USARCENT, Royal Saudi Land Force leaders meet, discuss enduring partnership

Photo By Staff Sgt. James Bunn | Leaders from U.S. Army Central and the Royal Saudi Land Forces met for the first time on Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, Oct. 12, to discuss mission command and security cooperation. The representatives of the partner militaries worked to increase interoperability through a mission command round-table and demonstration, as well as an open discussion on the importance of regional security cooperation.  

CAMP ARIFJAN, KUWAIT

10.16.2015

Story by Sgt. James Bunn 

U.S. Army Central   

CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait – Leaders from U. S. Army Central and the Royal Saudi Land Forces met for a Partnership and Mission Command Forum Oct. 12 on Camp Arifjan, Kuwait.

During the summit, the representatives of the partner militaries worked to increase interoperability through a mission command roundtable and demonstration, as well as an open discussion on the importance of regional security cooperation.

“Today was a great opportunity to discuss security cooperation and partnership with our Saudi counterparts,” said Maj. Gen. William Hickman, the USARCENT deputy commanding general for operations. “Any time we get to work closely with our allies builds stronger relationships, and this is a core component of the USARCENT mission.”

The discussion helped integrate the regionally-aligned forces to build a stronger, more responsive force that is focused on regional security through close cooperation.

“Partnership opportunities are vital,” Said Hickman. “They ensure we remain integrated with our allies as we work together to promote regional security. Continuing these enduring partnerships is one of USARCENT's top priorities.”

Following the discussion, the Saudi delegation was given an opportunity to see U.S. Army mission command in action at the USARCENT Combined Operations and Intelligence Center.

“Mission command is key to our success and it is a central component of all USARCENT operations,” said Hickman. “Coming together with our partners to share these techniques and methods helps us work more effectively with each other and accomplish any mission."

After the mission command demonstration, the delegation of leaders shared a luncheon that brought everyone together to create individual partnerships and discuss the profession-of-arms in an informal setting.

“Being able to talk with our Saudi allies in an informal setting like a luncheon, allows us to connect in a personal way to discuss regional challenges,” said Col. Heath Dunbar, the USARCENT chief of operations. “Part of maintaining good relations is connecting beyond a conference table.”

Throughout the summit, the USARCENT and Royal Saudi Land Forces built partner capacity to promote regional cooperation and increase security.

“The meeting was very productive,” said Dunbar. “We were able to discuss strategies that promote safety in the region and encourage an atmosphere of partnership.”

• Date Taken: 10.16.2015
• Date Posted: 10.21.2015 05:53
• Story ID: 179481
• Location: CAMP ARIFJAN, KW