Volume 24, No. 11 NATO Air Base Geilenkirchen 13 June 2008 Weather forecasters play vital role in ensuring flight safety
Forecaster Mr. Günter Tychsen informs Trainer Cargo Aircraft pilots at the briefing desk. Photo Global Aviation Review
By SMSgt. Johan Hijmenberg He and his colleagues use all this produce a local weather forecast,” on the missions they fly, between information to produce the weather he says. When he is finished he takes compiling a weather package for a “When the bees all fly home, forecast. On both side walls in the me to the ‘museum’ area located helicopter and preparing one for a rain showers will cover the skies”; forecasters’ room the short and long- in the communication office. Four cargo aircraft,” explains Heeren. “All “When the leaves become yellow and term forecasts and analysis charts are systems provide the huge volume of them have their specific missions.” twisted, light up your stove”; “Beware pinned to the wall. In front of him of meteorology data. Displayed on On request the branch also provides of mosquitoes in February; Keep and Mr. Fred Heeren, who is assisting the wall is the 26-year history of the weather information to the local your ears warm in March”. Some him for this shift, nine computer Branch, like the tornado that hit the authorities. “During wintertime weather aphorisms from the old monitors are placed on the desks in a base on 14 July 1985. “Did you know Heinsberg district is especially days. Although these sayings contain half circle. From here the forecasters that the main street on base had trees interested in getting our forecast for some truth, they aren’t good enough also have a direct view of the flight along it until then?” De Wolff asks. road conditions, so that appropriate to provide a basis for sending the line. The duty shift consists of three No, I didn’t, but photos of the toppled action can be taken,” De Wolff adds. AWACS aircraft into the air. persons, two in the forecasters’ trees show that he is right. The pilots have much more faith room and one in the observer room, The branch has a safety function in the Meteorology Branch on base, halfway up in the Tower. The primary task of the too. It warns on-base organizations situated under the Air Traffic Control Meteorology Branch is to support about extreme weather conditions. Tower. In this area all meteorology The shifts run from late evening the flying squadrons and inform Strong and gusts of wind can data from around the world are on Sundays until the end of flying leadership, including Force endanger operations on the ground. sampled. “Every day we receive five on Fridays. Obviously, when there is Command, about expected weather Also hailstorms and thunderstorms gigabytes of data,” says Mr. Rob de flying during the weekends they are conditions. In addition they provide are a hazard for people working on Wolff, Forecaster and Branch Chief. on-station as well. When I enter the the crews of visiting aircraft with the ground. “Since October last year we received Branch De Wolff is just preparing the latest weather updates. “Of 25 million messages.” the forecast. “Every three hours we course there is a difference, based Continued on page 3
Next NATO Skywatch: Farewell 27 June Col. Zijlstra Submissions due by: 19 June See page 3 BMW Military Sales Military Sales US and European Specs RHD Stock cars available www.Bavarian The Ultimate MotorCars.de Driving Machine
BMW 318d (A290202) BMW 325i (A053732) BMW 325i A (A057042) European Spec., Black Sapphire met., Anthracite European Spec, Sparkling Graphite met., Cloth/leather European Spec, Demo, Titanium Silver, Gray Leather, Air Cloth/Leather, Blue Tooth, CD Changer, Anthracite, Alloy Wheels, Comfort Package, CD Conditioning, Alloy Wheels, Automatic, Fog Lamps, Heated Frontseats, Leather Steering Changer, Fog Lamps, Floormats, Leather Steering Comfort Package, Comfort Access, Dark Burl Wood Wheel, Lights Package, Multifunction for Steering Wheel, Lights Package, Moonroof, Multifunction for Interior, HIFI Loudspeaker System Professional, I POD Wheel, Navigation, Park Distance Control, Rain Sensor, Steering Wheel, Park Distance Control, Rain Sensor Adapter, etc. etc. etc. total delivered price € 23,995.- netto total delivered price € 25,995.- netto total delivered price € 22,995.- netto
BMW 530d (CS62919) BMW X5 3,0d RHD (LZ21255) BMW X5 3,0si RHD (LK94296) European Spec, Black Sapphire met., Beige Dakota European Spec, Alpine White, Grey Nevada Leather, European Spec, Black Sapphire met, Black Nevada Leather, Automatic, Cruise Control, CD Changer, Alarm, BMW Assist, Blue Tooth, Cruise Control, CD Leather, Alarm, Air Conditioning, Alloy Wheels, Cruise Chrome Line Exterior, Floormats, Heated Front Seats, Changer, Comfort Access, Dual Power Front Seats, Control, CD Changer, Leather Steering Wheel, Lights Leather Steering Wheel, Lights Package, Moonroof, Heated Steering Wheel, Heads Up Display, Heated Package, Moonroof, Navigation, Rain Sensor, Sport Navigation, Power front seats w driver memory, Park Frontseats, Lights Package, Navigation, Running Package, Third Row Seating, Xenon Lights etc. Distance Control, Xenon Lights, etc. Boards, Rain Sensor, Xenon Lights, etc. total delivered price € 40,995.- netto total delivered price € 41,995.- netto total delivered price € 41,995.- netto
BMW X3 3.0si (WJ04347) BMW 335i (P101539) BMW 128i Coupe (VF06170) Monaco Blue Met., Black Leatherette, Automatic, Alloy Monaco Blue Met., Beige Leather, Automatic, BMW Alpine White, Savanna Beige Leather, Wheels, Air Bag, BMW Assist, Cold Weather Package, Assist, Cruise Control, Preparation for CD Changer, 2 Doors, Comfort Access, I POD Adapter, Premium Cruise Control, Preparation for CD Changer, Dual Power Heated Front Seats, HIFI Loudspeaker System Package, Sport Package, Xenon Lights, etc. Front Seats, Dark Burl Wood Interior, Moonroof, Professional, I POD Adapter, Multifunktional Steering Navigation, Rain Sensor, Sport Activity Package, Wheel, Moonroof, Paddle Shifters, Park Distance total delivered price $ 32,282.- Smoker´s Package, Tire Pressure Monitor System etc. Control, Rain Sensor, Sport Package, Xenon Lights, etc.
