The C-130 Hercules detachment at 904 EAW had a particularly busy week, given a demanding operational tempo and a wide variety of tasking. Aircrews are constantly tested to their limits and as a result of rigorous training and regular practice in peace time, they reliably deliver excellent effect when required under challenging operational conditions. Alongside other mainstream Tactical Air Transport sorties, a successful leaflet drop was conducted. This was a particularly noteworthy result because an airborne re-plan had to be undertaken, due to differences between actual and forecast wind conditions. Operations such this are designed to inform the local population about Coalition activities. Despite unforeseen pressures from external agencies and aircraft unserviceabilities having a direct effect on the C-130s of 904 EAW, over 2200 passengers and 230 tonnes of freight were transported. Supreme efforts from the C-130 aircraft engineers ensured that mission success was achieved throughout this period. Amongst this broad range of tasking, high priority short-notice requests were also met, against the backdrop of increasing Tactical Air Transport support to NATO’s International Stabilisation Assistance Force (ISAF).
For the Harrier GR9s of 904 EAW it has been a comparatively quiet week, with a slower operational tempo than has been the case recently. However, multiple reconnaissance missions were tasked and successfully executed, providing Ground Commanders with essential imagery of Enemy activity. It is imperative that this imagery is interpreted as rapidly as possible, to provide the necessary detail to meet the operational demand. Close liaison and briefings continue to cement Coalition relations, achieving maximum effect with shared data from Close Air Support missions. Such liaison provides valuable lessons learned and tactical development across the whole fighter contingent. A rolling schedule of Harrier maintenance ensures aircraft availability and despite unscheduled maintenance events, all tasking was still achieved this week. An ongoing modification programme also ensures Harrier capabilities are kept at the cutting edge of air warfare tactics.
For the Harrier GR9s of 904 EAW it has been a comparatively quiet week, with a slower operational tempo than has been the case recently. However, multiple reconnaissance missions were tasked and successfully executed, providing Ground Commanders with essential imagery of Enemy activity. It is imperative that this imagery is interpreted as rapidly as possible, to provide the necessary detail to meet the operational demand. Close liaison and briefings continue to cement Coalition relations, achieving maximum effect with shared data from Close Air Support missions. Such liaison provides valuable lessons learned and tactical development across the whole fighter contingent. A rolling schedule of Harrier maintenance ensures aircraft availability and despite unscheduled maintenance events, all tasking was still achieved this week. An ongoing modification programme also ensures Harrier capabilities are kept at the cutting edge of air warfare tactics.
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