anacleto-photography---defense-and-air

F-35 or Gripen? The choice that will define Portuguese air defence for the next four decades

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 15:46:11 GMT

Saab recently acknowledged that OGMA has the potential to produce parts of the Gripen in Portugal. The news went largely unnoticed, but it got me thinking more systematically about a decision that will commit Portugal's defence budget for the next four decades.

For years this debate has been reduced to a slogan contest: the F-35 as a symbol of modernity and transatlantic alignment, the Gripen as the European and economically sensible option. What's almost always missing are the numbers, the real operational context, and an honest reading of what modern warfare is teaching us. This article tries to address that.

A preliminary note: the cost study I use as my main reference was produced by Aviation Week Network on behalf of Saab. The data comes from open sources within the US Department of Defense, which gives it credibility, but the commissioning context should be kept in mind. I say this not to discredit the numbers, but because intellectual honesty seems to me the foundation of any serious argument.

The technological fetish and the economic reality

Let's be honest: the idea of Portugal having the F-35 is a kind of technological fetish for some people, but it doesn't strike me as a sound investment strategy, either in the short or the long term.

We're talking about a fighter with an astronomical unit cost for our economy. And it's not just the acquisition: there's the need to purchase spare parts, proprietary equipment and tools, strictly certified by Lockheed Martin, for maintenance. Not to mention the deep infrastructure overhaul required to house this fleet. None of this is cheap, and none of it makes the headlines when people talk about the price of the aircraft.

What rarely enters this debate is the concept of Through Life Cost: the total cost of ownership over the entire useful life of the aircraft. Acquisition is just the down payment. The real cost includes decades of maintenance, operations, personnel, spare parts and technical support. According to US Department of Defense analysis, more than 60% of the total costs of a military fixed-wing aircraft are incurred during the operations and maintenance phase. Acquisition, the number that gets all the publicity, represents only around 28%.

This has a direct implication: buying cheap can end up expensive, but buying expensive guarantees decades of severe budgetary pressure. For Portugal, with a structurally constrained defence budget, this calculation is not academic. It is existential.

The numbers: what the study reveals

The Aviation Week study compares eight aircraft currently in production and active in global markets, using a theoretical fleet of 100 aircraft, a service life of 37 years and an average utilisation of 200 flight hours per aircraft per year. The scale is not Portugal's, but the ratios are directly comparable.

Cost comparison: F-35A vs. Gripen E/F vs. F-16V

Source: Aviation Week Network / SAAB, Fighter Aircraft Through Life Costs, May 2023. O&M data from US DoD AFTOC and VAMOSC systems.

The numbers are clear. The F-35A costs $29,283 per flight hour in maintenance alone. The Gripen E/F costs $12,200: less than half. In total cost of ownership per aircraft over 37 years, the F-35 comes in at $453 million. The Gripen E/F at $240 million.

For a fleet of realistic size for Portugal, b etween 20 and 30 aircraft, the difference accumulates into billions of euros over the programme's lifetime. These are billions locked into aircraft maintenance, or that could be invested in Portugal's real defence gaps: air defence systems, ammunition stocks, electronic warfare, cyber defence.

In a fleet of 24 aircraft flying 200 hours annually each, the maintenance cost difference between the F-35 and the Gripen E/F amounts to roughly $82 million per year. Over 37 years, that is approximately $3 billion spent exclusively on additional maintenance.

Saab JAS 39C Gripen 9236 of the 211. Taktická Letka (211th Tactical Squadron), Czech Air Force, taxiing at Air Base No. 11 in Beja during NATO Tiger Meet 2025. © Wings & Warfare

The new threat: drones and ground vulnerability

Beyond costs, we need to look at the reality of current conflicts. What we have seen in Ukraine and the Middle East is not a technological curiosity. It is a structural shift in how war is waged, and it forces a rethink of any combat aircraft acquisition decision.

Let's imagine a concrete scenario: ten years from now, a nation decides to attack Portugal. If we had chosen the F-35, we would be operating a fleet of 10 to 20 aircraft at most, concentrated on a single base. The attacker would not need a sophisticated operation. They would deploy a drone swarm to neutralise our air defences. With an arsenal whose total cost would be less than that of a single F-35, they would rapidly destroy the runway, taxiway and hangars. Our air defence would be out of action before a single fighter took off.

This is not hypothetical. In June 2025, Ukraine executed Operation Spider Web: 117 FPV drones, concealed inside trucks within Russian territory, simultaneously struck five Russian air bases and destroyed or damaged more than 40 strategic bombers, including Tu-95s and Tu-22s, as well as A-50 surveillance aircraft. The estimated material damage was $7 billion. The drones cost a fraction of that.

The Russian bombers destroyed in Operation Spider Web represented approximately 34% of Russia's strategic cruise missile carriers. They were neutralised by drones the size of a medium pizza box, piloted remotely from Ukraine and guided by autonomous vision systems trained on images of the targets.

The lesson is not new to those who follow these conflicts closely, but the scale and precision of this operation confirm something Western military planners are still fully absorbing: the concentration of high-value air assets on fixed bases is a critical vulnerability in modern warfare. The strategic response, as Sweden recognised decades ago when designing the Gripen doctrine, is dispersal.

The value of what is defended and the inventory ratio

There is an aggravating factor that makes this scenario even more concerning for Portugal: the deep gaps in our air defence capabilities. There is talk of acquiring medium-range systems for the Air Force and short-range systems for the Army, but we are far from having adequate coverage or, more importantly, ammunition stocks capable of sustaining a real conflict.

It is obvious that, when we question the use of a $2 million missile to shoot down a $20,000 drone, the maths seems wrong at first glance. But the real calculation should not be made on the price of the drone: it should be made on the value of what is being defended. The cost of letting that drone strike a power station, a hospital, a communications centre, military infrastructure or our own population will always be infinitely greater than the cost of the missile fired.

The problem for Portugal is not the cost of the shot itself: it is the sustainability of the inventory ratio. For every missile we have in stock, an adversary can put ten drones in the air. If we exhaust our inventory in 48 hours, our critical infrastructure is defenceless.

This is not speculation. Two recent conflicts demonstrate it with surgical precision. In the Twelve-Day War of June 2025, the US fired more than 150 THAAD interceptors and around 80 SM-3s in support of Israel, consuming approximately one quarter of the entire American THAAD stockpile in under two weeks. The consumption rate exceeded by 50% the highest annual production rate ever recorded. In other words: the US burned through years of production in days.

Nine months later, in February 2026, Israel and the US launched new st rikes against Iran. Israel entered this second conflict already depleted from the previous war. In the first five days, the US spent around $2.4 billion on Patriot interceptors. Israel formally communicated to the US that it was critically low on ballistic missile interceptors. A single Patriot PAC-3 MSE interceptor costs around $4 million. The Iranian Shahed drone that forced it to be fired costs $50,000.

In the Twelve-Day War of June 2025, the US consumed roughly one quarter of its entire THAAD interceptor stockpile in under two weeks, at a rate 50% above the highest annual production ever achieved. In the 2026 conflict, Israel entered already depleted and was critically low again within days. The mathematics of inventory sustainability is the central problem of modern air defence.

And here we return to the core economic argument: every extra euro spent on the F-35's life cycle is a euro that does not go towards ammunition, air defence systems or defence redundancy. A Gripen fleet frees up budgetary space to build the layers of defence that Portugal genuinely needs.

Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II 32-09 of the Italian Aeronautica Militare on final approach into Beja during the Beja Air Show 2024. © Wings & Warfare

The onion metaphor: layered combat and Portugal's role

There is another vital factor this debate rarely includes: Portugal is part of an Alliance. Unless the attacker were an ally, we could always count on external support. And that completely changes the logic of the aircraft choice.

Modern air combat is like an onion, made of layers. To understand why this matters for our decision, it is worth looking at what the Americans themselves are doing. Someone decided to take a vertically launched surface-to-air missile from frigates, the SM-6, adapt it for air launch under the designation AIM-174, and mount it under the F/A-18 Super Hornet.

The advantage is considerable. We are talking about a missile with an intercept capability beyond 200 miles, while the AIM-120D tops out at around 100. In practice, this means that on the front line there can be a stealth fighter, an F-35 or F-22, an AWACS system such as the E-2 or E-3, or even a Wingman drone identifying and tagging a target, while the F/A-18, armed with the AIM-174, kills it from the rear, well outside the adversary's response envelope. This combination of 4th and 5th generation fighters operating in a networked architecture, with very long-range missiles, enables tactics that were impossible a decade ago.

How does this relate to our choice? Directly. Many of our allies already operate the F-35. The UK, the Netherlands, Norway, Denmark and Belgium operate or will operate the aircraft. These countries cover the stealth layer of the NATO architecture. Portugal does not need to duplicate that capability. It can contribute more effectively with a versatile, interoperable and economically sustainable platform, capable of integrating close air support, maritime patrol and medium-range air defence missions in coordination with allies covering the more advanced layers.

The aircraft choice should be made on the basis of NATO interoperability and the role Portugal can play in that architecture, not out of prestige or because the neighbour has the latest model. The Gripen E/F is compatible with NATO communication and datalink standards. Interoperability is a technical question with technical solutions.

Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II of the United States Air Force on static display at the Beja Air Show 2024. © Wings & Warfare

Operational dispersal and technological sovereignty

The Gripen was designed from the outset to operate from road strips of just 800 metres, with minimal maintenance crews and rapid turnaround cycles. This doctrine was developed by Sweden over decades of territorial defence planning. It is directly relevant to any high-intensity conflict scenario: a fleet concentrated at Montijo or Monte Real is a target; a fleet dispersed across multiple temporary operating locations is a far more complex logistical problem for any adversary.

There is also the question of technological sovereignty. With the Gripen, Portugal would have access to the source code and the ability to modify the aircraft without depending on the manufacturer for every update. With the F-35, it is Lockheed Martin that decides what can and cannot be done to the aircraft, and every change involves negotiation with the company and with the US government. Saab's VP of Gripen Business mentioned, during a recent visit to Stockholm, that the company's engineers code in the morning and fly in the afternoon. This is not sales rhetoric: it is a system architecture deliberately designed for rapid adaptability, and in a threat environment evolving as fast as the current one, that is not a minor detail.

The possibility of production at OGMA strengthens this argument. Saab cited the Brazilian mo del, where Embraer participated in producing the Gripen E. OGMA, which Embraer controls, has the installed technical capacity for a similar partnership. With the F-35, Portugal's negotiating room would be structurally far more limited.

Saab JAS 39C Gripen 9241 of the 211. Taktická Letka, Czech Air Force, rolling on the runway at Air Base Nº11 in Beja during NATO Tiger Meet 2025. The tiger stripe markings on the wing tank and the squadron's tiger badge on the fuselage are clearly visible. © Wings & Warfare

The limitations of this argument

It would be dishonest not to acknowledge where the argument for the Gripen has its weak points.

The F-35 has stealth capabilities the Gripen genuinely does not possess. In high-density contested airspace penetration scenarios, this difference is real and significant. If Portugal had ambitions to project power into anti-access and area-denial environments, the F-35 would be the appropriate platform. The central question is whether that mission is relevant to our actual defence strategy.

There is also political pressure that cannot be ignored. The US has exerted direct influence over allied countries to choose the F-35, and that dimension carries real weight in bilateral relations and NATO positioning. The final decision will not be purely technical or economic.

And the Aviation Week study, although based on official US data, was commissioned by Saab. That does not invalidate the numbers, but the selection of variables and the structure of the analysis naturally favours the product that commissioned it. Caution in interpretation is mandato ry.

Two exceptional aircraft, two very different realities. Both the F-35 and the Gripen represent the pinnacle of Western combat aviation, and photographing them side by side puts the debate in sharp relief. The F-35 is, without question, the most capable fighter in the sky today. But capability and affordability are two different conversations, and for a country like Portugal, that second conversation cannot be avoided. The numbers don't lie: they just rarely make the headlines. © Wings & Warfare

Conclusion: the choice that reveals our strategy

The choice between the F-35 and the Gripen is not just an acquisition decision. It is a statement about what role Portugal intends to play in NATO, what risks it considers a priority, and how it plans to balance military capability with long-term financial sustainability.

It seems to me that the rational answer, for a country with Portugal's strategic and budgetary profile, points clearly towards the Gripen E/F. Not because the F-35 is a bad aircraft: it is probably the best combat aircraft in the world right now. But the best aircraft in the world, operated in a minimal fleet, concentrated on a base vulnerable to low-cost drone swarms, with maintenance costs consuming the defence budget for decades, does not produce the best defence for Portugal.

The Gripen allows for a larger fleet, with better operational dispersal, far more controlled life-cycle costs and the capacity for autonomous technological adaptation. It frees up budget to build the layers of defence that modern warfare is showing to be decisive: layered air defence systems, sustainable ammunition stocks, drone intercept capabilities, electronic warfare.

The final decision will be made by people with access to information I do not have, in political contexts that transcend technical analysis. But the numbers are available, and they deserve to be at the centre of the public debate, before the narrative of technological prestige replaces strategic reasoning.

But what do I know about any of this? I'm just a visual storyteller who likes to photograph aircraft and tanks.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Sources: Aviation Week Network / SAAB, Fighter Aircraft Through Life Costs (May 2023); U.S. DoD AFTOC and VAMOSC systems; Atlantic Council, June 2025; CSIS, February 2026; Kyiv Post, March 2026; Defence Industry Europe, March 2026; ECO, interview with Daniel Boestad, VP Gripen Business, Saab.

The Super Tucano and Portugal: Why It Makes More Sense Than It Seems

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 20:23:30 GMT

Since the announcement of the Super Tucano acquisition to join the ranks of the Portuguese Air Force, through to the arrival of the first units, the reception has been one of mixed feelings. On one side, the sceptics - “a propeller aircraft in the age of stealth jets” - on the other, those who looked at this acquisition with the potential it genuinely holds. The truth is, when you analyse the aircraft with rigour and without bias, the decision proves not only correct, but strategically sound.

This acquisition does not emerge from a vacuum. The progressive obsolescence of Portuguese military assets demands gradual replacement, and the evolution of global threats: terrorism, drug trafficking, piracy, regional conflicts - requires that the Armed Forces are equipped to respond. Portugal is a member of NATO, the EU, the UN and the CPLP, with defence obligations across all those frameworks. Its geographical position, a connector between Europe, Africa and the Americas, makes that responsibility even more concrete. The 12 A-29N Super Tucanos are not an expense. They are an answer.

Let’s get to what matters.

The A-29N in Portuguese Air Force colours - the NATO-standard variant that put Portugal on the map as the Alliance's first operator of the type. | Credit: Embraer

A Platform That Speaks for Itself

We are talking about a twin-seat turboprop aircraft with a maximum speed of 590 km/h, a range of 1,500 km, and a weapons payload capacity of 1,550 kg - all of this at a low acquisition cost and, equally, a low cost per flight hour. Two factors that, in a defence budget context always under pressure, are impossible to ignore.

But there’s more: Portugal became the first NATO country to operate this system, which led Embraer to develop the A-29N variant, specifically designed to meet Alliance standards. This not only strengthens the ties between Portugal and Brazil, but cements Portugal in the role of launch customer, serving as a reference and example for other allies. This was not an isolated case: the same phenomenon occurred with the KC-390 Millennium, also from Embraer, where Portugal once again led the way.

The first A-29N units officially handed over to the Portuguese Air Force on December 17, 2025, at OGMA facilities — a milestone that made Portugal the first NATO nation to operate the type. | Credit: Portuguese Air Force

What the A-29N Actually Brings to the Table

The A-29N is not simply a Super Tucano with a NATO sticker slapped on the fuselage. When Embraer unveiled it at the LAAD Defence & Security exhibition in April 2023, it was a deliberate signal to European air forces: this variant was purpose-built for the Alliance. The differences from previous variants are substantial, and they carry concrete operational implications.

On the communications and navigation side, the A-29N carries NATO-standard V/UHF radios, a satellite communications terminal, and Link 16 datalink - the same tactical data network that ties together NATO air operations across the Alliance. It also integrates a Digitally Aided Close Air Support module, known as DACAS, which allows ground forces to transmit targeting data to the aircraft digitally rather than over voice radio, reducing the risk of error in the most critical moments of a mission. Add to that a Variable Message Format (VMF) system, encrypted military GPS, and a Mod 5 IFF transponder — the identification system that prevents friendly fire in a congested airspace — and what emerges is an aircraft genuinely interoperable with any NATO partner in the sky.

Perhaps the most tactically relevant addition is ROVER (Remotely Operated Video Enhanced Receiver) compatibility. This capability allows the aircraft’s electro-optical sensor feed to be streamed in real time directly to ground forces. A special operations team on the ground can watch exactly what the aircraft is seeing, on the same screen, at the same time. In a complex urban or jungle environment, that shared situational awareness can be the difference between a successful mission and a catastrophic mistake.

The aircraft also supports single-pilot operation, which has practical implications for both operational flexibility and training costs. And the embedded training suite, updated to include virtual, augmented and mixed reality, means it arrives not just as a weapons platform, but as a complete tactical training system.

The A-29N in its element - armed, airborne, and built from the ground up to meet NATO standards. The designation on the fuselage says it all. | Credit: Embraer

Advanced Training: A Long-Overdue Gap to Fill

One of the most immediate vectors, and perhaps the most uncontroversial, is advanced training. Since Portugal retired and decommissioned the Alpha-Jet from operational service, a significant gap has emerged in the training pipeline for pilots seeking to continue their careers in fighter squadrons, at the controls of the F-16. The Super Tucano bridges that gap, easing the transition between aircraft such as the Chipmunk and TB-30, and reaction fighters.

It is equipped with similar, in some cases shared, systems, can be used in ground attack and dogfight training scenarios, and is already capable of replicating the environment and G-forces that fighter pilots will eventually have to manage. Its systems architecture brings it close to real combat conditions, preparing pilots more effectively for a smooth transition not only to the F-16M, but potentially to next generation aircraft such as the F-35 (or another option available on the market). It is not a replacement for the F-16. It is the missing step to get there — and, eventually, to go even further.

The morning after the handover ceremony, the A-29N Super Tucanos touched down at Air Base No. 11 - home of Squadron 101 "Roncos" - where the propellers had barely stopped before a new chapter in Portuguese Air Force history began. | Credit: Portuguese Air Force

Combat: More Versatile Than It Looks

This is where the argument gains a dimension that many overlook. The low cost per flight hour allows the Super Tucano to be deployed in operations where the anti-aircraft threat is limited or absent, and such theatres are far from rare in today’s world.

Consider the United States: the Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC), which forms the air component of USSOCOM, invested in aircraft such as the OA-1K Skyraider II, a heavily militarised version of a basic agricultural aircraft, the AT-802, specifically for Close Air Support (CAS) missions in low-threat environments, supporting special operations forces. Simultaneously, through ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance) systems, the aircraft monitors the area of operations, ensuring there are no unpleasant surprises for personnel on the ground. The A-29 Super Tucano can do exactly that.

Being realistic: Portugal does not operate at the tempo of American Special Forces. But it is part of an alliance, with real force projection commitments. At any moment it may need to deploy assets, air or otherwise, to a joint operation. It is always useful to have these cards available.

There is, however, a more immediate and concrete reality. Since 2017, Portugal has had troops deployed in the Central African Republic as part of MINUSCA, the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the CAR. Those troops operate with limited air support assets, such as helicopter detachments from other nations. Having a handful of Super Tucanos in that theatre would be, at minimum, a dual-effect factor: on one hand, a psychological guarantee for personnel on the ground, they know something is there to protect them; on the other, a significant deterrent for anyone considering provocations. The presence of modern aircraft in peace missions is also, in itself, a clear signal of the country’s commitment to global security, reinforcing Portugal’s strategic partnerships.

It also bears noting that this is a guerrilla warfare environment, with dense jungle and forest terrain interspersed with open areas, a scenario not entirely unlike what Portugal faced during the Overseas War, where aircraft such as the T-6 were widely used as CAS platforms for troops on the ground. The Super Tucano has an additional trump card in this context: the ability to operate from temporary, unpaved strips. A versatility no reaction fighter can offer.

A glimpse of what the A-29N brings to the table — from laser-guided bombs and rocket pods to EO/IR targeting systems, the Super Tucano's arsenal offers over 160 possible configurations. | Credit: Embraer Official Brochure

The New Paradigm: Drones, and the Need to Stop Them

It would be impossible to write about this topic in 2026 without addressing the elephant in the room: drones. The conflict in Ukraine was not just a laboratory of land warfare - it was the largest public demonstration ever seen of what a drone threat at scale can do to conventional military forces. And Europe is watching, uncomfortably, with the growing awareness that it is not prepared to respond.

The problem is not new, but the scale is. Drones have moved from being a tactical curiosity of asymmetric forces to becoming a structural threat to sovereign airspace. In 2024, incursions by unidentified drones were recorded over military bases in several European NATO countries, including Germany, the United Kingdom and Sweden. In some cases, the armed forces concerned had no immediate means to respond without disproportionate escalation. Scrambling an F-16 to shoot down a €500 drone is, quite literally, bad economics.

Drone interception requires multiple layers: man-portable systems, high-power microwave weapons, lasers, kinetic projectiles, jamming systems, MANPADs, vehicle-mounted launchers. But the airborne layer exists and has been used. What has been observed in Ukrainian skies is telling: from the use of fighters for interceptions, to more cost-efficient solutions such as the Yak-52, a basic training aircraft that first flew in 1976, and the AN-28, a STOL utility aircraft with a first flight in 1973, now equipped with ISR systems and armament such as the Dillon Aero M-134D Gatling. These are improvised solutions, born of necessity. They work, but have obvious limitations in terms of detection systems, range and response capability.

This is where the Super Tucano stands apart. Unlike those improvised platforms, the A-29N arrives with integrated targeting systems, latest-generation EO/IR sensors, precision armament and a full self-protection suite. Its ability to operate at low altitude and reduced speed. characteristics that a fighter jet manages with difficulty. makes it particularly suited to hunting low and medium altitude drones, which is precisely where the threat is most prevalent. A laser-guided rocket pod, combined with the internal 12.7mm machine guns, represents an effective and proportionate kinetic response to most drone threats in the current spectrum.

Embraer is already working on a dedicated counter-UAS upgrade for the platform, making this capability even more structured and effective. But even without that upgrade, the A-29N already represents a smarter, cheaper and more sustainable response than scrambling a 4th-generation fighter for every drone incursion over national or allied territory. In a NATO context where pressure to increase low-altitude air defence capabilities is growing - and where budgets, however much they increase, never quite cover everything - having a platform like this in the fleet is not redundancy. It is rationality.

Embraer's counter-UAS upgrade for the A-29 Super Tucano - turning an already versatile platform into a cost-effective answer to one of the most pressing threats on the modern battlefield. Credit: Embraer

The EEZ: One of the World’s Largest, and Not Always Well Guarded

There is a figure that rarely features in discussions about Portuguese national defence, and it should: Portugal’s Exclusive Economic Zone is the 20th largest in the world and the 5th in Europe, covering approximately 1.7 million square kilometres. To put that in context, it is almost 19 times the country’s land area. It encompasses the Atlantic around the mainland, the Azores and Madeira, and contains natural resources, strategic maritime routes, submarine communications cables, and vessel traffic that ranges from the entirely legitimate to the deeply illicit.

Patrolling an area of this size with available assets is, to be frank, a challenge that systematically exceeds installed capacity. The P-3C Cup+, in service with Esquadra 601 - “Lobos”, remains the backbone of this mission: equipped with the necessary sensors, offering greater endurance and range, built for long-duration patrols over the Atlantic. But the operational reality is demanding. The shortage of specialised human assets - pilots, tactical systems operators, complete crews - is a structural limitation that no aircraft acquisition resolves on its own. A fleet can grow in numbers; the human capacity to operate it sustainably is another matter entirely, built over years and not through contracts. The P-3C was conceived in the 1960s. However much the Cup+ upgrades have modernised it, there is a limit to what an aircraft of this generation can do in a world of rapidly evolving threats.

It is in this context that the Super Tucano emerges as a genuinely useful complement, not merely a second-line fallback. For coastal patrol, the band between the shoreline and the first few hundred nautical miles, the A-29N offers something the P-3C cannot: speed of response, low operating cost, and the capacity for immediate intervention if required. A P-3C on a long-duration patrol mission in the mid-Atlantic cannot be redirected in minutes to respond to a situation off the Alentejo coast or at the Cape St. Vincent channel. An A-29N based in Beja can.

The threats in this space are real and documented. Portugal sits on one of the Atlantic’s most active drug trafficking routes, with vessels regularly transiting between South America and Western Europe. Illegal fishing in the EEZ, including by industrial fleets operating in the grey zones of international regulation, represents significant economic losses and a silent erosion of sovereignty. And there is a broader maritime security dimension: the submarine cables that pass through Portugal’s EEZ are critical infrastructure for transatlantic communications. Their vulnerability, demonstrated by recent incidents in the Baltic Sea, is not theoretical.

In this framework, the A-29Ns can support operations by the Navy, the Maritime Authority and various law enforcement agencies, contributing to the monitoring and effective exercise of state authority at sea. In VBSS (Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure) operations and counter-piracy missions, they fly in a holding pattern while teams conduct the approach, maintaining active surveillance of the area of operations. If necessary, they deter. If required, they strike. And they do so at a cost per flight hour that allows this presence to be maintained sustainably, not only on the days when the budget allows for scrambling heavier assets.

Portugal’s EEZ is a strategic asset that Portugal has systematically undervalued in terms of defence and monitoring capacity. The A-29N does not solve that problem alone - no platform does. But it is a missing piece in a puzzle that is, finally, beginning to take shape.

The A-29N is no stranger to the sea. Its ISR capabilities and loitering endurance make it a natural fit for maritime patrol, anti-piracy operations, and VBSS support - quietly watching, ready to act. | Credit: Embraer Official Brochure

The Portugal-Embraer Pattern: This Has Happened Before

There is a strategic logic at work here that goes beyond a single procurement decision, and it becomes clear when you look at what happened with the KC-390 Millennium.

Portugal was the first NATO member to operate the KC-390 - a decision that, at the time, also raised eyebrows in some quarters. The result? Air Base No. 11 in Beja became an internationally recognised training centre for the aircraft. Portugal positioned itself as Embraer’s strategic partner for European expansion, with the contract eventually including an option for up to ten additional aircraft to be acquired by partner nations through Portugal, via government-to-government negotiations. The pattern is unambiguous: Portugal buys first, Portugal trains the Alliance.

The A-29N follows the same script. The contract signed in December 2024, valued at approximately 200 million euros, covers 12 aircraft, a flight simulator, logistics support, and critically, national industry participation in the reconfiguration of the aircraft to NATO standards. The acquisition is aligned with NATO and EU standards, strengthening the interoperability of Portuguese forces in allied missions - a crucial aspect in ensuring that Portugal remains a militarily valid and trusted partner.

Two aircraft, one partnership. The KC-390 Millennium and the A-29N side by side at Embraer's facility in Brazil - a photograph that captures Portugal's strategic relationship with Embraer better than any press release could. Credit: Embraer

Portugal as Europe’s A-29N Industrial Hub

The industrial dimension of this acquisition deserves to be treated separately, because it is where the story becomes genuinely interesting from an economic and strategic standpoint.

The OGMA - Indústria Aeronáutica de Portugal, majority-owned by Embraer and based in Alverca, is already the first and only company in the entire EMEA region certified for A-29 Super Tucano maintenance and modification. That process began in 2022, when Embraer started capacitating OGMA not just for routine maintenance, but for future modifications to meet evolving customer requirements across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The aircraft used for international demonstration tours, the very unit that appeared at Beja Air Show 2024, was already based at OGMA, with Portuguese technicians supporting its global sales campaign.

For the A-29N specifically, OGMA is responsible for integrating the NATO-standard systems into each aircraft before delivery to the Portuguese Air Force. The knowledge accumulated through that process positions Portugal, and OGMA, as the natural hub for any future A-29N operators in Europe who need maintenance, upgrade or modification work done.