total delivered price $ 39,175.- total delivered price $ 44,400.-
All listed cars are in stock. For more Details call our authorized agents. www.BavarianMotorCars.de E-Mail: [email protected] WÜRZBURG SCHWEINFURT VILSECK Phone 0931 27885 890 Phone 09721 67527 35 Phone 09662 8779 Phone 0931 27885 892 Phone 09721 67527 32
GARMISCH KATTERBACH GRAFENWÖHR I Phone 08821 73036 40 Phone 09802 957 377 Phone 09641 9240414 Phone 08821 94339 41 Phone 09802 957 378 Phone 09641 9240416
BAMBERG ANSBACH GRAFENWÖHR II Phone 0951 9370500 Phone 0981 9700127 Phone 09641 9260615
BMW Military Sales FRANKFURT DARMSTADT MANNHEIM A salute to those who serve Phone 0172 69 49513 Phone 06155 7007413 Phone 0171 7869250 13 June 2008 NATO Skywatch 3 Colonel Jelle Zijlstra says farewell
Today, 13 June 2008, my several different groups of military best of my ability, without making assignment at the E-3A and civilian personnel and the NATO too big or too many mistakes. Component ends after exactly organization as a whole. As a result, three years and nine months. progress is sometimes very difficult On that note, it is difficult for me to achieve. But when it really to leave the Component at a time Looking back, it has been a matters, all differences are put aside when the positions of a number of challenging period even though the as Component personnel show their its personnel are threatened by the Component has not been involved true qualities and make the system outcome of the NATO Command in any major NATO operations. work better than you would ever Structure Review. I sincerely hope Reaching Limited Operational have believed to be possible. It is an that NATO decision makers will Capability with the NMT aircraft amazing process that can drive you recognize in time that, although the and Full Operational Capability as from despair to euphoria in a matter E-3A Component has the status of a a permanent element of the NATO of minutes. Sometimes frustrating, military headquarters, it is in fact an Response Force, whilst conducting but extremely rewarding at the same operational unit. A reduction of its numerous high visibility events, time. It is an experience I will never PE will therefore directly affect the three Consolidated Inspections forget. operational output of one of NATO’s plus a Capeval, celebrating the most vital assets. Although NATO’s Component’s 25th anniversary I realize full well that the mission has changed significantly and finally conducting the NATO Component would never have since the Cold War, the NATO Command Structure Review, kept been able to achieve its excellent Airborne Early Warning & Control us all more than busy. Additionally, results without the professionalism, Force has not lost any of its military the long awaited tree cutting dedication and loyalty of its relevance. It is for that reason that in the Schinveld forest and the personnel. It is truly people that airborne early warning assets have re-engining discussion provided make this Component work! I am played a key role in every NATO political challenges all of their particularly grateful to all E-3A operation over the last two decades. own. Completing all these tasks Component and Force Command This is also clearly reflected by the simultaneously is already unheard of personnel for the unconditional interest still being displayed by new overcome its current challenges as in a national Air Force, but it is a true support I have received in doing NATO members wanting to join this well. I may no longer be a member miracle that we managed to pull it my job and for the good and well program. of that team, but a part of my heart off so successfully in our much more meant advice I have received from will remain in Geilenkirchen forever. complex international environment. many of you, through the ranks and Over the last 25 years, the E-3A I wish you all the very best for the Working in a management categories, on numerous issues. It Component has already overcome future and above all many, many position at the E-3A Component is has kept me on the right track and many problems with great safe and happy landings. a careful balancing act between the helped me to contribute to the teamwork, and I am confident that interests of the 15 NAPMO nations, future of the E-3A Component to the teamwork and common sense will Col. Jelle Zijlstra
WEATHER FORECASTERS is wind. Pressure and temperature one hundred agencies on base receive information. Visibility refers to the changes produce two kinds of motion from us the current weather chart, greatest horizontal distance at which in the atmosphere – vertical movement satellite photos, 7-day forecast and prominent objects can be viewed Continued from front page of ascending and descending any bird warnings which are also with the naked eye. “We provide currents, and horizontal movement announced, when the sound is on, by visibility information during pre- Also hailstorms and thunderstorms in the form of wind. Both types the sound of a cuckoo,” says Heeren. flight weather briefings,” says Heeren, are a hazard for people working on of motion in the atmosphere are “as well as data on precipitation, the ground. Actions can be taken by important as they affect the takeoff, In the old days there was less which means any form of water maintenance personnel to shelter the landing, and cruise flight operations. technology. “In the beginning we particles that form in the atmosphere aircraft, or when that isn’t possible “Especially in showers, winds can had to go outside every hour to the and fall to the ground. The aircrews (as in the Jacksonville deployment at change very strongly and fast,” ‘meteorological garden’, located in like to know beforehand the runway the end of February), to relocate the Heeren explains. “But also if the wind front of the Tower between runway condition. Is it wet or damp? All aircraft. falls away during the landing, the and taxiway,” says Heeren. “There this has a profound impact on flight situation can become very critical.” we could read information like safety.” Thunderstorms are also a wind registration, temperature, significant hazard for flight safety. Meteorology information precipitation amount and other Whether preparing for a local flight Since rising air currents cause is dependent on technology. relevant issues. Only the barometer or a long cross-country one, flight cumulonimbus clouds, they are Meteorology Branch is actively was placed inside.” Nowadays it’s planning decisions based on weather extremely turbulent and pose a involved in this development. totally different, as Heeren shows can dramatically affect the safety significant risk. For example, if an Over the last three years the entire me upstairs in the Tower in the of the flight. “Unquestionably the aircraft enters a thunderstorm, the equipment of the branch has been observer’s room. “From here you weather is a very significant factor aircraft could experience updrafts renewed. “Some years ago it was can see the three runway visual range for conducting safe flights,” says De and downdrafts that exceed 3,000 hard to repair or renew parts due to visibility meters, the cloud altitude Wolff. The weather prediction plays a feet per minute. In addition, the ageing of the equipment,” says De meter and the wind mast. Measuring vital role in this. The pilots have to be thunderstorms can produce large Wolff. All the system software and points are sited all over the base. The informed about the current weather hailstones, damaging lightning, modules have been developed in the information now enters the building and any risks they may encounter tornadoes, and large quantities of Branch itself for ten years now, and via fibreglass cables and, easily said, during their flight. We provide them water, all of which are potentially upgrades have been implemented one mouse click provides us all data.” information so that they avoid critical hazardous to aircraft. throughout that time. The last Closely related to cloud cover weather situations and have a safe Another significant weather hazard upgrade was the IRIS viewer. “Around and reported ceilings is visibility landing.”
