NATO Air Force Commander In Iceland

The Commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe and NATO Allied Air Command is visiting Iceland, in part to visit Iceland’s “defence infrastructure”.

General Frank Gorenc will be in Iceland today and tomorrow to meet with high-ranking Icelandic officials, and has already met with Arnór Sigurjónsson, the Director of Security and Defence for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, amongst other people.

According to a statement to the press, “General Gorenc will emphasize U.S. appreciation to Icelandic officials for the leadership and support they provide in sustaining and operating Icelandic Air Defense Systems that are critical to U.S., NATO, and common defense. This visit highlights the significance of the cooperative relationship between the United States and the Icelandic Coast Guard as well as the important role the Icelandic Coast Guard plays in ensuring Iceland’s security.”

The statement does not say whether or not this has anything to do with Iceland’s recent decision to join EU sanctions against Russia.

“It is a personal pleasure to visit Iceland and marvel at its natural beauty,” the general said. “I am proud to work together with such a committed ally. The capabilities and strategic access Iceland provides to NATO security is exemplary of an ally who contributes to the vision of Europe whole, free and at peace.”