassador Richard Norland acknowledged the tragic suffering caused by recent flooding in eastern Libya. 

“Our deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones in this tragedy,” said Langley. “We commend the unity demonstrated by Libyans from all regions of the country as they come together to aid those in need.”     

U.S. Africa Command airlifted more than 13 metric tons of critical life-saving humanitarian supplies to northeastern Libya. The U.S. Air Force’s 86th Airlift Wing conducted the C-130 airlift mission in support of the USAID response to the floods. To date, the U.S. has provided $12 million in response to this humanitarian disaster.

While in Tripoli, Langley met with Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dabaiba and General Mohamed al-Haddad, Chief of the General Staff, Libyan Armed Forces. In Benghazi, Langley met with Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar and General Abd al-Razzaq al-Nadhuri, Chief of the General Staff, Libyan Arab Armed Forces.

“It was a pleasure meeting with civilian and military leaders throughout Libya and to discuss ways to bring about a united country,” said Langley. “Libya’s strength lies in its unity. The United States stands ready to reinforce existing bonds and forge new partnerships with those who champion democracy, in pursuit of a safer, more prosperous Libya.”

U.S. Africa Command is one of seven U.S. Department of Defense geographic combatant commands. The command is responsible for all U.S. military operations, exercises, security cooperation, and conducts crisis response on the African continent in order to advance U.S. interests and promote regional security, stability, and prosperity.

The visit highlights U.S. Africa Command’s 3D approach, which leverages diplomacy, development, and defense collaboration.

For more information, visit our website, Facebook and Twitter pages, or contact U.S. Africa Command Media Relations at africom-pao-media@mail.mil. 

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AFRICOM Commander visits Tunisia

Source: United States AFRICOM

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General Langley and Ambassador Hood with Major General Mohamed Hajem (Air Force Chief of Staff) at the Belvedere Officers Club

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General Langley with Marines

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General Langley with the Tunisian Minister of Defense (Imed Memmich) at the Ministry of Defense

STUTTGART, Germany – U.S. Marine Corps General Michael Langley, Commander, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), traveled to Tunisia, September 19, to further cooperation between the United States and Tunisia.  During his visit, Langley met with the Minister of National Defense Imed Memmich and Tunisian military service chiefs to discuss a range of regional security issues of interest to both nations. He also met with U.S. Ambassador to Tunisia Joey Hood and U.S. service members, who he thanked for their service.

U.S.-Tunisian military partnerships have grown tremendously in the past decade as Tunisia has transitioned to become a regional provider of security expertise, including through its support for UN peacekeeping operations.  The recent 35th U.S.-Tunisia Joint Military Commission and our cooperation on Phoenix Express and African Lion military exercises reaffirm our longstanding defense partnership.  “The United States places great importance on its diplomatic ties with the Tunisian government, recognizing Tunisia as a pivotal force in the advancement of regional security, with particular emphasis on maritime and peacekeeping endeavors,” said General Langley. 

He added, “Security, stability, and economic prosperity in North Africa are interests shared by the United States and the Tunisian government and international partners.  We are stronger when we work toward these goals together.”  

Commenting on his engagements with Minister Memmich and others, Langley said, “I appreciated the opportunity to meet with the Minister of Defense and senior defense officials to review our cooperation and discuss ways to adapt it to current and future challenges.”    

U.S. Africa Command is one of seven U.S. Department of Defense geographic combatant commands. The command is responsible for all U.S. military operations, exercises, security cooperation, and conducts crisis response on the African continent in order to advance U.S. interests and promote regional security, stability, and prosperity.

For more information, visit our website, Facebook and Twitter pages, or contact U.S. Africa Command Media Relations at africom-pao-media@mail.mil. 

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U.S. Africa Command, Côte d’Ivoire Armed Forces host the West Africa Logistics Conference in Abidjan

Source: United States AFRICOM

U.S. Africa Command, Côte d’Ivoire Armed Forces host the West Africa Logistics Conference in Abidjan

ABIDJAN, CÔTE D’IVOIRE — U.S. Africa Command and the Côte d’Ivoire Armed Forces today convened the West Africa Logistics Conference in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, bringing together 50 West African and U.S military logistics leaders.

The two-day conference, titled “Addressing Regional Logistics Challenges, Collaboration and Solutions”, provides a forum for West African attendees to share their own unique experiences and insights and begin to tailor solutions to common logistics challenges.

