U.S., Russia strengthening ties through Moscow air show

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Mona Ferrell
  • U.S. Air Forces in Europe Public Affairs
ZHUKOVSKY, Russia (AFPN) --  When it comes to forging bonds and strengthening relationships, it seems that the U.S. and Russia have gotten the hang of it.

About 100 U.S. servicemembers and eight U.S. aircraft are playing an active part in the Moscow International Aviation and Space Salon from Aug. 16 to 21 at Ramenskoye Airfield. If the reaction from Sofia Saakyants is any indication, the American presence at the show is being well received.

“I like the American aircraft and the people -- (them being) here is wonderful,” said Ms. Saakyants, a member of the Russian Emercom Ministry of Emergency Response. “It’s very important (they’re) here. Ever since the Cold War ended and our two countries have been talking … it’s much better. I think it’s important that we be friends.”

That is exactly why Americans are here, said Robert Moore, U.S. European Command deputy director of logistics and security assistance.

“Our being here is extremely significant,” Mr. Moore said. “It enhances the military-to-military relationships between our two countries, and it supports U.S. security cooperation policies with Russia.

“To see our men and women in uniform interacting, smiling and shaking hands with our Russian partners is inspirational,” he said.

That sentiment is shared by Americans and Russians alike.

“We’re glad that there’s a cooperation of our different nations,” said Russian Lt. Col. Nickolai Vorobo, speaking for himself and his nearby comrades. “This (friendship) should continue for a long time.”

The United States first displayed military aircraft at the Moscow air show in 2003, and in 2001 the Department of Defense participated with a technology booth. However, that does not mean the uniqueness to see U.S. servicemembers here has worn off.

“I like the Americans and I especially like the berets,” said Dmitry Chenstvov, a Russian policeman. “I want to make friends with the Americans.”

Forging ties through military cooperation is what it is all about, said Tech. Sgt. Leon Limon, a KC-10 Extender air refueling specialist from Travis Air Force Base, Calif.

“Coming here is a dream come true,” said Sergeant Limon, who self-taught himself to speak Russian more than three years ago. “I have a lot of Russian and Ukrainian friends back in the United States, so to finally get to come here and see for myself what their country is like and to make even more friends -- it’s unbelievable.”

American aircraft showcased during the air show include the F-15E Strike Eagle, F-16 Fighting Falcon, KC-10, KC-135 Stratotanker and the B-1B Lancer. The B-1B will perform daily aerial demonstrations beginning Aug. 18. (Courtesy of U.S. Air Forces in Europe News Service)