Airpower: C-130s sustain operations

SOUTHWEST ASIA: Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan in the following operations Oct. 4, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

In Afghanistan, Coalition aircraft conducted shows of force to deter enemy activity in the vicinity of Musa Qaleh. The missions were reported successful by joint terminal attack controllers.

In total, 45 close air support missions were flown as part of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.

Sixteen Air Force and coalition intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Afghanistan.

In Iraq, a Navy F/A-18C Hornet conducted a show of force to deter insurgent activities in the vicinity of Baghdad. A JTAC confirmed the mission successful.

In total, Coalition aircraft flew 51 close air support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions integrated and synchronized with Coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided over watch for reconstruction activities and helped to deter and disrupt terrorist activities.

Twenty-seven Air Force and Navy ISR aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Iraq. Additionally, three Air Force and coalition aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.

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

Approximately 159 airlift sorties were flown; 440 tons of cargo delivered, and 4,335 passengers were transported.

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

On Oct. 3, Air Force and coalition aerial refueling crews flew 47 sorties and off-loaded approximately 2.9 million pounds of fuel to 228 receiving aircraft.