This acquisition is also part of the national strategy of using Armed Forces re-equipment programmes to support the country’s industrial development and strengthen the Defence Technology and Industrial Base. That is guaranteed through active participation in the creation of technical solutions for the aircraft’s new operational systems architecture — it is not just buying and receiving, it is building knowledge that stays in Portugal.

And then there is Beja. In December 2025, alongside the handover of the first aircraft, a letter of intent was signed for the installation of a final assembly line for the A-29N in Beja. The aircraft produced there will be available to other European nations through government-to-government negotiations, with Portugal acting as intermediary and beneficiary. It is the KC-390 model, applied again, this time with counter-UAS capability at its core. Embraer has been explicit: there is growing demand across Europe for aircraft capable of drone interception missions, and a production line in Portugal is the platform from which to serve that demand.

The numbers speak for themselves. Embraer has invested 74 million euros in OGMA, generating 300 jobs and projecting a potential tripling of OGMA’s annual turnover to 600 million euros. Portugal is not just buying an aircraft. It is building an ecosystem.

PT-ZTU on a low pass at Beja Air Show 2024 - the demonstration that started it all. | Credit: Wings & Warfare

Conclusion: This Is Not Nostalgia. It Is Strategy.

Looking at things as they are, the acquisition of the Super Tucano for Portugal is, beyond a strategic decision, an assertion of leadership in the face of the new paradigm of modern conflict. By investing in a platform that may appear anachronistic to those who think of air combat solely in beyond-visual-range terms, Portugal acknowledges what real operational theatres have consistently demonstrated: adaptability is worth as much as sophistication.

From drone interception to the coastal patrol of one of the world’s largest EEZs; from CAS in low-threat theatres to the realities of FAC(A) (Forward Air Controller Airborne), TAC(A) (Tactical Air Coordinator Airborne), SCAR (Strike Coordination and Reconnaissance) and Air Interdiction, all of this in a platform capable of operating day and night, from any dirt strip, at an operating cost that does not strain the budget.

The Super Tucano did not come to replace the F-16. It came to fill what the F-16 cannot, or should not, do. And in the process, Portugal did not simply buy an aircraft: it became the European pivot of a system that other allies will, inevitably, want to have. In defence, that is called complementarity. And vision.

Close Air Support is where the A-29 family has proven itself in combat - thousands of hours over real battlefields, coordinating with ground forces to find, fix, and finish the target. The A-29N brings that same DNA, now flying under NATO standards. | Credit: Embraer Official Website

PT-ZTU on static display and taxiing at Beja Air Show 2024 - up close, the aircraft that would soon change Portugal's place on the NATO map. | Credit: Wings & Warfare

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Based on the Embraer A-29 Super Tucano official brochure (March 2025) and open-source operational references.

Aviation & Defense Photography Guide Season 1: From Gear Strategy to High-Speed Action

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 15:43:17 GMT

In military and aviation photojournalism, you rarely dictate the terms of your environment. You cannot control the harsh midday light on the tarmac, you cannot ask a fighter jet to repeat a low pass, and you certainly cannot pause a tactical exercise to adjust your settings. In this operational environment, the only thing you control is your camera.

Mastering your equipment in this field goes beyond simply achieving a "correct" exposure. When you are operating under pressure, your camera settings - Aperture, Shutter Speed, and ISSO - transition from being mere technical variables to vital storytelling choices.

Before we dive into the specific tactical applications and the gear that gets the job done, we need to recalibrate how we look at the foundational mechanics of photography.

The Exposure Triangle: A Tactical Baseline

We are not going to review basic photography 101, but we must establish how these three pillars interact specifically within the demanding constraints of military and aviation photography:

Aperture (Light Gathering & Depth of Field): Aperture serves a critical dual purpose. Tactically, it is your primary valve for light. In low-light operational environments - like the killhouse training with Spec Opsat dusk or a dimly lit hangar - having "fast glass" (shooting wide open at f/2.8 or f/1.4) allows you to gather crucial ambient light without dropping your shutter speed to dangerous, motion-blurring levels. Narratively, it controls Depth of Field. Shooting wide open isolates your subject - a pilot, a specific piece of gear - from the chaotic background of a busy flight line. Conversely, stopping down (e.g., f/8 or f/11) is essential when the context matters as much as the subject, keeping both the troops in the foreground and the aircraft in the background sharp. We will explore this further in our composition breakdown.

Shutter Speed (Controlling Time): This is how you dictate the perception of action. Fast shutter speeds freeze high-speed movement, ensuring critical sharpness. Slow shutter speeds introduce motion blur, conveying momentum and raw power. Choosing between the two is the difference between a static record and a dynamic narrative.

ISO (The Misunderstood Variable): Let’s kill a persistent myth right now: ISO is not your enemy. In the past, pushing ISO meant ruining a shot with heavy digital noise. Today, many photographers still sacrifice critical shutter speed just to keep their ISO at 100, resulting in motion-blurred, unusable images. Remember this rule: A sharp photograph with grain is infinitely more valuable than a clean, blurred mistake. Modern full-frame mirrorless systems have exceptional low-light capabilities. When I shoot with my Canon EOS R or EOS R3, pushing the ISO above 12,800 in a dark cargo hold or during a night operation yields highly usable, professional-grade results. Don't let the fear of grain cost you the shot.

1. Shutter Speed: The "Frozen Rotor" Anomaly and the Pace of the Battlefield

When it comes to military and aviation photography, your shutter speed is the most critical narrative tool you possess. It dictates the kinetic energy of the scene - whether you are aiming at the sky or the dirt.

One of the most common, and glaring, mistakes made by newcomers is the instinctive urge to shoot at extremely high shutter speeds (like 1/2000s or faster) as a safety net to guarantee a sharp image. While this works perfectly to freeze a fighter jet passing at Mach 0.9 or an operator fast-roping from a hover, applying this blanket logic to helicopters, propeller-driven aircraft, or moving ground vehicles ruins the narrative.

The "Frozen Rotor" Anomaly in Aviation

When you use a high shutter speed on a helicopter or a turboprop, you strip the machine of its energy. The aircraft suddenly looks like a plastic model magically suspended in mid-air, awkwardly hanging in the sky rather than powering through it. To convey raw power, you must intentionally introduce motion blur to the blades while keeping the fuselage tack-sharp through panning.

Rotary Wings: The sweet spot usually lies between 1/60s and 1/125s . This creates a dynamic blur that tells the viewer the engines are screaming.
Propeller Aircraft: You can often get away with slightly faster speeds, around 1/160s to 1/250s , to achieve a satisfying prop blur.

�� Tactical Field Note: Rotor Blur Execution

If you are heading into an Airshow, a Spotters Day, or a live exercise, memorize this baseline configuration for helicopters:

Shooting Mode: Shutter Priority (Tv on Canon / S on Nikon/Sony) to lock in your kinetic settings.
Shutter Speed: Start at 1/250s and progressively step down as you dial in your panning rhythm.
ISO: Start at 100 (Base ISO), but remember our previous rule - adjust as the light dictates.
Autofocus Area: Single-Point AF . Pinpoint the cockpit or the main rotor mast. Do not let the camera guess.
Autofocus Mode: Continuous AF (AI-Servo for Canon / AF-C for Nikon/Sony) to track the aircraft as it closes the distance.
Execution: Smooth panning mechanics are mandatory. Lock onto the fuselage, follow its trajectory seamlessly, and let the blades drag.

Momentum on the Ground

This principle doesn't stop at the flight line; it applies directly to ground operations. If you are photographing a tactical vehicle - like a Pandur or a Leopard tank - moving aggressively across rough terrain, freezing it completely at 1/2000s might make it look like it's simply parked in the mud. By dropping your shutter speed and panning with the vehicle, you blur the background and the wheels/tracks, instantly communicating speed, weight, and momentum.

Conversely, if you need to freeze the explosive peak of a breaching charge, the ejection of a spent brass casing, or the exact moment a paratrooper leaves the door, you must push that shutter speed aggressively high.

It is never about just getting a sharp photo; it is about choosing the shutter speed that tells the true story of the battlefield's pace.

2. Tactical Composition: Commanding the Viewer's Eye

In chaotic environments - whether a bustling flight line, a dusty LZ (Landing Zone), or a live-fire exercise - visual clutter is your worst enemy. Composition is not just about making a photo look "pretty"; it is a tactical tool used to cut through the noise and forcefully dictate where the viewer looks.

Here is the operational breakdown of the 15 compositional techniques every military photojournalist must master:

1. Rule of Thirds

The Concept: The universal baseline. Mentally dividing your frame into a 3x3 grid and placing your primary subject on the intersecting lines or nodes, rather than dead center. It creates natural tension and gives the subject "room to breathe" or move into the frame.

In the Field (Left): Placing a soldier and his team on the far-right intersecting nodes, allowing the rest of the image to "breathe" and show the broader operational environment where the action is unfolding.
In the Field (Right): Capturing an operator taking a defensive position behind the armored door of a vehicle immediately after dismounting. By placing him exactly on the far-left vertical line, you draw immediate tension and leave the right side open to show his line of sight.

2. Leading Lines

The Concept: Using the geometry of the battlefield or the environment to create literal visual arrows that vector the viewer's eye straight to the target.

In the Field (Left): Using an out-of-focus formation of troops - wearing identical gear and berets - as a visual corridor. This repetition of blurred shapes naturally leads the eye directly to a sharply focused officer conducting an inspection in the exact same gear.
In the Field (Right): Utilizing the natural geometry of a dirt road, fresh tire tracks, and the surrounding vegetation to act as converging lines that vector the viewer's eye straight toward an approaching Pandur armored vehicle.

3. Symmetry

The Concept: A technique used to project absolute order, power, and precision. It commands attention through perfect visual equilibrium.

In the Field: Capturing an A-7 Corsair II parked on the flight line, framed in perfect horizontal symmetry with its crisp reflection in a tarmac puddle, projecting absolute visual balance.

4. Balance

The Concept: When you place a heavy subject on one side of your frame, the opposite side cannot feel empty or "tipping over." You must balance the visual weight with a secondary element.

In the Field: Framing an HH-101 helicopter in the immediate foreground, locking it onto the top-right intersection. To prevent the image from feeling lopsided, a smaller Lynx helicopter is positioned in the distant background on the bottom-left intersection, perfectly counterweighting the scene against a clean, blue sky.

5. Golden Ratio

The Concept: A mathematical ratio that guides the human eye in a fluid, sweeping spiral motion through the image, landing perfectly on the primary subject.

In the Field (Left): A visual spiral initiating at a small structure on the Landing Zone (LZ), following the ground line and the curving trajectory of red smoke from a signal grenade, terminating perfectly on the center of the spiral: an EH-101 Merlin on final approach.
In the Field (Right): Using the bow of a frigate as the origin of the spiral, sweeping through a pier and some civilian boats, before tightening and resting on the main subject in the center: a hovering Super Lynx helicopter.

6. Golden Rectangle

The Concept: Similar to the Golden Ratio, this involves dividing your frame into progressively smaller rectangles to organize complex scenes so the eye flows logically to the focal point.

In the Field: Using the intersecting lines of these progressively smaller rectangles to lock onto the lead GIOE (Special Operations) operator in a two-man formation closest to the lens, perfectly structuring the chaotic darkness of a low-light operation.

7. Golden Triangle

The Concept: Highly effective in dynamic or structural scenes. You draw a diagonal line from corner to corner, and intersecting lines from the other corners to create triangular sectors that amplify kinetic energy.

In the Field: Utilizing the iconic structure of the Dom Luís I Bridge in Porto as the primary diagonal axis. The majestic NRP Sagres tall ship and its reflection sit powerfully within one of the resulting triangular sectors, not perfectly on the intersections, but commanding the designated space.

8. Fill the Frame

The Concept: Total immersion. Stripping away all environmental context and forcing the viewer to confront the sheer scale or emotion of the subject.

In the Field: Getting up close and filling the entire composition with just the massive, imposing nose of an A400M. No background, no sky, just the engineering of the machine.

9. Negative Space

The Concept: The exact opposite of filling the frame. Deliberately leaving vast amounts of empty space around your subject to emphasize scale, isolation, or vulnerability.

In the Field: Placing a tight formation of three F-16s against a vast, empty, overcast gray sky. The aircraft become small, emphasizing the sheer immensity of the airspace.

10. Framing

The Concept: Using elements of the environment to create a "frame within a frame." This places the viewer inside the action and adds crucial context.

In the Field (Left): Using massive, dark hangar doors to naturally frame a KC-390 parked outside on the ramp.
In the Field (Right): Capturing a K9 (paratrooper dog) perfectly framed between the legs of the troops standing at attention in formation.

11. Foreground Element

The Concept: Adding a layer of depth to an image. Putting something in the immediate foreground grounds the photograph and tells a multi-layered tactical story.

In the Field: Paratroopers moving on foot to a rendezvous point after landing in the LZ. In the immediate, blurred foreground, other paratroopers hold an overwatch/security position, adding immense narrative depth.

12. Depth of Field

The Concept: Using your aperture as a weapon of isolation. By shooting wide open, you dictate exactly what is relevant and what is redacted by blurring the background or foreground.

In the Field (Left): In a mixed patrol of vehicles and infantry, shooting wide open keeps a single dismounted soldier in the center of the frame tack-sharp, while blurring the chaotic surrounding environment.
In the Field (Right): Focusing sharply on a spray paint can in the immediate foreground, while the artist (NARK) and the vibrant colors of the NTM 2025 F-16 "Jaguar" remain softly blurred in the background.

13. Color Contrast

The Concept: Utilizing aggressively contrasting colors to make a subject violently separate from its environment, immediately grabbing the viewer's attention.

In the Field: A UH-60 Black Hawk featuring high-visibility orange panels and a gray base, popping powerfully against the freezing blue and white backdrop of the snow-covered Serra da Estrela.

14. Repetition

The Concept: The human brain loves patterns. Repetition visually communicates numbers, discipline, strict uniformity, and military might.

In the Field (Left): The aggressive geometric repetition of F-16s lined up perfectly on a taxiway.
In the Field (Right): The strict, uniform layout of paratrooper gear aligned flawlessly on a hangar floor.

15. Rule of Odds

The Concept: The human brain finds even numbers somewhat artificial and rigid, while odd numbers feel more organic, dynamic, and visually pleasing.

In the Field: A pair of F-16s flying in formation on the left side of the frame, visually balanced by a third, solo F-16 positioned further away on the right. Three aircraft total, creating perfect visual tension.

3. Focal Length: When the Environment Dictates the Gear

There is a romanticized idea in photography that you should choose your lens purely based on the emotional narrative you want to convey. You might want the intimate, gritty, documentary feel of a 35mm lens, or the dramatic background compression of a 400mm.

In military and aviation photojournalism, that romanticism rarely survives first contact with the operational environment.

The hard truth is this: Logistics, access, and safety perimeters dictate your focal length long before your artistic vision does. Before you mount a lens, you must assess your Area of Operations (AO) and the established Rules of Engagement (ROE) for media. If the safety officer restricts you to a perimeter 200 meters away from the runway, your 35mm lens is useless, no matter how much you love it.

Here is the tactical breakdown of focal lengths and how to deploy them based on your environmental constraints:

The "Inside Man" (Ultra-Wide to Wide: 14mm - 35mm)

Operational Environment: You only deploy this glass when you have absolute, unrestricted access. You are strapped into the cargo bay of an A400M, crammed in the back of a Pandur armored vehicle, or moving shoulder-to-shoulder with an infantry squad in a trench.
The Tactical Effect: These lenses force you to be physically close to the action. They distort the edges and exaggerate perspective, pulling the viewer violently into the scene. It feels claustrophobic, immersive, and highly personal. It screams: "I was right there with them."

The "Workhorse" (Standard Zoom: 24-70mm)

Operational Environment: The standard issue for general situational awareness. You use this when you have moderate access - walking the flight line during a pre-flight inspection, attending a briefing, or covering an award ceremony.
The Tactical Effect: It provides a field of view that closely mimics the human eye. It is versatile, allowing you to capture a wide shot of a helicopter taking off, and quickly zoom in to capture the crew chief's hand signals, all without changing your position.

The "Sniper's Optic" (Telephoto & Super-Telephoto: 70-200mm, 100-400mm, 150-600mm)

Operational Environment: Mandatory when physical distance is non-negotiable. This is your primary weapon for Airshows, strict flight line perimeters, live-fire ranges, or when capturing assets in the air from the ground.

The Tactical Effect (Compression): Beyond just "getting closer" to the subject, telephoto lenses physically compress the perceived distance between the foreground and the background. This is how you make a massive mountain range look like it is looming right immediately behind an F-16, or how you make a dispersed squad of paratroopers look tightly packed and overwhelming in numbers.

The Golden Rule of the AO: Never fight the environment. If you are stuck behind a crowd line at a Spotters Day with a 70-200mm, don't just shoot tight, repetitive crops of aircraft passing by. Look for environmental compression. If you are stuck in a cramped cockpit with a 16mm, use the heavy distortion to emphasize the sheer complexity of the instrument panels.

Assess the terrain. Understand your restrictions. Choose the weapon that maximizes the story within those limits.

4. The Loadout: Building Your Tactical Kit

The most frequent transmission I get from those entering the field of military and aviation photography is always the same: "What gear should I buy?" It’s easy to get distracted by marketing and megapixels. But in this operational environment, choosing your loadout isn't about collecting the most expensive gear; it’s about preparing for the mission. You wouldn’t bring a knife to a gunfight, and you shouldn't bring a 24mm lens to shoot a fighter jet pulling high-G maneuvers a kilometer away.

Here is how you assess and assemble a functional, mission-ready kit.

4.1. Tactical Criteria: Choosing the Right Body

When evaluating a camera body for aviation and defense photography, ignore the marketing hype and focus on these critical operational stats:

Burst Rate vs. Hit Rate: A camera that shoots 30 frames per second (fps) is useless if the autofocus can't keep up. Stability and accuracy always trump pure speed. I would rather have 5 perfectly focused shots of a crossing aircraft than 20 out-of-focus mistakes.
Buffer Capacity: Your camera cannot afford to "jam" during a critical pass. A deep buffer ensures your camera can keep writing data to the card during sustained, high-speed action without locking up.
Autofocus (Servo/Continuous): This is non-negotiable. Your AF system must be able to lock onto a fast-moving subject and track it relentlessly against complex backgrounds or empty skies.
The Megapixel Trap: Do not fall into the trap of buying a camera solely for its resolution. A tack-sharp 20MP file will always be infinitely more useful than a blurry 45MP file captured by a slow camera.

4.2. Tactical Advantage: The "Crop Factor" Cheat Code

Before buying gear, you must understand the difference between Full-Frame and APS-C (Crop Sensor) cameras. In aviation photography, APS-C sensors offer a massive tactical advantage: reach.

A Full-Frame sensor captures the entire field of view, which often leaves a lot of "dead space" around a distant aircraft. An APS-C sensor (like those found in the Canon EOS R7 or 90D) applies a crop factor (usually 1.5x or 1.6x), essentially acting as a built-in magnifier.

The Advantage: You gain 60% more reach. A 300mm lens on an APS-C body gives you the field of view of a 480mm lens. It is the ultimate "cheat code" for the flight line.
The Trade-Off: Smaller sensors generally struggle more in low-light environments (higher grain/noise) and make it harder to shoot ultra-wide angles in cramped spaces (like inside a cockpit or hangar).

4.3. The Primary Weapon: Telephoto Lenses

In the field, versatility is greater than fixed reach. Dynamic action requires rapid adaptation. While a fixed 500mm prime lens is incredibly sharp, it will "clip the wings" of an aircraft making a sudden, low pass.

You need a reliable zoom. Lenses covering ranges like 100-400mm or 150-600mm are standard issue.

The Pro Tip: A 70-200mm is mandatory in any kit. Even the f/4 versions are relatively lightweight, affordable, and offer optical quality that destroys most "super-zooms." It is the perfect lens for tight formations and low, fast passes.

4.4. Close Quarters Combat (CQB): Short Range Glass

You cannot shoot a static display or document the inside of a hangar with a 400mm lens. You need dedicated tools for close-quarters work.

The Ground Kit (Standard Zoom): Something in the 18-135mm or 24-105mm range is your "Swiss Army Knife." It allows you to shoot a wide environmental shot of a parked C-130 and immediately zoom in to capture the loadmaster's face, without changing lenses.
The Sidearm (The 50mm f/1.8): Small, cheap, and incredibly fast (bright). This is the lens that saves your life in dark, poorly lit hangars where flash photography is strictly prohibited. Warning: Ensure you know its minimum focusing distance so you don't miss a tight portrait of a pilot because you are standing too close.

4.5. Choosing Your Class: DSLR vs. Mirrorless

You have two main paths when building your system, each with its own tactical advantages.

The Veteran (DSLR Systems - e.g., Canon EOS 90D / 7D Mk II):

Pros: Incredibly budget-friendly right now. The used market is flooded with cheap, high-quality bodies and EF lenses. Excellent battery life.
Cons: Older autofocus technology and a steeper learning curve (you don't see the exact exposure in the optical viewfinder until you take the shot).

The Future (Mirrorless Systems - e.g., Canon EOS R7 / R10):

Pros: Advanced AI autofocus that can lock onto aircraft and human eyes automatically (it feels like cheating). The Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) shows your exact exposure before you pull the trigger.
Cons: Higher initial cost and significantly worse battery life (the sensor and EVF are always draining power).

4.6. The System Hack: Cross-Gen Compatibility

You do not need to buy expensive, native mirrorless lenses to get top-tier results. If you shoot Canon, an EF-EOS R adapter costs around €100 ($110). This piece of hardware allows you to mount any older DSLR (EF) lens onto a brand-new mirrorless (RF) body.

Uncompromised Performance: Many photographers fear that using an adapter will degrade the image or slow down the lens. This is a myth. Because the standard adapter contains no internal glass elements and relies on a purely digital communication protocol, there is absolutely zero loss of optical quality . Performance is fully maintained. In fact, because the new mirrorless AI tracking systems are so advanced, your older EF lens will often focus faster and track moving subjects better on the new body than it ever did on a native DSLR.

The Math: A new RF 70-200mm f/4 costs roughly €1,800 ($1,950) . A used EF 70-200mm f/4 paired with the adapter costs around €600 ($650) . You get the exact same photo, blazing-fast autofocus, and you save €1,200 ($1,300) to spend on travel, airshow tickets, or a faster memory card.

4.7. Recommended Loadouts

The Scout (Budget DSLR / ~€800 - €1200 (Used Market): Canon 90D or 7D Mark II (Used) + EF-S 18-135mm (Statics) + EF 70-300mm IS II (Action).

The Ace (Modern Mirrorless / ~€1400 - €2200 (Used/New)): Canon R10 or R7 + RF-S 18-150mm (All-in-one) + RF 100-400mm IS USM.

Your Turn Begins Now

Before you commit your budget, remember the fundamental doctrine of photographic investment: Invest in glass, not in silicon. A high-end lens is a long-term asset. It will maintain its optical superiority and resale value for a decade. A camera body is a rapidly depreciating computer. Mounting a cheap lens on a €6,000 ($6,500) body is like putting budget tires on an F-16; you will never reach operational speeds. Always prioritize the quality of the "glass".

The Reality of the Expert Level: While it is true that "the person behind the camera makes the shot," we must be honest: gear does matter once you reach a certain level of expertise. There will come a day in your career where your technique is flawless, your panning is smooth, and your timing is perfect - but you still miss the shot. You'll miss it because your entry-level buffer was full, your autofocus couldn't track a jet breaking the sound barrier, or your sensor couldn't handle the low light of a tactical night extraction.

At that elite level, high-end gear (like a stacked-sensor body) isn't a luxury - it’s a mission requirement. It provides the consistency and reliability that a professional demands when there are no "second takes."

Your Mission Path:

1. Start with what you have: Master the fundamentals of light and composition.

2. Invest in Glass: Buy the best telephoto zoom your budget allows.

3. Break the Ceiling: Only upgrade your camera body when you can prove that its mechanical limitations are the only thing standing between you and a world-class photograph.

The best equipment is the one that doesn't get in your way. Now, get out to the flight line, train your aim, and execute the mission.

5. Readout Speed: The Invisible Lag of Your Sensor

When transitioning to modern Mirrorless systems, photographers are immediately drawn to the "Silent Mode" (Electronic Shutter). The ability to shoot at 20, 30, or even 40 frames per second in absolute silence feels like a massive tactical advantage.

However, if you deploy this feature on the flight line without understanding the underlying physics, you will fall into a trap. You will encounter the silent enemy of aviation photography: The Rolling Shutter Effect .

Source: Sony

5.1. How the Sensor Sees the World (The Scanner Theory)

To understand the problem, you must understand how your camera reads light. Unlike the human eye, standard mirrorless sensors do not capture the entire image at the exact same instant.

They read the light from top to bottom, line by line - exactly like an old office document scanner. The fatal flaw? It is not instantaneous. If the subject moves faster than the sensor can read those lines, by the time the camera reaches the bottom of the frame, the subject is no longer in the same physical position it was when the scan started.

5.2. The Electronic Shutter Trap: Benchmarking Latency

We all want to use the Electronic Shutter for its extreme burst rates. But the reality is that conventional sensors possess a severe latency (readout speed) that cannot keep up with aviation action.

The Danger Zone (Readout Latency Benchmarks): The higher the number in milliseconds (ms), the slower the sensor, and the worse the distortion will be.

Canon EOS R / RP: ~80.0ms (Very Slow - Guaranteed "Jell-O" effect)
Nikon Z7 II: ~62.5ms
Canon EOS R7: ~31.3ms (Slow)
Sony a7 III / a7 IV: ~26.8ms
Canon EOS R5 / R6: ~15.5ms to 19.7ms (Better, but will still deform fast propellers)

If you shoot a static aircraft parked on the tarmac with these cameras in Electronic Mode, the image will be flawless. But if you photograph screaming propellers or execute a fast pan? The physics break.

Readout Speed data compiled by Dennis A. Mook (blog “The Wandering Lensman”)

5.3. Visual Anomalies on the Battlefield

When you mix slow readout speeds with high-speed aviation, you generate three distinct visual anomalies:

1. Rotor Distortion (Helicopters): The tip of a helicopter blade moves incredibly fast, easily exceeding the sensor's read speed. As the camera scans downward, the blade physically changes position. Result: The sensor renders a severe, unnatural curvature to the rotor blades that does not exist in reality.

Photo kindly provided by Dinis (Instagram: @movimentos_castelobranco )

2. Turboprop Distortion: Similar to helicopters, the angular velocity of an aircraft's turboprop outpaces the electronic shutter. Result: The blades acquire a sharp, impossible bend, completely destroying the geometry of the aircraft.

Photo kindly provided by Douglas Alcantara (Instagram: @alcantara_spotter )

3. The Leaning World (Lateral Speed Distortion): This happens during an aggressive panning maneuver to track a fast jet. Because the camera is moving laterally faster than the sensor reads vertically, the top of the background is recorded at a different moment than the bottom. Result: Buildings, light poles, and trees in the background slant diagonally across the frame.

Photo kindly provided by Douglas Alcantara (Instagram: @alcantara_spotter )

5.4. Tactical Countermeasures (Zero-Cost Solutions)

You do not need to buy a new camera to fix this; you just need to alter your operating mode.

Mechanical Shutter ⚙️: Physical curtains drop over the sensor, blocking the light and preventing the line-by-line scanning exposure. Result: Complete elimination of propeller and rotor distortion. Trade-off: Acoustic noise and a lower maximum burst rate (FPS).
Electronic First-Curtain Shutter (EFCS): The tactical compromise. The exposure initiates electronically but terminates mechanically. Result: Zero distortion with reduced internal camera vibration.

⚠️ THE GOLDEN RULE OF THE FLIGHT LINE: In the presence of helicopters, turboprops, or when executing aggressive panning: Turn the Silent/Electronic Mode OFF.

5.5. The Elite Standard: Stacked BSI & Global Shutter

If your mission parameters require total silence, massive burst rates, and geometric perfection, you must upgrade to elite-tier hardware.

1. Stacked BSI Technology (The Speedsters) This architecture unites a Back-Illuminated (BSI) sensor with memory physically stacked directly onto the chip. Data processing becomes nearly instantaneous.