Commander own and do not necessarily reflect the official views of, or endorsement by, the North Atlantic Brig. Gen. Stephen D. Schmidt Treaty Organization. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute an endorsement by NATO of the products or services advertised. Chief, Public Affairs Submissions are due seven days before publication and may be edited for style and space. Capt. Richard Komurek Volume 24, No. 11 13 June 2008 Send articles and classified advertisements to the NAEW&F E-3A Component Public Affairs (PA), Editor Postfach 433007, D-52511 Geilenkirchen, or base distribution Mail Stop 33. Call PA at (02451) NATO Skywatch is an authorized, unofficial Maureen Geraets-Head 632480 or fax (02451) 7936 or e-mail [email protected]. For paid advertisements call Hub commercial enterprise newspaper published Durlinger media at +31 (46) 452 9292, fax +31 (46) 452 9285 or [email protected]. under exclusive written agreement with the NAEW&CF E-3A Component by HOUX DIGIPRINT, Articles may be reproduced after permission has been obtained from the editor, provided mention Arendstraat 3, 6135 KT Sittard, +31 (0)46 4582111. Opinions expressed by contributors are their is made of NATO Skywatch. 4 NATO Skywatch 13 June 2008
Dutch NCO Spotlight By Col. Jelle Zijlstra
“Sorry, Sir, but I have to postpone our meeting for tomorrow morning,” said SMSgt. Roel Slot of the Training Wing Mission Crew Radar Technician Section, when I wanted to see him to get information for this article, particularly about his duties before he joined the E-3A Component in 2003. “Due to sickness my colleague dropped out and I’ve got to fly the mission”. That’s typical SMSgt. Slot: no excuses when someone calls on him.
SMSgt. Slot joined the Royal Netherlands Air Force in 1979, after serving in the Special Forces as a conscript. He is still proud of the Green Beret he earned there. Since 1979 he has served as a radar technician at various units, except from 1991 until 1996 when he had his first tour at the E-3A Component as an (instructor) computer display technician, and seven years as a communications technician at (now) JFC HQ Brunssum. SMSgt. Roel Slot instructs one SMSgt. Slot has been a great asset of his students, MSgt. Eric to the Training Wing for the last enthusiasm, positivism and pride in E‑3A Component with basic radar Schippers, at the radar digital 5 years. “A very skilled instructor,” the job – and this approach is taken training but, of course, without cabinet in the mission simulator. says one of his students, “He can over by others, too. Also, with his knowledge of the AWACS radar. Photo André Joosten explain complex issues in a simple extraordinary knowledge of radar My mission succeeds when they way, so that they are much easier issues, he is a constant source of are operating the AWACS radar to understand.” information for his students and his independently and with sufficient self experience in the Mission Crew fellow instructors. confidence within a relatively short Radar Technician Section and his When you meet him in the time.” ‘instruction-before-self’ approach Training Wing, you notice that “Instructing is my life,” says SMSgt. SMSgt. Slot is a first-class to doing his job makes him a valued he enjoys his work. He radiates Slot. “I like it! People come to the professional. His extensive member of the E-3A Component. GK Elementary school students have a fun day with their German partners Text and photo Cindy Gehrmann the German students and testing of their long relationship. The their German language skills. Little prize is awarded every year to a On 27 May, Frau Susan Schubert’s did they know, the students from person or organization which best third grade German Immersion the Teveren school were just as promotes German and international class joined the third graders of nervous. But after the short bus trip relationships. Teveren Katholische Grundschule at to Brückenkopf Park, the students Brückenkopf Park in Jülich, Germany. found out they could communicate The GKES students are looking and play together with only minor forward to next year, when the All the students, with help problems. The experience was Teveren Grundschule will host the from many parents, spent the day positive for all participants, including events. enjoying canoeing, wall-climbing, the parents and teachers from both archery and mini-golf. Students schools. were divided into mixed teams and they had to work and communicate The two schools have had a The wall-climbing event was the most together to make each sporting long partnership dating back challenging and many students had a great event successful. almost 20 years. In 2006, the two feeling of accomplishment, after climbing schools won 5000 Euros from the 6 meter high wall. All the students agreed that they the Kreis Sparkasse Begegnungs- were nervous at first, when meeting Preis of Heinsberg in recognition Experience the Fascination of a Mobile World Enjoy holidays BMW. MINI. Land Rover. Opel. Renault. Motorbike. Car rental. Emotions. Insurance. Honda. Harley-Davidson. Events. Kohlibri gastronomy. Offroad tracks. Tuning. Clothing. Infotainment. B&O. Accessories. Service. Fun. Buell. Lifestyle. Premium Quality. Spain Vacation at Spanish coast • Located at one of the most beautiful and unspoiled area of Andalucia • A full equipped semi-detached house (for up to 6 people) in a residencial complex • 3 Bedrooms: 1 queen bed, 1 king bed and 1 bunk bed • 2 Bathrooms / 1 living room / 3 big terraces / kitchen • 5 Swimming pools (2 for children) and 1 small covered • 2 Tennis courts • 2 Minutes from the beach • Close (5 min.) to the biggest Andalucian Golf Resort (27 holes) “Islantilla Golf Resort”. Visit www.islantillagolfresort.com • Nearest airports are Faro and Sevilla • More info at www.turismohuelva.org
KOHL automobile GmbH KOHL automobile GmbH KOHL automobile Heinsberg Branch Alsdorf Branch Vertriebs GmbH Industriestrasse 53 Luisenstrasse 77-79 Neuenhofstr. 166 52525 Heinsberg 52477 Alsdorf 52078 Aachen Tel. 0 24 52 / 91 35 0 Tel. 0 24 04 / 90 87 0 Tel. 02 41/ 92 77 0 List of prices: 01-15 July € 1100,- 16-31 July € 1200,- 01-15 August € 1200,-
Beyond the standard 16-31 August € 1200,- 01-15 September € 1000,- 16-30 September € 1000,- NOTE: rest of the year € 60/ day, min. 2 weeks. Special prices if full month or longer. Heating oil Deposit will be asked.
