RMAF Chief Makes Official Visit to the US, Strengthening RMAF-USAF Ties On the Agenda
“This visit aims to strengthen military cooperation between the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) and the United States Air Force (USAF), as well as to discuss various strategic issues concerning regional and international security,” according to an RMAF social media statement.
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Chief General Tan Sri Mohd Asghar Khan Goriman Khan recently conducted an official visit to the United States to further strengthen ties between the RMAF and the United States Air Force (USAF).
According to an RMAF statement on its social media platforms, the official visit to Washington took place from September 9 to 11, at the invitation of USAF Chief of Staff, General David Allvin.
During the visit, the RMAF Chief was given a guard of honor at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, accompanied by General David Allvin.
“The visit aims to reinforce military cooperation between the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) and the USAF, while also discussing various strategic issues involving regional and international security,” the statement read.
Throughout the visit, the RMAF Chief attended a series of briefings on the operations of the Air Combat Command.
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He also paid a courtesy call to General David Allvin’s office at the Pentagon, where both sides had in-depth discussions on bilateral military relations between the RMAF and the USAF.
Key topics of discussion included regional security challenges, the execution of joint exercises, training programs, and seminars involving both air forces, according to the RMAF.
The RMAF statement noted, “Among the main topics discussed were regional security challenges, the implementation of joint exercises, courses, and seminars involving both air forces.”
During the meeting, the RMAF Chief also presented the CAP55 (Capability 55) plan, a significant initiative in the RMAF’s modernization efforts.
This initiative aims to strengthen Malaysia’s air power to ensure the nation’s sovereignty and security are consistently upheld.
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The presentation reportedly garnered particular attention from the USAF, recognizing the importance of RMAF modernization within the regional security framework.
Another key element of the visit was the “Staff Talks”, a session held between the two parties.
“In this session, several briefings were delivered, covering cooperation between both sides through the State Partnership Program, Maritime Domain Awareness, Building Partnership Capacity, and collaboration in intelligence information,” the statement added.
Both delegations unanimously acknowledged the importance of this bilateral relationship in enhancing the defense capabilities of both countries.
Additionally, the RMAF Chief and his delegation had the opportunity to view a static display of the F-22 Raptor, a symbol of the advanced technology possessed by the USAF.
(kredit TUDM)From RMAF Chief to another “Chief” (foto kredit TUDM)
The visit provided the RMAF with insights into the latest aviation technology and strategies for safeguarding national airspace.
As part of the agenda, the RMAF Chief also attended a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery.
On the final day of the visit, the RMAF Chief made a courtesy call to the Malaysian Ambassador to the United States, Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz, during which they discussed various matters related to Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with the United States in aspects of economy, trade, politics, and security.
Regional issues were also addressed, with both parties emphasizing the importance of close cooperation for regional stability. – DSA