JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii -- Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) hosted the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) leadership to discuss the continued partnership and integration of Singapore and the U.S. Air Force during the PACAF-RSAF Dialogue (PRD), Nov.16 and 17, here.
The PRD is designed to foster military-to-military relationships with Singapore and pave the way for future collaboration. The exchange allows Airmen to meet face-to-face to discuss common regional challenges.
"It is a great opportunity to have you here," said Brig. Gen. Craig Wills, PACAF director of strategy, plans and programs. "We have the right expertise in the room from both sides to really address issues and talk as partners."
The goals of the two-day talks were to review the effectiveness of previous exercises, further the interoperability between the two air forces and develop exercises and engagements over the next several years to promote closer relations between U.S. and Singaporean service members.
“The relationship between the U.S. Air Force and Singapore air force is very strong," said RSAF Col. Kelvin Fan, head of air operations. "We cooperate well because we share the same strategies in security.”
The U.S. and Singapore militaries have a long history of interoperability and have worked together in multiple exercises like Commando Sling, Cope Tiger, RED FLAG Alaska and Nellis, as well as humanitarian assistance operations across the Pacific region.
Additionally, the RSAF provided assistance to the U.S. after Hurricane Harvey devastated portions of Texas and Louisiana earlier this year.
"Between our two militaries and countries, we have a very long and lasting relationship," Fan said. "We have done a lot together from developing SMEs (subject matter experts) in cyber, HADR (humanitarian assistance, disaster relief) and working together in many exercises."
The PRD and recent Pacific Air Chiefs Symposium strengthen relationships between the U.S. and Singapore air forces and further the common goal of preserving the peace and stability of the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.
“The time we spent both in and out of the meetings was very profitable both professionally and personally,” said Wills. “We set out to have open and frank conversations and move the ball forward. I am excited about the future. Thank you to the Singapore air force for being great partners.”