The Benchmarks: Nikon Z8/Z9 (~4.0ms), Sony a1 (~4.2ms), Canon EOS R3 (~5.5ms).
The Result: You can shoot electronic bursts at 30 fps or higher, completely silently, with virtually zero distortion on propellers.

2. Global Shutter (The Final Revolution) Cameras like the Sony a9 III eliminate the "scanner" problem at the source. A Global Shutter reads every single pixel on the sensor at the exact same microsecond.

Superpowers: Readout time is 0ms . Distortion is physically impossible, even at shutter speeds of 1/80,000s. You also achieve total flash sync at any speed without needing High-Speed Sync (HSS).
Disadvantages: Slightly lower dynamic range (more noise at base ISO) and a massive price tag - expect to invest around €7,000 ($7,500) for the body alone.

It is rarely the camera that ruins the photograph; it is the operator's incorrect choice of firing mode for the scenario. Know your gear. Know when you can abuse the electronic speed for a silent strike, and when you must fall back on the mechanical shutter to preserve the integrity of the aircraft.

6. Memory Cards: Decoding the Alphabet Soup

You can have the fastest mirrorless camera body and the sharpest telephoto lens in the world, but if your memory card cannot keep up, your gear is effectively neutralized. In military and aviation photography, the memory card is your magazine. Using a slow card is almost as bad as having no card at all because you risk missing the shot.

If your camera's internal buffer maxes out and the card struggles to write the data, your shutter jams. A fighter jet breaks right, the action unfolds, and you are left standing on the flight line staring helplessly at a blinking red light. To prevent this, you must look past the marketing and learn to decode the intricate "alphabet soup" printed on the label.

6.1. The Anatomy of a Memory Card

When you look at a modern SD card, it is covered in acronyms and numbers. To choose the right weapon for the mission, we need to break down what each section actually means.

Legend: 1 - Storage Capacity 2 - SD Card Type 3 - Speed Class & UHS Bus Interface 4 - Max Read Speed

6.2. Mission Specs: Format and Capacity (Legend 1 & 2)

Many photographers ignore the fine print, but these letters define the card's foundational architecture. You will typically see either SDHC or SDXC.

SDHC (High Capacity) cards range up to 32GB and use an older file system (FAT32) that limits individual files to a maximum of 4GB. On a modern shoot, this is a severe limitation. For high-performance cameras, SDXC (Extended Capacity) is the mandatory tactical standard. These cards range from 64GB up to 2TB and utilize the exFAT file system, which handles massive files effortlessly and ensures workflow fluidity. As a general rule, avoid 32GB SDHC cards entirely to prevent running out of space in the middle of a deployment.

6.3. The Data Highway and Speed Classes (Legend 3)

This section of the card is packed with symbols that dictate how fast the card can actually perform under continuous fire.

First, look for the Roman numeral (I or II). This indicates the UHS Bus Interface, which you can think of as the number of lanes on a data highway. UHS-I (with a single row of pins on the back) is the older standard. It works, but it aggressively bottlenecks the buffer discharge on newer cameras. UHS-II is the tactical choice; its second row of pins allows for massive read and write speeds, keeping your camera firing smoothly.

UHS-I vs. UHS-II

Alongside the bus interface, you will find the Speed Classes. Over the years, this classification has evolved:

The Legacy Hierarchy (C and U): You might see a C10 (Speed Class 10) or a U1 / U3 (UHS Speed Class). While a U3 card guarantees a minimum write speed of 30 MB/s and used to be the 4K standard, it often struggles with the heavy RAW bursts of modern aviation photography.
Modern Speed Ratings (The "V" Class): Forget the "U"; the V-Class (Video Speed Class) is now in command. This number guarantees the minimum sustained write speed. A V30 is fine for single shots but chokes on long bursts. For most aviation shooters, the V60 (60 MB/s) is the sweet spot - the workhorse that handles fast bursts reliably without destroying your budget. If you are operating a flagship camera body, however, the air supremacy of a V90 (90 MB/s) card is mandatory to clear your buffer instantly.

Source: Sony

6.4. The Great Illusion (Legend 4)

See that massive number highlighted on the label, boldly claiming something like "280 MB/s"? That is the ultimate marketing trap. Unless specified otherwise, that large number almost exclusively indicates the READ speed - how fast you can transfer photos to your computer once you are back home.

What actually matters in the field is the WRITE speed (how fast the camera records the photo onto the card). A card might advertise a 280 MB/s read speed but only write at a sluggish 90 MB/s. If you buy a card based solely on the massive number printed on the box, you are buying a card that is fast at the desk but dangerously slow in the trenches.

6.5. Tactical Redundancy & Heavy Artillery

The number one beginner mistake is spending their entire budget on a single, massive memory card (like a 512GB V30) to hold 5,000 photos. This is a severe tactical risk. If that card corrupts or physically breaks, you lose the entire trip. It is the equivalent of putting all your ammunition into one magazine that jams.

Instead, embrace the rule of redundancy. It is infinitely better to buy two 64GB or 128GB V60 cards. If one fails, you have a backup. Warning: Buy these only from official photography retailers. A suspiciously cheap card on Amazon is likely a counterfeit that will fail when you need it most.

When SD is Not Enough: CFexpress Eventually, high-end cameras outpace even the fastest SD cards. When the UHS-II hits its physical limit around 300 MB/s, CFexpress takes the lead. These are essentially miniaturized NVMe SSDs for your camera. While SDs are "fast," CFexpress cards (Type B for Canon/Nikon, Type A for Sony) are nearly "instant," boasting speeds up to 1700 MB/s. They offer virtually zero buffer lag and superior heat dissipation. If your camera is equipped with a CFexpress slot, use it. It puts you in a completely different operational league.

7. RAW vs. JPEG: The Tactical Choice

The debate between shooting RAW or JPEG is heavily documented, but in the realm of military and aviation photography, it is rarely a matter of artistic preference. It is a tactical decision regarding how much "Intel" you want to bring back to the debriefing room. If you think of image formats as field intelligence, the difference becomes immediately clear.

A RAW file is exactly that: raw, unanalyzed intelligence. It records 100% of the light and color data that hit the sensor. Out of the camera, a RAW file is incredibly heavy and often looks "flat" or unappealing. However, it preserves every single piece of data intact for you to process and analyze later.

A JPEG , on the other hand, is the "Final Report." The camera's internal computer processes the image on the spot - applying contrast, saturation, and sharpening - and then permanently discards the rest of the data to save space. It is fast and lightweight, but once that report is filed, you can no longer alter the underlying facts.

7.1. Saving the Mission: Exposure and Color Precision

In real-world operational scenarios, lighting is entirely unpredictable. You might be shooting a dark fighter’s fuselage heavily backlit by a glaring sun. The RAW format offers a massive operational margin of error. It allows you to aggressively "lift" deep shadows to reveal rivet details on the aircraft or pull back blown-out skies to save cloud textures. In a JPEG, that unrecorded information is lost forever; if an area is completely shadowed, it remains a black void.

The same principle applies to color accuracy. Capturing the exact "Tactical Gray" of an F-16 is notoriously difficult because ambient light (like the heavy magenta or yellow artificial lights inside a maintenance hangar) easily tricks the sensor. In a RAW file, White Balance (Temperature and Tint) is simply a mathematical adjustment. You can neutralize any color cast in post-production and restore the aircraft's true colors with zero loss of quality. In a JPEG, that color cast is "baked in." Attempting to force heavy color corrections on a JPEG during editing will quickly break the file and introduce aggressive digital noise.

7.3. The Redundancy Protocol (RAW + JPEG)

When an aircraft makes a high-speed, single pass, there is no second chance to pull the trigger. In these moments, redundancy is your greatest asset. Setting your camera to shoot RAW + JPEG simultaneously guarantees the best of both worlds.

The JPEG serves as an immediate "Sitrep" (Situation Report) - it is ready to be transferred to your phone for a quick share or to verify sharpness on the spot. Meanwhile, the RAW file acts as your "life insurance," safely stored on the card as the master matrix, awaiting heavy post-production when you return to base.

Warning on Logistics: Executing this dual-format protocol demands significant storage space and fast write speeds. This is where the V60 or V90 memory cards we discussed in the previous section become absolutely mission-critical.

7.4. Rules of Engagement

If you want to maintain absolute control over your work, establish these Rules of Engagement for your loadout. Engage the RAW (or RAW + JPEG) protocol whenever the mission involves:

Extreme Lighting: Harsh backlighting, blinding skies, or deep shadows on the fuselage.
Critical Colors: Artificial hangar lighting or the need to preserve exact military camouflage tones.
High-Value Targets: High-speed passes or unique formations where a reshoot is impossible.
Post-Production Intent: Any image you plan to heavily edit, aggressively crop, or print in high resolution.

The golden rule of the flight line is simple: The sensor captures the light. The RAW file stores the data. Do not let the camera's internal computer make the final decisions for you.

Wrapping Up: Season One & What's Next

This concludes the first season of our Aviation & Defense Photography Guide. From nailing your composition and understanding focal lengths to decoding the alphabet soup of memory cards, you now have the knowledge, the gear strategy, and the workflow to make the most of your time on the flight line. But our work doesn't stop here.

1. Send Your Suggestions (Season Two is GO) Over the next 30 days, I will be gathering ideas for Season Two directly from you on my Instagram Stories . What topics do you want us to cover next? Night photography operations? Editing workflows? Advanced panning techniques?

Send a Direct Message to my Instagram or Facebook with your requests. Your suggestions will dictate the exact topics I prepare for our next series of posts.

2. Share with the Community A good photographer doesn't keep all the secrets to themselves. If you know a fellow spotter who is constantly struggling with warped propellers, full camera buffers, or flat compositions, send them this link. Share this guide with your photography groups, tag your friends, and let’s make sure everyone is bringing their best shots back from the next airshow.

Stay sharp, keep your glass clean, and I'll see you out there on the flight line. ✈️��

The Portuguese Army in Viseu: Identity, Modernization, and Proximity to the Nation

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 19:55:40 GMT

Between October 21 and 26, the city of Viseu hosted the 2025 Portuguese Army Day celebrations, welcoming a wide range of military, cultural, historical, and technological activities that highlighted the role of the Portuguese Army in serving national defense and society. Over the course of almost a week, thousands of visitors passed through Campo de Viriato and the Multipurpose Pavilion, where they were able to learn about the resources, capabilities, traditions, and present and future challenges of the Land Forces, in a demonstration that celebrated memory, modernity, and commitment.

Army EXPO: The Land Force Opens Its Doors to the Public

The Campo de Viriato and the Multipurpose Pavilion in Viseu were the venues for EXPO Exército, where thousands of visitors, young and old, were able to see up close the various units that make up the Portuguese Army. The public had direct contact with various weapons systems and equipment used by the military forces, both in combat missions and in humanitarian support and aid operations.

Outside the exhibition, visitors were immediately attracted by the imposing presence of the Mechanized Brigade's “Beast”: the Leopard 2A6 Main Battle Tank. In the artillery section, attention was drawn to the M109A5 self-propelled howitzer and the M119 Light Gun howitzer. The exhibition also included the Panhard M11 reconnaissance vehicle and five examples of the URO Vamtac ST5 light armored tactical vehicle - including the Special Operations Forces version, the EMER (Emergency Medical and Resuscitation Team) version, and the Ambulance version - as well as the Pandur II 8x8 armored vehicle, in the Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) configuration.

Two variants of the M113 were also on display: one in APC (Armored Personnel Carrier) configuration and the other as an M901 ITV. In terms of logistics and support, there was one of the new MAN TGS 18.440 BB CH 4x4 (shelter carrier) vehicles used by the ISTAR unit, accompanied by an Iveco Daily and a Mitsubishi L200 from the Emergency Military Support unit.

As an additional element that was greatly appreciated by th e public, it was possible to see the Paratroopers' Hot Air Balloon, which added color and symbolism to the exhibition setting.

In the interior of the exhibition, visitors were able to see various types of light weapons used by units such as the Commandos, Paratroopers, and Special Operations Forces, among others. It was also possible to try out simulation systems that help prepare military personnel before they are deployed in real scenarios, observe the capabilities of improvised explosive device (IED) deactivation and CBRN defense, and learn about the pharmaceutical work carried out by the National Medicines Laboratory. The exhibition also included areas dedicated to air defense capabilities and the use of unmanned aerial systems (drones).

At the same time, EXPO Exército included various activities and demonstrations for all ages. Younger visitors were able to go climbing, walk along a small rope course, or go horseback riding, always under the guidance of military personnel. For fans of the “Call of Duty” style, a dynamic airsoft shooting range was available, providing the opportunity to experience, for a moment, the action of a soldier in the field. There were also rides in Polaris TP2 SOF vehicles. For the whole family, it was possible to take a ride in a VAMTAC or a Pandur vehicle.

In terms of operational demonstrations, there were three distinct moments to watch. The first involved the deactivation of explosive devices/IEDs by soldiers from the 1st Engineering Regiment, demonstrating the entire process of identification, neutralization, and collection of evidence for further investigation. This was followed by a K-9 unit demonstration by the 2nd Lancers Regiment, highlighting the bond and coordination between the military-dog duo, culminating in a simulation of approaching a hostile and armed individual. Finally, the Paratroopers gave a practical presentation on how the automatic opening parachute is equipped.

(Deactivation of explosive devices/IEDs - 1st Engineering Regiment)

(K-9 unit demonstration - 2nd Lancers Regiment)

(How to equip the automatic opening parachute - Paratroopers)

Boxer 8x8: The Key Candidate for the Next Generation of Army Vehicles

This year, Rheinmetall once again made a significant contribution to the Army Day celebrations. After the German company presented the Lynx KF41 in 2024 as a potential replacement for the obsolete M113, attention has now turned to the Boxer 8x8, configured with the Lance 2 turret.

The choice of the Boxer is not random. The Portuguese Army has been favoring the option of a wheeled armored vehicle over tracked platforms, focusing on greater strategic mobility, interoperability, and lower operating costs. In this scenario, the Boxer emerges as one of the main candidates.

The vehicle was repeatedly highlighted in presentations at the “Horizonte 2045” seminar, organized by the Army, reinforcing the perception that the Boxer could be a benchmark platform in the modernization process of the national mechanized forces. Its modular architecture allows the same vehicle base to support various mission modules, quickly adapting to different operational functions: from Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) with direct combat capability, to variants for troop transport (APC), command, medical evacuation, maintenance support, air defense, or mortar system integration.

In its IFV configuration with Lance 2 turret, the Boxer stands out for its combination of mobility, protection, and firepower. The vehicle reaches a maximum speed of 100 km/h, is capable of overcoming obstacles of 0.70 m, crossing trenches of 2 meters, and fording up to 1.40 m without preparation. Propulsion is provided by an MTU 8V199 engine with 815 hp (600 kW) and 2700 Nm of torque, ensuring sufficient power for a gross weight of up to 39.5 tons.

The fully stabilized Lance 2 turret integrates the Rheinmetall MK30-2/ABM (30 mm) cannon, capable of employing APFSDS-T armor-piercing ammunition and KETF Air Burst programmable ammunition, allowing effective engagement of entrenched infantry, drones, and low-altitude air targets up to 3,000 meters. The turret can also be equipped with a dual launcher for SPIKE LR/LR2 anti-tank missiles, expanding its combat envelope against armored vehicles.

In the area of situational awareness and survivability, the Boxer Lance 2 incorporates long-range daytime and thermal sensors, a SEOSS 2 observation system with hunter-killer/killer-killer capability, laser warning devices, a ROSY smoke screen system with 180° dynamic protection, and a scalable digital architecture that allows for the integration of emerging capabilities such as C-UAV, loitering munitions, and AI-based decision support.

Protection follows the principle of a multi-layer structure with modular armor, which can be adjusted according to the threat requirements of the theater of operations. It is also important to note that the turret allows for internal reloading, ensuring that the crew remains protected while reloading weapons.

Although not yet officially confirmed, there is a possibility that Portugal will join the Boxer program, as Germany, the Netherlands, Lithuania, the United Kingdom, and Australia have already done, not only in operation but also in production and industrial development - an opportunity that could strengthen the country's strategic capacity and contribute to the consolidation of skills in the national defense sector.

RapidRanger: A New Milestone in National Air Defense

Among the various vehicles on display, the presence of a VAMTAC vehicle equipped with the RapidRanger system, integrated into Thales' ForceShield solution, also stood out. This system will reinforce the Portuguese Army's very short-range air defense (VSHORAD) capabilities.

This system is the result of a contract recently established between Thales and the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA), constituting a significant milestone for both Portugal and the company, as it is the first ForceShield contract signed with a European Union country.

The acquisition, which falls under the Military Programming Law (LPM), includes the Ground Master 200 air surveillance radar, the ControlView command and control center, portable weapon allocation terminals, and RapidRanger vehicles.

Mounted on a VAMTAC platform, the RapidRanger is a lightweight system - weighing less than 500 kg - that is highly automated and quick to react, designed to neutralize air and surface threats, from drones and helicopters to ground-attack aircraft and cruise missiles. It has a detection range of up to 15 km and an engagement range of up to 7 km. The system integrates day, low-light, and thermal cameras, as well as an Automatic Target Tracker (ATT) and a 360° surveillance sensor. This sensor can take the form of a passive infrared search and track (IRST) system or an integrated radar, allowing RapidRanger to operate completely autonomously. The launcher is compatible with different types of missiles, including the highly effective StarStreak and LMM.

The introduction of this capability represents a significant advance in close-range air defense and a decisive step in the modernization of the Por tuguese Army, bringing it into line with NATO standards in the field of force and critical infrastructure protection.

ALAKRAN: Mobility and Accuracy in Indirect Fire Support

Another weapon system presented was the Alakran Mobile Mortar Weapon System, from NTGS.

ALAKRAN is a mobile mortar system, available in 120 mm and 81 mm calibers, currently in service in several countries, including Spain, where it is integrated into VAMTAC vehicles, and Ukraine, where it has been used in real combat, thus acquiring the status of “Combat Proven.” Its operational use in hostile environments has demonstrated high reliability, robustness, and the ability to operate in adverse weather and terrain conditions.

Designed for rapid deployment and tactical mobility, the system can be installed in virtually any 4×4 vehicle thanks to its lightweight construction. This provides high flexibility of use and the ability to respond immediately to changes in the operational scenario. To illustrate its speed of action, the ALAKRAN can deploy, fire eight shots, and move again in about two minutes - giving new meaning to the concept of “Shoot & Scoot,” which is increasingly critical on a battlefield dominated by the threat of drones and counter-battery systems.

The model presented on Army Day was integrated into a Polaris MRZR ALPHA, configured for two soldiers and with the capacity to carry 60 to 72 81 mm grenades.

The system integrates a set of advanced digital features, including GIS for geospatial positioning and fire planning. Functions such as Zonal Shooting and Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact (MRSI) simplify the engagement process and increase the effect of fire on the target area.

The Fire Control System (FCS) is fully digital and automated, ensuring fast and accurate aiming and fire correction, even in complex terrain or adverse weather conditions. The FCS performs automatic aiming and re-aiming after each shot, ensuring accuracy of less than 2 mils (equivalent to about 2 meters of error at 1 km). In conjunction with high-precision GPS, the system significantly reduces the time between the fire request and the first impact, allowing integration into digital combat networks and increasing effectiveness in coordinated operations.

ALAKRAN also prioritizes vehicle and crew safety through a design that transmits all recoil force directly to the ground, avoiding the transfer of structural loads to the vehicle. This concept reduces the risk of mechanical damage and immobilization, while protecting operators.

Firing can be done remotely, using a lanyard activated more than 3 meters from the tube, mitigating the risk of overpressure injuries caused by the shock wave. The system also includes a misfire recovery mechanism, ensuring safe extraction and neutralization in the event of a firing failure.

Given the current need for modernization, there is a possibility that the s ystem will be integrated into the Portuguese Army. This would represent a significant reinforcement of indirect fire support capabilities, further benefiting from the fact that the Army already operates VAMTAC and Polaris platforms, which would facilitate its logistical and operational integration.

From Industrial Memory to Vehicle Restoration: Living Military History in Viseu

In this edition of the Army Day Celebrations, there was a clear effort to bring visitors closer to Portuguese military history, especially with regard to the country's former defense industry, which has largely been lost over time. In an international context marked by uncertainty, the need for Portugal to strengthen its strategic autonomy, ensuring its own production capacity and taking on an exporting role, has gained renewed relevance. It is with this objective in mind that idD - Portugal Defence - proposes the creation of an ammunition factory in Alcochete, intended for the production of small-caliber ammunition, namely 5.56 mm and 7.62 mm NATO standard, thus contributing to the reinforcement of the Armed Forces' stocks and to the increase in exports to allied countries.

For this reason, the exhibition installed in the Multipurpose Pavilion dedicat ed an area to Portuguese military industrial memory, covering the Royal Army Arsenal and the Royal Gunpowder Factory of Barcarena, dating from the 16th to the 20th centuries, to the Braço de Prata Factory (FBP) and the National Small Arms Ammunition Factory (FNM), which operated between the early 20th century and the early 21st century. The latter were responsible for the production of weapons that are still in service today in the Portuguese Armed Forces - the most iconic example being the G3 automatic rifle.

With regard to historic vehicles, there was once again a strong contribution from the Portuguese Association of Antique Military Vehicles (APVMA), dedicated to the restoration and preservation of vehicles that served in the Armed Forces. The association brought a significant number of historic vehicles, many of which participated in landmark events such as the Ultramar War and the Revolution of April 25, 1974.

Among the models on display were the Panhard EBR 75, the Panhard AML HE60-7, the Humber Mk IV, and the Chaimite V200 “Bula”; the Berliet-Tramagal trucks; the Unimog S404; vehicles for transporting officers and members of the government, such as the Mercedes 280 SE, the Mercedes-Benz 220D, and the Citroën CX Limousine; the Bravia Comando Mk III; and the Volkswagen Type 2.

In addition to the APVMA, the Elvas Military Museum also made a significant contribution, presenting several versions of Berliet trucks and UMM jeeps. Once again, the connection to Portuguese industry was reinforced, since both the Berliet (produced at Metalúrgica Duarte Ferreira, in Tramagal) and the UMM (manufactured by União Metalo-Mecânica) were developed and built in Portugal.

Horizonte 2045: Innovation, Doctrine, and Industry for the Army of the Future

As in previous years, a Technology Exhibition focused on Defense, Industry, and Academia was also held, reinforcing the Army as a credible partner in the field of innovation. The initiative sought to demonstrate the ongoing investment in modernization, highlighting the relevance of national, European, and NATO defense industries in the development of land military capabilities. This exhibition showcased equipment, solutions, and devices designed to respond to specific operational needs and challenges identified by the military in the field.

This year's edition was enriched by the seminar “ Horizonte 2045 - O Exército Português na Era da Inovação” (Horizon 2045 - The Portuguese Army in the Age of Innovation), held in the Aula Magna of the Polytechnic Institute of Viseu, which brought together military decision-makers, representatives of public administration, leaders of universities, technology companies, and defense industry entities. The central message was clear: the modernization of the Army is not just a technical process - it is a strategic and national decision.

General Mendes Ferão stressed that seminars should not be limited to moments of reflection, but should be starting points for the implementation of concrete projects involving the Army, the academy, and the industry. He also stressed that modernization does not only mean acquiring new equipment, but also promoting human and cultural transformation: trusting young people, allowing them to create, experiment, make mistakes, and innovate.

Building military capabilities is a long-term process - equipment, doctrine, and infrastructure are developed over 20 to 40 years. Thus, Land Force 2045 is a phased strategy:

Until 2032 - Medium Brigade

Modernization of Pandur vehicles
Replacement of M113s
Upgrade of Leopard Main Battle Tanks
Reinforcement of field artillery and air defense
Improvement of combat engineering capabilities

2032–2036 - Light Brigade

New light armored vehicles
Reinforcement of infantry battalions
Improvement of logistical, medical, and service support
Modernization of forces stationed in Madeira and the Azores

2036–2045 - Command, Support, and Integration

Digital command and control system (C4I)
Full integration of unmanned ground and air systems
Consolidation of general support forces
Construction and modernization of sustainment infrastructure

Emerging capabilities: from augmented soldiers to networked warfare

Contemporary warfare - observed daily in Ukraine - confirms a new operational environment:

Drones have made the battlefield fully visible
Connectivity speeds up decisions but exposes positions
Artificial intelligence already influences reconnaissance and coordination
Electronic warfare and cyberspace have become as critical as the physical terrain

To respond to these challenges, the Army defines priority areas:

Autonomous land and air systems
Interconnected sensors and digital command platforms
Advanced individual protection and smart uniforms
Training through simulation and realistic modeling
Human-machine integration with decision support

The goal is not to replace the combatant - it is to increase their effectiveness, protection, and situational awareness.

Innovation as a national ecosystem

Another central point of the seminar was the role of civilian entities in the development of military capabilities.

The Portuguese Army acts as:

Client
Development partner
Experimentation platform
Certification body

In practice:

Industry tests solutions in a real operational context
Academia generates knowledge and models
The Army validates, integrates, and adapts for effective use

Dom Afonso Henriques Free Technology Zone and the ARTEX exercise

One of the central tools of this ecosystem is the Dom Afonso Henriques Technology Free Zone (ZLT), distributed across:

São Jacinto - amphibious and coastal environment
Santa Margarida - national brigade training center
Beja - large open-field experimentation area

In these spaces, companies and academia can:

Test prototypes
Evaluate systems in a realistic context
Certify technologies with the following marks:
ARMY TESTED - validated by the Army
COMBAT PROVEN - validated in real operations

This process is consolidated annually in the ARTEX exercise, where solutions are evaluated by troops in an operational scenario.

Few European countries have an ecosystem of this nature.

It can therefore be concluded that modernizing the Army ultimately means strengthening Portugal. This strategic vision goes far beyond simply acquiring equipment: it involves investing in national capacity - in industry, science, knowledge, and territory. It means investing in Portuguese soldiers, increasing their effectiveness, safety, and operating conditions. Modernization means ensuring that the country will continue to be able to se rve, protect, and win, today, in 2045, and in the future that follows.

Military Ceremony: A Solemn Closing in Honor of Those Who Serve

To conclude the celebrations, a military ceremony was held on Sunday at Campo de Viriato. The event was presided over by the Minister of National Defense, Dr. Nuno Melo, and attended by the Chief of Staff of the Army, General Eduardo Mendes Ferrão, and various high-ranking civil and military officials, accompanied by hundreds of citizens who joined in this solemn moment with emotion and pride.

General Mendes Ferrão and the Minister of National Defense spoke at the ceremony. The Chief of Staff of the Army highlighted that the Army has stood by the Portuguese people at all decisive moments in history, both inside and outside the country, emphasizing the importance of a modern and resilient force, focused on people, re-equipment, and the requalification of existing capabilities. He also praised the role of civilian workers who, even without wearing a uniform, share the spirit of service and mission. He noted that the Land Force 2045 strategy will consolidate a structural transformation, making the Army more technological, sustainable, and interoperable.

In turn, the Minister of National Defense reinforced the irreplaceable role of the Army in national defense and in supporting the population, reaffirming the Government's commitment to modernizing the Land Force. He emphasized the strengthening of essential capabilities, as well as the promotion of innovation, national defense production, and technological development in the service of Portugal.

Among the key points addressed in the speeches were:

The process of upgrading the Leopard 2A6 Main Battle Tank, already underway, with the first units already in Germany;
The replacement of the M113 vehicles with Rheinmetall's 8x8 Boxer vehicle, and the possibility of national industry participation in production and maintenance processes;
The approval of the proposal to carry out the Mid-Life Update (MLU) on Pandur II 8x8 vehicles, with strong involvement from the Portuguese defense industry.

During the ceremony, distinctions were also awarded to military and civilian personnel who distinguished themselves through their merit and dedication in the performance of their duties. The event ended with the traditional foot and motorized parade of the forces, culminating in a parachute jump by members of the “Falcões Negros” (Black Falcons), the Army Parachuting Team - a moment that captured the admiration and applause of the audie nce.

