KINGSLEY FIELD, Ore. -- The 173rd Fighter Wing hosted senior leaders from Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) and the Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) for the eighth annual Airman-to-Airman Talks at Kingsley Field, July 14–19.
The goal of the talks was to build a greater understanding of both local and regional challenges faced by all parties, further strengthening the ties between the U.S. and Bangladesh air forces.
“Today marks a milestone as we convene for the first time at Kingsley Field—an occasion that reflects not only the valued ties with the Oregon National Guard, but more importantly, the trust and collaboration that define our enduring partnership with the Bangladesh Air Force,” said Maj Gen Christopher Sheppard, PACAF’s Director of Strategy, Plans, Programs, and Requirements.
During the seven-day program, Airmen participated in working groups where they discussed programs aimed at improving the effectiveness of future exercises and engagements. The talks also sought to build and strengthen bonds between the forces, enhancing long-term capabilities.
“By strengthening the bonds between our air forces, we not only enhance interoperability, but we also reinforce regional stability and affirm our shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific,” Sheppard said.
The United States and Bangladesh participate in an annual exercise named COPE SOUTH, a bilateral tactical airlift exercise sponsored by Pacific Air Forces. The exercise focuses on strengthening partnerships and improving interoperability between the two air forces through tactical airlift training, including airdrops of personnel and supplies, as well as subject matter expert exchanges.
Oregon Air National Guard, Director of Staff, Colonel Christopher Lantagne stated, “The Oregon National Guard has enjoyed 17 fruitful years of partnership with the Bangladesh Air Force, and we look forward to many more productive years. He concluded that, “This week marks another milestone in this relationship where we have strengthened our bonds with mutual trust and respect through our collaborative efforts we will help address domestic and global challenges while mutually supporting each other.”
“One of the most notable symbols of this partnership has been the regular participation in Exercise COPE SOUTH, which has significantly enhanced our airlift interoperability, humanitarian assistance readiness, and tactical coordination,” said Air Vice Marshal Javed Tanveer Khan of the Bangladesh Air Force. “Our airmen have had the opportunity to train and exchange views in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, medical and pilot physiology, aircraft maintenance, and several other areas—reflecting the compassionate spirit of our air forces beyond borders.”
Airmen from both the United States and Bangladesh carry a shared duty to promote peace, reinforce regional security, and support global stability—responsibilities that are strengthened through meaningful engagements and long-standing partnerships like the one on display during the Airman-to-Airman Talks.
“As Airmen, we all have a shared responsibility to enhance regional peace, security, and stability,” Sheppard said. “Everyone here clearly understands this need, and I greatly appreciate the BAF’s commitment to this event and to our partnership moving forward.”
The event concluded with an exchange of working group findings, the signing of the minutes, and a gift exchange.