Air Mobility Command has sent more than 45 members of the 621st Contingency Response Wing, McGuire AFB, N.J., aboard two supply-laden C-17s to Pakistan to help orchestrate aerial relief operations. Additionally, the Pentagon has dispatched Army helicopters from Bagram AB, Afghanistan, and Navy helicopters from Bahrain. USAF C-130s and C-17s flying in personnel and supplies have delivered more than 300,000 pounds. (See also DR, 10/11/05)
With a shrinking fleet and growing operational demand, Air Force Special Operations Command sees the new OA-1K combat scout aircraft as key to a “new era,” officials say.