The 2025 Army Day celebrations in Viseu highlighted an Army that honors its history, values its people, and prepares for the future with determination. From the preservation of traditions to the demonstration of emerging technological capabilities, through the strengthening of the national defense industry and the involvement of society, the importance of a modern, credible, and citizen-friendly Land Force was clear. More than just a display of resources, this celebration showed identity, commitment, and vision - the certainty that Portugal will continue to have an Army capable of serving, protecting, and winning, today and in the decades to come.

Canon R3 Field Review: A Combat-Ready Tool for Military & Aviation Photojournalism

Sun, 17 Aug 2025 13:04:21 GMT

How the Canon R3 handles fast jets, low-light tasks, and life on the military photojournalist’s beat.

Ever since I started in defense and aviation photography, I've always been looking for a camera that offers robustness, reliability and speed - both in the shutter and in the response of the autofocus system. After several years of using the Canon EOS R and R7 as my main cameras, I recently had the opportunity to purchase the Canon R3. Now, with several missions and spotting sessions completed, I feel I can finally share a realistic analysis of what this camera represents for my work.

The demands of military and aviation photojournalism require us to work with reliable, fast and robust tools. Although the Canon EOS R1 is technically the pinnacle of the brand's mirrorless line, the truth is that the R3 surprised me. It's a real war machine - literally and figuratively - with outstanding performance in many aspects, positioning itself as an extremely solid alternative for those who demand the maximum but want to hold back a little on investment.

Canon EOS R3 Technical Performance - The Basis of Everything

The Canon EOS R3 is a full-frame mirrorless camera with a 24.1 megapixel stacked CMOS sensor, which offers an excellent combination of resolution and low-light performance, ideal for defense and aviation photography. Powered by the DIGIC X processor, the camera guarantees fast and efficient image processing, allowing you to work smoothly even in demanding situations.

The ISO range goes from 100 to 102400, expandable to 204800, which gives it great capacity to operate in low-light environments without compromising the quality of the photos.

The R3's electronic viewfinder has 5,760,000 dots, providing a clear and detailed view, although it is not as advanced as that of the R1. Even so, it offers a very comfortable visual experience for the user, making it easy to frame and assess the scene in real time.

In terms of speed, the R3 achieves up to 12 frames per second in mechanical shutter release, and up to 30 fps in electronic shutter - figures that translate into the ability to capture fast action with precision and reliability.

The magnesium alloy body is sealed against dust and moisture, ready to withstand demanding operating environments. For someone like me, who often works in scenarios with dust and mud thrown up by the Army's armored vehicles, or debris lifted by the downwash from helicopters, it's comforting to know that the equipment is designed to withstand this kind of aggression.

One point to note is the hotshoe protection. Although I wasn't particularly happy with the original protection included with the R3 (I lost it on the very first job), I ended up opting for the ER-SC3 cover from the R1 - which, fortunately, is compatible. This replacement makes the camera fully protected against the elements. Important note: the R3's hotshoe contacts are very sensitive and should always be protected when you're not using a flash or other accessory.

The deep grip offers a firm, natural grip, ideal for long periods of use with heavy lenses or even when operating with gloves. I had the opportunity to use the EF 200-400mm with the R3 and I can say that the design of the grip made it much easier to support the weight of the kit. Of course, after a few minutes pointing it at a Portuguese Navy Lynx MK95, my arms were already complaining - but that's another story.

The ergonomics are exemplary: every button and dial is positioned for quick and intuitive access, allowing you to operate with confidence even in situations of stress or intense action.

(The EOS R3 delivers durability on par with Canon’s flagship standards, while offering a more compact, field-friendly form factor. Its magnesium-alloy construction and weather-sealed design are engineered to withstand dust, moisture, and demanding use — giving photographers the confidence to stay focused on the assignment rather than the conditions.)

This isn't a "compact" camera - it's a machine that inspires respect, designed for those who work in the field and need equipment that can withstand and match the pace of the mission.

And for those who spend hours on the floor of a taxiway in uncertain weather, this makes all the difference.

(A dust-off landing of an EH-101 Merlin during Exercise ORION 25 - a typical example of the conditions I encounter in my work and that is anything but camera-friendly.)

Fast, Intelligent and Precise Autofocus

The R3 is light years ahead of the R7 and R when it comes to the capability of its autofocus system, especially when tracking fast-moving objects.

During field tests, the camera demonstrated a remarkable ability to track subjects with erratic movements, such as military personnel in action or moving vehicles. In airport sessions photographing planes on final approach, I noticed that the autofocus occasionally struggled to select a focus area - particularly on all-white aircraft against a cloudy gray sky, which offered little contrast. To be clear, the R7 also suffers from this issue - but a hundred times more. With the R3, I noticed that it may hesitate briefly, wrestling to find contrast, but it quickly locks onto an area with much greater efficiency. Essentially, once the target is locked, tracking proves highly effective.

What I recommend - and this is how I've worked since I started using mirrorless cameras in this area - is to use the “Spot AF” mode, at least when photographing vehicles. This way, you tell the camera exactly where you want it to focus. In the case of people, there's no need for this extra care: the face and eye detection and tracking is truly phenomenal.

One of the features that stands out the most is Eye Control AF, which allows the photographer to direct the focus point just by looking in the EVF. This is undoubtedly an innovation that drastically reduces the time between identifying the subject and focusing on it. This is an especially useful tool in fast-action environments, where every millisecond can count.

In my experience, however, if the Eye Control is not calibrated precisely, it can become imprecise - and instead of helping, it ends up getting in the way. With time and practice, I often end up using the “old reliable” joystick, which, with the sensitivity adjusted, allows me to move the focus point quickly and relatively easily.

(As the Special Forces Operator moved around the fence-like simulated building, the R3 system locked onto him, ensuring continuous tracking and sharp, in-focus shots.)

(A similar scenario unfolded with this Portuguese Paratrooper as he and his squad prepared to assault an enemy position during Exercise BAMBARI 25. The R3 system locked onto him and didn’t let go.)

(As I mentioned earlier, during testing at the airport, some planes caused the autofocus to struggle—especially those that were entirely white, with a gray sky in the background that offered little contrast. This was not the case with the Norwegian Airlines Boeing 737, whose bright red color made it an easy target for the R3 to lock onto.)

(Even with fast jets like the Portuguese F-16, the R3’s autofocus tracking performs flawlessly, managing to follow and lock onto the subject with relative ease.)

(Even through the mud, the R3 easily recognized the two VAMTAC vehicles and kept them in focus. I should add that I had started focusing before they entered the mud, and even with the mud in the foreground, the camera did not lose focus.)

Readout Time: A performance that comes close to the R1

The readout speed of the R3's sensor is another point worth highlighting - and was, in fact, one of the factors that attracted me most to this model.

I was used to working with the R7, almost always with the mechanical shutter or electronic first curtain, since that camera suffers a lot from rolling shutter. We're talking about a readout time of approximately 31.3 ms, which, in certain situations, greatly compromises the result.

When I switched to the R3, this problem simply ceased to exist. Although the readout time is slightly longer than that of the R1, the R3's performance is still top-notch. The camera is equipped with a Stacked Back-Side Illumination CMOS sensor, which allows a readout time of just 4.8 ms - a huge leap from the R7.

In tests with an electronic shutter and shooting speeds between 1/250 and 1/160 (and even 1/20), in scenes with helicopter rotor blades or fast-moving airplane propellers, no rolling shutter distortion was detected.

This puts the EOS R3 on a level of excellence, allowing you to shoot action in electronic mode without compromising the final quality of the image - or giving up any of the system's capabilities.

(Back in April 2025, while working with 551 Squadron in Serra da Estrela during a water-scooping operation with a Bambi bucket, I was shooting with the electronic shutter and had to use a shutter speed of 1/200 sec to create motion blur in the rotor blades. As you can see, the blades were captured without any distortion.)

(Even at slow speeds, such as 1/25 sec, when using the electronic shutter, there is no distortion.)

(In this case, when photographing the propellers of a P-3C Cup + engines at 1/200 sec, no distortion is visible either.)

(When photographing an AT-802F Fireboss at 1/100 sec, it was even possible to capture the entire propeller disc, blur the background with panning, and once again, without any distortion.)

No Pre-Shooting - what to do?

Something that came as a surprise to me is that the R3, unlike the R1, doesn't have Pre-Shooting mode - a feature that records frames before the shutter is triggered. However, with some foresight and the right combination of factors, it is possible to achieve almost identical results.

The key is to use a high-performance CFexpress Type B card, which guarantees almost instantaneous buffer recovery, even when shooting continuously in RAW format. In continuous shooting mode H, and with some ability to anticipate the behavior of the subject, it is possible to maintain a long sequence of shots until you capture the exact moment you want.

In one of the practical tests I carried out, it took 83 frames to capture the ideal moment. How was I able to anticipate that moment? It was simple: all I had to do was observe when the permission to fire was given and pay attention to the body language of the soldier who was going to fire.

All this goes to show that, with experience and the right preparation, it's perfectly possible to compensate for the absence of Pre-Shooting on the EOS R3.

(These are two examples of what I mentioned above. The first photo is from the scenario I described earlier: after the order to fire was given, and while closely observing the body language of the soldier who fired, I captured about 83 frames in Shooting Mode H before getting this shot.)

Image quality - A very well struck balance

At first glance, the R3’s 24 MP might seem “low” - especially for those coming from an R or R7. However, these megapixels are put to very good use. The camera delivers excellent dynamic range and exposure latitude, with RAW files that are easy to recover in post-production.

Low-light capabilities

In terms of ISO, the R3 copes incredibly well with high values, without any significant loss of detail - something that is essential in dark hangars or on night departures on the flight line.

To test this ability, we returned to Porto Airport - the same place where I tested the R1. Although, this time, the residual ambient light was slightly higher (still coming in after sunset), the overcast sky ended up attenuating the darkness considerably. Of course, these conditions are not ideal for using shutter speeds high enough to freeze planes in motion. Even so, the EOS R3 demonstrated formidable performance.

Using ISO values between 32,000 and 102,400, I achieved shutter speeds between 1/320 and 1/500 sec, combined with an aperture of f/2.8. This allowed me to capture focused shots of aircraft with surprising quality and well-preserved detail, even at naturally high noise levels. For those seeking even 'cleaner' results, tools like Lightroom’s DeNoise AI are excellent allies.

Of course, when talking about a photo taken at ISO 102 400, we have to bear in mind that, even after careful post-processing and a “nice” dose of noise reduction (without leaving the image with that “washed out” look), it's hard to say that the photo is “good”. But it's still impressive how this sensor handles such high ISO values, especially in an extreme low-light scenario.

Most importantly, you have the confidence that if the light starts to fade, there's no need to be afraid of raising the ISO - the camera can handle the challenge.

(This photo was captured at 1/320 sec, f/2.8, and ISO 32,000 . In the second photo, post-processing included 35% DeNoise AI in Adobe Lightroom Classic.)

(This photo was captured at 1/320 sec, f/2.8, and ISO 40,000 . In the second photo, post-processing included 35% DeNoise AI in Adobe Lightroom Classic.)

(This photo was captured at 1/400 sec, f/2.8, and ISO 51,200 . In the second photo, post-processing included 35% DeNoise AI in Adobe Lightroom Classic.)

(In my most recent work with GIOE operatives, we captured the operational component in low-light conditions and the use of night vision goggles. In this scenario, with minimal light - only a faint glow from a large window far from my position - I had to increase the ISO to get the shot. For this photo, I used 1/800 sec, f/2.8, and ISO 64,000 . In the following image, I applied 35% DeNoise AI in Adobe Lightroom Classic.)

(And now, the most extreme example. This photo was captured at 1/500 sec, f/2.8, and ISO 102,400 . In the second photo, post-processing included 35% DeNoise AI in Adobe Lightroom Classic.)

Autonomy

The LP-E19 batteries, which have been used since the 1D X Mark II, are living proof of their reliability and working capacity. This battery model has been used in all of Canon's top-of-the-range bodies ever since - including the latest R1.

This battery provides outstanding autonomy, letting you shoot a very high number of frames on a single charge. In my experience, it easily exceeds the figures published in Canon’s official specifications. For example, during the Air Base No. 8 Open Day, I began shooting with the battery at 100%. By the end of the day, after taking roughly 7,500 shots, I still had 47% remaining.

In real-world use, this kind of battery delivers enormous staying power - especially during intensive burst-shooting sessions. For photographers working in the field, where you don’t always have the time or opportunity to swap batteries, that level of energy reliability makes all the difference.

Conclusion

The Canon R3 may not be the “most high-end” camera in the range - that title undoubtedly belongs to the R1. However, in practice, it offers the best balance between performance, reliability and ergonomics.

For a defense and aviation photographer like me, who alternates between the controlled environment of an air base and the unpredictable chaos of a multinational exercise, the R3 is simply ideal.

Compared to the R7 and R, the leap is gigantic. Compared to the R1, the choice becomes rational: it's slightly inferior in terms of specs, yes, but it offers superior usability in certain contexts - and at a more affordable price.

If your work requires precision, speed and endurance, but you don't want to (or can't) go up to the level - and cost - of the R1, then the R3 is honestly the best option available right now. It's a balanced choice for both demanding professionals and serious enthusiasts.

The Canon EOS R3 is, without a shadow of a doubt, a real workhorse - designed for those who work in demanding environments, where every second counts and there's no margin for failure.

Behind the lens: A day at Air Base No. 8

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 14:46:01 GMT

As part of the commemorations of the 73rd anniversary of the Portuguese Air Force, Air Base No. 8 opened its doors to the public, with a program rich in activities for all ages and all levels of enthusiasm - from the veteran plane spotter to the child seeing an airplane for the first time.

Maceda, Ovar - July 20, 2025

I woke up before sunrise, with that excitement that only open base days can bring. For those like me, who live with their heads in the clouds and a camera on their shoulder, AB No.8 Open Day is more than just a visit—it's another opportunity to get up close to what moves us: planes, the military, technical details, and the spirit of the Portuguese Air Force.

Arrival and atmosphere

As soon as we passed through the gate of Air Base No. 8 and arrived at the exhibition area, the atmosphere spoke for itself. The sound of loudspeakers, the smell of aviation fuel mixed with the aroma of street food trucks, and the constant buzz of the crowd between the exhibition areas, flight simulators, and demonstration zones created a vibrant and unique atmosphere.

Although visitors were greeted by gray skies upon arrival - a reflection of the rain that fell during the night—this did not discourage the nearly 32,000 visitors who made their way to Maceda. And it's a good thing they did: throughout the morning, the clouds dissipated and the day turned into a true summer classic, with clear skies and excellent visibility for those who had their eyes on the skies.

As a photographer, I take advantage of these early moments to get my bearings and prepare the ground: I analyze the position of the sun and how it will evolve throughout the day, identify strategic points for photographing the flying displays, and confirm the schedule of demonstrations. My backpacks are loaded with lenses, filters, memory cards, and... that combination of patience and quick reflexes that so often determines the success of an image.

With the arrival of the sun and heat, many visitors seek shade under the giant P-3.

Lords of the skies – Aerial demonstrations

UH 60 Black Hawk – The Flying Panther

The demonstration of the UH-60 Black Hawk, operated by the 551 Squadron - “Panteras”, the home squadron, was one of the highlights of the day. Although it was only a flight demonstration, without maneuvers with suspended loads or operations with the Bambi Bucket, the helicopter impressed with several low-altitude passes and wide turns that tore through the skies of Maceda with power and elegance. The imposing silhouette of the Black Hawk and the deep sound of its rotors certainly left many visitors with their eyes in the air and their mouths open - it was a true visual spectacle for aviation lovers.

A sideways pass showing its colors, recorded at 1/25 of a second

An artistic way to record the greetings of System Operators, at 1/25 of a second

F-16 Fighting Falcon – Speed and Roar

The performance of the pair of F-16AM/BMs from 201 Squadrons - “Falcons” and 301 - “Jaguars” was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the day. The two aircraft, which were on QRA (Quick Reaction Alert) standby, opened the demonstration with the now classic flypast behind the audience, a maneuver well known to us spotters, and yet... we still insist on being taken by surprise. The sudden sound, the afterburner roar, and the almost stealthy approach continue to be a punch in the chest - in the best sense.

This was followed by close formation flybys, wide turns, and some fast low-altitude flybys, with the characteristic sound signature of the Portuguese Falcons. To close, a symbolic moment with great operational significance: a formation flyby with the KC-390, representing an air escort mission - a powerful image that linked generations of Air Force capabilities.

For the photographer, capturing an F-16 crossing the sky with tha t controlled aggressiveness requires technique, instinct, and... a little faith. But when the click is right, the result is breathtaking.

F-16 climbing with active afterburner and visible vapor cone at the base of the fuselage, captured at 400mm with continuous tracking.

P-3C CUP+ Orion – The sentinel of the seas

The P-3C CUP+ Orion from 601 Squadron - “Lobos” made an appearance at BA8 with a series of flyovers that showcased not only the aircraft’s grandeur, but also its efficiency and operational relevance.

In one of the flyovers, the Orion appeared with one of its engines shut down – a common practice in real long-duration maritime patrol missions, used to reduce fuel consumption and increase range. A technical detail that few notice, but which says a lot about the doctrine and realism with which these aircraft operate .

"The Belly of the Beast"

We also had the opportunity - unusual at these events - to closely follow the positioning of the aircraft in the static display. We witnessed a moment of pure operational coordination, in which a member of the Ground Crew guided the P-3C pilot with precise gestures, aligning the aircraft for parking in the exhibition area. A discreet but meaningful choreography that reveals the professionalism involved in each operation.

"The Wolf Handler"

Later, we also followed the pre-flight checks and the start-up process, with the characteristic sound of the engines coming to life in sequence. These moments, normally reserved for behind the scenes, are real gifts for those who observe carefully and understand what each stage represents.

To conclude its participation in the event - and in a kind of solemn farewell - the P-3C CUP+ Orion made one last low pass over the audience, imposing and prolonged, in a gesture that drew applause and emotional glances. An exit worthy of the name it bears and the mission it represents. No one was left indifferent.

TB-30 Epsilon – Discipline in training

The TB-30 Epsilon aircraft of 101 Squadron - “Roncos” impressed in a demonstration of maneuverability and technique, with coordinated passes and tight turns that revealed the agility and capability of this basic training aircraft.

Although it is a modestly sized aircraft with a discreet profile, the Epsilon has an absolutely fundamental mission: to train the pilots of tomorrow. It is in this aircraft that Air Force Academy cadets take their first steps in military flight, learn the fundamentals of piloting, and develop the discipline necessary to one day transition to more complex aircraft such as the F-16 or KC-390.

Its presence at BA8 is always symbolic. It represents the beginning of a demanding journey of great responsibility, and seeing these aircraft in action - with young pilots at the controls - is like watching the future of the Air Force take shape, one maneuver at a time.

KC-390: The giant that took many people flying for the first time

The KC-390 from 506 Squadron - “Rinocerontes” was present during Open Base Day, being responsible for the baptisms of flight - one of the most eagerly awaited activities for many visitors. This tactical and strategic transport aircraft, a true benchmark of the Portuguese Air Force's projection capability, provided dozens of people with the unique opportunity to experience military flight firsthand.

For many, it was their first contact with the interior of an operational aircraft on a mission, and the beginning of a memory that will surely last a lifetime. Seeing this colossus operating up close, with its robust profile and silently imposing performance, was a spectacle in itself, reinforcing the image of modernity and global reach of the Air Force.

The Farewell Low Pass of 506 SQD

On the flight line – Static display and soul on the ground

The static display area was a real source of experiences for all tastes, offering plenty to observe, photograph, and learn - both for the more technical and the general public. In addition to the aeronautical aspect, the event featured several interactive activities and operational demonstrations. Visitors were able to try out a car rollover simulator and watch K9 teams perform demonstrations. The Assistance and Rescue Section was present to showcase its mission and capabilities, reinforcing the importance of vital support in a military context.

At the center of the exhibition was the Air Force static display, one of the most visited and appreciated parts of the Open Base Day. Visitors had the opportunity to get a close look at some of the aircraft and equipment that are part of the Force's daily routine. The UH-60 Black Hawk stood out, made available for public visits, allowing direct contact with this important platform. The F-16 was on display for viewing and photography, as were the P-3C CUP+ Orion and the TB-30 Epsilon, which were part of the static area after their aerial performances.

The public was also able to see the Alpha Jet and the veteran Alouette III, aircraft that marked different eras of Portuguese military aviation. In addition to the aircraft, there was space to showcase the more technical and specialized side of the Air Force, with a stand from the Nuclear, Radiological, Biological, and Chemical Defense Center (NRBQ) and an exhibit from the Air Police, which presented various equipment and weapons used in its missions - a demonstration of its operational capacity and security.

Inside the hangar, the atmosphere was lively thanks to a virtual reality (VR) flight simulator, which attracted curious visitors of all ages, providing an immersive cockpit experience. Also in this space, the area dedicated to the Air Force Recruitment Center allowed those interested in joining the military to ask all their questions directly to those who guide future military personnel.

As is now tradition, several exhibitors and civil associations were also present, among which the CAAA - Clube Aveirense de Automóveis Antigos (Aveiro Vintage Car Club) stood out. As in previous editions, it brought an impressive collection of classic vehicles, much appreciated by both nostalgic and curious visitors. The Airsoft S.O.G. 13 team also made a dynamic appearance, setting up a shooting range and an obstacle course where visitors could safely try out the basics of this sport.

To complete the civil and training component, two aviation schools were present: Nortávia and Aeroclube do Porto, each bringing an aircraft representative of their fleet, showcasing the training and recreational flight side.

This diversity of exhibitors and aircraft, combined with the possibility of direct interaction, transformed the static exhibition into a true showcase of aviation and the capabilities of the Air Force, in an environment that delighted both enthusiasts and the general public.

Beyond the lens

I left AB No.8 with a good number of shots taken. My face and arms marked by the sun, my ears ringing with the sound of engines, but my heart full.

This was not just another day at work. It was a day of connection - between generations, between sky and earth, between technique and passion. But also between people.

On these open base days, there is a kind of reunion that doesn't happen anywhere else. It was good to see so many fellow spotters again, many of them friends we only meet at these events, always with cameras slung over their shoulders, exchanging tips, laughter, and stories from other runways, other bases. We shared strategic positions, bottles of water, and that genuine enthusiasm when a Falcon passes right where we wanted it to - and we all know the value of those little moments.

It was also special to meet again some military personnel with whom I have had the privilege of working on other projects - familiar faces among the helmets, vests, and behind the scenes of aviation. Reunions that bring mutual respect, memories of missions, and that quick chat between one demonstration and another, where you feel that we are all part of the same passion, even though we are on different sides of the lens.

It was a full day. A day when the Portuguese Air Force showed that it continues to fly high - not only in the skies, but in the hearts of those who follow, photograph, and admire it.

��️ See you next year, BA8!

In the Skies with the Zangões: Inside the 552 Squadron of the Portuguese Air Force

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 13:23:39 GMT

Beja, Portugal - The sharp sound of helicopter blades echoes in a silent sky, between remote mountains and vast plains. Inside, trained eyes observe the terrain, steady hands control the cyclic, and beating hearts follow the same purpose: to save, protect, and train. They are the “Zangões” of the 552 Squadron of the Portuguese Air Force.

Recently, they marked another chapter of operational excellence by surpassing 8,000 flight hours with the AW119 Koala helicopter - a milestone reached in November 2024. This figure, impressive in itself, only reveals the surface of an air unit that carries with it decades of history, challenging missions, and an essential role both in national defense and in supporting the civilian population. To get to know the 552 Squadron is to understand what it means to fly not just with wings, but with purpose.

A History of Tradition and Transformation

The 552 Squadron “Zangões” received its first Koala in 2019. But its history began many years ago.

The Squadron's origins date back to 1978, when the then 33 Squadron was renamed, giving rise to the lineage that today is recognized as one of the most versatile in the Air Force. But its history begins even earlier, with the legendary Alouette III that, from the 1960s onwards, made its presence felt in the skies of Angola, Mozambique, and Guinea-Bissau during the Portuguese Colonial War.

The 552 Squadron consolidated itself by incorporating the traditions and experience of other extinct units, such as the 551 Squadron (in 1986) and the 111 Squadron (in 1993), becoming the true guardian of light helicopter flying doctrine. In 1993, he settled permanently at Air Base No. 11 in Beja, an air bastion in the heart of the Alentejo.

During their journey, they didn't just accumulate hours - they rescued lives, trained pilots, saved forests, and supported communities. Between 2000 and 2002, for example, the Squadron was deployed in East Timor on a UN mission, where it operated four helicopters for almost 2,700 hours, with more than 10,000 passengers transported and 131 medical evacuations carried out.

The “Zangões” are based at Air Base No. 11, in Beja, and maintain a permanent detachment at Air Base No. 8, in Maceda - Ovar.

AW119 Koala: The New Generation

The AW119Kx Koala, manufactured by the Italian company Leonardo, represents the embodiment of technological efficiency in the light helicopter segment. A direct replacement for the Alouette III, the Koala didn't just fill a void: it significantly raised the operational level of the 552 Squadron.

Equipped with a Pratt & Whitney PT6B-37A engine with 1,002 horsepower - more than 200 hp more than its predecessor - the Koala can reach speeds of more than 267 km/h and can remain in flight for more than five hours without refuelling.

In the cockpit, the traditional analog panel has given way to the advanced Garmin G1000H system, a digital avionics suite that provides pilots with an integrated view of the aircraft's flight, navigation, and performance parameters. The cockpit is also compatible with night vision goggles (NVG), an essential factor for operations at night.

The helicopter also has an autopilot, which allows it to maintain a straight trajectory without constant pilot intervention. However, unlike the Merlin, it cannot automatically hover at a fixed point. This requires pilots to undergo rigorous training to learn how to manually stabilize the aircraft and ensure a sufficiently smooth flight, allowing the rescue swimmer and winch operator to perform their duties safely.

The Koala's robust structure allows it to operate in uneven terrain and harsh environments. The fixed skids offer stability in demanding landings and allow the installation of an emergency flotation system for missions over water areas. For cargo missions, the helicopter can be equipped with an external cargo hook with a capacity of up to 1,400 kg. For search and rescue (SAR) missions, it has a door winch with a capacity of 204 kg (500 lb.), capable of carrying two people. All this equipment can be assembled and disassembled according to the specific requirements of each mission.

Thanks to its external hook capable of carrying up to 1400 kg, the Koala becomes a useful platform for supplying light vehicles to forces on the ground, as demonstrated during the Beja Air Show 24

Pilot Training: The Art of Teaching to Fly

At the 552 Squadron, pilot training is conducted with almost surgical rigor. This unit is responsible for training future Air Force pilots in the demanding art of rotary-wing flying. Trainees will later be able to join the 751 and 752 Squadrons, operating EH-101 Merlin helicopters; the 551 Squadron, with UH-60s; the Navy's Helicopter Squadron, with Westland Lynx Mk.95s; or, in the future, the Army's new Helicopter Squadron.

After completing their training in aircraft such as the Chipmunk (in the 801 Squadron - “Águias") and the TB-30 Epsilon (in the 101 Squadron - "Roncos”), the cadets who take the helicopter route enter a new universe: that of the rotary wing - where flying requires absolute mastery in three dimensions, the margin for error is minimal and precision is truly an art.

The initial phase of training consists of a combination of theoretical sessions and solo flights with remote support. At this stage, the cadets fly solo, while the instructors remain on the ground, communicating with the students via radio. This phase comprises around 100 hours of flying time.

In the second phase, cadets fly with instructors on board, facing simulated scenarios that mirror real situations they may encounter in operational missions. This phase is intensely evaluative: only those who demonstrate aptitude and meet all the objectives are qualified to fly a helicopter independently.

The best pilots have the opportunity to remain in the Squadron as instructors or move on to operational units. Every year, an average of four cadets join the operational squadrons, two of whom are usually invited to remain in 552 Squadron, perpetuating the cycle of excellence in training.

The Winch Operator prepares to lower the cable to the Rescue Swimmer, so that they can retrieve the victim; Exercise MORSA-SATER 24

The Koala's Missions: Versatility in Every Flight

The AW119 Koala is more than a training platform - it's a real multiplier of operational capabilities for the Portuguese Air Force. Thanks to its technology, agility and reliability, this helicopter performs a wide range of critical missions with excellence.

