The European Tactical Airlift Programme (ETAP) was developed to enhance the operational airlift capability of European nations, with the goal of achieving greater interoperability among the countries that safeguard Europe’s skies. 

The programme aims to improve and develop common tactics, techniques, and procedures in order to overcome the challenges of flying transport aircraft within a modern, joint, and combined operational environment. 

ETAP is divided into four distinct components: the European Tactical Airlift Programme – Course (ETAP-C), European Tactical Airlift Programme – Instructor Course (ETAP-I), European Tactical Airlift Programme – Training (ETAP-T), and the European Tactical Airlift Programme – Symposium (ETAP-S). 

ETAP-C, taking place from October 19 to 31 at Air Base No. 11 in Beja, aims to provide participating crews with a comprehensive airlift tactics course designed to enhance the tactical knowledge of the forces involved and expand their expertise in hostile environments. During this course, crews will undergo training in simulated real-world scenarios, facing both Air-to-Ground and Air-to-Air threats. 

ETAP-T is a training exercise held annually, featuring scenarios tailored to each mission type according to the specific characteristics and requirements of the participating aircraft. ETAP-T provides training opportunities not only for aircrews but also for other operational areas involved. Its main objective is to foster greater interoperability among participating nations, establishing a foundation for the success of joint and combined operations. 

ETAP-I component is designed to give European airlift instructor pilots deeper experience and knowledge of the various types of transport aircraft in service, as well as their specific mission capabilities. It also allows instructor pilots to assist aircrews during flight preparation and support them throughout mission execution — a process that significantly contributes to their professional development. 

Finally, the ETAP-S focuses exclusively on the tactical aspects of European airlift operations at the operational level. This completes the cycle of instruction, learning, and discussion. The concrete initiatives developed within ETAP-S are intended to provide valuable input for consideration by the European Air Transport Fleet (EATF).