Controllers lost contact on May 1 because a temporary control tower antenna had not been set up at the correct location, Brig. Gen. Matthew Braman told AP.
Without evidence, Trump blamed air traffic controllers, the helicopter pilots and Democratic policies at federal agencies for Wednesday night's collision.
U.S. enlisted airmen must be comfortable working alongside allied and partner nations in case a conflict with China erupts, the CMSAF David Flosi said.