PACAF delegation attends Bali Air, Space events in Indonesia

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jimmie D. Pike
  • Pacific Air Forces Public Affairs
JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii --  A U.S. Pacific Air Forces delegation led by Col. Richard Ganske, PACAF A5S Campaign Plans Division chief, attended the Bali Air and Space Forum and the Bali Airshow in Indonesia, Sept. 16-18, 2024.

The theme of the forum was “Security for all: The future of aerospace technology and its role in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.” In line with the “security for all” mantra, defense leaders from approximately 30 countries attended to take part in critical discussions.

Indonesian Air Force Air Chief Marshal Mohamad Tonny Harjono, IDAF chief of staff, opened the forum by stating that successful HADR operations hinge on leveraging both technology and international cooperation; neither is sufficient alone. Echoing this, Ganske provided remarks about HADR and necessity of technology and partnership.

“The international community has a critical role to play in aiding countries affected by disasters and humanitarian crises in the Indo-Pacific region,” said Ganske. “Assistance must be rooted in the principles of humanitarianism, neutrality, impartiality, and independence. Additionally, assistance efforts should be provided in a manner that respects the sovereignty and dignity of affected countries and their people.”
He continued by elaborating on air power’s relationship with HADR mission-sets.

“Air power has a long history of supporting HADR operations,” said Ganske. “Today, air power is a critical component of the global response to disasters, providing a range of capabilities that are essential for meeting the needs of those affected.”

Ganske continued by listing five essential capabilities that air power, and the technology accompanying it, bring to a HA/DR crisis: rapid access to disaster zones, medical transport, logistical support, communication support, and surveillance and reconnaissance support.

After his remarks, Ganske participated in a 45-minute panel alongside Dr. Ir. Udrekh, Director of Risk Mapping and Evaluation at the Disaster Countermeasure National Agency, and Dr. Alistair Cook, HADR Programme coordinator and Senior Fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. During the panel, Ganske fielded questions on U.S. civilian-military coordination, disaster prediction, and experiences in HADR operations.

After the Bali Air and Space Forum, the PACAF delegation attended the Bali Air Show opening ceremony. The air show is the first in 28 years for Indonesia and was marked by Indonesian leaders signing a letter of intent to make advancements in areas of technology, innovation, and tourism. The Bali Air Show is intended to become a biennial event to strengthen collaboration internationally.