European Command commander discusses USAFE role

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. J.D. Griffin
  • U.S. Air Forces in Europe Public Affairs
RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany (AFNS) --  Partnering with allies to strengthen capabilities and interoperability is the future of U.S. European Command, of which airpower is a major factor.

Army Gen. John Craddock, U.S. European Command commander, visited Ramstein Air Base March 16 and spoke about the way ahead for the command, and how Airmen of U.S. Air Forces in Europe moves the mission forward.

"USAFE is a key part of building partner nation capability," General Craddock said. "The ability to move, deter, or influence will often default to airpower because it's agile ... and it brings with it enormous capabilities."

From the Atlantic Ocean and across the continent to Israel, USAFE Airmen demonstrate a capacity that cannot be denied, the general said.

"USAFE Airmen are building the capabilities of our partners and providing access to the Eurasian continent in support of allied objectives," said Gen. Roger A. Brady, the USAFE commander. "Our multinational training opportunities enhance the full range of deterrent airpower we give to EUCOM."

Providing leadership and training among allies also comes with a high-degree of responsibility.

"Competence, discipline and skill in what you do is key," General Craddock said. "And, it's important to use your leadership to train others, and that relates to allies, partners and friends."

Two weeks of upcoming training that combines the Spanish air force and the 493rd Fighter Squadron from Royal Air Force Lakenheath in England is a prime example of the commander's comments. The U.S. contribution will include more than 100 maintainers, pilots and jets.

USAFE's ability to engage with U.S. allies and partners while building air capacity and capability has been one of the command's greatest contributions to EUCOM, General Craddock said.

"Today is about allies and friends because it's not a go-it-alone world," General Craddock said. "And USAFE is doing and extraordinary job in reaching out multinationally."

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