Search and Rescue (SAR)

Occasionally, the “Zangões” are called upon to support the civilian population through Search and Rescue (SAR) missions. These operations mostly take place on mainland territory, often in areas that are difficult to access, but they can also take place over the ocean, up to a distance of five nautical miles (about eight kilometers) from the coast.

Each SAR mission is carried out by a crew made up of three essential elements: the pilot, the winch operator and the rescue swimmer. Although the 552 Squadron has autonomy to carry out these operations, coordination with other entities on the ground is common, namely Civil Protection forces such as the Fire Brigades, the National Republican Guard - through the Emergency Protection and Relief Unit (Unidade de Emergência de Proteção e Socorro - UEPS), or the Força Especial de Bombeiros.

Together, these forces work to save lives, even under extreme conditions, where speed, precision and cooperation are crucial to the success of the mission.

The SAR crew consists of three elements: the pilot, the winch operator, and the rescue swimmer

The rescue swimmer stabilizes the rescue stretcher using a Hi-Line rope to prevent it from rotating as it ascends to the helicopter.

The rescued person looks at the rescue swimmer as someone who is looking at his “Guardian Angel”; Training Exercise with the Esmoriz Fire Department.

Firefighting

In the summer, the sound of sirens echoes through the mountains and valleys, the sky turns gray, and hundreds - sometimes thousands - of operatives spread out over the terrain to contain the fury of forest fires. In this theater of operations, air resources become crucial. However, as helicopters and planes converge on the fire fronts, the airspace becomes chaotic, requiring precise coordination and technical authority. This is precisely where the “Zangões” come into play.

Temporarily relocated to Lousã, two Koala helicopters play a vital role as mobile command and control centers. From the air, they coordinate combat teams on the ground and manage the traffic of the air assets involved in the operations. With a privileged aerial view and extensive situational awareness, the “Zangões” become the essential link between the ground and the sky, ensuring that the fight against the flames takes place with maximum efficiency and safety.

A duo that will certainly become increasingly common in the Portuguese skies during the critical forest fire season.

Troop transportation

Another key role of the 552 Squadron is troop transportation. The AW119 Koala can accommodate up to six occupants in the rear cabin, or between four and five fully equipped soldiers. This reduction in the number of soldiers transported, when in combat configuration, aims to preserve the helicopter's agility, allowing it to maintain effective performance at low altitudes and over varied terrain. In these missions, often simulated in a hostile environment, the crews operate in low-level tactical flight - a demanding manoeuvre, but vital for avoiding detection and maximizing the surprise effect.

To remain permanently fit for this type of mission, the crews of the 552 Squadron regularly train with ground forces of various specialties, including Special Operations, Paratroopers, Commandos and the Núcleo de Operações Táticas de Projeção (NOTP). This operational training is often integrated into large joint exercises, such as Real Thaw or Hot Blade, which recreate complex tactical scenarios, such as the insertion and extraction of forces in a hostile zone, or top-cover and heli-sniping missions.

In the latter role - top-cover or heli-sniping - one or two specialized operators position themselves in the rear cabin and provide cover for the troops on the ground. Armed with precision rifles or light machine guns, the operators keep their weapons pointed at potential threats during the mission. This technique is also applied when the “Zangões” provide support to the EH-101 Merlin of the 751 Squadron in combat search and rescue (CSAR) missions, guaranteeing close air protection during the operation.

Elements of the NOTP (Núcleo de Operações Táticas de Projeção) perform a rappel infiltration during a demonstration in Beja Air Show 2024.

Two Army Special Forces snipers provide Top Cover to the forces on the ground.

Portuguese paratrooper, armed with an FN Minimi light machine gun, provides Top Cover to the forces on the ground. Taken during the exercise BAMBARI 25, the last stage of the 2nd Parachute Infantry Battalion's readiness phase, before joining the 17th National Deployed Force that has been deployed to the Central African Republic.

Military Justice Gains Wings with the 552

The first joint exercise between the Military Judicial Police (Polícia Judiciária Militar - PJM) and the 552 Squadron took place in September 2023, at Air Base No.8, in Ovar. This training marked an important step in the cooperation between these two entities, combining the PJM's criminal investigation capabilities with the mobility and aerial versatility of the Koalas of the 552 Squadron.

The main aim of the training was to provide PJM operatives with airborne skills, enabling them to quickly reach places that are difficult to reach by land - remote, rugged or isolated areas - where crimes of a military nature may have taken place, such as sabotage, trafficking of war material, desertions or other offenses under the jurisdiction of military justice. Insertion by air ensures that the PJM can intervene promptly, even in scenarios of high tactical or logistical complexity.

So far, two exercises of this type have been carried out, testing and perfecting procedures for rapid boarding and disembarkation, flight safety in joint operations, coordination with Air Force crews, and immediate action on the ground after aerial insertion. These exercises, which are still in the doctrinal consolidation phase, have also served to deepen interoperability between the Armed Forces and military investigation agencies, aligning operational capabilities with the context of new threats to security and military discipline.

The collaboration between the PJM and the 552 Squadron is part of a broader effort to modernize and specialize National Defence response resources, ensuring that when it is necessary to arrive first - and to arrive prepared - there are forces ready to do so, from the air and effectively.

Fleet expansion:

When the 20-million-euro (22 million dollar) contract between the Portuguese Ministry of Defense and the Italian company Leonardo was signed in 2017, it provided for the acquisition of five AW119Kx Koala helicopters, with an option to buy two additional units.

On March 4, 2021, as part of the process of acquiring resources to fight forest fires, the acquisition of these two additional units was approved, financed through the PRR - Plano de Recuperação e Resiliência (Recovery and Resilience Plan).

These two Koalas were officially presented on November 22, 2023, the same day that the first two UH-60A Black Hawk units were also unveiled, which will equip the 551 Squadron - “Panteras”.

With this acquisition, the total fleet of AW119Kx in service with the 552 Squadron has increased to seven units, reinforcing its response capacity both in military operations and in support of civilian missions.

AW119Kx Koala on SAR training mission, during stationary flight while the winch operator lowers the cable to the rescue swimmer who is next to the victim on the ground.

The Spirit of the Alouette: A Legacy that Persists

Although it has been retired since 2020, the Alouette III continues to fly in the spirit of the 552 Squadron. With more than 300,000 flight hours, nearly 60 years of service and a strong presence in African theaters of war, this aircraft has become the symbol of a generation.

The most experienced pilots, who today teach the young cadets, carry on this legacy at the controls of the Koalas. What has changed is the technology - the spirit, the dedication, and the mission remain.

The Winch Operator makes sure that the Rescue Swimmer is safe on the end of the cable, before rising it to the helicopter

Conclusion: Far Beyond 8000 Hours

The number may sound technical - 8000 flight hours. But behind those hours are thousands of stories. Stories of lives saved. Of complex operations conducted with precision. Of cadets who became pilots. Of a country that sleeps safer because someone flies for it.

The 552 Squadron is much more than a group of military personnel operating helicopters. It is a living organism where tradition, innovation, and courage coexist and feed off each other. With their Koalas, the “Zangões” continue to buzz loudly in the skies of Portugal - tireless and indispensable.

Portuguese Navy Day 2025: Operationality, Tradition, and Proximity in Viana do Castelo

Sun, 25 May 2025 12:38:51 GMT

Viana do Castelo hosted the Portuguese Navy Day 2025 celebrations, highlighting the importance of Portugal's historical and strategic connection to the sea.

On May 20, 1498, Vasco da Gama arrived in the Indian city of Calicut, consolidating the discovery of the Maritime Route to India and establishing Portugal as a naval power. This achievement is commemorated every year with the Navy Day celebrations.

In 2025, 527 years after that landmark date, the city of Viana do Castelo, with its centuries-old maritime tradition and significant naval presence, hosted the commemoration program. From May 10 to 20, the Portuguese Navy promoted a wide range of activities, exhibitions, and operational demonstrations, open to the public, to publicize its capabilities and strengthen the bond between citizens and the military institution.

Vessel Tours: Getting to Know the Navy's Ships Up Close

This year, in addition to the beautiful NRP Sagres, the Portuguese Navy also deployed the NRP D. Francisco de Almeida Frigate, the NRP Viana do Castelo Ocean Patrol Vessel, and the NRP D. Carlos I Hydrographic Vessel. According to the Navy, on the first day alone, 4,793 people wanted to get to know these vessels from the National Fleet up close. The Sagres School Ship was moored near Praça da Liberdade, while the other three ships were at the Commercial Pier.

NRP Sagres: Tradition and Training on Board the School Ship

The NRP Sagres was built in 1937 at the Blohm & Voss shipyards (Hamburg) and was the third in a series of four ships built for the German navy. In 1961, it became part of the Portuguese fleet, although it was initially offered to the Brazilian Navy as a way of compensating Brazil for the damage caused to its ships by German submarines during the war.

The main mission of this iconic ship is to represent the Navy and the country during visits to foreign ports, whether as part of training trips for naval officers or when attending major celebrations. It also provides direct support to the diplomatic action of sovereign bodies, during official visits by high-ranking State entities, acting as Portugal's traveling embassy.

The NRP Sagres is currently the most decorated ship in the Portuguese Navy and the only one to bear foreign decorations on its national ensign.

NRP Viana do Castelo: Ocean Patrol and Public Interest Missions

The Ocean Patrol Vessel Viana do Castelo was built at the Viana do Castelo Shipyards and launched on October 1, 2005. It was added to the fleet on December 30, 2010, and entered service on March 30, 2011. It has a displacement of 1,850 tons, a length of 83.1 meters, a maximum beam of 12.95 meters, a draft of 3.82 meters, and is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 21 knots. It has a garrison of 42 sailors.

It was designed as a non-combat ship and is primarily intended to carry out the functions of state authority and perform tasks in the public interest in areas of national jurisdiction or responsibility. Despite being considered non-combatant, it is equipped with an Oto Melara 30 mm artillery piece, which serves as a deterrent.

It collaborates with other national authorities to carry out maritime search and rescue tasks, fisheries surveillance, control of traffic separation schemes, prevent and combat marine pollution, and prevent and combat illegal activities such as drug trafficking, illegal immigration, arms trafficking, and other illicit activities.

NRP D. Francisco de Almeida: Multipurpose Frigate at the Service of Collective Defense

The NRP D. Francisco de Almeida is the second ship in the Bartolomeu Dias class. It was built at the Royal Koninklijke Marine shipyards and was launched on November 21, 1992, becoming the seventh ship of the Karel Doorman class in the service of the Dutch Navy. It was added to the ranks of the Portuguese Navy on January 15, 2010.

It is a vessel with a displacement of 3320t, a length of 122.25m, a maximum beam of 14.4m, a draft of 6.2m, and is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 18 knots (diesel engines) and 29 knots (gas turbines). It has a garrison of 158 sailors and, if there is a helicopter deployment on board, 15 additional personnel.

As a frigate, it is equipped with various offensive and defensive weapons systems, such as:

76 mm OTO MELARA artillery piece
16 MK48 VLS SEA SPARROW surface-to-air missiles
2 launchers for 4 HARPOON surface-to-surface missiles
4 MK46 torpedo launchers (2 on the starboard side and 2 on the port side)
30 mm GOALKEEPER CIWS (Close-In Weapon System) piece
Westland Lynx Mk 95 helicopter

It also has a wide range of systems, radars, and sonars for detection and monitoring, fire control, and electronic defense:

LW08 long-range air warning radar
SMART S-3D combined warning radar
KH1007 navigation radar
SCOUT LPI (Low Probability of Interception) navigation radar
STIR gunfire control radar
PHS 36 medium-range sonar
Towed Array Sonar (TAS) Anaconda
APECS II electronic warfare system
SRBOC anti-missile countermeasures system

The D. Francisco de Almeida has already taken part in numerous national and international missions and exercises, with special emphasis on the air and naval security arrangements during the celebration of the mass held in Terreiro do Paço in 2010 by Pope Benedict XVI, Operation Ocean Shield in 2011, as part of the NATO Naval Force, actively participating in actions to combat piracy in the Somalia area, integration as Chief Ship in Standing NATO Maritime Group 1 in 2015, Operation Sea Guardian in 2017, as part of the NATO Naval Force and Operation Themis in cooperation with the European FRONTEX Agency.

NRP D. Carlos I: Science and Hydrography at the Service of Sea Knowledge

The NRP D. Carlos I was built in the United States by the Tacoma Boat Company and launched on January 30, 1989, under the name “USNS AUDACIOUS”. It served the US Navy as an anti-submarine surveillance vessel until 1995, and its mission was to collect and transmit acoustic information using a system with towed passive sensors.

It is a vessel with a displacement of 2285 tons, a length of 68.3 meters, a maximum beam of 13.1 meters, a draft of 5.6 meters, and is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 10 knots.

It was decommissioned from the U.S. Navy in 1995 and transferred to the Portuguese Navy on December 9, 1996, passing to the state of armament with its current name on February 28, 1997. After arriving in Portugal, it was adapted to its current role as a hydrographic and oceanographic ship at the Alfeite Arsenal. Subsequently, it underwent two further adaptations, one between 2001 and 2004 and the other between 2008 and 2010.

The NRP D. Carlos I is a hydrographic ship whose mission is to support the execution of research and technological development activities related to the sciences and techniques of the sea, with a view to their priority application in naval military operations, namely in the areas of hydrography, hydrographic cartography, safety of navigation, oceanography and defense of the marine environment.

From the Sea to the City: Immersive Experiences in the Commemorations

The different forces of the Portuguese Navy organized various activities from Viana do Castelo's Public Garden to the Marina Pier, providing unique moments of direct contact with the military environment and the sea.

In the Public Garden, the young ones had the opportunity to try climbing with the support of the Marines, always closely accompanied by the military, who ensured safety and encouraged the participants to exceed their limits. For the more fearless, there was also the chance to take part in a dynamic shooting course with airsoft replicas, but not before undergoing a little physical training, in a true “baptism” in the Marines' style - a symbolic way of transforming each participant briefly into a member of this elite force. Also in this space, some visitors were able to try scuba diving for the first time, a memorable experience guided by specialized instructors.

At the Marina Pier, the popular Sea Baptisms took place, where participants embarked on a short trip down the Lima River aboard naval vessels such as the NRP Minho or LARC-5 amphibious vehicles, in an experience that combined emotion, discovery, and direct contact with the operational reality of the Navy.

Viana do Castelo Cultural Center: Space for Naval Memory and Innovation

The Viana do Castelo Cultural Center was the true “main stage” of the indoor exhibition, welcoming thousands of visitors throughout the celebrations. Right at the entrance, visitors were greeted with an evocative “journey into the past”, which recreated the journey of Vasco da Gama and the discovery of the Maritime Route to India, offering a striking and symbolic historical context of the importance of the sea for Portugal.

Following the exhibition route, it was possible to learn about some of the technologies currently used in hydrographic and oceanographic campaigns, visit an area of the Directorate-General of the National Maritime Authority dedicated to the various navigation aid systems, essential for ensuring the safety of ships approaching the coast and entering port, as well as explore a small but immersive area about the Lighthouses, where you could experience a Virtual Reality visit.

For the more adventurous, the Helicopter Squadron offered an immersive experience through a Lynx flight simulator, allowing you to experience the challenge of piloting one of the Navy's most iconic aircraft. For those who prefer sailing, there was a boat simulator with a virtual tour of the Tagus River, offering a realistic perspective on driving naval assets.

The exhibition also included a variety of themed displays linked to maritime practice, from classic navigation instruments to the Art of the Sailor, emerging technologies such as 3D printing and their applications in the military, to the imposing presence of a Sea Sparrow surface-to-air missile, testament to the Navy's deterrent power.

One of the highlights for youngsters (and others) was the fascinating exhibition of LEGO constructions of historic and contemporary Portuguese Navy vessels. The highlight was an impressively detailed model of a Tridente Class submarine, currently in service, which allowed us to see, on a reduced scale, the various compartments and sections that make up this sophisticated naval vessel.

In the final area of the exhibition, there was an area dedicated to technological innovation and the growing commitment to modernizing operational capabilities, with a special focus on the work of the Célula de Experimentação Operacional de Veículos Não Tripulados (CEOV) and Unit X31.

This unit, which functions as a specialized squadron, operates unmanned systems in the air, surface, subsurface, and land domains, reflecting the Navy's commitment to integrating emerging technologies in support of its missions. The space demonstrated the increasingly important role that drones and autonomous vehicles play in modern naval operations, from surveillance and data collection to acting in high-risk scenarios with minimal human intervention.

Outdoor Exhibition: The Navy present in the Public Gardens

Moving on to the outdoor part of the exhibition, located in the Public Park, visitors were able to get to know some of the forces that make up the Portuguese Navy and the National Maritime Authority and get a closer look at the various vehicles and equipment they operate.

The Portuguese Marines

In the area dedicated to the Marines, in addition to the interactive activities already mentioned, there was a weapons stand that allowed the public to get a closer look at the individual weapons that equip these soldiers. Among the weapons on display was the HK 416, the Navy's new assault rifle, which replaced the historic G3, as well as the MG3 machine gun, the H&K MP5 submachine gun, which is particularly suitable for actions by the Boarding Platoon due to its compactness, and the Carl-Gustav anti-tank system, an essential part of the Marines' anti-tank arsenal.

Three operational vehicles were also on display: two Toyota Land Cruisers, one equipped with a Browning M2 heavy machine gun and the other with a Heckler & Koch GMG 40mm automatic grenade launcher, as well as a CFMOTO UFORCE 1000 Utility Task Vehicle (UTV), which reinforces tactical mobility in different environments. This display demonstrated the Marines' ability to project force, mobility, and lethality in high-risk, demanding operational missions.

Maritime Police

Next to the Marines' area was the area dedicated to the Maritime Police, where the public had the chance to get a closer look at the various vehicles and equipment that make up their fleet, organized into two distinct strands.

On the one hand, the vehicles used for patrol, surveillance, monitoring, and inspection missions were on display, including a Yamaha Rhino buggy, a Mitsubishi L200 Coastal Surveillance pick-up, a 4x4 motorcycle, a Toyota Hilux pick-up, a semi-rigid speedboat, a forensic team van, and a water scooter. These vehicles represent the versatility and readiness of the Maritime Police in responding to various situations in the coastal and riverside environment.

On the other side were the resources dedicated to combating pollution at sea, especially a Volkswagen Amarok pickup equipped as a tactical operational command vehicle and a quad bike with a trailer for transporting specialized equipment. A hydrocarbon recovery simulator was also available, as well as various pieces of equipment used in real operations to contain and collect pollutants, such as estuary barriers and beach barriers. This area highlighted the crucial role of the Maritime Police in preserving the marine environment and responding to pollution incidents.

Célula de Experimentação Operacional de Veículos Não Tripulados (CEOV) (Unmanned Vehicle Operational Experimentation Cell)

In the space dedicated to the CEOV, Célula de Experimentação Operacional de Veículos Não Tripulados, two prototypes of the USV (Unmanned Surface Vehicle) Trator do Mar, a system developed by the Portuguese Navy with the support of national industry, were on show. This unmanned surface vehicle is equipped with advanced technology that allows it to collect crucial oceanographic data and carry out surveillance and protection of critical underwater infrastructures. Thanks to its high-precision sensors, it ensures continuous surveillance and the collection of essential operational information.

Complementing this exhibition was a UGV (Unmanned Ground Vehicle) system, a remote-controlled ground vehicle capable of transporting and launching grenades, demonstrating the potential for integrating ground systems into tactical operations. The area also included an aerial surveillance UAV system and several commercial FPV (First Person View) drones, namely the DJI Avata 2 model. This equipment, already widely used in conflict scenarios such as Ukraine, shows the growing impact of FPV technology in the modern theater of operations and could serve as a basis for the development of national solutions adapted to different operational requirements.

Instituto de Socorros a Náufragos (ISN)

The Instituto de Socorros a Náufragos (ISN) is a body within the structure of the Direção-Geral da Autoridade Marítima (Directorate-General of the Maritime Authority) which plays an extremely important role in safeguarding human life on our coasts. To do this, it needs a range of equipment and vehicles to enable it to carry out this mission quickly and effectively. We're talking about the vehicles that quickly transport the lifeguards to the scene of emergencies, such as the VW Amarok pickup, the 4x4 motorcycle, and the water scooter, as well as the rescue and resuscitation equipment used in the operations.

The public had the chance to get to know the equipment up close, explore the vehicle,s and talk to the professionals who risk their lives every day to save others. This exhibition not only highlighted the ISN's operational capacity but also reinforced collective awareness of the importance of safety at sea.

Museum Center - Transport Directorate

The Transport Directorate is responsible for managing the transport functional element within the Navy's logistics. Among its various duties, the most important is the conservation and maintenance of vehicles of historical interest and value, which are part of the Portuguese Navy's automotive heritage. To guarantee this important work, the Directorate has a Museum Center, whose mission includes constantly updating the records and certificates of old vehicles, monitoring and maintaining their state of preservation, carrying out the necessary repair processes, as well as identifying, obtaining, and preserving the history of each vehicle.

During the Navy Day celebrations, visitors had the opportunity to appreciate and even interact with some of the historic vehicles in the collection, including true classics such as the 1961 Mercedes 3000SL Automatic, the 1967 Mercedes 300SEL, the 1974 Volkswagen 1300S, the 1987 Renault 4 GTL, the 1969 Volkswagen 16 ambulance, the 1961 Willys CJ 3B, the 1954 Dodge DC 51, the 1975 Berliet GBA 6MT and the 1979 Mercedes Unimog 414.

The excellent state of preservation and conservation of these vehicles is to be commended, a testament to the care and rigor with which the Transport Directorate preserves this valuable automotive heritage of the Navy.

The Military Ceremony

On Saturday, May 17, the Military Ceremony took place in the parking lot next to the Gil Eannes Hospital Ship, presided over by the Chief of Staff of the Navy, Admiral Jorge Nobre de Sousa. The ceremony was also attended by the Mayor of Viana do Castelo, Luís Nobre, among others.

Speeches were made during the event, in which Admiral Nobre de Sousa highlighted the warm welcome that the people of Viana do Castelo had given the Navy during the celebrations. Decorations were awarded to military personnel who had distinguished themselves by their service. The ceremony culminated with the forces parading in on foot and vehicles, in which more than 605 military personnel took part.

Action and Precision: Demonstration of the Portuguese Navy's Capabilities

After the Military Ceremony, the various forces of the Portuguese Navy put on an impressive demonstration of their capabilities, showing the public their skills both in tactical conflict scenarios and in humanitarian operations carried out in peacetime.

This show highlighted the versatility, professionalism, and readiness of the Portuguese military to act in multiple contexts, reinforcing the Navy's crucial role in national defense and in supporting the population.

Demonstration of Interdiction and Approach to Suspicious Vessels

As part of the demonstration of capabilities, a maritime interdiction scenario was simulated on a vessel suspected of being involved in drug trafficking. After signaling the target, a Lynx Mk95 helicopter took off from a Navy frigate with the mission of intercepting it.

As a deterrent and to ensure control of the situation, the Lynx crew assumed a position of supremacy, pointing the M3M machine gun at the suspect vessel, discouraging any hostile reactions from the crew.

Once the safety conditions had been ensured, the helicopter positioned itself over the stern of the vessel, allowing members of the boarding platoon to disembark using the fast-rope technique. After stabilizing the deck and initially controlling the situation, the remaining members of the Maritime Police's Tactical Actions Group (GAT) moved in from semi-rigid boats, carrying out the final approach in coordination with the Marines. The operation culminated in the neutralization of the threat and the seizure of the crew, demonstrating the effectiveness of joint action between naval, air, and tactical Navy resources.

Shipwreck Rescue Demonstration

A fire broke out on board a boat, prompting an immediate distress call. In response, a “Vigilante” class lifeboat (GCAP) was mobilized, which quickly moved to the scene and immediately began firefighting manoeuvres.

Faced with the intensity of the flames, one of the crew members ended up jumping into the water. The lifeboat, equipped with a rapid intervention water scooter, immediately activated this means to recover the victim, ensuring his safe rescue.

A few moments later, a second crew member also abandoned the boat, requiring assistance. Given the complexity of the conditions at the scene, the Helicopter Squadron was called in, which intervened with a Lynx Mk95 helicopter. The rescue swimmer was lowered to the victim, carrying out the approach with precision. After ensuring control of the situation, he applied the Quick Strop system, which allowed both to be safely lifted aboard the helicopter, bringing another integrated rescue mission to a successful conclusion.

Military Tattoo

One of the most remarkable moments of the program was the military tattoo performance by the Marines' Landing Resources Unit. In a true spectacle of precision, coordination and discipline, eight Zebro boats performed an impressive aquatic choreography that captivated everyone present.

Under the watchful eye of the audience, the boats performed synchronized movements, crossing each other in tight manoeuvres, drawing geometric shapes and simulating approach and landing tactics, in an exercise that combined operational efficiency with a high symbolic and aesthetic value.

This demonstration was a clear example of the technical capacity and rigor with which the Marines train and operate, transforming means of combat into instruments of choreographed art on the water - a visual tribute to the excellence of the Portuguese Navy.

Solo Lynx Demo

To mark the end of the Capabilities Demonstration, we had the impressive solo demonstration of the Lynx helicopter. This display, loaded with power, precision, and maneuverability, held the audience's gaze from start to finish. In a veritable aerial ballet over the river, the Lynx demonstrated its operational capabilities in a naval environment.

More than a technical demonstration, this solo flight was an affirmation of the versatility and reliability of the Lynx Mk95, a helicopter that has served the Portuguese Navy with distinction for decades. The crew's precision and total mastery of the machine were revealed in a performance that combined spectacle with operability, leaving the audience with the clear notion that in the air, as at sea, the Navy is always ready.

Reflection

The Navy Day 2025 celebrations in Viana do Castelo were much more than a historical celebration - they were an affirmation of the present and a projection for the future. Over ten intense days, the Portuguese Navy opened its doors - and its hatches - to the public, allowing direct contact with the resources and the men and women who serve Portugal at sea daily.

These were moments of memory and pride, but also of innovation and demonstration of operational capabilities, which reinforced the Navy's indispensable role in the defense of national interests, maritime security and Portugal's cultural and emotional connection with the ocean.

Viana do Castelo, a city with a maritime tradition, was the ideal setting to host these celebrations. Between the visits to the ships, the technological exhibitions, the interactive activities, and the tactical demonstrations, one message was clear: the Navy is a modern institution, prepared and close to its citizens.

ORION 25: Forging European Unity Through Joint Military Readiness

anacletofoto@outlook.com (Santiago Anacleto) — Wed, 21 May 2025 20:44:13 GMT

At Santa Margarida Military Camp, soldiers from Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, and Romania are preparing side by side for real missions to defend Europe.

Conducted by the Land Forces Command between May 5 and 16, ORION 25, the Portuguese Army's largest exercise, aimed to integrate all the national and international forces that make up the European Union Battlegroup 25-2/26-1 (EUBG 25-2/26-1), a multinational, joint and combined EU force made up of around 2,200 military personnel from Portugal, France, Italy, Romania and Spain, and which includes assets from the four components - Maritime, Land, Naval and Special Operations. This Battlegroup will be commanded by a Portuguese Army General Officer, Brigadier General Luís Calmeiro (Commander of the Mechanized Brigade), for the first time.

The ORION 25 exercise aims to exercise integration and interoperability between the forces of the five countries participating in the EUBG 25-2/26-1 commitment, in a crisis response operation in a non-permissive environment.

Set against the backdrop of the LEVONTO region, a fictitious geographical area located 6,000 km away from Brussels, with the participation of up to 1. 700 military personnel and 350 vehicles, the ORION 25 exercise is conducted in interface areas that simultaneously allow it to operate in the urban centers of Ponte de Sor, at the Ponte de Sor Aerodrome, in the Domingão region and the town of Bemposta, and to make the most of the Santa Margarida Military Field, the Army's maneuvering field, as an area of excellence for training national and international military forces.

What are EU Battlegroups?

