Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall met with United Kingdom Minister for the Armed Forces James Heappey Feb. 8 at the Pentagon to discuss strengthening U.S.-U.K. cooperation on a range of shared air and space priorities.
The leaders discussed continued collaboration on the E-7 Wedgetail program, including ways to accelerate U.S. Air Force procurement and fielding of the platform and the importance of achieving maximum interoperability. They also exchanged views on aspects of the F-35 Lightning II program, which Kendall highlighted as key to maintaining a strong and effective integrated deterrence posture in Europe.
The two sides further discussed ongoing efforts to support Ukraine as it defends itself against Russia's unprovoked and brutal war. They agreed on the need for continued NATO unity and underscored their steadfast commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Kendall additionally commended the U.K. for its commitment to security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, as evidenced by the Reciprocal Access Agreement the U.K. recently signed with Japan. Kendall noted the value of cross-regional cooperation amid challenges to the rules-based international order.
