CSAF hosts POTUS during airpower demo

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Rusty Frank
  • Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs
Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David L. Goldfein hosted President Donald J. Trump for an air power demo during the 2017 Joint Base Andrews Air Show: America’s Air and Space Expo at JB Andrews, Maryland, Sept. 15, 2017.

During the demo, Trump toured a static display of the Air Force's fourth and fifth generation aircraft led by Goldfein. 

Goldfein spoke with Trump about the Air Force's fourth and fifth generation aircraft and the benefits of stealth. 

During the conversation Goldfein described five characteristics of stealth: shape, material, electronic warfare, information fusion, speed and maneuverability.

The demo provided the opportunity to highlight the Air Force's ability to maintain air superiority.

"The most important thing the Air Force provides the joint force is air superiority," said Goldfein. 

According to Goldfein, air superiority is and will continue to be paramount to the success of the U.S. military. The bottom line is when it comes to air superiority, the fifth generation raises the game of the fourth generation. 

“These developments allow the Air Force to overcome advanced enemy defenses that inhibit fourth generation aircraft," Goldfein said.

After the walk through Trump addressed Airmen, stressing the vital role the Air Force plays in the nation’s ability to adapt and innovate quickly to control and exploit air and space.

"To the men and women who proudly wear the Air Force uniform, who keep our country safe and who fill our hearts with pride, thank you for your service and devotion to America," said Trump. “I am truly thrilled to join you today at this really incredible milestone, 70 years since the founding of the United States Air Force, congratulations. We are celebrating 70 years of history, 70 years of heroes and 70 years of victory. I also want to thank all the amazing family members and loved ones whose sacrifices make your service possible. We love you, we appreciate you and everything you do, thank you.”

Also during the visit, First Lady of the United States Melania Trump and Dawn Goldfein toured JB Andrews.