GRAF IGNATIEVO AIR BASE, Bulgaria -- U.S. Air Force Airmen from the Tennessee Air National Guard and the 435th Contingency Response Group, Ramstein Air Base, Germany, are participating in Falcon Defender 21, a bilateral training exercise with the Bulgarian air force at Graf Ignatievo AB, Bulgaria.
During the exercise, U.S. and Bulgarian forces will conduct force protection and security forces training to build mutual capability and enhance our ability to rapidly deploy to remote locations, ensuring regional stability and security. Participation in multinational exercises such as Falcon Defender 21 enhances our professional relationships and improves overall coordination with allies and partner militaries during times of crisis.
The Republic of Bulgaria has had a bilateral agreement with the Tennessee National Guard under the U.S. National Guard Bureau’s State Partnership Program since 1993, prior to joining NATO in 2004. The SPP links a unique component of the Department of Defense – a state's National Guard – with the armed forces or equivalent of a partner country in a cooperative, mutually beneficial relationship.
The information included in this release is subject to change with short notice due to the dynamic global COVID-19 situation.
For more information, contact U.S. Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa Public Affairs at +49 06371-47-6558 or email usafepao.pao@us.af.mil or usafepa.pastaffdutyofficer@us.af.mil.