JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska – Royal Australian Air Force Air Vice-Marshal Carl Newman, Pacific Air Forces deputy commander, visited Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER), March 28 and 29.
During the visit, Newman met with commanders and Airmen across many JBER units to gain a better understanding of ongoing and upcoming Arctic operations.
“The recent establishment of an Australian deputy commander is just another demonstration of PACAF’s commitment in deepening relationships with all our Allies and partners,” said Newman. “We recognize those relationships are key to the strength we have when we operate together with collective interests.”
Guided by unit experts, Newman toured several new facilities, including engaging with medical support staff on mental wellness and being introduced to innovative projects forming in JBER’s Medical Arctic Spark cell.
"It was a privilege to host Air Vice-Marshal Newman and welcome him to JBER," said U.S. Air Force Col. David Wilson, JBER and 673d Air Base Wing commander. "His position as the Australian deputy commander will help us better integrate with Allies to enhance our combined domain awareness and projection of airpower for this theater. Having his experience allows for an even more seamless flow of communication and collaboration with Allies and partners, enhances achieving strategic objectives, and promotes security and stability across the region."
Australia and America have a shared interest in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific Region and have made strides over the years to enhance interoperability and combat capabilities to demonstrate a coalition airpower ready to deter and respond to any threat.
“The U.S. and Royal Australian Air Forces are incredibly similar in the way we approach the application of airpower,” said Newman. “Our interoperability and close integration come from the deep relationships we’ve had for an exceptionally long time, all the way back through World War II.”
To remain successful, both nations must continue developing close and enduring links with each other, as well as with partner nations.
Newman’s visit to JBER increased his understanding of the ongoing operations and challenges in this unique environment, better positioning him to support the needs of commanders and Airmen supporting the strategic Arctic mission.
“I’m incredibly privileged and honored to be part of this PACAF team,” said Newman. “Here at JBER I see our Airmen improving airpower capabilities that contribute to the homeland defense mission and maintaining stability and deterring aggression within the Indo-Pacific AOR.”