low price top service
Interested? Contact me at: emilio [email protected] Cell: +49 (0)163 596 27 28 • +34 607 45 87 25 Ask for MSgt. Bueno, ext. at GK 4130
Bischoff & Leeuw oHG VERTRETUNG ● ● Enjoy Spain Berliner Ring 15-17 52511 Geilenkirchen +49 (0)2451 68001 DER ESSO AG
CARE BY VOLVO = CARE FOR YOU Only we can make you feel at home BY AUTO KALLEN GELEEN! GUESTHOUSES • APARTMENTS FOR RENT - New Car Sales - US and Canadian Specs Our houses are exclusive equipped. - European specs Best location in GK. Singles & families. - Diplomat Sales - Special’s on Military Sales With washer/dryer, digital satellite receivers - Original Spare Parts with over 400 programmes, cable or wire- - Friendly English speaking staff less DSL connections, and lawn furniture. - Service and Maintenance All houses are equipped with dishwasher.
Only Official Volvo Military Sales agent Pets allowed. Welcome gift. for the Netherlands! Landscaped gardens.
Just 15 km from Geilenkirchen and 8 km from Brunssum! Just 15 km from Geilenkirchen and 8 km from Brunssum! www.petra-guesthouse.de Rijksweg Zuid 320 6161 BZ Geleen +31 (0)46 4238686 www.autokallen.nl [email protected] For information/reservation call: PETRA GOERTZ phone +49 (0)177 8808882 or +49 (0)2451 64957 6 NATO Skywatch 13 June 2008 ASCOT enhances training capabilities in the mission simulator
By Heidi Soerensen
The Component’s two mission simulators are currently going through major upgrades. Mission simulator II was handed over to Boeing in January 2008 for NATO Mid Term (NMT) retrofit and is expected to be fully operational by end July this year. Mission simulator I was NMT retrofitted in 2006 and last month it added new 21st century technology to its repertoire with the installation of ASCOT - Advanced Simulation Combat Operations Trainer.
Plexsys is the company behind ASCOT and is located in Camas Washington, USA. Plexsys’s very experienced staff boasts a total of 450 military man-years’ experience spread over 65 employees. Plexsys provides high-fidelity simulation and communications systems for (Left to right) TSgt. Carl Roussy, CMSgt. Pasquale Gentile and innovative training in a common MSgt. Rien Torn operating the ASCOT simulation software while operational picture for the air space running a training scenario for students in the mission simulator. control and air battle management Photos Andrea Hohenforst communities. Among Plexsys customers are U.S. Air Force units all particular needs and to become an to quickly generate a scenario for the “A future perspective and a major over the world from Alaska to Japan, interface with NMT. The key-players crews to practice on before they go capability is that with ASCOT, and one of the company’s past major were convinced. On 2 April 2008 on deployments.” geography is no longer a factor. jobs was the manufacturing of four ASCOT was installed, and just two Fighter simulators in San Diego can complete AWACS Mission Training hours later in full operation. “ASCOT also offers high realism in link up with a wingman in Phoenix Centres at Tinker Air Force Base in the scenarios and especially in the and the E-3A in Geilenkirchen. the USA, as well as one in Kadena AB ASCOT is fully integrated with weapons tactics. We can train all Simulators all over the world can be Okinawa and one in Elmendorf Air NMT, and together they create aspects of the operations from a 2V2 brought together in a world of virtual Force Base Alaska, respectively. an overall enhancement of the to a full scale theatre and multiple reality. The bottom line is that the training capability in the mission engagements resulting in a better improved training facility increases “The ASCOT is an exercise simulator. One that can really feel trained mission crew,” complements the combat readiness” says Raymond generation tool that provides a the improvement in his everyday one of the Aircraft Pilot Simulator Perez, former Weapons Controller diverse and powerful war gaming work is Senior Simulation Developer, (APS) operators TSgt. Carl Roussy, Instructor in TW, now ASCOT Site capability to the E-3A mission Mr. Edward Visser from the Training Training Wing Mission Simulator Manager at the E-3A Component. simulation. All entity types are (TWMS). supported, with realistic emulation “The ASCOT has presented the of manoeuvre capabilities, emissions The list of E-3A Component with an additional generation and detection, weapons improvements powerful tool to close the training employment and data-link,” explains continues deficit experienced during the Mr. Mark Zech, who is the test and includes past year. This tool, although design/support engineer and one preparation a ‘Commercial off the Shelf’ of the two Plexsys workers here at before (COTS) product, enables the E-3A the E-3A Component. “Since Plexsys deployment Component operational community welcomes experienced AWACS and exercises. to commence the suspended Combat operators ASCOT is primarily ASCOT Readiness (CRT) and Continuation designed and developed by operators. enables Training (COT) in record time. This The Human Machine Interface (HMI) scenario goal will hopefully be reached as is a top priority for us and you will developers soon as end May 2008 after only six experience that ASCOT is not only to create effective weeks of system installation very robust and flexible, but also a large-scale and integration. very user-friendly system,” explains exercises in Mr. Zech. accordance The rental of ASCOT has provided ASCOT simulation software displays simulated airborne assets with the the Training Wing with an up-to- During a regular exercise in 2007, over Germany. Various options exists such as area display, exercise date simulation generator capable NAPMA witnessed a demonstration weapons engagement range and surface/ ground assets. operation of integration with the existing of ASCOT, and in the process orders, simulator software. Thus, ASCOT of constantly improving the Wing Simulation Operations including Air Task Orders (ATO) is regarded as an addition to the crucial training capabilities in the (TWSO). “The ability to rapidly create and Airspace Control Orders existing capabilities, which supports AWACS community a full ASCOT detailed scenarios and at the same (ACO). The mission crew can train the efforts to reach the very tight demonstration was requested and time increase realism and flexibility is for the complete exercise scenario NMT Full Operational Capability took place at the E-3A Component in a major advantage. When exercises or in the simulator and be well (FOC) deadline,” concludes Deputy November 2007. ASCOT was adopted real-world operations will be flown, prepared before participating in the Commander Training Wing, Lt. Col. to meet the E-3A Component’s the ASCOT will allow the Component exercise. Kim Poulsen. Offering a number Karin's Guesthouse of apartments suitable Located less than 10 minutes from Base to accommodate single or family personnel
All Guesthouses are fully equipped with modern appliances such as: Complete kitchen with dishwasher microwave, oven and fridge-freezer Washer and dryer Free English SKY Satellite TV DVD player (multi regional) ISDN Telephone Line Free High Speed DSL Internet Baby cot & nappy changing facility BBQ and own patio with garden Free parking available and pets are also welcome!
