April 13 airpower summary: B-1B provides show of force

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SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFNS) --  Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan during operations April 13, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

In Afghanistan, an Air Force B-1B Lancer bomber and an F-15E Strike Eagle performed shows of force in Lashkar Gah and Bagram respectively to deter enemy activity. The maneuvers provided an added layer of security during Afghan and coalition security and reconstruction operations.

Joint terminal attack controllers assigned to coalition units verified the success of these missions.

In total, 52 close-air-support missions were flown in support of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.

Six Air Force intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Afghanistan. In addition, two coalition aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.

In Iraq, coalition aircraft flew 27 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions integrated and synchronized with coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided overwatch for reconstruction activities, and helped to deter and disrupt hostile activities.

Thirty Air Force and Navy ISR aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Iraq. In addition, three Air Force and coalition aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance. 

Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft and C-17 Globemaster IIIs provided intra-theater heavy airlift, helping to sustain operations throughout Afghanistan, Iraq, and the Horn of Africa.

Approximately 125 airlift sorties were flown; 550 tons of cargo was delivered; and about 2,300 passengers were transported.

Coalition C-130 crews flew as part of operations in Afghanistan or Iraq.

On April 12, Air Force tankers flew 45 sorties and off-loaded approximately 2.8 million pounds of fuel to 229 receiving aircraft.