Russians visit Dyess as part of START Treaty Published June 10, 2009 DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas (AFNS) -- Dyess Air Force Base officials hosted a 10-person Russian-led team of inspectors who arrived May 29 here to visit the base as part of a Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty inspection. The inspection team updated data relating to the 7th Bomb Wing's compliance with terms of the START treaty. The purpose of the team's trip was to inspect the 7th BW's bombers and weapons storage to ensure Dyess AFB had no air launched cruise missiles or the capability to carry ALCMs and to ensure the base is compliant with the treaty. "Dyess was found to be in compliance with the START treaty," said Mike Simpson, the Dyess AFB treaty compliance officer. "Everything went like clockwork." Mr. Simpson credited the preparation of all base agencies and units that were inspected for the START team to be able to conduct their inspections quickly and effectively. Under the terms of the treaty, officials from the republics of Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Ukraine are allowed to inspect specific military facilities to take a look at its strategic capabilities. The START treaty was signed Dec. 5, 1994. The last visit to Dyess AFB by a START inspection team was August 2008. "The treaty allows them to come and inspect us twice a year on a short-notice basis," Mr. Simpson said. The START team was escorted by Mr. Simpson, Master Sgt. Douglas Metcalf and eight other base personnel to specific negotiated locations. The inspection team spent approximately eight hours devoted to inspections and reports during their stay, Mr. Simpson said. As part of the process, American teams also inspect military installations in the former Soviet Union.