Credit Card & VAT Form accepted For more information or reservation call: +49 (0)2451-72015 or +49 (0)178 414 0855 www.karins-guesthouse.com
Café Restaurant Partyservice
52538 Gangelt • Am Freibad 10
A holiday for those staying at home 7 days a week we provide meals for your appetite with à la carte menues. Why not come and try our ample selection of cakes and ice-cream specialities? Close by minigolf, boat trips, swimming pool and footpaths. English spoken The cherry on the cake: in the summer please check our special ‘CARIBBEAN WEEK’ promotion!
For reservations please call: +49 (0)2454 1414, or fax: +49 (0)2454 939301 Open: daily from 1700 hrs • Reservations highly recommended
Phone +49 (0)24 54 - 14 14 Fax +49 (0)24 54 - 93 9301 www. Haus-Hamacher.de Maison du Meuble SUPER OFFER! Electronic adjustable bed ¤ 2 motors 549 With the purchase of the electronic bed we offer you also a spring pocket ¤ mattres, 7 comfort zones, exchangeable
covers, washable at 60°C for 1 More than 100 couches in fabric and leather. Custom sized, all styles. Bedroom and dining room furniture, cabinets.
LATEST STYLE KITCHENS. We realize your dreams.
open Mo-Tu-Th-Fr 10-19 hrs • Sunday 11-19 hrs Closed on Wednesday We are situated: from GK - Aachen take the Motorway E40/A3 direction Lüttich/Liège, exit 38 direction Henri-Chapelle. When you reach the N3 go to the right. You will fi nd us on the left side of the road.
Route de Charlemagne 147a, 4841 Henri-Chapelle Belgium • Close to Grafi tti • direction Kelmis
Phone +32 (0)87 - 88 11 57, Fax +32 (0)87 - 55 49 25 [email protected] 8 NATO Skywatch 13 June 2008 13 June 2008 NATO Skywatch 9 10 NATO Skywatch 13 June 2008 ILA 2008 marks new records
Text and photos CMSgt Claus Cohnen Upcoming air shows A new attendance record, with more than 1,100 exhibitors from with NATO AWACS 37 countries and 325 aircraft in flight participation: and on static display, marked the Internationale Luft-und Raumfahrt Bodo, Norway 13-16 June Ausstellung (ILA) from 27 May to 1 June at Berlin Brandenburg Leeuwarden, The Netherlands International Airport which attracted 19-23 June approximately 250,000 visitors. Florennes, Belgium 4-7 July Just like two years ago, the Airbus A-380 and the Rockwell B-1 Bomber Waddington, United Kingdom were the stars of the aircraft display. 4-7 July
The Russian blockade of Avord, France 11-14 July Berlin from 1948 to1949 was commemorated during the exhibition. A DC-3 Dakota, known to Boeing C-17 transporters, which will the Germans as the “Raisin Bomber”, Airbus A 380 engines. be based at Papa Air Base, Hungary. flew from England to Schoenefeld The 18 E-3A Component members in Berlin. Also honouring the deployed to Berlin were able to get Berlin Airlift, a Boeing C-17 cargo The Berlin bi-annual exhibition Mig 29 fleet will be upgraded with a first impression of the capabilities lifter named “Spirit of Berlin” was and Air Show is the most important Western avionics and new IFF, US of an aircraft which in future presented to the public in flying and marketing platform in Germany, radios and an improved navigation could perhaps replace the TCAs static display. with signed contracts and options system. A Polish Air Force pilot in Geilenkirchen. for a volume of more than 5 billion demonstrated the performance This year, India was chosen as the Euros. Beside business interests, of this Russian aircraft in a flying After spending a week in the heat partner country because Germany the evolution of military aviation is display. with temperatures between 28 and has had a longstanding cooperative kept in focus. As a result of NATO’s 31 degrees and guiding thousands relationship with India for 40 years. enlargement the new member As part of the Strategic Airlift of interested visitors through the The daily flying display given by the countries are faced with the need Capability (SAC) program, NATO AWACS, everybody was finally happy four Indian HAL Dhruv helicopters to obtain new equipment. In a two- formally declared after years of to “cool down” on the way back to fascinated the spectators. stage process, for example, the Slovak debate its intention to acquire two Geilenkirchen.