The European Union Battlegroups are multinational military units, usually composed of 1,500 elements, which are part of the EU's rapid reaction capability to emerging crises and conflicts. Although they have been operational since 2007, they have never been mobilized due to political, funding, and applicability challenges. Recently, significant progress has been made to overcome these barriers.

In an ever-changing global geopolitical context, with threats such as terrorism, hybrid conflicts, climate change, and energy instability, European cooperation on defense and security becomes crucial. The European approach is based on a combination of civil and military power, strategic autonomy, and international collaboration.

Battlegroups are a key tool among the EU's various instruments for guaranteeing the security of European citizens and contributing to international peace. They enable rapid and effective military reactions to prevent conflicts or intervene at early stages, complementing diplomatic and humanitarian efforts.

Assigned missions include:

Conflict prevention
Initial stabilization
Humanitarian interventions and rescue missions
Crisis management
Peacekeeping

Each mobilization decision requires unanimity in the EU Council and, generally, a UN Security Council resolution.

The main characteristics of the Battlegroups are their capacity for initial sustainment for 30 days (extendable to 120 days), the projection of battalion forces with combat and logistical support, and the fact that they are multinational-based groups that can include non-EU countries.

Strategic objectives and additional benefits:

Rapid and independent EU reaction to crises.
Contribution to the EU's strategic autonomy and strengthening of NATO.
Transformation of member states' arme d forces, promoting interoperability.

Interoperability in Action and Multinational Joint Training

Exercise ORION 25, conducted under the leadership of the Portuguese Army, proved to be a milestone of excellence in strengthening interoperability between the armed forces of several European nations. With the participation of military personnel from Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, and Romania, this exercise represented weeks of intensive and coordinated training, culminating in an impressive tactical demonstration of real fire.

More than just a military maneuver, ORION 25 was a living laboratory of multinational cooperation, where each nation contributed distinct and valuable capabilities to a joint effort. On the ground, interoperability was built on operational realism, tactical demands, and a constant sharing of knowledge and experience.

Allied contingents trained side by side, fine-tuning procedures, testing synergies, and strengthening mutual trust - a fundamental element for the success of any joint force. Each tactical action was the result of a coordinated effort, demonstrating that when there is joint training and shared commitment, it is possible to act effectively in the most complex scenarios.

This operational cooperation reflects Europe's commitment to collective security and the readiness of the European Union's Rapid Reaction Force.

ORION 25 proved that the strength of a coalition lies in its cohesion. Through discipline, dedication, and a common spirit of purpose, the allies have consolidated a solid foundation of trust and operational effectiveness, which is indispensable for meeting the security challenges of the present and the future.

Forces present in EUBG 25-2/26-1

ISTAR Task Force:
Portuguese Army ISR and EW/SIGINT Modules, a HUMINT Team, and a Geospatial Support Unit
French Long-Range Reconnaissance Platoon and a UAV Platoon
Special Operations Command and Control Element (SOCCE) - CTOE, Portugal:
Special Operations Land Task Group
Engineer Company - ‘Canarias’ XVI Brigade, Spain:
2 sapper platoons
1 logistics squad
1 mechanic squad
1 signal squad
Field Artillery Battery - Grupo de Artilharia de Campanha 10.5 Rebocado (GAC 10.5 Reb), Portugal
Air Defense Artillery Battery, ‘Canarias’ XVI Brigade - Spain
Mechanized Infantry Battalion (MechInfBn):
Battalion Command and Headquarters, Portugal
1 Service Support Company, Portugal
1 Mechanized Infantry Company, Portugal
1 Combat Support Company (mortar platoon), Portugal
13th French Mountain Infantry Regiment
Spanish Infantry Company, ‘Canarias’ XVI Brigade
Romanian Infantry Company, 81st Mechanized Brigade
Italian 1st San Marco Regiment - Marina Militare; “LEG” (Littoral Expeditionary Group) Company
Medical Task Force - Portugal:
Health support to a Brigade Echelon Unit providing up to Role 2 assistance
Emergency and Tactical Evacuation Module
Class VIII re-supply in the entire Spectrum of military Operations, at the National or International Level
Air Component - Portuguese Air Force:
1 EH 101 Merlin medium-lift helicopter
Elements from the Tactical Air Control Party
CSSBn (Combat Sustainment Support Battalion) - Portuguese Army
Cyber defence deploy team - 31st Electronic Warfare Regiment, Spain
Military Police Company:
2nd Lancers Regiment - Portugal
1st Military Police Battalion - Spain
Signal Company - Signal Regiment, Portugal
CBRN Multifuncional Platoon - 1st Engineer Regiment, Portugal
Maritime component - Portuguese Navy:
1 Ocean Patrol Vessel
1 platoon-level unit of the Navy Marines
1 team of Navy Divers
1 Special Operations Maritime Task Unit
CIMIC Unit - 1st Intelligence Operations Regiment, Spain:
2 Tactical CIMIC teams
1 Projects team
PSYOPS Unit - 1st Intelligence Operations Regiment, Spain:
2 Tactical PSYOPS teams
1 Graphics Design team

PSYOPS and CIMIC

In this exercise, PSYOPS (Psychological Operations) and CIMIC (Civil-Military Cooperation) forces were deployed. This type of deployment aims to influence the behavior and attitudes of the civilian population and relevant actors in areas of conflict or operations.

PSYOPS aim to shape perceptions, reduce the enemy's will to resist and promote support for friendly forces, using the media, propaganda and other psychological techniques.

CIMIC operations, on the other hand, facilitate interaction between military forces and civilians, promoting security, humanitarian support, and the reconstruction of essential infrastructure, contributing to the stability and legitimacy of the military mission.

Both play a crucial role, as they help win “hearts and minds”, minimizing civil resistance and increasing the effectiveness of operations. They also help to reduce tensions, prevent conflicts and ensure that the armed forces operate in harmony with the local population and civilian institutions, which is essential for the success and sustainability of complex military missions.

High-Visibility Event

On May 15, a static display of the capabilities and means of all the forces that make up EUBG 25-2/26-1 took place at the Mechanized Brigade, more precisely at the Self-Propelled Artillery Group Headquarters.

Later that day, a tactical exercise took place at the D.Pedro Firing Range - Campo Militar de Santa Margarida, where the main weapons systems of the forces taking part in ORION 25 were used.

For this scenario, we were transported to the north-east of Bespia (a fictitious geographical area), where European Battlegroup 25-2/26-1 was deployed as part of crisis response operations, to defeat the insurgents in the Area of Operations and conduct stabilization operations, capacity-building support and humanitarian assistance, in order to support the Bespia government in ensuring a safe and secure environment.

PSYOPS and CIMIC forces were deployed to win the “hearts and minds” of the population to minimize their resistance and increase the effectiveness of operations.

Elements of the ISTAR Task Force identified an area with a strong presence of hostile forces, belonging to a militia, along with its leader, who has long been wanted by the local authorities for being one of the country's main political and social destabilizers and who is also closely associated with organized crime networks, arms trafficking and the financing of terrorist groups.

The capture of this element will be a major step on the road to stabilizing this country. The Battlegroup commander has therefore given the Special Operations Forces the green light to carry out a mission to capture this High Value Target. These forces were deployed to the battlefield using an EH-101 Merlin, operated by the Portuguese Air Force's 751 Squadron - “Pumas”. Initially, a member of the sniper team was deployed to provide overwatch via the 4x4 motorcycle on board the EH-101. Subsequently, the other elements were inserted by fast-rope. The elements approached the house where the HVT was, captured it, and extracted it, after which it was handed over to the local authorities.

Recognizing the existence of more militia elements, HQ ordered an operation to capture/eliminate these forces. A column moved to the vicinity of the area and, while moving towards the objective, they were ambushed in a minefield. They organized themselves to return fire and, in order not to lose the initiative, requested support from the Engineering Company to create a breach. In parallel, the Field Artillery Batteries, together with the Mortar Platoon of the Combat Support Company, carried out suppression fire and smoke missions.

With the gap created, the assault proceeded and the first forces were projected towards their objectives, these being the Romanian Mechanized Infantry Company and the Italian Marines Company.

They were followed by the Spanish Infantry Company and the French Motorized Infantry Company.

To ensure the defense of the airspace, two VAMTAC vehicles from the Spanish Air Defense Artillery Battery were also mobilized, armed with the MISTRAL missile system.

More hostile forces were detected advancing towards the area of operations. In order to stop this force, the remaining Mechanized Infantry Battalion, in this case the Portuguese contingent, was ordered to carry out an immediate attack and destroy these forces.

During the assault, a soldier from the French force is wounded. First aid is administered on the spot by his colleagues, but due to the extent of his injuries, he has to be extracted and transported to a medical unit. The Tactical Evacuation and Emergency Module is activated, and two VAMTAC vehicles are dispatched to the scene, one in ambulance configuration and the other in EMER (Emergency Medical and Resuscitation Team) configuration. The injured person, once stabilized, is transported to the rear so that he can be evacuated by helicopter. This evacuation (MEDEVAC) was carried out by the EH-101.

Conclusion

Exercise ORION 25 highlighted the European Union's ability to mobilize, integrate, and operate a complex multinational military force in response to contemporary security challenges. It showcased not only tactical and operational capabilities but also the importance of trust, coordination, and shared commitment among allied nations. As the EUBG 25-2/26-1 prepares for potential deployment, the success of ORION 25 stands as a testament to Europe's readiness to act jointly and decisively in defense of peace and stability.

NRP Barracuda - From the Depths to History

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 16:34:17 GMT

For years, the NRP Barracuda (S164) sailed silently in the waters of the Atlantic, carrying out surveillance missions and defending Portugal's maritime sovereignty. Today, it is anchored in time, transformed into Portugal's first submarine museum, allowing visitors to explore its interior and immerse themselves in the history of our Navy.

A brief history of the Albacora Class

In 1964, the Portuguese government ordered 4 submarines from the Dubigeòn Shipyard, based in Nantes, France.

These 4 submarines would debut a new class, the Albacora Class, and equip the new 4th Submarine Squadron, which would replace the 3rd Squadron that had operated the Narval Class submarines until then. They were built based on the design of the Daphné Class, in service with the French Navy, but with some adaptations to meet the requirements of the Portuguese Navy.

The first submarine to enter service was the NRP Albacora (S 163), in 1967. A year later, in 1968, it was the turn of the NRP Barracuda (S 164) to enter service. The squadron was completed in 1969 with the entry into service of the NRP Cachalote (S 165) and NRP Delfim (S 166).

After several years in the service of the Portuguese Navy and several successful missions, the time came for these vessels to take their “final rest”. The first to be decommissioned was the NRP Albacora, in 2000. It was followed in 2005 by the decommissioning of the NRP Delfim. In 2006, the NRP Cachalote, which at the time was sailing under the Pakistani flag and with the designation PNS Ghazi (S 134), ceased its activity, having been sold to that country in 1975, with France acting as the intermediary in this transaction. The NRP Barracuda was the last to be withdrawn from service, having been decommissioned in 2010, making it NATO's oldest submarine, having been operated by the same navy for 42 years.

Of the four submarines, only the Barracuda still exists today and is currently preserved as a museum in Cacilhas. There were plans for the Albacora and the Delfim to join it as museums, but this never materialized. In January 2011, the NRP Albacora, while moored at the decommissioned pier of the former LISNAVE, sank due to its state of deterioration and the weather conditions to which it had been subjected since it was taken out of service. It was later scrapped, along with its “brother” the Delfim. The PNS Ghazi (NRP Cachalote) suffered the same fate.

(Source: Facebook - Navios da Armada)

Main features

The NRP Barracuda had a garrison of 54 military personnel, and could take up to 65 people on board, including elements of the Special Operations Forces, Divers and Marines.

The conditions on board were not the most comfortable for these 54 military personnel, with only the commander having the right to a cabin. The rest of the garrison slept in what was known as a “hot bed”, as they only had a total of 36 fixed beds.

Specifications:

DISPLACEMENT:
869 tons on the surface
1,038 tons in immersion

DIMENSIONS:
57.7 x 6.7 x 5.2 + (tower 10.4) meters

COMPARTMENTS:
Rear station / Propulsion / Hygienic corridor, Control and auxiliary stations / Command post, Officers' quarters and battery cellars / Forward station

PROPULSION and POWER:
2 x 450 kW electric motors
2 x 800 hp diesel-electric generators

FUEL:
74 tons

MAXIMUM SPEED:
Surface - 13.5 knots (25 km)
Submerged - 16 knots (30 km)
Snorkel - 7 knots (12 km)

AUTONOMY:
30 days immersion

MAXIMUM OPERATING DEPTH:
300 meters

RADAR:
Navigation/search - KELVIN HUGHES 1007, band I (37 km range)

SONAR:
Thomson Sintra DUAA 2 (active and passive search and attack / 8.4 kHz);
Elac Nautik LOPAS 8300 (passive search and attack / low frequency);
VELOX M6 (acoustic interceptor)

COMMUNICATIONS:
UHF, HF, VLF, VHF transceivers;
1 General broadcasting network;
TUUM 1A and TUUM 2A/B 50 kHz submarine telephone;
W(SUB)-ECDIS and AIS satellite communications

EQUIPMENT:
1 Type M observation periscope;
1 ST3 attack periscope;
GPS system;
IFF system;
Electromagnetic odometer;
1 ALDIS signal projector;
ECDIS electronic chart system;
Sound speed meter in water;
Ultrasonic probe;
DGPS receiver;
5 navigation lights;
6mm tower glass;
Barometer

FIRE CONTROL:
DLT D3 (firing direction calculator)

ELECTRONIC WARFARE SYSTEM:
ARUR/ARUD (radar alerter, mounted on the periscope)

WEAPON SYSTEMS:
12 ECAN-L3 550mm torpedo launcher tubes (8 in the bow and 4 in the stern);
ECAN L3 torpedoes (ASW/active/5.5 km range/25 knots);
ECAN E14 torpedoes (ASW/ASUW/passive/5.5 km range/25 knots)

The fresh water capacity was 13,500 liters, so it was rationed, only for cooking and personal hygiene.

OPERATIONAL USE:
Force protection operations;
Surveillance operations and discreet intelligence gathering;
Conducting special operations and advanced support for amphibious forces;
Operations to interdict focal areas, ports, coastlines or navigation zones of high interest;
Collaboration in the fight against drug trafficking;
Protecting coastal and ocean navigation in waters of national interest;
Carrying out reconnaissance operations with the landing and gathering of special forces in actions requiring secrecy and surprise;
Training student submariners.

Important milestones

24-Sep-1964: Signing of the contract for the construction of the 4th Squadron submarines
19-Oct-1965: Laying of the keel
24-Apr-1967: Launch into the water
04-May-1968: Increased operational strength
07-May-1968: First sailing
16-May-1968: First immersion (duration 1h 30m)
10-Nov-1968 to 13-Nov-1968: Voyage from Lorient to Lisbon
Feb-1970: “Barracuda” took part for the first time in a NATO exercise “SUNY SEAS 70” with the “STANAVFORLANT”.
Sep-1979 : First immersion rendez-vous exercise with Portuguese submarines.
Sep-1982: “Barracuda” carried out the 1st anti-submarine attack with an exercise torpedo on the “Delfim”.
Dec-1982: Barracuda launched to sink the M/V “Bandim”, a partially sunken ship that posed a danger to navigation.

(Spray resulting from the explosion of the L3 torpedo against the M/V Bandim / Source: Blog "Barco à Vista")

1997: “Barracuda” took part in “Operation Endurance” in the Atlantic Ocean, for 31 days without docking, refueling from the stern station of the “Bérrio” refueling ship for the first time at sea, an operation that had not been carried out by any Navy since the Second World War.
May-2006: the “Barracuda” took part in the “SWORDFISH” exercise, serving as a transport and means of projecting the DAE onto the scene of operations, after being parachuted to a meeting point at sea.
May-2009: the “Barracuda” carried out an exercise with the frigate “Bartolomeu Dias” as part of the demonstration for the Auditors of the National Defense Course.
27-Jan-2010 : Last sailing
02-Aug-2010: Switched to a state of disarmament.

(The Barracuda and a Lynx Mk95 helicopter / Source: Blog "Barco à Vista")

One of this submarine's greatest achievements was undoubtedly something that happened in May 1983, when the “Barracuda”, which was taking part in the NATO exercise “LOCKED GATE 83”, held in an area south of Cádiz - Spain, identified the approach of the Carrier Battle Group of the US Navy's USS Eisenhower nuclear aircraft carrier. This force was not part of the exercise, but was bound for the Mediterranean Sea to relieve the CBG of the 7th Fleet.

It should be remembered that the Cold War was raging and it was very important for the American forces to ensure the protection of all their military assets, especially the most valuable ones, such as aircraft carriers.

After analyzing the available data, it was possible to determine that the Battle Group would cross the northern limit of the patrol area assigned to the “Barracuda”.

Faced with the tactical situation and the irrefutable possibility of trying to simulate an attack on an aircraft carrier, it was decided to maneuver in such a way as to pass undetected through the “Eisenhower's” powerful protective cover, consisting first of ASW helicopters with active sonar and then of surface ships also operating active sonar. To do this, the Barracuda's crew used the sonar's shadow areas to make it more difficult to be detected.

This maneuver was achieved by using appropriate tactical options, allowing the “ Barracuda ‘ to successfully bypass the cover of the ’Eisenhower' and position itself on the same course and under the aircraft carrier, until it reached the position of a simulated torpedo attack, completely undetected.

After the action and as soon as the tactical and operational situation allowed, the “Barracuda” went to the periscope depth and transmitted a message to the entity conducting the exercise (CINCIBERLANT), reporting the action. The CBG only found out about the action afterwards, with the USS Eisenhower Force Commander asking CINCIBERLANT to send him the submarine's records in order to confirm the action.

At the end of the exercise, the “Barracuda” received the following personal congratulatory message from Rear Admiral Deputy CINCIBERLANT:

“FOR BARRACUDA, THE RARE OPPORTUNITY OF ATTACKING A CARRIER MUST HAVE MADE YOUR DAY. BRAVO ZULU AND GODSPEED.“ (”Bravo Zulu.” Code for: ‘Well done.’)

The Barracuda ended its operational service with:
A distance covered equivalent to 12 laps around the world;
263,358 nautical miles, of which 180,000 were immersed;
52,622 hours sailed, 68.1% of which were immersed;
3090 days at sea.

(NRP Barracuda and its "brothers", the Albacora and Delfim / Source: Operacional.pt | Photo:Luís Silva )

Museological Space

On July 25, 2013, the NRP Barracuda was taken to one of the docks of the former Parry & Son shipyard in Cacilhas, Almada, where it will be placed to rest. It was placed next to the D. Fernando II and Glória frigate, thus becoming part of the Portuguese Navy's museum hub, with the aim of contributing to naval culture in Portugal.

(Arrival at the one of the docks of the former Parry & Son shipyard in Cacilhas / Source: “Ships & The Sea” Blog)

For several years, there was doubt as to whether the Barracuda would ever be open to the public. But after various restoration and restructuring works, that day has arrived.

The inauguration ceremony took place on May 9, 2024, and was presided over by the Chief of Staff of the Navy, Admiral Henrique Gouveia e Melo, and was attended by the Mayor of Almada, Inês de Medeiros, among others. The submarine was opened to the public on May 11 and is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10h00 to 18h00.

Its location is very accessible, either by boat or by public transport or car (it has a parking lot), making it a good destination for a little “Sunday stroll”, where visitors will have the opportunity to learn all about the history of this submarine, see the conditions in which the military lived and, above all, be able to experience this reality first hand, without being surrounded by water.

Final Reflection

The NRP Barracuda is not just a piece of naval engineering or an artifact from the past - it is a silent symbol of bravery, resilience and dedication to the service of the country. By being transformed into a museum, this submarine has been given a new mission: to keep alive the memory of all those who, between cramped compartments and long periods submerged, guaranteed the sovereignty and security of our country. Visiting the Barracuda is more than exploring a ship; it's diving into a legacy of sacrifice and honor, and remembering that history is also built underwater, often in the deepest silence.

BAMBARI 25: Preparing the 17th QRF for the Central African Republic

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 15:21:09 GMT

Between April 7 and 11 , the Portuguese Army carried out Exercise BAMBARI 25 at the Santa Margarida Military Field , as part of the preparation of the 17th National Deployed Force (17th FND) that will be deployed to the Central African Republic (República Centro-Africana (RCA)) . This force will be integrated as a Quick Reaction Force (QRF) in the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (Missão Multidimensional Integrada das Nações Unidas para a Estabilização da República Centro-Africana (MINUSCA)) .

A multidimensional force under national command

The 17th FND will be made up of 213 military pe rsonnel , 201 of whom took part in this readiness phase . The force is commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Rui Borges and has as its core the 2nd Parachute Infantry Battalion (2. º BIPara) , which is joined by several specialized modules:

Pandur Module , with PANDUR II armoured vehicles with Remote Weapon Station (RWS);

Maintenance Module , providing technical and logistical support;
Health Module , prepared for medical response in an operational environment;

Route Clearance (EOD) Team , specialized in detecting and neutralizing improvised explosive devices (IEDs);
Mini-UAV Team , operating the Raven system, a small unmanned aircraft that enables surveillance, reconnaissance, fire regulation and Battle Damage Assessment missions.

The Portuguese Air Force's TACP (Tactical Air Control Party) team , responsible for coordinating close air support and communications with air platforms, reinforcing interoperability between branches and joint response capacity.

This set of capabilities provides the 17th FND with a versatile, autonomous and appropriate operational response to the challenges of the Central African environment.

Realistic training based on operational experiences

During five days of intense activity, the soldiers carried out a series of tactical and technical maneuvers designed to replicate as closely as possible the operational conditions they will face in the Central African Republic.

Several simulated incidents were conducted based on real situations experienced by previous FNDs in the Theater of Operations. The maneuvers included:

Reactions to ambushes;
Protection of civilians and critical areas;
Evacuation of wounded in a hostile environment;
Patrol operations and interdiction of areas;
Among others.

The main focus of the exercise was operational readiness in a hostile environment , and it provided an opportunity to test procedures, reinforce operational discipline and train decision-making in high-pressure scenarios - key elements for ensuring the effectiveness of a QRF force in a high-risk environment.

But one of the highlights was the Live Fire Exercises (LFX) , which included realistic combat scenarios with real fire , reinforcing the effectiveness of procedures and confidence in the weapons and equipment used.

Live Fire with helicopters and heavy weaponry

During the LFX, the soldiers carried out intensive live fire training involving various platforms and systems.

This exercise saw the integration of an AW119 Koala helicopter from the Portuguese Air Force's 552 “Zangões” Squadron , which was used as a platform for heli-shooting . This capability allowed soldiers assigned to Top Cover roles (close air cover for forces advancing on the ground) to practice firing light weapons in flight, in coordination with ground elements - a scenario that could have direct application in real missions in the Central African Republic.

There was also training with various weapons systems used in real theaters of operations:

Carl-Gustav - a direct support weapon, effective against fortified positions or vehicles;

LAW (Light Anti-Tank Weapon) - a portable weapon for individual use, ideal for fast and light operations;

Browning M2 heavy machine gun mounted on a PANDUR II vehicle with RWS (Remote Weapon Station) , identical to those already operating in the CAR, testing the integration of sensors, precision and remote control.

Portugal and MINUSCA: an ongoing commitment to peace

Portugal's participation in MINUSCA represents a solid and lasting commitment to the United Nations and its stabilization efforts in conflict contexts. Since 2017, the Portuguese Armed Forces have maintained a rotating presence in the Central African Republic and their soldiers have been recognized for their discipline, responsiveness and effectiveness , characteristics especially valued in a QRF force, which can be called upon to intervene in critical situations at any time.

By deploying well-trained, highly mobile and disciplined forces, Portugal actively contributes to protecting civilians, restoring public order and supporting peace-building in one of the most unstable countries on the African continent. This involvement not only strengthens Portugal's prestige within the United Nations, but also demonstrates its ability to fulfill international commitments in highly demanding missions.

Conclusion

The success of Exercise BAMBARI 25 confirms the expeditionary capacity of the Portuguese Army and the excellence of its paratroopers, ready to act in one of the most demanding theaters of operations in the world. Simulation with real fire, helicopter training and coordination between branches of the Armed Forces show that Portugal is once again prepared to fulfill its mission in the name of international peace and security.

We tested the Canon EOS R1 - The Best Camera for Military Photojournalism?

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 15:12:25 GMT

Aviation and military photography requires a very specific set of tools, where speed, precision and reliability are essential. I recently had the opportunity to test Canon's latest flagship, the EOS R1 , alongside a veteran that is still relevant today, the Canon EF 300mm f/2.8 L USM . The combination of these two pieces of equipment proved to be a top-notch solution for both fast action and low-light scenarios. Here's my experience and impressions of this setup.

Canon EOS R1 Technical Features

The Canon EOS R1 is a state-of-the-art full-frame mirrorless camera, designed to meet the demands of professionals in areas such as sports, photojournalism and video production. Equipped with a 24.2 megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor, it delivers an impressive combination of resolution and speed. The DIGIC Accelerator image processor, together with DIGIC X, allows large volumes of data to be processed quickly, resulting in significant advances in autofocus and other features.

Main technical features of the Canon EOS R1 :

Shooting Speed : Offers a maximum continuous shooting speed of up to 40 fps, ideal for capturing decisive moments in fast-action scenarios.
High Resolution Video : Capable of recording RAW video in 6K up to 60p, meeting film industry standards and providing exceptional image quality for professional productions.
Advanced Autofocus System : Uses Dual Pixel Intelligent AF cross-type technology, offering greater precision and accuracy in focusing. The subject recognition system, enhanced by deep learning, enables continuous tracking of the main subject, even in complex situations where several subjects cross paths.
Image Stabilization : Incorporates a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system (IBIS), which, in combination with certain lenses, offers up to 8.5 points of compensation, allowing for sharper shooting in low light conditions or without a tripod.

In addition, the EOS R1 introduces the “Action Priority” mode, which quickly recognizes and analyses the movement of the subject, automatically determining the main subject in unpredictable action scenes, such as sporting events. This feature ensures that the focus remains on the most relevant element in the scene, making it easier to capture crucial moments.

The Canon EOS R1 represents a significant advance in Canon's portfolio, combining cutting-edge technologies to deliver performance, image quality and features that meet the demands of the most demanding professionals.

Canon EOS R1 construction and ergonomics

From the first contact, the EOS R1 conveys a sense of robustness and exceptional build quality. The ergonomic design is clearly designed for professionals who spend hours in the field, holding the camera under adverse conditions. The grip is deep and comfortable, providing secure handling even when wearing gloves, which is essential in field operations. The button layout maintains the logic of previous generations, but with significant improvements in tactile response and customization.

Autofocus and Pre-Continuous Shooting

In the field, the speed and precision of the autofocus is undoubtedly one of the EOS R1's highlights. The ability to track fast-moving objects, such as aircraft and moving armored vehicles, is simply impressive.

The Pre-Continuous Shooting system, which allows you t o capture moments before you even fully press the shutter, ensures that no crucial moment is missed. This feature proved essential when photographing the firing of the Mechanized Brigade's self-propelled howitzers, the M109A5, guaranteeing clear images even in situations of intense action.

Two firing sequences of M109A5 self-propelled howitzers; Exercise STRONG IMPACT 25;

(Canon EOS R1 + RF 70-200 mm f/2.8L IS USM - 1/2000, f/4, 250 ISO)

Sensor Readout Time

The EOS R1 's sensor readout time is one of the fastest ever seen on a mirrorless camera. During the tests, I photographed a Portuguese Air Force UH-60 in action using only the electronic shutter, with low shutter speeds (between 1/250s and 1/160s ). The result? Zero distortion in the rotor blades . This is a remarkable achievement, because in previous generations and in cameras of lower ranges, the rolling shutter effect was a common problem. Canon's technology in this area is at a new level, making the R1 an indispensable tool for aviation photographers.

(Canon EOS R1 + RF 70-200 mm f/2.8L IS USM - 1/100, f/20 (1st picture) f/16 (2nd picture), 160 ISO)

Low-light capabilities

The location chosen for this part of the test was Porto Airport. After the sun goes down, the little street light there is, the runway lighting and the terminal lights don't create the ideal scenario for using shutter speeds high enough to be able to photograph airplanes.

