May 22 airpower summary: C-130s transport troops

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SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFPN) --  Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan during operations May 22, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

In Afghanistan, British GR-7 Harriers performed shows of force in order to deter enemy activities in Deh Chopan, Deh Rawod and Kandahar. An on-scene joint terminal attack controllers confirmed that the missions were successful.

In Chahcharan, an Air Force B-1B Lancer and an A-10 Thunderbolt II performed shows of force in order to deter enemy activities. A JTAC reported that the missions were successful.

In Orgune, an Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle performed a show of force in order to deter enemy activities. A JTAC declared that the mission was successful.

In Deh Chopan, a French 2000 Mirage performed a show of force in order to deter enemy activities. A JTAC conformed that the mission was successful.

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

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

In Iraq, coalition aircraft flew 54 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions integrated and synchronized coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided overwatch for reconstruction activities and helped to deter and disrupt terrorist activities.

Twenty-three Air Force and Navy intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Iraq. Additionally, four Air Force and RAF 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 128 airlift sorties were flown, 449 tons of cargo delivered and 3,008 passengers were transported. This included approximately 31,920 pounds of troop re-supply air-dropped in Afghanistan.

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

On May 21, Air Force and French tanker crews flew 52 sorties and off-loaded approximately 2.9 million pounds of fuel to 257 receiving aircraft.