WC Missouri News

British Royal Air Force Flight Lieutenant Alain Branson, a foreign exchange pilot with the 393rd Bomb Squadron, has spent the past two years in the United States flying the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber. His participation is part of the U.S. Military Personnel Exchange Program, which enables American and foreign service members to work closely together.

Branson, originally a Eurofighter Typhoon pilot, remarked on his experience: “I feel very honored and privileged to be able to contribute to the B-2 mission and to experience what the United States Air Force does.” He noted that he is “the eighth British exchange B-2 pilot, and I'm the first to have come from the Typhoon.”

His presence offers valuable insights for pilots at Whiteman Air Force Base due to his background in a multi-role aircraft program. This expertise proves essential during international exercises such as Red Flag and Bomber Task Force missions. Branson emphasized integration's role in these exercises: “When the RAF goes into any exercise or operation with the US Air Force, I've got an understanding of the language and mindset of our Air Force...”

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Joseph Manglitz praised exchange pilots for their contributions: “When we're flying, they bring a unique perspective in how a formation operates...” He stressed that working with other nations enhances military relations: “America's military strength is built off of those alliances.”

The exchange program underscores collaboration's importance in mission planning and execution by leveraging diverse experiences and perspectives. Manglitz highlighted this diversity: “Everybody comes with a different background... The whole B-2 community has been built on this cross-flow experience.”

Branson reflected positively on his time in America: “My time here has been great. Everyone is really professional...” His work illustrates how shared knowledge strengthens bonds between allies while enhancing operational effectiveness.

The Military Personnel Exchange Program exemplifies teamwork between nations' armed forces through shared experiences.