However, the EOS R1 showed formidable performance in these conditions. I was able to push the ISO all the way up to 51200 , allowing me to use shutter speeds of 1/250s , which guaranteed me in-focus photos of planes, with surprising quality and well-preserved detail, despite the high level of noise.

Of course, for even “cleaner” results, tools such as Lightroom's DeNoise AI are excellent allies. But the fact that we can capture scenes with reduced lighting without excessively compromising the final quality is a major advance.

(Canon EOS R1 + EF 300mm f/2.8 L USM - 1/250, f/2.8, 51200 ISO)

Canon EF 300mm f/2.8 L USM - A Classic Lens That Still Impresses

Despite its age, the Canon EF 300mm f/2.8 L USM remains an extremely valid option, especially when paired with a body like the EOS R1. The speed of the autofocus is surprising, maintaining agile performance even under challenging conditions. During tests in low-light scenarios, the lens maintained a solid performance, with consistent sharpness and a very pleasant background blur.

However, the weak point of this lens becomes evident in situations where there is direct light hitting the lens, which ends up causing a very pronounced flare. The coating on the elements is not as effective at reducing flare as the latest versions of Canon's L line.

Direct light hitting the lens causing a very pronounced flare

Conclusion

The Canon EOS R1 has proven to be a formidable tool for aviation and military photography. From its robust construction to the extreme precision autofocus and the sensor's impressive readout time, this camera is a real game-changer for professionals who need uncompromising reliability and performance.

For its part, the Canon EF 300mm f/2.8 L USM continues to show that age does not mean obsolescence. When used with a state-of-the-art body such as the R1, it delivers impressive results and remains a valid alternative for those looking for optical quality and focusing speed. Its only downside, the issue of lens flare, is a small price to pay for its overall performance.

For military and aviation photojournalists, this duo represents a combination of innovation and tradition, ensuring that no crucial moment is missed.

STRONG IMPACT 25: Artillery in Action

Sun, 23 Mar 2025 16:34:25 GMT

Between March 17 and 21, 2025, the Santa Margarida Military Camp in Constância, Portugal, hosted the “STRONG IMPACT 25” multinational military exercise. This exercise brought together nearly 500 military personnel from Portugal, Spain and France, with the aim of training and improving field artillery and anti-aircraft capabilities when employed in high-intensity operations, as well as strengthening interoperability between allied forces.

National and international participation

The exercise saw the participation of various units from the Operational Component of the Portuguese Army's Force System, including:

15.5 Self-Propelled Field Artillery Group (Grupo de Artilharia de Campanha - GAC 15.5 AP) of the Mechanized Brigade (Brigada Mecanizada - BrigMec), equipped with 155 mm M109A5 self-propelled howitzers;
10.5 Towed Field Artillery Group (Grupo de Artilharia de Campanha - GAC 10.5 Reb) of the Rapid Reaction Brigade (Brigada de Reação Rápida - BrigRR), operating 105 mm M119 Light Gun howitzers;
Mortar units from the Azores and Madeira.

In addition to the Portuguese forces, the international contributions stood out.

Grupo de Artillería de Campaña XI from the “Extremadura” XI Brigade of the Spanish Ejército de Tierra;
Forces from the 68e Régiment d'Artillerie of the French Armée de Terre.

The presence of allied forces enriched the joint experience and strengthened international cooperation ties.

Technical and Operational Components

During three intensive days, the artillerymen tested the limits of their operational capabilities, carrying out live-fire sessions that demonstrated the efficiency and precision of the forces involved, the excellence of the training and the high readiness to face future challenges.

During the live-fire sessions, 155 mm M10 9A5 howitzers, M119 Light Gun howitzers and mortars were fired, hitting targets approximately three kilometers away.

There was also the participation of a pair of F-16 fighters from the Portuguese Air Force, with the Close Air Support mission, which provided an additional dimension to the exercise, allowing coordination between ground and air forces. These fighters were supported by Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) elements.

Strategic Importance and International Cooperation

STRONG IMPACT 25 underlines the importance of international cooperation in the military field, allowing the armed forces of the participating countries to share knowledge and experiences. This type of exercise is fundamental to ensuring the readiness and effectiveness of troops, guaranteeing that they are prepared to respond to various operational situations.

In short, STRONG IMPACT 25 stood out as a significant milestone in the collaboration between Portugal, Spain and France, strengthening the joint response capacity and interoperability of their armed forces. The unity demonstrated in each mission and the strength shown in each shot are testimony to the ongoing commitment to collective security and defense.

AIRBORNE DAGGER 25: Enhancing Rapid Reaction Capabilities Through Airborne Operations

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 10:39:19 GMT

Between February 4 and 14, Exercise AIRBORNE DAGGER 25 will take place, conducted by the Rapid Reaction Brigade (Brigada de Reação Rápida - BrigRR). The purpose of this exercise is to plan, train and exercise the technical and tactical procedures of an Airborne Operation at Brigade level. The operation includes the airdrop of personnel and material using two Portuguese Air Force tactical airlift aircraft, namely the C-130H from 501 Squadron - “Bisontes” and the KC 390 from 506 Squadron - “Rinocerontes”.

The exercise will take place in two strategic areas: the Tancos Military Aerodrome and the Arripiado Launch Zone. As primary training forces, the exercise will involve the participation of three battalions under BrigRR: the 1st Parachute Infantry Battalion, the 2nd Infantry Battalion and the Operational Airborne Battalion.

Airborne units are inserted into the area of operations by parachute drop, in the case of paratrooper units, or by landing, with the aim of destroying enemy forces or capturing strategic targets. The mission can end with the forces withdrawing or joining other units. These troops, characterized by their high mobility and rapid response capacity, can be deployed in any area of interest as deterrent combat forces. When reinforced with the appropriate combat assets, combat support and service support, they can conduct prolonged operations against any type of adversary.

Airborne Operations are distinguished by their complexity and joint nature, requiring detailed and flexible planning. This process is fundamental to ensuring that units and their commanders concentrate maximum combat power at the decisive time and place. During AIRBORNE DAGGER 25, the four essential phases of an airborne operation will be trained:

1. Concentration and Readiness Phase - This begins with receiving the preparatory order and ends with the start of the airlift. During this phase, the tactical ground plan and the necessary support are drawn up, as well as the assembly and preparation of troops, equipment and supplies.

2. Air Deployment Phase - This begins with the take-off of the aircraft and ends with the launch or landing of the units in the designated areas.

3. Air Landing Phase - Begins when the forces and their equipment exit the aircraft, either by parachute or landing, and ends with the reorganization of the unit in the area of operations.

4. Ground Tactical Plan Phase - Begins after the reorganization of the unit and lasts until the completion of the mission, replacement of the force or exfiltration. The tactical plan may include offensive, defensive, joint or withdrawal operations, depending on the operational context.

Exercise AIRBORNE DAGGER 25 strengthens the readiness and effectiveness of airborne troops, guaranteeing their ability to act in complex scenarios and respond quickly to operational challenges.

Resources involved:

- 230 jumpers

- 30 military personnel in support (health, precursors, dinghies, drivers, Jumpmasters)

- Rescue & Assistance Operators (Aerodrome Fire Brigade)

Text: Exército Português

Adaptation: Santiago Anacleto | Wings & Warfare

TROVÃO 251: Strengthening Fire Support Capabilities for the EUBG 25-2/26-1

anacletofoto@outlook.com (Santiago Anacleto) — Sun, 02 Feb 2025 18:59:48 GMT

As part of the preparation for the European Union Battlegroup 2025-2/2026-1, the 10.5 Towed Field Artillery Group (No. 4 Artillery Regiment) of the Rapid Reaction Brigade has been involved over the last few days in the Training Field Exercise/Live Fire Exercise (FTX/LFX) phases of exercise TROVÃO 251

This exercise had a projected force of nearly 80 soldiers and around 17 vehicles and aims to provide the forces with the capabilities to plan, coordinate and control fire support during joint military ground operations with other military forces or with local forces, in scenarios where it is necessary to restore security and stability to a country affected by a crisis or conflict.

The 10.5 Towed Field Artillery Group is a force that can get into position in around 6 minutes, while remaining far from the front line. After firing, they can be on the move in just 2:30 minutes.

They are equipped with the M119 “Light Gun", a 105 mm light howitzer that has been in service with the Portuguese Army since 1998, with an effective range of 12 km (it can reach 19 km, depending on the use of rocket-assisted charges) and which, due to its weight of approximately 2 tons, is capable of being towed, airlifted by medium helicopters, such as the EH-101 “Merlin” or the UH-60 “Blackhawk”, and transport aircraft, and which can also be parachuted.

In the Live Fire Exercise, the forces in direct contact on the front line are accompanied by two observers, who are the eyes of the artillery battery in the rear. After identifying two targets in open terrain, they initiate the first “Call for Fire”, sending the Fire Direction Centre all the information it needs to calculate the firing elements. Subsequently, the FDC transmits the “ Fire Commands” to the batteries so that they can engage the target. Once the shots have been fired, it is up to the observers to assess their effectiveness and, if necessary, transmit the necessary corrections.

The European Union Battlegroup 25-2/26-1 (EUBG 25-2/26-1) is a Joint Rapid Reaction Force of the European Union, prepared to act in Stabilization Operations in the event of a crisis or conflict, and can be deployed within 5 days in the event of an urgent response and 10 days in the event of an immediate response.

Once the Battlegroup has completed its readiness phase, it will be on standby for the 2nd half of 2025 and the 1st half of 2026.

It is integrating resources from the four components - Maritime, Land, Naval and Special Operations, and from 5 countries - Spain, France, Italy, Portugal and Romania, for a total of 1,500 military personnel, which can be expanded to 5,000.

For the first time, an EU Battlegroup will be commanded by a Portuguese General Officer, Brigadier General Afonso Calmeiro, the current Commander of the Santa Margarida Mechanized Brigade.

TAURUS 24: Preparing the European Union Battlegroup 25-2/26-1 for Stabilization Operations

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 20:20:31 GMT

From November 18 to 29, the towns of Ponte de Sor, Bemposta and Santa Margarida hosted the first in a series of three exercises aimed at preparing the military for the reality they may encounter in a region affected by a crisis or conflict.

The Exercise TAURUS 24, conducted by the Portuguese Army's Mechanized Brigade, integrated National and International Forces as part of the readiness process for the European Union Battlegroup 25-2/26-1 (EUBG 25-2/26-1), which will be prepared to act in Stabilization Operations during the 2nd half of 2025 and the 1st half of 2026.

Exercise TAURUS 24 enables the certification of units belonging to EUBG 25-2/26-1 within the scope of European Union (EU) commitments, reinforcing interoperability within the framework of that organization, with a view to building up forces that will make it possible to respond to the commitments made by the Portuguese State within the scope of Security and Defence.

EUBG 25-2/26-1 is a joint and combined EU force, prepared to intervene quickly in crisis and conflict scenarios, integrating resources from the four components - Maritime, Land, Naval and Special Operations, and from 5 countries - Spain, France, Italy, Portugal and Romania.

For the first time, an EU Battlegroup will be commanded by Portugal, as a “Framework Nation”, under the command of the Commander of the Santa Margarida Mechanized Brigade.

The various operational bases for this exercise, known as Forward Operating Bases (FOB), were spread out between Bemposta and Ponte de Sor.

FOB Bemposta: made up of units from the Wheeled Mechanized Infantry Battalion, an Artillery Battery (equipped with the M119 Light Gun) and an NBQR platoon.

FOB Ponte de Sor 1: made up of the Command Post, Service Support Battalion and ISTAR Grouping (intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance).

FOB Ponte de Sor 2: made up of the Sanitary Group, which set up the largest field hospital to date, and the Army Police.

During the two days we were there following the exercise, we witnessed several incidents, which were scenarios created by the teams managing the exercise to put the forces on the field to the test:

Scenario 1 - During a patrol, a column of 4 Pandur II 8x8 vehicles from the European Union Battlegroup forces came across an arms deal between two militia factions. After identifying what was happening, they report to the Command Post and wait for instructions. Bearing in mind that these soldiers are acting in a Stabilization Operation, the ROE (Rules of Engagement) must be followed. As they approached, the militia members realized they were there and left the area.

Scenario 2 - MASCAL (Mass Casualty)

An explosion in the kitchen of the FOB Ponte de Sor mess hall caused several injuries. It was necessary to activate the Sanitary Group, which immediately sent emergency teams and units to the scene. On arriving at the scene, the emergency teams proceeded to triage the victims in order to prioritize the provision of aid to the most critical, thus trying to ensure the survival of the greatest number of injured.

Scenario 3 - Response to Ambush

During a night patrol, a column of 4 Pandur II was forced to stop due to an obstacle in its path. The vehicle in front identified it as a roadblock, putting the whole column on alert for a possible ambush. While they were retreating, the hostile forces opened fire, forcing the EUBG forces to return fire. With chaos in the air, the EUBG forces managed to withdraw.

Scenario 4 - Siege & Search

After locating the leader of one of the groups opposing the presence of the European Union Battlegroup forces, a Task Force was prepared to capture him.

Due to weather conditions, all reconnaissance and surveillance was carried out by a Pandur 8x8 Reconnaissance Vehicle (REC), which quickly confirmed the presence of hostile forces on the scene. The assault began with the movement of several Pandur 8x8 ICVs to surround the site. The soldiers inside the Pandur jumped out and proceeded to storm the building where the HVT (High Value Target) was suspected to be. The raid ended with the capture of the HVT and another member of the hostile force. Later, after ensuring that they were fit for transportation, they were taken to a FOB for questioning.

Scenario 5 - Protests

As news spread of the capture of the leader of one of the groups opposed to the presence of the EUBG forces, many rebellious people took to the streets to protest and cause chaos.

The EUBG forces, who were in transit to the FOB when they were confronted with the situation, must consider the use of force in order to de-escalate the tension. This requires the military to adapt “on the go” and opt for other alternatives, such as changing the route, thus avoiding conflict.

Scenario 6 - Attack on the FOB

As a form of insurrection against EUBG forces, especially after the capture of the faction's leader, EUBG fighters launch a night attack on FOB Bemposta.

After the enemy forces begin their attack, the Battlegroup soldiers immediately activate the defense procedures, mobilizing the various assets stationed there to take up defensive positions around the base's perimeter.

A small force is formed to repel the attack and proceed with the search and capture/elimination of the threat.

On the weekend of November 24 and 25, at Campo da Restauração, next to Ponte de Sor Town Hall, there was an exhibition of weapons and vehicles participating in the exercise.

It was an opportunity for everyone to visit and look at military equipment and at the same time for the younger ones to exercise in a climbing tower set up on site, in a range of activities open to the public.

The TAURUS 24 exercise demonstrated the operational capacity and interoperability of the armed forces in the European context, reaffirming Portugal's commitment to security and defense within the European Union. Through challenging and realistic scenarios, the military personnel involved were able to test their preparedness and strengthen international cooperation, crucial elements for dealing with the complexities of stabilization operations. This exercise, which marked the beginning of a cycle of preparation for European Union Battlegroup 25-2/26-1, stood out as a milestone in Portuguese leadership, demonstrating its readiness to take command of a multinational force in future theaters of operations.

Honoring Tradition and Progress: Highlights from the Portuguese Army Day Celebrations in Guarda

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 11:38:29 GMT

From October 22 to 27, the city of Guarda hosted the Portuguese Army Day Celebrations. These celebrations provided visitors with an immersive experience in the military universe, showcasing the Army's capabilities and the people who serve in it, promoting innovation, commitment to its history and numerous career opportunities.

At the Rio Diz Urban Park we had the EXPO Exército, where the thousands of visitors could see the various units that make up the Portuguese Army, getting up close and personal with the various weapons systems and equipment that these forces use, whether to carry out combat missions or humanitarian aid and population support missions. Outside the exhibition, visitors were treated to the two “Heavy Weights” of the Mechanized Brigade, the Leopard 2A6 main battle tank and the M109A5 self-propelled artillery, various light vehicles such as the M11 Panhard reconnaissance vehicle and the URO Vamtac ST5 light armoured tactical vehicle in its various versions, among others, and some heavy support vehicles. Inside, they had the chance to see the various types of light weaponry used by forces such as the Commandos, Paratroopers and Special Forces, learn about the various simulation systems available to the Army in order to ensure greater preparation of its soldiers before they are deployed in real scenarios, discover the capabilities of inactivating Explosives/IEDs and NRBQ, among others.

Also as part of the Army EXPO, various activities were organized, some more oriented towards the little ones, such as the chance to practice climbing, always under the supervision and encouragement of the military personnel present. The little ones also had the chance to go horseback riding. As for activities for the whole family, visitors were able to do exercises on a dynamic shooting range and a sniper shooting range, all using airsoft of course, which provided a way for each participant to become a member of the Army, if only for a day. There were also those who ventured out for a short ride on the Polaris TP4 SOF and in a speedboat.

The EXPO Exército was also the stage for the signing ceremony of the Framework Arrangement for the joint acquisition by Portugal and France of a new artillery weapon system, the CAESAR howitzer, designed and manufactured by KNDS France.

The acquisition of this new artillery system for the Army contributes to the modernization of fire support, specifically field artillery, and demonstrates the Army's commitment to continuous investment in cutting-edge technology and raising its operational standards, as well as strengthening the ties of cooperation between the two countries.

This new weapon system is renowned for its Highly Effective Fire Power, Unrivaled Deployment Capability & Combat Proven and Survivability.

The CAESER 6x6, with its 155mm caliber gun can guarantee 6 rounds per minute, with a range of more than 40km using Base Bleed ERFB ammunition and more than 55 km using rocket assisted munition and without compromising the accuracy, thanks to its automatic re-laying after each round. Agile, stealthy and prepared for rapid operation with its automatic setting up, laying and shell loading, it can easily escape from the counter-battery: 1min 40s after opening fire, CAESAR has already fired six rounds and left its position.

It’s a system highly mobile, with off-road capability, and able to use public roads, motorways and winding roads without assistance. Also, it can be deployed via C-130 / A400 / IL76 / C-17, landing ship and train.

It has seen extensive use by the French Army, being deployed in Afghanistan, Lebanon, Mali and Iraq. Nowadays, it is employed on the battlefields of Ukraine with the Ukrainian Forces, where this system has been given proof of its capacities, proving that its high mobility mixed with the “‘shoot-and-scoot’ tactics allow for great results. Around 300 CAESAR are in service or in production, operated by several customers, domestic and export.

Another point of interest at the EXPO Exército was the presence of the LYNX KF 41 infantry fighting vehicle, designed and manufactured by the German company Rheinmetall.

There has long been talk of replacing the obsolete M113s, something that is foreseen in the current Military Development Law. Although there are no confirmations yet, there is a possibility that Portugal will join countries such as Hungary, which has become the launch customer for this version.

As said by Rheinmetall itself “The Lynx KF41 is more than just a new, highly advanced vehicle: it is the ultimate future-proof platform, blending unsurpassed protection with massive firepower and unbeatable mobility in a uniquely modular concept.”

The Lynx KF41 is highly modular and adaptable, allowing any base vehicle to be configured as:

Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV)
Command & Control
Armoured Reconnaissance
Repair & Recovery
Fire support: Called the Lynx 120, this unique platform merges a tried-and-tested turret concept and the proven 120mm smoothbore cannon with the Lynx KF 41 chassis, offering a well-balanced blend of lethality, protection, mobility and survivability.
Ambulance

Changing from one configuration to another can occur within eight hours.

It features the latest generation of propulsion technology with an 850 kW (1140hp) Liebherr engine, a proven Renk transmission and with a flexible suspension system, the Lynx can be configured to carry various mission kits and survivability packages without compromising mobility.

The Lynx KF41 with the next generation Lance 2.0 turrent has been designed not only for passive and reactive systems, but also for an active protection system to defeat rocket-propelled grenades and anti tank guided missiles.

The next enhancement is the integration of the new Wotan 35 electrically driven cannon that fires Rheinmetall’s proven and in-service 35x228mm ammunition family.

Lastly, the Lance 2.0 has two flexible mission pods fitted to the left and right of the turret that allow installation of a variety of subsystems to give the turret a specialist capability. Examples of customer-selectable mission pods include dual Rafael Spike LR2 ATGMs, non-line of sight strike loitering munitions, UAVs or an electronic warfare package.

One of the highlights of this edition of the celebrations was the participation of the Portuguese Association of Antique Military Vehicles, an association dedicated to restoring vehicles that have served in the Portuguese Army, thus keeping their history alive.

They were present with some of the vehicles of great importance in the Revolution of April 25, 1974, such as the Panhard EBR 75, the Humber MK IV and the Chaimite V200 “Bula”. Other examples were the Berliet-Tramagal GNC, the Unimog S404, the Mercedes 280 SE and the Volkswagen Type 2.

At the Teatro Municipal da Guarda, and later at the Parque Urbano do Rio Diz, there was a Technology Exhibition, aimed at Defense, Industry and Academics, where the Army's position as a credible partner for innovation was reinforced, demonstrating the commitment it has been making in this area, and also allowing us to understand the relevance of the NATO, European Union and National Defense Industries for the development of military land capabilities.

The exhibition presented equipment, solutions and devices that help solve problems and respond to identified needs.

On Saturday 26th, at the end of the morning, a military parade was held through the heart of the city of Guarda. The parade started next to the Monument to the Former Combatants and its main point was the José dos Lemos Municipal Garden.

The parade featured a wide range of vehicles, all representing the various capabilities of the Army, and ended with the passage of the vehicles of the Portuguese Association of Antique Military Vehicles, which bear witness to bravery and ensure that History lives on.

On Sunday it was possible to watch a demonstration of Explosive Ordnance Disposal, carried out by members of the No. 1 Engineering Regiment.

In this simulated scenario, an explosive device was detonated. 2 members of the Nuclear, Biological, Chemical and Radiological Defence Company (CDefNBQR) carried out reconnaissance to analyze the potential threat and define the security perimeter around the explosion site. During the reconnaissance process, they identified a second device.

At this point, a member of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team (GrEqEOD) was mobilized. Equipped with an EOD10 protective suit and a disruptor cannon, he proceeded to detonate the device in a controlled manner. Immediately afterwards, the two members of the NBQR team analyzed the area of the second device to ensure safety and make sure there was no hazardous substance.

Late on Sunday morning, the Military Ceremony took place in the Rio Diz Urban Park. This ceremony was presided over by the Minister of National Defense, Dr. Nuno Melo, and in the presence of the Chief of Staff of the Army, General Eduardo Mendes Ferrão, speeches were made congratulating the Army and the men and women who serve in it, highlighting the value of commitment and bravery of those who dedicate their lives to the cause. Decorations were also awarded and at the end there was a parade of the forces and a parachute jump by four members of the “Falcões Negros”, the Army's parachute team.

In the words of General Eduardo Mendes Ferrão, the modernization of the Army to strengthen its operational capacity is extremely important. This modernization increases the availability to support global security and the well-being of the Portuguese people.

At the end of his speech, General Eduardo Mendes Ferrão thanked the Guarda City Hall, its Mayor and the region's institutions for their prompt, professional and very dignified support for Army Day, and extended his gratitude to “the entire population of Guarda, who warmly welcomed and embraced their Army”.

Monte Real Air Base Open Day: A Close-Up on Portugal’s Fighter Aviation

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 13:51:03 GMT

Following tradition, on September 15 we headed to Monte Real for the Open Day at Air Base No. 5, home of fighter aviation. As part of the celebrations for the 72nd anniversary of the Portuguese Air Force, the base opened its doors to the public, showing the visiting public its unit and their missions. As has become customary, there was, once again, a spotters day where aviation and photography enthusiasts could get close to the action, the perspective from which this report was made.

When we arrived at the base and with the "check-in" done, we went to visit the static display which, as always, featured the various aircraft that have operated out of Monte Real, such as the F-86 Sabre, the T-38 Talon, the T-33 Shooting Star, the A-7P Corsair II and the Fiat G-91, which were well accompanied by the legends of the asphalt of yesteryear. Also on display was a Portuguese F-16 with a wide range of weapons, accompanied by a real “cannon”, the latest Portuguese-made supercar, the Adamastor Furia.

Inside the hangars, there were various stands displaying the equipment and units that make up the F-16 operational support units, along with an exhibition commemorating 30 years of the F-16 in the service of the Portuguese Air Force.

Something that aroused a lot of curiosity was the presence of the “Cockpit Demonstrator” of the F-35 aircraft, courtesy of Lockheed Martin, along with a 1/10 scale model of the aircraft. It is becoming increasingly certain that Portugal could join the 19 nations already operating the F-35 or that have placed orders for this aircraft.

We can't talk about the static display without mentioning the presence of two foreign aircraft, in this case a Eurofighter Typhoon from ALA 11 of the Ejército del Aire y el Espacio and an F-16AM from the 2nd Tactical Wing of the Belgian Air Force.

Shortly before the start of the morning's activities, the spotters moved, in something resembling a true pilgrimage, to the spot next to the runway, where we had the opportunity to photograph several take-offs, fast passes and landings of the various F-16s.

Still in the morning and just before our lunch break, we were delighted with the take-off of the F-16, registration 15119, for a Functional Check Flight (FCF) after it had been undergoing maintenance.

With full bellies after lunch, we were taken to the afternoon spot where, just as in the morning, we once again photographed a few more passes by the F-16. A surprise for everyone was the incredible low pass by the KC 390, escorted by two F-16s, which certainly caught many spotters off guard.

As we can't leave them out, this Open Day had the presence of the newest and second aircraft from 506 Squadron - “Rinocerontes”, the KC 390 with the registration 26902, to carry out the famous Baptisms of Flight.

MORSA-SATER 2024: Enhancing International Coordination in Air Search and Rescue Operations

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 16:55:53 GMT

From the 10th to the 12th of September, the MORSA-SATER Search and Rescue exercise took place once again, with the scenario being the crash of an aircraft. This “crash” led to the activation of the Air Search and Rescue System, a responsibility of the Portuguese Air Force established in Decree-Law 253/95 of September 30.

The origins of this exercise date back to 2001, when it emerged from a cooperation agreement between Portugal and Spain for Air Search and Rescue Operations. Taking place twice a year, with the organization alternating between the two countries, its main objective is to put into practice procedures in a maritime and/or land environment, in order to perfect the response to Search and Rescue mission scenarios, thus promoting training in coordination and interoperability between different organizations from the two participating countries, in the different phases of planning, execution and support.

Chosen scenario:

A civil aircraft takes off from Aveiro bound for Castelo Branco with 13 passengers on board. During the flight, the pilot reports technical problems to air traffic control. Shortly afterwards, the Lisbon Search and Rescue Coordination Center (RCC Lisboa) receives an alert that the aircraft has disappeared from radar while flying over the Viseu region. As it is not known what happened to the aircraft, and as the Portuguese Air Force is responsible for the Air Search and Rescue mission, the necessary assets were deployed to try and locate the missing aircraft.

Initially, a C-295M aircraft was mobilized to the search area. This was later reinforced by an NH-90 helicopter from the Ejército del Aire y del Espacio, which was nearby, and an AW 119 Koala helicopter.

(Photos: Força Aérea Portuguesa)

Once the wreckage was found, the search for survivors began. The teams realized that some of the passengers, in order to find a place with a mobile signal that would allow them to contact the emergency services, split into two groups and moved away from the crash site. These two groups were located near cliffs that were difficult to access, which meant that the AW119 Koala had to be mobilized there. After arriving at the site, the Koala makes several passes to ensure that the area is safe for rescue operations and identifies the number of victims present. It then extracts the first victim which, due to its limited occupant capacity, requires it to go to a helipad to hand them over to the medical team.

During that time, the C-295M made two passes in order to confirm the number of victims still there, and then the EH-101 Merlin helicopter was dispatched to extract the remaining victims.

At the end of the exercise, all the passengers were found, with only one fatality recorded.

In this edition of the exercise, in addition to the participation of the various air units of the Portuguese Air Force and the NH90 of the Ejército del Aire y del Espacio, there were also the participation of the RCC Lisboa and RCC Madrid, teams from the Autoridade Nacional de Emergência e Proteção Civil (ANEPC), the Instituto Nacional de Emergência Médica (INEM), the Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR), the Santa Comba Dão and Tondela Fire Departments and health teams from the Portuguese Air Force's Núcleo de Evacuações Aeromédicas.

