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Senior security representatives from eastern and western Libya visited Ramstein Air Base in Germany from 3 to 7 August 2026, as the United States and Libya work to strengthen operational cooperation, interoperability and regional stability.

The week-long engagement offered the Libyan delegation an extensive overview of the personnel, infrastructure, training and logistical support required to operate a modern C-130J Super Hercules fleet and sustain high-tempo airfield operations.

Hosted by the U.S. Air Forces in Europe–Air Forces Africa, the programme included visits to operational units, squadron tours and detailed mission briefings. These activities were designed to demonstrate that the successful introduction of a new transport aircraft involves considerably more than acquiring the platform and training pilots.

U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Duane Jensen, operations superintendent with the 37th Airlift Squadron, explained that the visit aimed to familiarise the delegation with the manpower, support systems and training needed to establish and maintain an effective C-130J capability.

The Libyan representatives were introduced to the different units and specialist functions that contribute to combat airlift operations, including aircraft maintenance, aircrew flight equipment, air traffic control, operational planning and ground support.

According to Jensen, qualified aircrews represent only one element of a much broader operational structure. Maintainers, crew chiefs, controllers and numerous other specialists must work together to ensure aircraft remain serviceable, properly supported and ready to conduct missions.

A central part of the visit was a distinguished visitor flight aboard a C-130J Super Hercules. The demonstration allowed the Libyan officials to observe the aircraft’s tactical airlift capabilities and gain first-hand experience of how the 86th Airlift Wing prepares and executes mobility missions.

During the flight, the aircraft followed a local training route and conducted low-level operations. U.S. Air Force Capt. Andre Miller, an instructor pilot with the 37th Airlift Squadron, said the objective was to present the complete operational process, beginning with mission planning and continuing through to the execution of the flight.

The C-130J is designed to perform a wide range of missions, including tactical transport, personnel deployment, medical evacuation, humanitarian assistance and support for forces operating from austere or limited airfields. Developing such a capability could improve Libya’s ability to respond to security requirements and emergencies across its extensive territory.

The participation of security leaders from both eastern and western Libya was also politically significant. By bringing representatives from the country’s divided security structures together within a professional military environment, the engagement supported dialogue, shared understanding and practical cooperation.

The visit reflected continuing U.S. efforts to strengthen defence relationships with African partner nations through training, military education and operational exchanges. It also highlighted the importance of institutional capacity, technical expertise and properly trained personnel in developing a sustainable air mobility force.

Beyond demonstrating the capabilities of the C-130J, the Ramstein programme provided the Libyan delegation with a broader understanding of the organisation required to support a mission-ready airlift fleet. The engagement reinforced the developing security partnership between Libya and the United States while promoting greater cooperation between Libya’s eastern and western security establishments.