Thousands of people gather to see the Airbus A 380 after landing and the Boeing C-17 Globemaster on display preparation next to the NATO E-3A AWACS. /NLY MILES FROM BASE AND ONLY Special o er for June! MILE TO THE CENTRE OF (EINSBERG $PTJNBT-PEHF )NDOOR POOL PLAYGROUNDS AND 2 Footlong for only 9,99¤ JOGGING PATH WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE 3 Footlong for only 12,99¤ %QUIPPED WITH -ODERN COMPLETE KITCHEN WASHER DRYER 3!4 46 $6$ AND #$ 0LAYER 7 ,!. BABYBED HIGHCHAIR TOYS BACKYARD BASKET BALL %NJOY YOUR TRANSITION IN THIS NEW INDEPENDENT GUESTHOUSE
&OR FURTHER INFORMATION OR RESERVATIONS 'ËSTEHAUS #OSIMA PLEASE CONTACT -RS #OSIMA 'ÚDDE AT +UHLERTSTRAE $ (EINSBERG 3CHAFHAUSEN SUBWAY HEINSBERG SUBWAY ÜBACH PALENBERG 4EL s &AX Industriestraße 5a, Heinsberg Friedrich-Ebert-Straße 111, Übach-Palenberg WWWGAESTEHAUSCOSIMADE s GAESTEHAUSCOSIMA T ONLINEDE Conen GmbH Authorized Honda partner, Acura and Citroën workshop DOHLEN Large selection of new and used cars Spare parts (Honda, Acura and Citroën) YOUR NO. 1 DRY Maintenance and services (for US-spec. also) Body repair and spray paint jobs in dry cleaning
and laundry CLEANING in Geilenkirchen
Starting price € 21.419 Starting price € 20.449 We are also specialized in carpet cleaning TAX TAX FREE Erkelenzer Straße 76 - Heinsberg-Dremmen FREE Workshop & spare parts: Bernd Schüller You can fi nd us on the Industrial Area Geilenkirchen - Niederheid [email protected] – Phone +49 (0)2452 9510 16 An Fürthenrode 1 | Phone +49(0)245164366 or +49(0)245166173
Sell: Marcel Gehlen – [email protected] – Phone +49 (0)2452 9510 13 CLEANING RY www. teppichreinigung-dohlen.de | offi [email protected] Fax +49 (0)2452 9510 20 – www.autohaus-conen.de – English spoken D LIVE IN STYLE...... with our selected collection of solid Belgian style and oak furniture. Please come and see for yourself! A • Bedrooms large • Occasional furniture variety • Suites of clocks Clocks • at the • Wall units • Lamps best How to find us: Dining room From Geilenkirchen/Brunssum take the motorway • E314 direction Antwerpes, exit Maasmechelen corner units price! or from Aachen over the Holland border direction Antwerpes, 1200-m after the Belgium custom, exit Maasmechelen.
Rijksweg 477 • 3630 Maasmechelen BELGIUM • Tel. +32www.meubelhof.be (0)89 76 19 23 12 NATO Skywatch 13 June 2008
JFC HQ Alliance Italians celebrate Theatre presents The theatre is located in Building #406, nd JFC HQ Brunssum, the Netherlands. 62 anniversary of republic Doors open 30 minutes prior to film start. Admission for adults is €4, By Giulia Mariotti and for children On 31 May the Italian (11 and community on base celebrated under) the anniversary of the founding is €2. of the Republic of Italy by promoting two national products: Italian expertise in the motor industry and Italian beauty.
Col. Angelo Piccillo, the Italian National Representative, explains, “the event could not have been possible without the dedication and commitment not only of our substantial community formed by A fashion show was Stop Loss (R) over 100 Italian military and their the highlight of the Friday, 13 June, 1900 afternoon. Ryan Phillippe, families, but also of the whole Photo NATO Component, whose help and CMSgt. Francesco Prezioso Abbie Cornish dedication proved invaluable. Our intention was to export much more and the nearly 650 tickets sold, and fashion houses. The garments than the stereotypical image of Italy also emphasized the widespread were expertly showcased by Italian and its cuisine by promoting and international appreciation for models living abroad participating in diffusing other important aspects the Italian “Bella Vita”, which the “Miss Italia nel Mondo” contest. Nim’s Island (PG) of our culture among international was savoured not only through Saturday, 14 June, 1600 armed forces and civilians, from the culinary specialities such as pizza The lucky raffle winners are Jodie Foster, base and the surrounding area.” and ice-cream, but also through a asked to contact CMSgt. Di Silvestro, Abigail Breslin static exhibition of Italian cars and ext. 2906, to pick up their prize A glimpse of Italy against an motorbikes, and a fashion show of at the Italian NSU as soon as international backdrop in Hangar II, Italian state-of-the-art designers possible. where the very emblem of the 15 nations present at the Component, 21 (PG-13) the AWACS, was on display. The WINNING TICKETS ITALIAN RAFFLE 31 MAY 2008 Saturday, 14 June, 1900 presence of military and civilian Kevin Spacey, authorities such as Maj. Gen. Axel Jim Sturgess Tüttelmann, Maj. Gen. Valter 1 Prize Weekend for four in a lodge in Tuscany D23 Mauloni, Maj. Gen. Leonardo 2 Prize Weekend for two on the Adriatic Sea L25 Di Marco, Maj. Gen. Giuseppino 3 Prize Italian bus trip C23 Vaccino, Col. Stefano Rivola, the 4-5 Prize Cristiano di Thiene - sweatshirt A95 - D41 Mayor of Geilenkirchen Mr. Andreas 6-15 Prize Agusta - Tshirt F79 - A94 - A73 - G57 - D24 Borghorst, and the Italian Consul E35 - G38 - C45 - L65 - L97 Prom Night (PG-13) General of Cologne Mr. Eugenio Sgrò, 16-17 Prize Cristiano di Thiene - cap F39 - L80 Friday, 20 June, 1900 bore witness to the importance of 18-23 Prize Frecce Tricolori - cap A55 - B13 - D54 - G51 - L75 - F46 Britanny Snow, the event. The 400 people present, Johnathon Schaech
De Efteling Amusement Park, NL, Movie Park Germany, 30 July, IYA Summer 2 July, 0800-1900, €36 0800-1900, €29 Bokrijk Open Air Museum and Beekse Bergen Safaripark & Break Program Adventure Playground, B, 9 July, Adventure Playground, NL, The Ruins (R) 0830-1730, €13 6 August, 0800-1900, €28 Saturday, 21 June, 1600 Jonathan Tucker, Between 23 June and 15 August Bobbejaanland Amusement Park, B, Phantasialand Amusement Park, Jena Malone the IYA is organizing weekly sessions 16 July, 0800-1900, €31 It was the Tr13ansall August, C-1 600800-1900, xxxx xxxxx €34. xxxxx Rursee: cruise/hiking/swimming,xxxx xx xxxxxChaperones xxxx xxxxx go free.xxxx Slots xxxx arexxx for children aged 6+ with activities 23 July, 0800-1730, €14 limited. Point of departure and from 0930 to 1630. The children can (castle visit instead of swimming return is the IYA parking lot next be dropped off at 0800, and picked in colder weather). to Bldg 95. up no later than 1730. Street Kings (R) Information and registration at Saturday, 21 June, 1900 the IYA Office in Bldg 95, ext. 4955. Keanu Reeves, Forest Whitaker Cost is €40 per child, including lunch on Friday, plus the cost of the field trip. The third child only pays half price, and additional children This aircraft landed are free. Slots are limited. at Geilenkirchen Air Base IYA Summer Break Trips for international Component Do you know children aged 6 and up: what it is? Duisburg Zoo, 25 June, 0800-1730, Photo A1C Florian Hueftle €18 SEE PAGE 14 RESTAURANT GRECO PALACE THE REAL GREEK CUISINE 15% discount for NATO ID-card holders valid from Monday to Thursday Enjoy now also from out large patio
30 May Greek evening with live music and Greek dance groups
We hope you will feel at home with us
Open: Monday-Saturday 1630 - 2400 hrs Sunday & Holidays 1200 - 2400 hrs Kitchen open until 2200 hrs • Reservation recommended
Bundesstraße 163 52538 Gangelt (Stahe) Phone +49 (0)2454 969569 Cellphone (Andreas) +49 (0)177 8500114 www.greco-palace.de
auto-himmels.de
Special Nato Discount Abb. zeigt Sondermodelle TEAM and Tax Free Sales!
