U.S., Russia strengthening ties through Moscow air show

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Mona Ferrell
  • USAFE News Service
ZHUKOVSKY, Russia (USAFENS) --  When it comes to forging bonds and strengthening relationships, it seems that the U.S. and Russia are pretty good at it.

Approximately 100 U.S. military members and eight U.S. aircraft are playing an active part in the Moscow International Air Show and Space Salon Aug. 16-21 at Ramenskoye Airfield. And if the reaction from Sofia Saakyants, a member of the Russian Emercom Ministry of Emergency Response, is any indication, the American presence at the show is being well received.

“I like the American aircraft and the people -- you (being) here is wonderful,” the Romanian native said. “It’s very important that you’re here. Ever since the Cold War ended and our two countries have been talking ... it’s much better. I think it’s important that we be friends.”

And that’s exactly why we’re here, said Robert Moore, U.S. European Command deputy director of logistics and security assistance.

“Our being here is extremely significant,” said Mr. Moore. “It enhances the military-to-military relationships between our two countries and it supports U.S. security cooperation policies with Russia.

“To see our men and women in uniform interacting, smiling and shaking hands with our Russian partners is inspirational,” he said.

That sentiment is shared by both Americans and Russians alike.

“We’re glad that there’s a cooperation of our different nations,” said Russian Lt. Col. Nickolai Vorobo, speaking for himself and his nearby comrades. “This (friendship) should continue for a long time.”

The United States first displayed military aircraft at the Moscow Air Show in 2003 and in 2001 the DOD participated with a technology booth. However, that doesn’t mean the uniqueness to see U.S. military members here has worn off.

“I like the Americans and I especially like the berets,” Dmitry Chenstvov, a member of the Russian police squad as separate appointment said. “I want to make friends with the Americans.”

Forging ties through military cooperation, that’s what it’s all about, said Tech. Sgt. Leon Limon, a KC-10 Extender air refueling specialist here from Travis Air Force Base, Calif.

“Coming here is a dream come true,” said Sergeant Limon, who self-taught himself to speak Russian more than three years ago. “I have a lot of Russian and Ukrainian friends back in the United States, so to finally get to come here and see for myself what their country is like and to make even more friends -- it’s unbelievable.”

American aircraft showcased during the air show include the F-15E Strike Eagle, F-16C Fighting Falcon, KC-10 Extender, KC-135 Stratotanker and the B-1B Lancer. The B-1B is also performing daily aerial demonstrations beginning Aug. 18.