Incirlik Airmen lead operational support for 2026 NATO Summit in Türkiye
Courtesy Photo |
U.S. Air Force Staff. Sgt. Ricardo Tapia, aerospace ground equipment noncommissioned......read moreread more
Courtesy Photo | U.S. Air Force Staff. Sgt. Ricardo Tapia, aerospace ground equipment noncommissioned officer in charge, assigned to the 39th Maintenance Squadron, Incirlik Air Base, verifies functionality of support equipment at Ankara Esenboga Airport, Ankara, Türkiye, July 5, 2026. The 39th MXS contributed to part of a specialized team of U.S. Air Forces in Europe command Airmen integrated drone defense, airfield security, and flightline logistics to safely enable diplomatic operations for Allied leaders at the 2026 NATO Summit in Türkiye. (Courtesy Photo) see less
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Incirlik Airmen lead operational support for 2026 NATO Summit in Türkiye
In a collective effort, 46 Airmen from across U.S. Air Forces in Europe provided critical operational support for the 2026 NATO Summit in Ankara, Türkiye, July 7, 2026, guided by a 39th Air Base Wing senior enlisted leader, U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Cordero Sanderson.
Airmen from Incirlik Air Base's 39th ABW made up most of the deployed detachment, and their efforts helped secure the airspace and manage the heavy flow of arriving delegations, setting the stage for successful summit diplomacy.
“The stakes don't get much higher than providing on-the-ground support for Allied leaders and the presidential fleet,” said Sanderson, the Ankara Esenboga Airport (LTAC) detachment senior enlisted leader. “It was inspiring to see Incirlik Airmen step up and integrate with personnel from across the theater to make this no-fail mission happen without a hitch.”
The 39th ABW deployed more than 35 Airmen ranging from security forces, aerospace ground equipment, air transportation, and petroleum, oils and lubricants. They integrated with a detachment commander, air battle manager, weapons director, and contracting and vehicle maintenance personnel deployed from Aviano Air Base, Italy, as well as Spangdahlem and Ramstein Air Bases, Germany.
On the ground, 39th Logistics Readiness Squadron POL Airmen fueled Air Force One and Air Force Two, as well as the E-4B National Airborne Operations Center. Simultaneously, 39th LRS air transportation and 39th Maintenance Squadron aerospace ground equipment Airmen prepped vital support equipment for airfield arrivals and departures.
39th Security Forces Squadron defenders also assisted U.S. Secret Service members with securing the airfield.
U.S. Air Force Capt. Kaydria Coleman, LTAC detachment commander, noted the team's ability to overcome logistical and operational hurdles.
“The success of this mission came down to the incredible people who made it happen. We brought together Airmen from across USAFE, each with different experiences, skills, and expertise, and everyone stepped up to overcome challenges and keep us moving forward,” said Coleman. “I’m incredibly proud of how everyone came together, adapted when things changed, and stayed focused on the goal; I couldn’t have asked for a better team.”
The detachment’s execution was lauded during the event, with several Airmen receiving direct recognition from White House Advance agents.
By securing the airfield and managing flightline logistics, the detachment provided the secure foundation necessary for Allied leaders to safely meet, discuss global topics and advance shared security goals.
With the summit concluded, the 39th ABW remains trained, equipped and ready to support NATO Allies and partners in the European theater.
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