ANDREWS AIR FORCE BASE, Md. –
The commander of the Afghan National Army Air Corps recently visited Andrews Air Force Base to learn how the 89th Airlift Wing and 316th Wing transport national leaders.
Maj. Gen. Mohammed Dawran toured and received briefings at the 89 AW headquarters building, the Squadron Operations facility and the 1st Helicopter Squadron during his July 5 visit.
The general also toured a static display of a C-37 and received an orientation flight on a 1 HS helicopter.
"We are just trying to share the vision," said Maj. Jeff Wilmoth of the Combined Air Power Transition Force.
The CAPTF is a military group working in Afghanistan with General Dawran to help set up the ANAAC and teach it additional western techniques, said Major Wilmoth.
The goal of the visit was to allow General Dawran, who received all briefings through a translator, to get an understanding of how the U.S. Air Force sets up flying squadrons, carries out logistics and transports national leaders.
According to the CAPTF, presidential airlift is the number one priority for the ANAAC at this time.
"We couldn't think of a better place to learn from than Andrews," said Major Wilmoth, "Now when we go back we have that shared vision for expected service."
The 89th Airlift Wing was more than happy to share their vision with an ally and improve international relations.
"We were honored by Maj. Gen. Dawran's visit and the opportunity to share our view of SAM FOX that might help our allies in their stand-up of such a critical mission," said Col. Margaret Woodward, 89 AW commander.
The Afghan Air Corps has made numerous strides since the CAPTF stood up. They now have 23 aircraft, including two Mi-17s used for presidential transport.
Recently, the ANAAC flew the Afghan president for the first time, which was a huge success for the unit, said Major Wilmoth.
"This visit is just another step in the direction of making their Air Corps even better," he said.