Airpower: F-15Es strike enemy

SOUTHWEST ASIA: Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan during operations May 9, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

In Afghanistan, Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles, A-10 Thunderbolt IIs, and a B-1B Lancer dropped guided bomb unit-12s and 31s in order to destroy enemy combatants engaging friendly forces in Asadabad. An on-scene joint terminal attack controller confirmed that the missions were successful.

A-10s performed shows of force to deter enemy activities in Bagram, Bermel and Orgune. A JTAC reported that the missions were successful.

F-15Es performed shows of force in order to deter enemy activities in Gardez. A JTAC declared that the missions were successful.

French Mirage-2000s performed shows of force to deter enemy activities in Sangin. A JTAC confirmed that the missions were successful.

A B-1B dropped a GBU-31 and 38s in order to destroy enemy combatants in Bari Kowt. A JTAC reported that the mission was successful.

An F-15E Strike Eagle crew chief stands ready to marshal his plane out for take off at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Joshua T. Jasper) More Military Pictures

In total, 50 close-air-support missions were flown as part of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.

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

In Iraq, an Air Force MQ-1B Predator and Navy F/A-18 Hornets dropped GBU-38s and a Hellfire missile in order to destroy rocket rails, mortar positions and enemy combatants in Baghdad. A JTAC declared that the missions were successful.

An F-18C performed a show of force in order to deter enemy activities in Al Amarah. A JTAC confirmed that the mission was successful.

In total, coalition aircraft flew 38 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-six Air Force, Navy and Royal Australian Air Force ISR aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Iraq. Additionally, six Navy 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 117 airlift sorties were flown, 398 tons of cargo delivered, and 3,085 passengers were transported. This included approximately 27,520 pounds of troop re-supply air-dropped in Afghanistan.

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

On May 8, Air Force, French and RAF tanker crews flew 50 sorties and off-loaded approximately 2.3 million pounds of fuel to 181 receiving aircraft.