More Deterrence for Europe:F-35s Deployed to Italy

As part of a Theater Security Package (TSP) funded through the European Deterrence Initiative (EDI),the US Air Force has deployed a squadron of F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters to Aviano Air Base,Italy.In a news release by US Air Force Europe,it was explained that:
the TSP provides a more robust U.S. military rotational presence in the European theater capable of deterring adversaries and assuring partners and U.S. allies of U.S. commitment to regional security.*
Drawn from the 388th (active duty) and 419th (Reserve) Fighter Wings out of Hill Air Force Base,Utah,the deployed aircraft arrived in Italy on 24 May 2019 and will stay for several weeks.Along with their associated Airmen and equipment,the F-35s will participate in training and exercises with other Europe-based aircraft.The 388th is on its second deployment to Europe,the first one having been to RAF Lakenheath,England in 2017;while the 419th,the newest F-35A squadron,is on its maiden deployment.
According to MAJ James Russell,F-35 pilot with the 419th FW:
It's a great honour to be part of another milestone for Hill and the F-35 community.Locally,this effort is a demonstration of our Total Force integration construct hard at work between the 388th and 419th FWs.On a larger scale,it's a great opportunity to showcase our newest fighter platform to our partner nations and assure those nations of our continued support for their safety and security.*
The purpose of the EDI,as stated in the Pentagon's FY 2019 budget request for the programme,is:
1.Continue to enhance our deterrent and defense posture throughout the theater by positioning the right capabilities,in key locations,in order to respond to adversarial threats in a timely manner.
2.Assure our NATO allies and partners of the United States' commitment to Article 5 and the territorial integrity of all 28 (now 29,with Montenegro's accession) NATO nations.
3.Increase the capability and readiness of U.S. Forces,NATO Allies,and regional partners,allowing for a faster response in the event of any aggression by a regional adversary against the sovereign territory of NATO nations.*
The EDI was established as the European Reassurance Initiative in 2014,soon after Russia's annexation of Crimea,Ukraine.