US Air Force airmen at Paya Lebar Air Base, Singapore, are engaged in air-to-air combat training with and against the F-5s and F-16s of the Singapore Air Force, in an exercise known as Commando Sling. For the 18th Fighter Squadron from Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, practicing air-to-air maneuvers in a hot, humid environment and over bodies of water is a new experience, which their commander, Lt. Col. Dieter Bareihs, says is good training. Learning the different combat scenarios through this exercise is supposed to strengthen the alliance and enhance the safety of the Pacific Region.
The Air Force displayed all the firepower it has amassed on Okinawa in an unusually diverse show of force this week. IIn a May 6 “Elephant Walk,” Kadena Air Base showcased 24 F-35A Lightning II stealth fighters, eight F-15E Strike Eagles; two U.S. Army Patriot anti-missile batteries near the runway; and…