U.S. Efforts to Protect International Aviation from MANPADs

[Stan]

Some news forwarded from State's Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement (WRA):

OVER 24,000 MANPADS DESTROYED TO DATE
Fact Sheet, Office of the Spokesman, Washington, DC, January 24, 2008

The United States has for many years undertaken a vigorous effort to prevent Man-Portable Air Defense Systems (MANPADS), often referred to as shoulder-fired anti-aircraft missiles, from being acquired by criminals and terrorists, and used against international aviation. It continues to cooperate on a bilateral basis and in international fora to help make the world’s skies safe for all.

Today the White House announced that President Bush has accorded the Personal Rank of Ambassador to Lincoln P. Bloomfield, Jr., who will serve as the Department of State’s Special Envoy for MANPADS Threat Reduction.

Mr. Bloomfield will lead the inter agency task force that is implementing the United States International Aviation Threat Reduction Plan - - a component of the broader National Strategy for Aviation Security - - to protect global aviation from Man-Portable Air Defense Systems (MANPADS). The task force includes representatives from the Departments of State, Defense, and Homeland Security, and meets regularly with officials of other agencies including the Departments of Justice and the Treasury, Office of the Director of National Intelligence, and the National Counter terrorism Center.

Carl, you'll be much safer in Iraq with your blistering-fast Kingair

[carl]

Thanks Stan. That old thing isn't getting any faster, especially into the wind.