First Air Force theater security package deploys to Europe

by USAFE-AFAFRICA Public Affairs
USAFE-AFAFRICA Public Affairs

2/20/2015 - RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany -- The U.S. Air Force deployed 12 A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft and approximately 300 Airmen as part of a theater security package to the 52nd Fighter Wing, Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve this week.

The aircraft and Airmen, from the 355th Fighter Wing, Davis-Monthan AFB, Ariz., and are set to be in place and fulfilling the TSP mission by the end of the month.

The TSPs will augment U.S. Air Forces in Europe's existing efforts as part of Operation Atlantic Resolve by conducting flying training deployments and off-station training with NATO allies to further enhance interoperability.

Operation Atlantic Resolve is a demonstration of U.S. European Command and United States Air Forces in Europe's continued commitment to the collective security of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and dedication to the enduring peace and stability in the region.

"The Air Force has been rotating forces as a part of OAR for the past year," said Lt. Gen. Tom Jones, vice commander, United States Air Forces in Europe - Air Forces Africa.  "The TSP is another way the Air Force is increasing rotational presence in Europe to reassure our allies and partner nations that our commitment to European security is a priority."

While in Germany, the unit will conduct training alongside NATO allies with the goal of strengthening interoperability and enhancing regional security. The unit will later forward deploy to locations in Eastern European NATO nations.

"The U.S. Air Force's forward presence in Europe area provides the support infrastructure needed to increase our current force and build new and deeper partnerships across the continent," said Jones.

The A-10s are the first of several TSP deployments to Europe. Rotations will generally last six months, depending on mission and U.S. European Command requirements. Although a first in Europe, the Air Force has been conducting similar TSP rotations in the Pacific region since 2004.