In 2019, Defence Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer was still dreaming of an aircraft carrier. Now, just over three years later, the wish has become a reality and the minister was able to take a look at the capabilities of the naval aviators on board a carrier. Contrary to expectations, however, it was not the blue and gold flag of Europe that flew at the top, but the stars and stripes of the United States. And so Kramp-Karrenbauer on the USS Harry S. Truman in Norfolk harbour with the explanations of four-star Admiral Christopher Grady, Commander US Fleet Forces Command. At least there were some German soldiers on board the aircraft carrier, albeit only as guests, with whom AKK was able to briefly exchange ideas.
Short conversation with German soldiers on the Truman
The actual reason for the trip to America was talks at the United Nations in New York and a meeting with US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin at the Pentagon. They exchanged views on the implementation of the results of the NATO summit in June and discussed how the Alliance should deal with the increasing regional and global challenges. The ministers once again emphasised the importance of close cooperation between their countries. They emphasised the desire for increased engagement in German-American cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region and the importance of improvements in operational readiness and military capabilities.
Do you need anything else? AKK has an F/A-18 explained to him
At the same time as the visit to America, a letter of offer and acceptance for the five Boeing P-8A Poseidons was signed as part of the foreign military sales process. This probably helped to put the hosts in a good mood. Without further ado, the American side returned the favour on board the Truman with an attractive photo opportunity: in front of an oversized US flag, a pilot explains the cockpit of an F/A-18 to Kramp-Karrenbauer. After all, you never know if there will be a need for it.
US Admiral Christopher Grady and Minister Kramp-Karrenbauer, behind them US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin
Text: mb; Photos: BMVg
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