MEXICO CITY -- The 2024 Air Force Staff Talks (AFST), held December 10–11 at Base Aérea Militar No. 1 in Santa Lucía, State of Mexico, marked a major step forward in the partnership between the United States and Mexican Air Forces. Over two days, military leaders from both nations, including Maj. Gen. Michael A. Valle, Air National Guard assistant to the commander, First Air Force, which dually functions as Air Forces Northern (AFNORTH) and Wing Gen. Álvaro Miranda Martel, Chief of Staff of the Mexican Air Force, sat down to discuss how to strengthen their collaboration and tackle shared challenges.
This conference was a unique opportunity to set the tone for deeper cooperation in the year ahead. Valle reflected on the progress made, calling the talks “a resounding success.” He emphasized how they enabled both nations to align their efforts more effectively. “We look forward to building on this momentum in the new year to enhance security cooperation across the region,” he said.
The discussions went well beyond notional, academic, or training-related scenarios. Both delegations rolled up their sleeves and outlined specific ways to work together more effectively. Strengthening operational compatibility was a key focus, with both sides agreeing on initiatives to bolster joint capabilities in air and space operations. This step is crucial for addressing the rapidly evolving threats in the region.
Training and readiness were also front and center. Search and rescue (SAR) operations, air weapons control, and theater air operations emerged as priorities, with plans to expand joint training programs in these critical areas. Logistics and air base security—often underemphasized, but vital for any successful mission—were also part of the agenda, with both nations committing to improving these capabilities to ensure smooth operational support.
Even the challenges of space weren’t left out. The delegations discussed advancing space domain awareness initiatives to keep pace with the modern battlefield’s demands. Combined exercises, such as the long-running Amalgam Eagle, were reaffirmed as vital tools for sharpening operational readiness and strengthening trust.
Behind the scenes, the success of the talks rested on the dedication of many individuals and teams. Representatives from key areas such as information sharing, Operations, Logistics, and the Office of Defense Cooperation (ODC) Mexico worked tirelessly to ensure every detail was covered.
Leaders like Lt. Col. Julio Sanchez, AFNORTH Chief of Theater Security Cooperation Division, and Mr. Emersonn Cabatu, AFNORTH Counter Narcotics Air Capabilities Specialist, played pivotal roles in keeping the dialogue smooth and productive. Meanwhile, Maj. Javier Miranda, AFNORTH Bilateral Affairs Officer, and SMSgt. Alejandro Velez, AFNORTH International Affairs Specialist, worked closely with their Mexican counterparts to finalize the agreements, demonstrating the partnership’s collaborative spirit.
Among the many outputs, the talks produced a short-term plan that will likely yield long-term dividends, said Velez. In preparation for the arrival of the U.S. Air Force’s F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team for April’s aerospace fair in Mexico City (FAMEX), the participants developed a way ahead that will ensure base security for it and other future events. This enhanced level of security could allow for additional cross-border participation in not only the upcoming airshow but may expand opportunities for other exercises as well, he said.
These talks weren’t just about immediate goals; they were about building a resilient partnership that will endure. With plans to increase training opportunities, enhance joint operational capabilities, and continue critical exercises, the groundwork is set for a stronger, more prepared alliance.
“The partnership between our air forces is built on trust and a shared vision. By uniting our efforts, we are not only defending our homelands but also contributing to the security and stability of the entire region,” said Valle.
As the United States and Mexico prepare to meet future challenges together, the 2024 AFST serves as a milestone—a reminder of what can be achieved through collaboration and shared commitment to a safer, more secure North America.
AFNORTH is responsible for homeland defense, defense support of civil authorities and theater security cooperation. AFNORTH provides Department of Defense capabilities for disaster response operations in support of the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency, the National Interagency Fire Center, and state and local officials.