For the first time in history, the United States Air Force has selected a NATO partner nation to provide pilot training. On August 22, the Italian Air Force and the U.S. Air Force signed an agreement that will bring American pilot trainees to the International Flight Training School (IFTS) in Decimomannu, Sardinia.

The “Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for Flight Training of the USAF Military Personnel in Italy” was signed separately by Italian Air Force Chief of Staff, General Antonio Conserva, and Lieutenant General Brian S. Robinson, commander of the Air Education and Training Command of the U.S. Air Force. The agreement marks a milestone in transatlantic cooperation, as it represents the first time American aviators will undergo training in a NATO country outside the United States.