The Portuguese Air Force is organizing and hosting the European Tactical Airlift Programme – Course (ETAP-C) from october 19 to october 31, based at Air Base No. 11 in Beja. 

The ETAP-C is part of the European Tactical Airlift Programme (ETAP), developed with the goal of enhancing the operational airlift capability of European nations and promoting greater interoperability among the countries that contribute to the defense of Europe’s skies. 

A total of 422 military personnel from seven different nations are taking part in this exercise. The Portuguese Air Force is represented by its C-130H and KC-390 aircraft, operated by Squadrons 501 – “Bisontes” (Bisons) and 506 – “Rinocerontes” (Rhinos), respectively. 

Over Portugal’s skies, it will also be possible to observe A-400M aircraft from Belgium and Luxembourg, a French CN235, an Italian C-130J, a German A-400M, and a Polish C-130. 

The program aims to provide participating crews with a comprehensive airlift tactics course designed to enhance tactical knowledge, expand their ability to operate in complex scenarios, and improve survivability in hostile operational environments.