Farnborough International Air Show highlights U.S. servicemembers, aircraft

1 2 3 4

FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom — An Airbus A380 takes off to perform a demonstration for spectators during the Farnborough International Air Show July 19, displaying the aircrafttâ?s superior handling and performance capabilities. The air show is one of the worlddâ?s premier events that exhibits the latest in aerospace equipment and technology. Approximately 70 aircrew and support personnel from bases in Europe and the United States participated in the air show. (U.S. Air Force photo by Col. Robert Suminsby)

FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom — Michael B. Donley, United States Secretary of the Air Force, provides remarks at the official ribbon cutting ceremony at the Farnborough International Air Show July 19. Approximately 70 aircrew and support personnel from bases in Europe and the United States participated in the air show. This iconic global aviation event allows exhibitors to showcase the newest aerospace equipment and technology. This week-long event is open to traders during the week and to the public Saturday and Sunday. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jerry Fleshman)

FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom â? Mississippi Senator Thad Cochran visits with Airmen during the Farnborough International Air Show July 19. The world renowned air show exhibits the latest in aerospace equipment and technology. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jerry Fleshman)

FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom — United States Secretary of the Air Force, Michael B. Donley, among other distinguished visitors cut the ribbon at the official grand opening ceremony at the Farnborough International Air Show July 19. Approximately 70 aircrew and support personnel from bases in Europe and the United States participated in the air show. This iconic global aviation event allows exhibitors to showcase the newest aerospace equipment and technology. This week-long event is open to traders during the week and to the public Saturday and Sunday. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jerry Fleshman)

July 20, 2010
Staff Sgt. Jerry Fleshman, 100th Air Refueling Wing, Public Affairs

FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom — One of the largest air shows in the world kicked off July 20, and U.S. service members are among 1,500 exhibitors from around the world showing off the latest in aviation technology.

Approximately 70 U.S. military and support personnel from bases and squadrons across the world are participating in the Farnborough Air Show.

“We are delighted to be here,” said Air Force Col. Robert Suminsby, United States Air Forces Europe air boss for the 2010 Farnborough International Air Show. “The United Kingdom is a country that has a long tradition with incredible enthusiasm for aviation”.

The U.S. participation promotes standardization and interoperability of equipment with NATO allies and other potential coalition partners. Additionally, it highlights the United States’ strong commitment to European security and demonstrates that U.S. industry is producing equipment critical to the success of current and future military operations.

Various models of U.S. military aircraft are scheduled for static displays and demonstrations, including the F/A-18F Super Hornet, F-16C Fighting Falcon, F-15E Eagle, C-130J Hercules, C-17 Globemaster III, RQ-7 Shadow, UH-1Y Venom and the MH-60 Seahawk. Aerial demonstrations are scheduled for the F-16, F-18, C-130J and a flyover by the B-52 Stratofortress.

One Airman expressed his excitement over another aircraft -the F-22.

“The F-22 is the most advanced fighter out right now,” said Air Force Senior Airman Paul Hayward, 48^th Maintenance Equipment Squadron, Royal Air Force Lakenheath, U.K.

The F-22 along with more than 165 aircraft are on display during the air show.

“This is where the entire aviation world turns to see what the latest technologies are,” said Suminsby. “We’re proud of the technologies the United States is producing.”

More than 285,000 trade and public visitors attend the bi-annual Farnborough Air Show. This year, 38 different countries are represented at 29 international pavilions. The air show will run through the week, with the last two days open to the public.