King visits Isa Air Base, witnesses F-35 demonstration flight

Manama, Nov. 12 (BNA): His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa today paid a visit to Isa Air Base and hailed the Royal Bahraini Air Force's efforts to defend the homeland and the region. HM the King was welcomed by Commander-in-chief of Bahrain Defence Force Field Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Defence Affairs Lt-Gen Yousef bin Ahmed Al Jalahma, Chief of staff Lt-Gen Thiab bin Saqr Al Nuaimi, Commander of Royal Bahraini Air Force, Pilot Officer Shaikha Aisha bint Rashid Al Khalifa and a number of senior officers. HM the King was accompanied by HM Personnel Representative to HM the King, HH Shaik Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa. HM the King was briefed on the highly sophisticated F-35 fighter jet by Commander of US Naval Forces Central Command, US 5th Fleet, Vice Admiral Scott Stearney and witnessed a demonstration flight of the F-35, in the presence of US Ambassador to Bahrain, Justin Siberell, and US Military Attache Colonel David Wallin. HM the King expressed appreciation of Ambassador Siberell and Commander Stearney’s invitation to learn about the F-35. He praised the F-35 advanced capabilities, which reflect the US modern technology. HM the King welcomed the progressive long-term strategic cooperation between the two countries as partners to maintain the Gulf security, fight against terrorism and protecting navigation and trade routes. HM the King said the Bahraini-US cooperation have gained more significance due to the current regional developments, commending the longstanding bilateral relations and both countries’ interest in further developing the same in various fields.