Misawa demonstrates air power for the first time in Brunei

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Marie Brown
  • 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
BRUNEI DARUSSALAM --  Aircraft from Misawa Air Base, Japan, and Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, perform at the Brunei Darussalam International Defense Exhibition 2011, July 2. This marks the first time U.S. Air Force and Pacific Air Forces have participated in BRIDEX.

Capt. Chris Nations, a PACAF Aerial Demonstration Team pilot based at Misawa, performed daily aerial demonstrations during the air show through July 9. The demonstration also included a ground show performed by the PACAF Demonstration Team and a static display of the F-16 Fighting Falcons.

"With this and every air show, we deploy and fly F-16 aerial demonstrations with the highest level of professionalism and safety," Capt. Nations said. "We reinforce public trust in the United States as well as its aircraft and personnel."

A PACAF C-17 Globemaster III performed a fly-by during the exhibition and also had a static display.

"We are honored and excited to be a part of BRIDEX 2011 especially during the 50th anniversary of the Brunei Defense Force," said Maj. Mike Pasquino, 15 Wing C-17 pilot. "It has been an outstanding opportunity to work with our Pacific partners."

There was also  a land-based and waterborne demonstration of defense and security equipment and systems from Brunei and other partner nations during the event. It was estimated that more than 30 countries would be participating in this year's exhibition.

Bridex 2011 coincides with the Golden 50th Anniversary of Royal Brunei Armed Forces and was expected to draw more than 160 exhibitors and 150 international delegates.

To find out more information about this year's exhibition, visit www.bridex2011.com.