CHANGI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, Singapore — With fanfare and afterburners, U.S. Pacific Command personnel joined Airmen from several nations as they kicked off the Singapore International Airshow at here, Feb 16, 2016.
Throughout the week, U.S. Airmen, Sailors and Marines are showcasing a variety of U.S. aircraft via static display and aerial demonstrations. In addition, senior Department of Defense leaders will meet with regional counterparts to strengthen security ties.
Of particular note, this year marks the first time the F-22A Raptor, the U.S. Air Force’s premier 5th generation air dominance fighter, will be displayed at the show.
"We are very excited to showcase this unique capability at the Singapore International Airshow," said General Lori J. Robinson, Pacific Air Forces commander. "Only the U.S. Air Force has the global reach to bring 5th generation fighters anywhere in the world and we are proud to display this capability here in Singapore."
While the F-22 is currently the only operational 5th generation fighter in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region, Robinson noted that the introduction of the F-35 Lightning II will further expand U.S. and ally and partner capability throughout the region.
"As theater Joint Air Component Commander, I’m excited to see what this new platform will bring to the region in terms improving interoperability and ensuring air superiority for years to come," Robinson said. "Bringing the F-35 into this region through the robust and growing consortium of international allies and partners will strengthen global security especially here in the Pacific. In doing so, we can better ensure regional stability and prosperity."
While the range of flexible U.S. aerial capabilities on display at the show are impressive in their own right, Robinson stressed that the men and women behind these machines are the key to their continued success.
"The U.S. Airmen, Sailor and Marines you will meet here at this show represent some of best and brightest our nation has to offer," Robinson said. "I’m so thrilled be here with them and proud of what they do every day."
The airshow is a biennial event and is the largest defense exhibition and biennial international tradeshow in the Pacific. This year’s exhibition is the 5th iteration since its inception in 1996.
Through participation in airshows and regional events, the U.S. demonstrates its commitment to the security of the Indo-Asia-Pacific region, promotes equipment interoperability, displays the flexible combat capabilities of the U.S. military, and creates lasting relationships with international audiences to strengthen the bonds that support partnership building throughout the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.