31st FW supports NATO enhanced Air Policing mission

Photo By Staff Sgt. Ericka Woolever | A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 555th Fighter Squadron, Aviano Air Base, Italy, taxis on the runway during NATO’s enhanced Air Policing allied mission at Graf Ignatievo Air Base, Bulgaria, Sept. 28, 2020. Enhanced Air Policing is part of the Alliance’s assurance measures for eastern allies. The assurance measures have provided continuous military presence and meaningful activity in the eastern part of the Alliance on a rotational basis. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Ericka A. Woolever)  

GRAF IGNATIEVO AIR BASE, BULGARIA

09.28.2020

Story by Airman 1st Class Ericka Woolever 

31st Fighter Wing

Airmen and U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons from the 31st Fighter Wing are supporting the NATO enhanced Air Policing mission in Bulgaria, from Sept. 28 to Oct. 23, 2020, with other U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa units.
Enhanced Air Policing is part of the Alliance’s assurance measures for eastern allies. The assurance measures have provided continuous military presence and meaningful activity in the eastern part of the Alliance on a rotational basis.
Approximately 140 personnel and six F-16s from the 555th Fighter Squadron deployed in support of the Allied mission along with various units from Aviano Air Base, Italy, and Airmen assigned to the 435th Air Ground Operations Wing, Ramstein Air Base, Germany.
The presence of U.S. fighter aircraft in Bulgaria demonstrates NATO nations working together, maintaining and developing effectiveness at all levels, sharing risks, burdens and costs. The continued support of the U.S. with their deployment to Europe emphasizes the transatlantic link among Allies.
“The Triple Nickel’s participation in NATO enhanced Air Policing allows us to demonstrate comprehensive deterrence and defense through joint and combined interoperability,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Brian Lewis, 555th FS director of operations. “Mission sets like these not only reinforce the capability, capacity, and readiness of the Alliance, but generate an appreciation for allied and partner contributions. Operating together is crucial to our effectiveness.”
For more information or media queries, please contact 31st Fighter Wing at [e-mail] .

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• Date Taken: 09.28.2020
• Date Posted: 09.28.2020 10:57
• Story ID: 378798
• Location: GRAF IGNATIEVO AIR BASE, BG