“Regional military forces have an important role in working together to create logistics solutions that are durable, impactful, and lasting. The West Africa Logistics Conference offers an opportunity for logisticians from 12 West African nations, as well as the African Union and ECOWAS, to discuss shared challenges, collaborate, and work toward solutions together, and I look forward to continuing our partnerships,” said Rear Adm. George Bresnihan, Director of Logistics for U.S. Africa Command. “I want to thank our partners in the Ivoirian military who have worked with U.S. Africa Command over the past year to help make this important conference happen.”

Delivering opening remarks were Rear Adm. Bresnihan, U.S. Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire Jessica Davis Ba, Côte d’Ivoire’s Director of Cabinet for the Ministry of Defense Jean Paul Malan, and Côte d’Ivoire’s Armed Forces Logistics Director Col. Maj. Kirouin Bernabet.

Over the next two days, panels and partner-led discussions will focus, in part, on institutional capacity building; leveraging logistical data to recognize potential problems and improve operational readiness; resource management and methods for informing senior decision makers about logistics gaps and their potential impacts; and the challenges of preparing for and responding to crises, to include internally displaced persons, famine and food shortages, natural disasters, and pandemics.

Countries and organizations represented at the conference include Benin, Cabo Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, Cameroon, Chad, the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States.

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French delegation visits USEUCOM, strengthens strategic partnership

Source: United States EUROPEAN COMMAND

French delegation visits USEUCOM, strengthens strategic partnership

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Daniel Lasica, director, U.S. European Command Strategy, Plans and Policy, hosted Maj. Gen. Philippe de Montenon, chief of the French Strategic Joint Operation Center, and a French military delegation to the command’s headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany, on Jan. 25, 2024. Discussions included ongoing security assistance to Ukraine; the two nations’ combined capability to respond to crisis; and participation in upcoming military exercises – including DEFENDER-Europe – to build readiness and interoperability.

French delegation visits USEUCOM, strengthens strategic partnership

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Daniel Lasica, director, U.S. European Command Strategy, Plans and Policy, hosted Maj. Gen. Philippe de Montenon, chief of the French Strategic Joint Operation Center, and a French military delegation to the command’s headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany, on Jan. 25, 2024. Discussions included ongoing security assistance to Ukraine; the two nations’ combined capability to respond to crisis; and participation in upcoming military exercises – including DEFENDER-Europe – to build readiness and interoperability.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Daniel Lasica, director, U.S. European Command Strategy, Plans and Policy, hosted Maj. Gen. Philippe de Montenon, chief of the French Strategic Joint Operation Center, and a French military delegation to the command’s headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany, on Jan. 25, 2024.

“The U.S. and France have a long and storied history of cooperation, and we remain committed to working together toward common security goals,” said Lasica. “Today’s visit is a testament to the strength of our strong partnership and commitment to robust engagement in the fight against threats to our collective security.”

Discussions included ongoing security assistance to Ukraine; the two nations’ combined capability to respond to crisis; and participation in upcoming military exercises – including DEFENDER-Europe – to build readiness and interoperability.

“In the face of ongoing regional threats and global challenges, close cooperation continues to be a priority for both our nations to strengthen security relationships in Europe and uphold international law,” said de Montenon.

France, America’s oldest Ally, will host several multinational commemorative events this summer for the 80th anniversary of WWII, including: Operation Overlord, the Allied operation in Normandy that commenced the liberation of France from Nazi control on 6 June 1944; and Operation Dragoon, the landings in southern France in mid-August 1944. Commemoration events, held to honor the historic resolve of Allies, serve as a reminder of how common purpose and shared vision build enduring partnerships.

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USEUCOM leaders, ambassadors discuss Black Sea region

Source: United States EUROPEAN COMMAND

USEUCOM, ambassadors discuss Black Sea region

U.S. Army Gen. Christopher Cavoli, the commander of U.S. European Command, and USEUCOM Civilian Deputy and Foreign Policy Advisor Ambassador Kate Byrnes joined eight U.S. ambassadors from the Black Sea region in Bucharest, Romania, Jan. 23 to discuss the command’s support to U.S. Allies and partners; critical security topics, including Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine; access and security in the Black Sea along with its global economic importance; and regional plans for deterrence and defense.

U.S. Army Gen. Christopher Cavoli, commander, U.S. European Command, along with USEUCOM Civilian Deputy & Foreign Policy Advisor Ambassador Kate Byrnes joined U.S. chiefs-of-mission in Bucharest, Romania, Jan. 23, to discuss the command’s support to U.S. foreign policy and diplomatic efforts in the Black Sea Region.

