U.S. Strategic Command commander discusses bilateral cooperation with Australian defense counterparts

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. - Adm. Cecil D Haney, U.S. Strategic Command commander, met with Australian Defence Force military and civilian leaders on November 4-7 to ensure the USSTRATCOM relationship with a key global and Asia-Pacific ally remains strong.

"My visit here and our deep, rich discussions are indicative of the robust partnership we share with the Australian Defence Force and this nation as a whole," said Adm. Haney. "We discussed ways to further strengthen our combined efforts in areas of close cooperation and common interest.  We understand each others' perspectives regarding key issues, and our personal and professional ties are second to none."

Hosted by Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin, AC, Australia's Chief of Defence, the visit included discussions about opportunities for closer cooperation in space, cyberspace, ballistic missile defense and other areas of common interest.

"Australia is an ally that shares our foundational values and has the capacity and capability for cooperation on a range of issues," said Adm. Haney. "This visit reaffirms the strength of the U.S.-Australian alliance, its strategic importance to regional security, and our shared commitment to combating regional and global security challenges."

Charged with conducting global operations 24/7, USSTRATCOM is one of nine U.S. Department of Defense unified combatant commands, and is responsible for strategic deterrence, space operations, cyberspace operations, joint electronic warfare, global strike, missile defense, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, combating weapons of mass destruction, and analysis and targeting.

Although Adm. Haney had previously visited Australia during his time as the U.S. Navy's Pacific Fleet commander, this visit was his first since becoming the commander of USSTRATCOM.

Haney said the in-depth discussions with leaders across Australia's defense department will pay dividends now and in the future.

"Throughout my career I have been impressed with the pride, professionalism and excellence displayed by Australia's military.  This visit certainly provided numerous examples of that," said Haney. "I look forward to expanding our collaboration."