U.S. Air Force lands at Moscow air show

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Mona Ferrell
  • U.S. Air Forces in Europe Public Affairs
ZHUKOVSKY, Russia (AFPN) --  U.S. Air Force maintainers chocked and secured six aircraft at Ramenskoye Airfield here Aug. 14, as they prepared to participate in the Moscow International Aviation and Space Salon.

About 100 U.S. serviceembers are playing an active part in the Moscow air show Aug. 16 to 21, where visitors can get a close-up look at U.S. Air Force aircraft.

The air show is one of the largest in the world, fourth only to air shows in Paris; Farnborough, England; and Dubai.

"(This air show) is one of the premier events of its type in the world, and we're proud to be a part of it," said Col. Scott Nielson, U.S. Air Forces in Europe Reserve forces adviser and air boss for the event.

"Opportunities like this allow us to strengthen our relations with our Russian partners, and it's also an opportunity to showcase and display our capabilities," Colonel Nielson said. "Our participation demonstrates our commitment to international security, promotes international cooperation and contributes to U.S. foreign policy objectives. It's a win-win situation for everyone involved."

American aircraft showcased include an F-15E Strike Eagle, two F-16 Fighting Falcons, a KC-10 Extender, a KC-135 Stratotanker and a B-1B Lancer.

The B-1B will perform daily aerial demonstrations, and air show attendees will be able to see static displays of all of the aircraft as well as speak with the aircrews.

The Airmen said they are looking forward to interacting with their Russian counterparts.

"It's going to be an awesome experience," said Staff Sgt. Korey Stiles, a mobile aerial port specialist from the 86th Contingency Response Group at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. "Not too many Americans have the opportunity to come to Russia. To be able to come here and talk with the Russian public and see each other's aircraft in action, it's going to be incredible."

This is the second time the United States has displayed military aircraft at this air show; the first time was in 2003. In 2001 the Defense Department participated with a technology booth.