“Russia’s invasion of Ukraine altered the security environment in the Black Sea Region,” said Cavoli. “The region is of critical geostrategic importance to USEUCOM, our Allies and our partners. This conference brought together America’s diplomatic and military leaders with a focus on advancing the collective territorial security of the Black Sea Region.”

The conference gathered senior leaders from USEUCOM and eight U.S. ambassadors to discuss whole-of-government support to America’s Allies and partners in the face of increasing threats and challenges across the Black Sea region.

“We take the shared commitment of security seriously and are working toward a return of a secure, prosperous and interconnected Black Sea Region that contributes to robust global commerce,” said Byrnes. “Our enduring strategic relationships with these countries are the foundation of collective cooperation. We are committed to working with our Allies and partners to ensure freedom of navigation and investments that enhance economic opportunities and build resilience in this critical region.”

USEUCOM personnel joined U.S. ambassadors in panel discussions engaging on critical security topics, including Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, access and security in the Black Sea, and regional plans for deterrence and defense. Host country officials Romanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Luminita Odobescu and Minister of Defense Angel Tilvar joined the group for an informative briefing and productive discussion.

“The Black Sea is crucial for global peace and stability, and its importance is only expected to increase in the coming years,” said U.S. Ambassador to Romania Kathleen Kavalec.

“It is a vital export transit route, and its interconnectors facilitate trade and energy flows between Europe, Eurasia, and the Middle East, making it a crucial economic hub. Russia’s war against Ukraine is the most significant conflict in Europe since World War II, and today’s biggest threat to international order,” Kavalec added. “Such an attack on the international order anywhere affects peace and stability everywhere including in the Black Sea region.”

The discussion in Bucharest advanced efforts by U.S. Defense and State Department leaders to merge strategic initiatives and interagency coordination to counter threats and strengthen partnerships.

Attendees included U.S. Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs James O’Brien, Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink, Ambassador to Georgia Robin Dunnigan, Ambassador to Türkiye Jeffrey Flake, Ambassador to Armenia Kristina Kvien, Ambassador to Azerbaijan Mark Libby, Ambassador to Moldova Kent Logsdon, Ambassador to the Russian Federation Lynne Tracy, and U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission to Bulgaria Andrea Brouillette-Rodriguez.

Chiefs-of-mission conferences facilitate strategic discussions among U.S. diplomatic and defense leaders to formulate strategic initiatives to further U.S. foreign policy and national security.

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About USEUCOM

U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) is responsible for U.S. military operations across Europe, portions of Asia and the Middle East, the Arctic and Atlantic Ocean. USEUCOM is comprised of more than 64,000 military and civilian personnel and works closely with NATO Allies and partners. The command is one of two U.S. forward-deployed geographic combatant commands headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany. For more information about USEUCOM, visit www.eucom.mil.

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Bosnia and Herzegovina host U.S. F-16s and JTAC training

Source: United States EUROPEAN COMMAND

Bosnia and Herzegovina host U.S. F-16s and JTAC training U.S. European Command

Two U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons assigned to the 31st Fighter Wing from Aviano Air Base, Italy, conducted bilateral air-to-ground training with joint terminal attack controllers from U.S. Special Operations Command Europe and Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina JTACs near Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina, on Jan. 8, 2024. This bilateral training is an example of advanced military-to-military cooperation that contributes to peace and security in the Western Balkans and throughout Europe.

Two U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons assigned to the 31st Fighter Wing from Aviano Air Base, Italy, conducted bilateral air-to-ground training with joint terminal attack controllers (JTAC) from U.S. Special Operations Command Europe and Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina JTACs near Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina, on Jan. 8, 2024.

This bilateral training is an example of advanced military-to-military cooperation that contributes to peace and security in the Western Balkans and throughout Europe.

“Joint military events like this are a demonstration of the United States’ enduring partnership with the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Steven L. Basham, deputy commander, U.S. European Command.

“American support for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Armed Forces is ironclad, forged over years of close cooperation. For twenty years, the Armed Forces of our two countries have maintained an outstanding and robust military-to-military relationship,” added Basham. “The United States continues to provide assistance that will help their armed forces modernize and become a security contributor both regionally and globally.”

The training was part of routine efforts by U.S. forces to exchange tactics, techniques and procedures with partner nation forces.

The mission was supported by a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 100th Air Refueling Wing, based at RAF Mildenhall, U.K., which provided aerial refueling for the F-16s and contributed to meeting all training objectives.

The U.S. Department of Defense and the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina share a common goal in contributing to continued stability in the region and are natural partners in their overall commitment to global security.