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FARNBOROUGH, England -- One of the most iconic and longest running air shows across the globe kicked off here, July 9, and U.S. service members are among 1,500 exhibitors from around the world showcasing the latest in aerospace equipment and technology.
Approximately 90 aircrew and support personnel from bases in Europe and the United States are participating in the air show.
"This is a great opportunity to showcase the wonderful men and women of the U.S. Department of Defense, our equipment and capabilities," said Col. George Uribe, United States Air Forces in Europe air boss for the 2012 Farnborough International Air Show. "It offers the opportunity to interact with other nations and services in addition to the public, peers and colleagues around the world."
The U.S. participation in this premier event highlights the strength of commitment to the security of Europe and demonstrates that U.S. defense industry offers state-of-the-art capabilities vital for the support and protection of our allies’ and partners’ national-security interests.
Various models of U.S. military aircraft and equipment are on static display throughout the show. Aerial demonstrations have included the F/A-18F Super Hornet, MV-22B Osprey and a flyby of the B-52 Stratofortress. Show visitors have the unique chance to get up close, or in some cases inside, the various static displays including the ScanEagle, F-15E Strike Eagle, F-16C Fighting Falcon, C-130J Super Hercules, C-17 Globemaster III, and the U.S Army’s newest aircraft the LUH-72 Lakota.
One soldier expressed her excitement to show off the helicopter.
“It means a lot to help facilitate highlighting one of the military’s newest aircraft and show its capabilities,” said U.S. Army Capt. Audrey Boenker, Program Executive Office-Aviation assistant product manager. “Anytime you can join military, business and the public to synchronize efforts for national security, it’s always a good outcome.”
The Lakota along with more than 50 aircraft are on display during the air show.
This year’s show is of significance to the United Kingdom especially with the various events including the Olympic Games, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and Royal International Air Tattoo.
“The UK is one of our staunchest allies in the world and we’re happy to support them in this very important event in their nation,” Uribe said. “It reaffirms to the UK we’re a very strong partner with them.”
To represent the U.S. at such a time was noted by participating personnel.
“I feel really proud to represent the U.S. and Air Force here during this time,” said Tech. Sgt. Bryan Campbell 86th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron flying crew chief. “We’re part of history plus it’s awesome to meet new friends and see the smiles on the kids and adults faces.”
More than 250,000 trade and public visitors attend the bi-annual Farnborough International Air Show. The air show will run through July 15, with the last two days open to the public.
| Date Taken: | 07.11.2012 |
| Date Posted: | 07.11.2012 14:48 |
| Story ID: | 91371 |
| Location: | FARNBOROUGH, SURREY, GB |
| Web Views: | 489 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, US service members, aircraft showcased at 48th Farnborough International Air Show, by Lee Osberry, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
