Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force (USAF) General (GEN) David L. Goldfein, who is in Singapore for his introductory visit from 4 to 7 February 2018, called on Second Minister for Defence Mr Ong Ye Kung earlier this afternoon. Both sides discussed ways to enhance bilateral defence cooperation, and reaffirmed the importance of the US' continued engagement of the Asia-Pacific for regional peace and security. Mr Ong also thanked GEN Goldfein for the US' support for the Singapore Airshow 2018 (SA18), including the featuring of the US' RQ-4 Global Hawk and F-35Bs for the first time, and the return of the F-22s at SA18.

GEN Goldfein also called on Chief of Air Force Major-General (MG) Mervyn Tan today. As part of his programme, GEN Goldfein will visit SA18, where he will tour the Republic of Singapore Air Force's (RSAF) static display of aircraft and weapon systems, as well as view the exhibitions at the RSAF50 Pavilion. GEN Goldfein will also call on Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General Perry Lim tomorrow. 

GEN Goldfein's visit underscores the excellent and long-standing defence relations between Singapore and the United States. The RSAF and the USAF interact regularly through professional exchanges, high-level visits, cross-attendance of courses, as well as through the training and exercises conducted between both air forces. Such interactions have enhanced the professionalism of both air forces, strengthened their interoperability, and forged strong rapport and people-to-people ties among their personnel.