US Air Force Chief of Staff Gen David L Goldfein discussed with top military brass here ways to deepen the relationship between the two air forces through bilateral engagements, the US embassy said today.
In a statement, the embassy said Goldfein’s visit to India was part of an Indo-Pacific tour to advance “mil-to-mil” relationships in the region and enhance and strengthen US alliances and partnerships throughout the Indo-Pacific region. During his visit last week, Gen. Goldfein held talks Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa, Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba, Army chief Gen. Bipin Rawat and Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra.
It said his discussions focused on ways to strengthen the strategic military-to-military partnership with India.
“During these meetings, Gen Goldfein emphasised the USAF’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with the Indian Armed Forces and discussed ways that the US and India can deepen the relationship between their two air forces through bilateral engagements, exchanges and exercises,” the embassy said.
On Friday, Goldfein met with the leadership of the Indian Air Force and air crews from the C-130J 77 Squadron and C-17 81 Squadron at Hindon Air Force Station.
“India is a leading power and strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific region. From our presidents, to our defence secretary and minister, to our air force chiefs, we’re working together and looking for opportunities to enhance the inter- operability of our two forces as major defence partners in the Indo-Pacific region,” Goldfein was quoted as saying by the embassy after the meetings.
Gen. Terrence J. O’Shaughnessy, commander, Pacific Air Forces, and Heidi Grant, deputy undersecretary of the Air Force, International Affair, also travelled to India with Gen. Goldfein.