For more information call: 0 24 51/40 90 911
Heinsberg Humboldtstr. 13 (Nähe Real) 0 24 52/90 30 30 Geilenkirchen Gutenbergstr. 5 (Niederheid) 0 24 51/40 90 90 Erkelenz Gewerbestr. Süd 73 (Nähe Praktiker) 0 24 31/9 77 77 0 14 NATO Skywatch 13 June 2008 Open Days at Pratica di Mare
helicopters, transporters, single fighters, and 4 different acrobatic teams: Patrouille de France, Patrulla Aguila from Spain, the Breitling Jet Team stationed in France, and last but not least Italy’s pride, the Frecce Tricolori display team. All of this formed the basis of Giornata Azzurra 2008. The air display also consisted of one big tactical event lasting more than 40 minutes involving almost all the assets in the Italian Air Force Order of Battle.
The E-3 was on static display among other heavy aircraft. As usual, it was a big hit among the visitors on both days. From early morning till late afternoon the waiting line outside the E-3 was a long one. Visitors of all ages stood in line to see the E-3A from the inside. Questions Capt Massimo Simotti were asked, stickers, yoyos, pens, makes a new friend. balloons and other items were Photo CMSgt Franseco Preziozo handed out. From the look of the visitor’s faces when they entered the By Capt. Klaus Soerensen year. The E-3A is always a major than 200,000 spectators showed up E-3A, you could see that waiting in attraction at every air show because that Sunday, and it was a real “Sun the heat outside was still worthwhile. In the weekend of 25 to 26 May the it is one of the few aircraft that is Day” - the thermometer showed Besides the information given Component once again showed its open to the public. Saturday the base more than 30° Celsius. to the public, the media showed unique E-3A at an air show. ‘Giornata was open to air force personnel, their their interest too. The Deployment Azzurra 2008’ at Pratica di Mare, families and friends and acted as the Approximately 70 aircraft were Commander Lt.Col. Fabio Stefanizzi Rome, is the biggest air show in Italy trial run for the Sunday show. Sunday on static display and 37 different gave two interviews to national TV and is held as a two-day event every was primarily for the public. More air displays were performed by stations during the two-day event. Vacancy announcement Applications are invited for the following post: Summer Boot-Camp 2008 Administrator (Fiscal), AGK CBF 0020, advertisement number 08005, NATO grade A-2, assigned to the Fiscal and Accounting Branch, Budget and • Do you want to stay in shape Wednesday: Circuit training Finance Division, E-3A Component Headquarter. This post is due to be filled over the whole summer? Interval training with several as soon as possible. Closing date: 23 June 2008. • Do you wish to have a toned stations. body look? For further details, please visit the Component Information Portal (WISE) Thursday: Fight and kick. under Headquarters, PEC, Recruitment/Services Section or review the • Is your goal to burn calories and increase your fitness Cardio training with kick boxing advertisement posted in Building 8. techniques. Note: Only applications of qualified personnel will be considered. condition? • If your answer is yes… do not Location: New Gym and hesitate and join us, if you dare. Swimming Pool only Mondays. Monday to Thursday at 1200 Start: 1 July 2008 Joyce Ranes is daring you to CLASSIFIED Duration: 8 weeks become the Boot-Camp Champ. The more classes you attend, skywatch Monday: Aqua-Fit. the bigger the chance to win the Skywatch Classifieds are free to all NATO personnel. Laps swimming, and strength Boot-Camp Champ prize at the Advertisements must be printed or typed, and include your name, exercises. office symbol and duty extension. The editor will not accept end of the session. advertisements for services that generate a regular income, or Tuesday: Muscle power. Good weather or bad weather, for housing other than vacation rentals. Submissions for the next Barbell training routine. Boot-Camp is waiting for you! NATO Skywatch are due to PAO, mail Stop 33, e-mail: pio@e3a. nato.int, before noon Thursday, 19 June. Autos BMW 320i convertible, 1990, 146,000 VW Touareg 3.2L V6 12/2004. Fully km, comes with hardtop and winter loaded, leather interior, shadow blue tyres, very good reliable car, asking metallic, 17” wheels €4250 obo. Call Ed at home +31 45 €21.900 negotiable. Pls. call 5270598 or work +31 45 5262768. 02456-508280 (leave message), or ext. On 15 May landed a Beech King Air 350 at NATO Air Base Geilenkirchen. An airplane that is said to have a ‘can do’ 2003. 