Iraq’s first chief master sergeant of the air force toured several Air Education and Training Command bases, learning how the Air Force educates airmen of all ranks. It was his first visit to the United States. While at Maxwell AFB, Ala., on Dec. 7, this official received briefings on the First Sergeant Academy, Officer Training School, and the International Officer School. He also met with CMSAF James Roy, who was at Maxwell the same day. The two chiefs also spoke at the Senior Noncommissioned Officer Academy. “The visit is of mutual benefit to both of us. It can only continue to strengthen our great relationship with Iraq and the Iraqi air force,” said Roy. After visiting Maxwell, the Iraqi CMSAF visited Lackland Air Force Base and Randolph Air Force Base, both in Texas. The Air Force did not release the Iraqi CMSAF’s name. (Maxwell release by Scott Knuteson)
The Air Force and Boeing agreed to a nearly $2.4 billion contract for a new lot of KC-46 aerial tankers on Nov. 21. The deal, announced by the Pentagon, is for 15 new aircraft in Lot 11 at a cost of $2.389 billion—some $159 million per tail.