SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- The 52nd Fighter Wing hosted 54 inspectors from 28 nations for a major arms control verification visit, May 15, 2025.
The visit supported the Vienna Document 2011(VDOC 11) - an agreement between 47 participating states of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). The document outlines confidence and security building measures designed to maintain security, peace and stability in Europe.
A key component of the Vienna Document is Combat Airbase Visits, which give inspectors the opportunity to observe activity at various European air bases and verify compliance with the agreement. These inspections occur on a five-year rotation. Spangdahlem Air Base was selected as one of this year’s locations, in coordination with the German military, or Bundeswehr.
The inspection began with a mission brief delivered by the 52nd Fighter Wing commander, Col. Kevin Crofton.
“Your presence here signifies the strength of our partnership and the enduring commitment we share in accordance with the Vienna Document.” said Col. Crofton. “Here at Spangdahlem, we remain committed to the transparency of our forces.”
After the briefing, the inspectors viewed an F-16 static display and toured various facilities around the base. The event concluded with a gift exchange, reflecting goodwill and mutual respect throughout the OSCE.
Although most inspectors hailed from Europe and North America, an inspector from Japan was also present, demonstrating the broad international scope of the agreement.
Originally adopted on November 18, 1990, the Vienna Document has undergone several revisions – in 1992, 1994, 1999, and 2011 – to adapt to the evolving European security environment.