1996 VW Golf III Kombi, 1.8l petrol. attitude and an ‘eager to please’ work ethic. It offers the Exc. fuel economy, 190.350 km, custom utmost in versatility and capability, making it the definitive BMW 318i convertible, 1998 cc, Nov wheels, new tires, battery and muffler. ‘go anywhere, do anything’ aircraft. It has eight seats in 2001, 56.0000 km, silver metallic/black Seat covers. Includes winter tires/ a double-club cabin. With full tanks the aircraft can fly roof, electric, automatic gearing, leather wheels. Price €1,700. Call Rob ext. 2631, 1,500 statue miles and can operate on runways as short interior, electr. front seats w/memory 0170-6123346, or 02456-507494. as 3,300 feet. and heating, multi-functional steering The mission of Flight Calibration Services is to carry out wheel, navigation, Xenon lights, etc. Alfa Romeo 156, 120 HP, 1.6 Twin safe and cost-effective flight inspection for the Federal Excellent condition, garage serviced. spark, 1998, first owner, 80,000 km. Alu Republic of Germany, Switzerland and Austria. Flight First owner, non-smoker. Asking wheels, climate control, special seats, inspection, i.e. the calibration of navigation and €17.000. For more info call Eva ext. wooden steering wheel. €1750.Call ext. surveillance systems, is an essential link in the safety chain in air transport. 4491, or 02454-2381. 4992 or 02456-2692. Superior Autohaus First House in TOWN s 3TAR (OTEL s exclusive single, double & triple rooms Lind GmbH with shower/WC, minibar s Suites equipped with modern appliances Borsigstr. 39 such as kitchenette, microwave, coffee machine, DVD player, balcony 52525 Heinsberg s Apartments for families full equipped with modern appliances, two bedrooms, living room, kitchen, microwave, coffee machine, Phone: +49 (0)2452 95450 bathroom/WC, DVD player or video recorder Fax: +49 (0)2452 954515 s Appliances for complete hotel: Wireless LAN, color tv, ASTRA, Premiere Pay-tv, direct dial phone, washers & dryers, sauna Our BISTrO IS DAILY OPEN frOM TO HRS "REAKFAST "UFFET s ,UNCHES LIKE -OMS FROM f TO f s 4AKE WAY MEALS Theodor Heuss Ring 15 phone: +49 (0)2451 627-0 52511 Geilenkirchen fax: +49 (0)2451 627300 # e-mail: [email protected] ITY (OTEL URL: www.cityhotel-geilenkirchen.de
Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder
Theodor Heuss Ring 15 RESTAURANTE PIZZERIA 52511 Geilenkirchen #Tel. +49 (0)2451-1082 Mitsubishi Outlander Tuesday-SundayITY Italian cuisine that’s the talk of the town (OTEL1200-1500 & 1800-2300 hrs Varied lunchtime menus at great prices
Mitsubishi Lancer We offer new and used cars imported from the USA. Duty and tax free sales. "#!& ) %#!& ( !
!'#$%#$$ Parts, maintenance and services # as well as body repair and paint jobs. # & " ! (((& " !
T Authorized Hyundai partner Authorized T A in Heinsberg-Dremmen Citroën partner A
X Diplomat sales X New car sales Large selection of new cars Friendly English speaking staff Original spare parts Spare parts Citroën F Service and maintenance F R R E E E E
S Hyundai Santa Fe Hyundai I 30 Citroën C5 NEW Citroën C-Crosser S A A Sell: Thorsten Mevissen Sell: Manuel de Castro L L Phone: +49 (0)2452 96731 15 • Fax: +49 (0)2452 96731 29 Phone: +49 (0)2452 96731 16 • Fax: +49 (0)2452 96731 29 E mail: [email protected] mail: [email protected] E CAR-CENTER-CONEN Gladbacherstraße 5 - 52525 Heinsberg-Dremmen www.car-center-conen.de The exclusive offer only for NATO personnel Your exclusive E-Plus bonus!
E-Plus offers NATO employees benefits well worth checking out: s Up to 35% discount s No connection charge s From € 42.02 net/month 5% on the basic monthly charge1 s Hardware already from 0 € s From € 63.03 net/month 8% s 25 € credit** s From € 21.01 net/month 3% (discounts on the total charge for the call minutes)
Professional Tariffs* XL M S
incl. 35% discount incl. 35% discount incl. 20% discount
Basic charge per month1 14,20 9,83 6,72
1,00 € One-off connection charge 21,01 0,00 21,01 0,00 21,01 0,00 Nokia 6500 Professional Tariff M Price per call minute
Domestic2 and E-Plus to E-Plus 0,08 0,17 0,25
To other mobile phone networks 0,21 0,29 0,38
City3 or partner & family4 0,04 0,04 0,04
SMS5, per SMS 0,16 0,16 0,16
Datas6 0,08 0,08 0,08
Personal phone number7 free of charge
E-Plus Comfort mailbox free of charge
E-Plus Tarifcheck free of charge
1,00 € Calls to your E-Plus Comfort Mailbox free of charge Sony Ericsson K 770i Professional Tariff M
Further information available only from:
HEKO-Telecom s An Fürthenrode 51 s 52511 Geilenkirchen s Phone: +49 (0)2451/66066 or
HEKO-Telecom s Stadtpassage Konrad-Adenauer-Str. s How t Konrad Adenauer Str Hotel Geilenkirchen s Phone: +49 (0)2451/3003 Jabusch
HEKO . Tschibo > Stadtpassage< Herzog Wilhelm Str.
*Prices excl. 19 % V.A.T. This offer applies while stocks last and subject to the simultaneous conclusion of a new E-Plus Service card contract with tariffs and terms as indicated in the table above. Subject to changes without notice. Errors and omissions excepted. **Only two contracts per applicant can be concluded. 1 Minimum contractual period 24 months. 2 Applies to calls in Germany to fixed line connections and from E-Plus to E-Plus excluding special numbers. 3 Calls from any- where in Germany to a selected German local code excluding special numbers. 4 Calls from anywhere in Germany to five selected German fixed-line connections exclu- ding special numbers. 5 SMS transmission to other domestic mobile phone networks and within the E-Plus network. 6 Applies to data transmission within Germany to City3 or Partner & Family4-phone numbers, WAP and internet mobile. In E-Plus Professional XL also applies to inner-German data transmission to the fixed-line network excluding special numbers and for E-Plus to E-Plus connections. Otherwise the minute prices for voice calls apply. 7 If not yet in use and technically available.