May 24 airpower summary: C-130 airlift keeps mission going

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SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFPN) --  Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan during operations May 24, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

In Afghanistan, Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt IIs conducted shows of force in Khowst and Gardez in order to deter enemy activities in those areas. The joint terminal attack controller declared the missions successful.

An Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle performed shows of force in the areas of Deh Chopan and Musah Qal'eh in order to deter enemy activities. The missions were reported as successful by the JTAC.

In total, 40 close-air-support missions were flown as part of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.

Thirteen Air Force and Royal Air Force surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Afghanistan. Additionally, two RAF aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.

In Iraq, a RAF GR.4 Tornado conducted a show of force over enemy positions in Baghdad. The JTAC confirmed the mission as a success.

In Al Kut, an Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon performed a show of force in order to deter enemy activities against coalition forces. The mission was declared a success by the JTAC.

In total, coalition aircraft flew 59 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions integrated and synchronized coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided over watch for reconstruction activities and helped to deter and disrupt terrorist activities.

Twenty-five Air Force, Navy, and Royal Australian Air Force surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Iraq. Additionally, four Air Force and RAF aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.

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

Approximately 138 airlift sorties were flown, 622 tons of cargo delivered and 3,263 passengers were transported. This included approximately 21,760 pounds of troop re-supply air-dropped in Afghanistan.

Coalition C-130 crews from Australia, Canada, and Korea flew as part of operations in Afghanistan or Iraq.

On May 23, Air Force, French, RAF, and Singaporean tankers flew 49 sorties and off-loaded approximately 2.7 million pounds of fuel to 214 receiving aircraft.