Airmen and Sailors are
in the UAE to support the Dubai Air Show -- the third largest in
the world -- over the next week. About 300 Airmen and Sailors, and
more than 20 different Air Force and Navy aircraft from bases in
the Persian Gulf region, Europe and the United States, will support
the air show from Nov. 20 to 24.
“We were very pleased to be invited to participate in this
year’s Dubai Air Show. It reflects the very special
relationship we have with one of our closest coalition partners in
the region,” said Lt. Gen. Walter E. Buchanan III, the
commander of U.S. Central Command Air Forces.
Intensive planning for the event began in February between U.S.
Central Command, USCENTAF, the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi, the UAE
and various forward operating locations in Southwest Asia.
“Communication and teamwork were absolutely critical to
ensure we prepared for a successful and safe event. It’s
amazing to see how everyone has pulled together to meet these
objectives,” said Lt. Col. Sam Montgomery, the on-scene
commander for the air show.
The first aircraft to
arrive were the B-1 Lancers. And like all arriving U.S. military
aircraft, a diverse group of people met each one. They include
office of special investigation agents, host-nation
representatives, customs officials, public affairs, force
protection, local media and a few unexpected guests.
The logistics involved in setting up the show was no minor task.
From acquiring and transporting more than 7,000 bottles of water,
to coordinating with the UAE for security, billeting and meals,
everyone involved had a large part in putting the air show
together.
“Preparing to support this air show took a substantial
effort between the Air Force, Navy and our coalition
partners,” said Lt. Cmdr. Russ Van Deipen, the Navy’s
project officer. He said communicating with a Navy carrier off the
coast “took extra time and presented numerous challenges. But
everyone pulled together to get the job done.”
Mansoor Mohammed Taher, vice chairman of the show’s flying
control committee, said he was pleased with the Air Force and Navy
support.
“Throughout the coordination efforts we had excellent
communication and cooperation from all the U.S. military members
involved,” Mr. Mansoor said.
“We’ve all worked together very well and I’m
positive it’ll be a success.”
Mr. Mansoor anticipate a larger audience at this year’s
show, and is looking forward to inviting U.S. military aerial
demonstration teams to participate in future shows.
General Buchanan said, “The U.S. military has participated
and provided support for Dubai’s Air Show for many
years,” he said.
“This year’s air show once more reflects the
tremendous relationship and respect that exists between the UAE and
U.S. militaries.”
[ANN Salutes 1st Lt. Tiffany Payette, US Central Command Air
Forces]