DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. –
Air Forces Southern hosted the annual headquarters staff talks between the United States Air Force and the Ecuadorian air force, March 3-5.
The annual talks support synchronized efforts between the USAF and the Fuerza Aérea Ecuatoriadna (FAE) to address evolving security challenges and collaboration opportunities in the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility.
During the event, U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. David Mineau, Air Forces Southern commander, discussed cooperation efforts, trust, and the strategic alignment needed to counter shared threats, together.
“It is clear that the number one shared threat for Ecuador and the United States are drug trafficking organizations, the narco-terrorists are a significant issue to the region and Ecuador,” said Mineau. “We are at the edge of a new era where we can increase the cooperation between the United States and Ecuador. I hope we continue to partner, not just for training, but for the good of Ecuador, the good of the region, and the good of the United States.”
Extending from trust, the FAE outlined key aspects of its intelligence operations, air defense, and logistics programs, while AFSOUTH shared information on air domain awareness and interoperability. Using the foundation of trust to advance Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance priorities while strengthening Ecuador’s ability to respond to emerging challenges.
Fuerza Aérea Ecuatoriana (FAE) Maj. Gen. Luis Fierro Urresta, Ecuadorian air force chief of staff expressed that by working together, both forces will prioritize the most relevant and impactful initiatives to advance their combined role.
“I am confident that by knowing each other and finding mutual understanding, we will be able to identify the remaining gaps that require our joint attention,” said Fuerza Aérea Ecuatoriana (FAE) Maj. Gen. Luis Fierro Urresta, Ecuadorian air force chief of staff.
He added that these efforts will further unify the force and solidify the common strengths that define the partnership, and collectively reinforce readiness.
The Airman-to-Airman talks strengthened partnerships, aligned cooperation activities, and enhanced the U.S.–FAE partnership and interoperability for the safety and security of the Western Hemisphere.