The exercise ended with a debriefing at Air Base Nº8 in Maceda, Ovar, where Colonel Agostinho Rocha, Head of the Air Force's Air Operations Center, thanked everyone for their participation, stressing the “importance of the Search and Rescue mission with interoperability”. In the Colonel's words, “We often say, train as you fight... We train every day, exactly as we expect to be employed in a real way” ("Nós costumamos dizer, train as you fight… Nós treinamos todos os dias, exatamente como esperamos vir a ser empenhados de forma real”), which highlights the importance of this type of exercise, both in terms of making crews and teams proficient in this type of operation, and in terms of the interoperability of the various elements in an international context.

Source: Força Aérea Portuguesa

Aveiro Air Show: Soaring High at the Dunas de São Jacinto Festival

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 23:55:15 GMT

Inserted in the Dunas de São Jacinto Festival, the Aveiro Air Show filled the skies with breathtaking acrobatics. Everyone present felt inspired to look up at the sky and let themselves be carried away by the thrill of this incredible show.

The Festival:

In the year that Aveiro becomes the Portuguese Capital of Culture, the eighth edition of the Festival Dunas de São Jacinto was marked by various environmental, cultural, sporting and nautical activities. From August 23 to 25, and with a program designed for the whole family, the Festival Dunas will once again feature big names in Portuguese music such as Delfins, HMB and Marisa Liz. In addition, there was the absolute premiere of Atlantid, a night show with music, lasers, water and lights, and the Parrots Festival, which took place on São Jacinto beach. And of course, we can't fail to mention the Aveiro Air Show, which this article is about.

The Aveiro Air Show brought thousands of people to watch a breathtaking display of aerobatic flying by Portuguese and foreign pilots and aircraft. Once again, it demonstrates the skill these men have with their “flying machines” and their passion for doing something as incredible and liberating as flying, something our ancestors could only dream of.

Having debuted for the first time in 2019, this Air Show was initially known as the “Prio Air Show”, since its creation came from a partnership between the town hall and the company Prio, which sponsored the event until 2023. In 2024, Aveiro City Council took over the event, so as not to let the spectacle “die”. According to the mayor, Ribau Esteves, it's a way for the municipality to keep alive the memory of the aeronautical activity of the 10th Infantry Regiment.

These were the aircraft that took part in this Air Show

Champion 7ECA Citabria

Extra EA-330LT

Rutan Vari-Eze & Soubrane Acro 200

Vans RV-7

Pitts S-2A Special

A Day with the Portuguese Air Force: Open Day at Air Base No.8

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 17:14:36 GMT

As has become usual over the last few years, and as part of the celebrations for the 72nd Anniversary of the Portuguese Air Force, the bases on national territory and in the archipelagos opened their doors to the public, letting people know about the units there and their missions. The most recent Air Base was no exception, and July 14 was chosen for the occasion.

Although the base itself isn't new, Air Base No. 8 was established relatively recently. Formerly known as Aeródromo de Manobra Nº1, this base located in Maceda, Ovar, became an air base on November 24, 2023. It also shares the date with the reactivation of 551 Squadron - “Panteras”, which operate the Air Force's latest helicopter, the UH-60 Blackhawk, and which became the first Flight Squadron assigned to AB No.8.

This base continues to have a permanent detachment of 552 Squadron - “Zangões”, which operates the AW 119 Koala helicopter and is responsible for ensuring Search and Rescue on the coast and in remote areas.

Upon the arrival of the more than 30,000 visitors, who weren't deterred by the gray skies, they were greeted with some exhibits on the ramp in front of the hangar and in the warehouses located near the hangar. This is due to the restoration and improvement work that the North Hangar is undergoing.

Visitors had the opportunity to try out a car rollover simulator, watch K-9 demonstrations, learn about the mission and watch a demonstration by the Assistance and Rescue Section, among other things. As usual, there were also some exhibitors and civil associations such as CAAA - Clube Aveirense de Automóveis Antigos which, as in previous editions, brought an impressive collection of classic cars, the S.O.G. 13 Airsoft Team which provided the public with a target shooting area and an obstacle course to showcase the sport, and much more.

The static display of Air Force aircraft, unlike in previous editions, was a little poor, with only one Alpha Jet and a stand from 991 Squadron - “ Harpias ” displaying one unit of the UAVISION OGASSA. Over the course of the morning, they were joined by a TB-30 from 101 Squadron - “Roncos”.

After the morning demonstrations, the UH-60 Blackhawk was also introduced to the exhibition. The AW119 Koala was placed in a more distant location, so that if it was activated for an emergency, it could leave without any restrictions. The exhibition also included four aircraft belonging to various aviation schools in the north of the country.

Turning now to air activity, we had the usual “tour service” over the coastal area performed by the C-130 of 501 Squadron - “Bisontes”. This aircraft, which was recently handed over to the Squadron after modernization at OGMA, was used for the Flight Baptism that have become customary on Open Base Days.

The UH-60 Blackhawk provided a brutal demo, with its crew performing a “ballet ” that was certainly captivating for the eyes of everyone present. This aircraft was undoubtedly an excellent choice for our Air Force, with the only drawback being the small number purchased (6 ordered, 2 of which are already in service). Its main mission is firefighting, but it can perform other missions such as air transport and tactical missions.

The “ Zangões” didn't disappoint either, doing what they do best, and performed a Search and Rescue demonstration in which they simulated the retrieval of a victim. After the demonstration, they treated the rest of the spectators to several passes, ending with a slow pass along the taxiway to greet those present.

On the flight back to its “home base”, Air Base No. 11 in Beja, a P3C of 601 Squadron - “Lobos” took a detour and flew over Air Base No. 8, making a number of passes, from one with the armament compartment doors open to one with the number 4 engine switched off. This aircraft was deployed for almost a month at the Lithuanian base of Siauliai, where it carried out various maritime patrol missions in the Baltic Sea, within the scope of NATO to promote security in the region.

It wouldn't be a “party” at an Air Force base without the traditional passing of a pair of QRA F-16s from Monte Real. Once again, with their speed and roar, they provided the rest of us with a sight that always suits any Air Force enthusiast.

Last but not least, and even though it was a very brief demo, I would like to praise the pilot at the controls of the TB-30 who, with some spectacular passes, knew just how to say goodbye to the visitors and mark the end of this year's Open Base Day at AB No.8.

Dédalo 24 Task Force: Showcasing Spanish Naval Power in Vigo

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 16:30:58 GMT

The Spanish Navy's “Dédalo 24” Task Force took the Port of Vigo by storm, giving the public the chance to visit the ships that make it up and learn about their mission. On their last day in Vigo, it was also possible to watch an amphibious assault demonstration on Samil Beach.

From July 10 to 12, the Task Force “Dédalo 24” was docked at the Cruise Terminal in the Port of Vigo. This Task Force is made up of the aircraft carrier “Juan Carlos I”, the amphibious assault ship “Galicia” and the frigate “Blas de Lezo”. During these days, the ships were open to the public and allowed visitors to learn about their missions, capabilities and the types of vehicles they carry.

The “Dédalo 24” Task Force was returning to the Rota Naval Base in Cadiz, after spending three months in various parts of the world, where it operated with units from 28 of NATO's 32 member states, taking part in joint activities with two allied aircraft carrier groups and four amphibious groups. Coming from the Baltic Sea, where it took part in the Baltops-24 naval exercises alongside 9,000 soldiers from 19 allied countries, the group demonstrated its defense and deterrence capabilities in the Euro-Atlantic area.

Unfortunately, we only had the chance to go on Friday the 12th and were only able to visit the amphibious assault ship “Galicia”. Although we did get the chance to see the aircraft carrier “Juan Carlos I” setting out towards Samil Beach for the afternoon demonstration.

The main role of the L-51 “Galicia” amphibious assault ship is to deploy Marine Forces, operate amphibious vessels from its dock and helicopters from its flight deck, thus carrying out amphibious missions in any conflict zone or place where some kind of natural disaster has occurred. As a floating hospital, they can also provide all kinds of medical and surgical support.

It is a ship with a displacement of 13,000 tons, a length of 160 m and a bow height of 23 m. It has hangar capacity for 4 heavy helicopters or 6 medium helicopters and allows day and night air operations, contact and instrument flight, VERTREP and HIFR, GSI and artificial horizon. It has a crew of 185 sailors and can carry up to 615 people.

It can take four LCM1-E landing craft on its dock. The helicopters that operate from this platform are the AB-212, SH-3D or the more recent H135. The number of vehicles it can transport can be between 90 and 170, depending on the type (e.g. 170 M113; 130 Pizarro or 33 M-60A3). It can also store 700 tons of material and ammunition.

In the afternoon, on Samil Beach, a demonstration of amphibious assault by the Marine Force took place, with the participation of around 500 soldiers, supported by VAMTAC ST5 4x4 vehicles, speedboats and landing craft, 1 AB212 helicopter and 2 AV8B+ Harrier planes operating from the “Juan Carlos I” aircraft carrier and a Sikorsky SH-60B operating from the “Blas de Lezo” frigate.

The Crucial Role of Training and Coordination in Life-Saving Water Rescue Operations

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 23:22:35 GMT

Training and preparation are fundamental when it comes to saving lives, especially in emergency situations where every second counts. Rigorous training is essential as it enables individuals and teams to act effectively at critical moments, guaranteeing not only their safety, but also the preservation of the lives of those who depend on their quick and decisive actions.

As part of their Open Day and as a way of marking the opening of the bathing season, the Esmoriz Fire Department organized a water rescue exercise that was attended by other fire departments such as those from Espinho and Ovar and by Squadron 552 - “Zangões” of the Portuguese Air Force.

The chosen location was Praia do Cantinho, in Esmoriz, and it was a way of letting the public know about the firefighters' capabilities in carrying out this type of rescue and how the interconnection between organizations can enable a faster and more effective rescue.

The scenario presented was the following:

Following the sinking of a boat off Praia do Cantinho, the two lifeguards on duty at the beach made the first call for help, then entered the water and proceeded to reach the victims.

The first emergency services arrived on the scene: a 4x4 vehicle with a trailer carrying a jet ski, a 4x4 UTV and an ambulance. Once the jet ski was in the water, the team headed towards the victims to start evacuating them. During this process, another 4x4 vehicle arrived with another jet ski, which quickly joined the effort to evacuate the victims to the shoreline. The emergency teams are waiting for the first victims to arrive so that they can provide care and then transport them to hospital.

Due to the high number of victims, an Air Force helicopter was activated, via the interconnection of the Civil Protection Command and the Air Command. This helicopter was the AW119 Koala, belonging to Squadron 552 - “Zangões”, which is currently stationed at Air Base No. 8 in Maceda. Due to the proximity of the base to the incident site, it was able to quickly get to the scene. After a reconnaissance flyover, they begin extracting the victims to the beach, where the emergency teams are waiting for them. At the end, the two lifeguards who had been the first to rescue the shipwrecked and who were too exhausted to get out of the water on their own were extracted from the water.

The importance of training and preparation in emergency situations cannot be underestimated, as demonstrated by the water rescue exercise organized by the Esmoriz Fire Department. This event, which brought together several fire departments and the Portuguese Air Force, exemplified the effectiveness of inter-institutional coordination and the value of rigorous training. The ability to respond quickly and efficiently to a shipwreck, as shown during the exercise, is crucial to saving lives. These simulations are fundamental to ensuring that, when the real disaster strikes, the first responders are ready to act with precision and competence, protecting both the lives of the victims and their own.

A Plane Spotter's POV: Beja Air Show 2024

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 09:26:41 GMT

This year's Beja Air Show was a rollercoaster of emotions, ending with a bitter taste.

As part of the celebrations for the 72nd anniversary of the Portuguese Air Force, the Beja Air Show once again brought an action-packed weekend to the Alentejo skies. On June 1st and 2nd, it was possible to see several aircraft on display, demonstrations of the capabilities of the various squadrons and aerial displays. Unfortunately, this edition was marked by the tragic accident between two YAKSTARS aerobatic patrol aircraft, which resulted in the death of veteran pilot and Team Lead Solo Manuel “Coco” Rey Cordeiro.

With a strong focus on publicity, the presentation of an excellent programme and the last-minute announcement of the presence of three fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighter jets, thousands of people from Portugal and abroad made their way to Beja.

In the static display we could see the various aircraft that equip the various Portuguese Air Force Squadrons, such as the AW119, the P-3C, the F-16, the Chipmunk MK20 and the TB30. After finishing their flight demos, they were joined by the EH-101, the C295, the C130, the KC390 and the Air Force's latest helicopter, the UH-60 Blackhawk. As for international aircraft, there were the F-35 Lightning II (2 from the USAF and 1 from Aeronautica Militare), Mirage 2000 (1 from the Armée de l'air and 2 from the Hellenic Air Force), an L-159 ALCA from the Czech Republic and 1 F-16 from the Romanian Air Force.

The flying activities started early with the various movements of the C-130 that was carrying out the Flight Baptism and, only on Sunday, we had the take-off and fly-by of the Armée de l'air's E3-F AWACS.

The morning demonstrations were opened by the Portuguese Army's Falcões Negros parachuting team, who jumped from the KC-390. After that, we had a formation flight of the KC-390 and the Falcon 50, followed by individual passes by each of these aircraft, which were also joined by the C-295. Then there was a joint demonstration by the AW119, EH-101 and UH-60. The morning ended with flyovers by the Chipmunk MK20 and TB30.

On Sunday, it was still possible to watch take-offs and demonstrations by some of the aircraft taking part in the Hot Blade and Real Thaw exercises, such as the French Mirage 2000, the Czech L-159, the Romanian F-16 and C27J, the Swiss AS532, the Austrian AB212 and the Danish C130J.

In the afternoon, the demonstrations began with the UK's RAF Falcons, followed by the Embraer A-29 Super Tucano, Team Velarde, Patrulla Águila (Ejército del Aire), Couteau Delta (Armée de l'air), YAKSTARS, Gripen Hungary Solo Display, La Marche Verte (Royal Moroccan Air Force) and Patrouille Suisse.

In the end, but only on Saturday, our F-16s flew past, as usual in previous editions.

A short reflection on this event:

Without a doubt, an edition that will always be remembered, but for the worst reasons. A weekend that had everything to be fantastic was marked by the loss of a life. As I said at the beginning, it was an event with mixed emotions, and something that contributed to that was the fact that there were some flaws in the organization on the part of the Portuguese Air Force, such as placing the static exhibition in the same line as the demos and moving large aircraft (such as the C295, C130 and KC390) in front of the public while the ground demonstrations were taking place.

All in all, I can't fail to highlight and salute the various aerobatic squadrons who were present and gave excellent demonstrations, the Portuguese Air Force Squadrons who, as always, show national excellence and the USAF and Italian Air Force for bringing three fifth-generation fighter jets which were certainly a highlight of the weekend for all the visitors.

Finally, I would also like to point out that one of the highlights of these events is undoubtedly the time spent hanging out with the other spotters and aircraft enthusiasts.

Finally, I would like to pay a small tribute to the late pilot Manuel “Coco” Rey Cordeiro. A veteran pilot and Team Lead Solo for the YAKSTARS, he will always be remembered for his love of flying and his professionalism. A pilot who returns to the skies on his own wings. The team at Anacleto Photography extend their deepest condolences to his family, friends and YAKSTARS comrades, wishing them all the strength in this time of loss.

Portuguese Navy Day: Honoring History, Showcasing Strength in Aveiro

Sat, 25 May 2024 15:18:00 GMT

On May 20, 1498, the Portuguese sailor Vasco da Gama arrived in Calicut, thus discovering the Maritime Route to India and linking the West to the East for the first time. This prestigious achievement is now honored with the organization of the Navy Day commemorations.

526 years after Vasco da Gama's arrival in India, the Navy brought the Navy Day commemorations to Aveiro, a city known as the "Portuguese Venice" and with a strong connection to the sea. From May 4 to 19, it was possible to visit various exhibitions and take part in various activities, which were spread throughout the city. It's a dynamic way of showing the people of Aveiro, and others, the capabilities of their Navy in carrying out missions, both in times of war and peace.

One of the places chosen for the exhibition was the Fórum Aveiro shopping center, where initially there was a Fuzileiros stand where you could see the light weaponry they use in their missions and two of the force's vehicles, a Zebro boat and a 4x4 motorcycle. In the well-known "Praça da Estrela" of the same shopping center, there was a CFMOTO UFORCE 1000 Utility Task Vehicle, which is part of the Marines' land component, and two vehicles belonging to the Maritime Police, a Toyota Hilux pickup and a jet ski. Later, the marines' stand and vehicles were replaced by two more Maritime Police vehicles, a 4x4 motorcycle and a speedboat.

Another location was the Glicínias Plaza shopping center, where the Direção-Geral da Autoridade Marítima Nacional (General Directorate of the National Maritime Authority) had a stand devoted to the various aids to navigation systems that ensure the safety of ships as they approach the coast and enter the port. It was also possible to see a small area dedicated to lighthouses and, thanks to Virtual Reality, it was possible to give visitors a tour of these without them having to abandon their shopping routines.

These two shopping centers were also the scene of several small demonstrations of the capabilities of some of the forces that make up the Navy.

Tactical demonstration:

A wounded hostage was in the hands of a hostile force. A small force of Fuzileiros was tasked with freeing the hostage and neutralizing the threat. One of the first members of the hostile force to confront the soldiers tries to shoot, but is promptly shot down. The second hostile surrenders and is taken into custody. While two members of the team make the arrest, another member is in charge of securing the perimeter and the fourth provides aid to the hostage. With the mission objectives accomplished, the Fuzileiros, together with the detained enemy and the stable hostage, leave the scene.

Rappel demonstration:

It's not always possible to enter in the conventional way. That's why the Fuzileiros are trained in rappelling techniques, which becomes a quick way of projecting force into a location, as long as conditions allow.

K-9 demonstration:

The human-dog duo has been used extensively in various military forces. The level of harmony is enormous and shows how "man's best friend" can provide support in the most diverse types of missions. In this demonstration, the K-9 unit was used in a drug detection scenario.

On May 9, the emblematic NRP Sagres docked at Cais do Sal. The Portuguese Navy school ship was open to the public from May 13 until May 20, offering a unique opportunity to explore its naval history and tradition. According to a statement from the Navy, Sagres received more than 30,000 visitors in the 13 days she was in Aveiro.

The NRP Sagres was built in 1937 at the Blohm & Voss shipyards (Hamburg) and was the third in a series of four ships built for the German navy. In 1961 it became part of the Portuguese fleet, although it was initially offered to the Brazilian Navy as a way of compensating Brazil for the damage caused to its ships by German submarines during the war.

The NRP Sagres is currently the most decorated ship in the Portuguese Navy and the only one to bear foreign decorations on its national flag.

The Jardim da Fonte Nova and the Edifício da Antiga Capitania were also filled with nautical spirit and were the main area for exhibitions and activities. From the 15th onwards, visitors to Jardim da Fonte Nova could learn more about the various units that make up the Portuguese Navy. See first-hand the innovation and commitment to new drone technologies with the Célula de Experimentação Operacional de Veículos Não Tripulados (CEOV), learn about the main resources and missions of the Maritime Police, get up close and personal with the Lynx MK95, the helicopter that equips the Navy's Helicopter Squadron, interact with the light weaponry used by our Fuzileiros and even have the opportunity to shoot airsoft with them, but without first being put to the test in a little physical training, in order to turn each of the participants into a Fuzileiro, if only for a day. There were also those who tried scuba diving for the first time and, for the little ones, they had the chance to go rock climbing, always under the supervision and encouragement of the military personnel present.

In the Old Captaincy Building there were several virtual reality stands that gave visitors the chance to visit various Navy vessels without having to leave the building. For those who wanted to fly, the Helicopter Squadron gave them the chance to try out a Lynx flight simulator. For those who prefer to be on the water, there was also a boat simulator, where people could try their hand at sailing down the Rio Tejo (River Tagus). Other than that, you could see various small exhibitors, all linked to maritime practice, from essential parts for ship navigation to the Art of the Sailor, from the innovation of 3D printing and its applications in the military field to the presence of a Sea Sparrow surface-to-air missile. Finally, we mustn't forget one of the pieces that can be considered the centerpiece of this exhibition, which was a Lego model of the Trident Class submarine, currently in service with the Navy, full of details of the various compartments and sections that make up this military vessel.

On Sunday, May 19, the Military Ceremony took place in front of the building of the Old Jerónimo Pereira Campos Factory, and was presided over by the Minister of National Defense, Nuno Melo, and attended by the Chief of Staff of the Navy, Admiral Henrique Gouveia e Melo, the Mayor of Aveiro, José Ribau Esteves, among other entities. Speeches were made congratulating the Navy and the men and women who serve in it, decorations were awarded and at the end the Navy paraded with forces on foot and vehicles, attended by more than 500 military personnel.

Also as part of the parade, a formation made up of two Lynx MK95s and a T-6 (belonging to the Aero Fénix) flew over the city, as a way of evoking the Navy's air component. That air component, before the early 1950s, was known as Naval Aviation and after the end of World War II, this branch acquired a number of North American T-6s to be used for pilot training, which were then placed at the S. Jacinto Naval Aviation Center in Aveiro.

After the Military Ceremony, the various forces of the Portuguese Navy gave a demonstration of their capabilities, where they showed the public their skills in tactical scenarios in wartime and humanitarian scenarios in peacetime.

1st Scenario:

A hostage had been kidnapped by a terrorist group. In order to free him, members of the Special Actions Detachment (Destacamento de Acções Especiais - DAE) insert through the roof of the building via fast-rope from a Lynx helicopter. At the same time, two divers, from the Destacamento de Mergulhadores Sapadores Nº1, take out two lookouts in order to guarantee a clear area for a disembark. Given the signal using a smoke torch, a force of Fuzileiros and a K-9 element disembark and guarantee a security perimeter. During this process, they eliminate another hostile and detain the other, using the canine unit. With the security perimeter established, the DAE elements evacuate the building with the hostage and extract him using a UTV vehicle, which has been heli transported to a location close to the site of the operation.

2nd Scenario:

Using a surveillance drone, the location of an enemy command post has been identified. A sniper positions himself in the vicinity of the location, so that he can assess the situation and proceed to eliminate elements of the enemy force. Using a second drone, which was equipped with a grenade-dropping mechanism, two stun grenades were used which, when detonated, alerted two members of the hostile force. These elements leave the cover of the command post and stand in the open, giving the sniper a chance to eliminate them. After this, two divers come out of the water onto a pier and secure it, detonating the explosive devices placed there by the hostile force. Once this task is complete, they signal a Fuzileiros force that the pier is secure, which in turn proceeds with the disembark. At this stage, the force is divided into the assault team and the security team. The security team ensures that the landing site remains secure throughout the operation, while the assault team approaches the enemy command post and neutralizes it, with the support of an element of the divers. While all this action is taking place on the ground, a Lynx MK95, equipped with an M3M machine gun, provides close air support. With the main objective completed, the force withdraws to the landing site and leaves the area of operations.

3rd Scenario:

In an operation against drug trafficking, elements of the Maritime Police's Tactical Actions Group (Grupo de Ações Táticas - G.A.T.) prepare a raid on a drug deal that used moliceiros (traditional boats from the Ria de Aveiro) as a means of transporting the cargo. After confirming the transaction, four officers on two watercraft approached the boat, causing the two criminals to surrender without resistance. In parallel, four more G.A.T. officers approached the scene, arresting the trafficker and the buyer and securing the cargo as evidence.

4th Scenario:

A fire breaks out on board a moliceiro. While a crew member was fighting the flames, one of the tourists on board panicked and jumped into the water. This type of situation immediately requires the activation of search and rescue procedures. A jet ski and the ISN (Instituto de Socorros a Náufragos) were immediately mobilized to the scene to begin the rescue maneuver.

The second tourist, in an attempt to help the first, also jumped into the water and also ended up in need of help. Due to the local conditions, the rescue was carried out by the Helicopter Squadron, using the Lynx MK95 aircraft. The rescuer was lowered to the tourist and, after approaching him, placed the Quick Strop* on him, allowing them both to be lifted aboard the aircraft, thus completing the rescue.

*Quick Strop - Equipment that allows the victim to be removed quickly and safely, but only if they are conscious and not seriously injured.

The celebration of Navy Day in Aveiro, with its various activities and exhibitions, provided a unique opportunity for the public to get to know the capabilities and missions of the Portuguese Navy up close. Through tactical demonstrations, rescue simulations, and the emblematic presence of the NRP Sagres, the Navy showed its versatility and competence in both peacetime and conflict situations. This commemoration not only honored Vasco da Gama's historic achievement in discovering the Maritime Route to India, but also reinforced the connection between the Navy and the Portuguese people, highlighting the ongoing commitment to innovation and the defense of the nation.

ORION 24: Strengthening Ties and Preparing for Future Challenges

Fri, 10 May 2024 10:35:25 GMT

In order to test the readiness and interoperability of the Portuguese military forces with their NATO allies, the Portuguese Army organized its largest exercise, Orion 24 , in which around 1,400 soldiers took part, including forces from allied countries such as Spain, Slovakia and Romania.

From April 29 to May 10, the Campo Militar de Santa Margarida once again hosted the Orion exercise, where the operational component of the Portuguese Army and its allies can be put into practice as part of a NATO Article 5 Joint Operation.

With an area of 67 km2, the Campo Militar de Santa Margarida offers unique conditions for this type of exercise, with a Manoeuvre Field for armoured and mechanized forces up to Battalion/Group level, several firing ranges (divided into those suitable for light weapons and the firing range for Main Battle Tanks, Artillery, Anti-tank Weaponry and Heavy Mortars), an airstrip, among others.

Orion 24 was attended by around 1,400 soldiers, 1,244 of whom were Portuguese soldiers from various units, 129 were soldiers from the spanish Ejército de Tierra and belonging to the Extremadura XI Brigade, 25 were soldiers from the Romanian 22nd Infantry Battalion, of the Multinational Brigade Southeast and 17 were from the Slovak Army and belonging to the 52nd Airborne Battalion. The Portuguese Air Force also took part in the exercise, helping to ensure that operations were planned and synchronized.

One of the main objectives of this exercise is to strengthen the integration of multinational capabilities, to develop interoperability in the application of tactics, techniques and procedures in a high-intensity conflict scenario and to test the integration of Army Forces into the Alliance's Collective Defense mechanisms.

All this training is based on the most recent and realistic NATO scenario, based on current and future operations, and serves to demonstrate the cohesion and readiness of the Atlantic Alliance, as well as the commitment of the allies to defending the territorial integrity of NATO member countries.

Article 5 of NATO stipulates that an attack against one ally will be considered an attack against all, triggering immediate assistance efforts, developing the "action they deem necessary, including the use of armed force, to restore and ensure security in the North Atlantic region".

Another of the main objectives of this year's edition of Orion is the certification of a Main Battle Tank Platoon which, as part of NATO's surveillance activities in Eastern Europe, will be deployed to Slovakia in July, where it will form part of a multinational force. This platoon, equipped with the Leopard 2A6 combat vehicle, will form part of the 1.ª Força Nacional Destacada and will certainly contribute to a more robust military presence on NATO's eastern flank, acting as a deterrent and demonstrating the Allies' determination and willingness to defend sovereign territories and their populations.

We recall that on January 26, 2024, the Grupo de Carros de Combate began preparing a platoon with the aim of being deployed in the NATO MultiNational Battle Group Slovakia (MNBG SVK).

This platoon will consist of 4 main battle tanks, with a further unit going as a reserve, making a total of 5 units. There are around 24 soldiers directly assigned to this platoon, plus 2 more who will be working in the General Staff of the Brigade Unit Headquarters, and 1 more soldier working in the General Staff of the MNBG SVK Headquarters, making a total of 27 soldiers deployed.

On May 7 and 8, there were live-fire drills with national and international weapons systems, which provided contact with the equipment, vehicles and weaponry of each of the nations, contributing to the exchange of experiences and sharing of knowledge between the allied forces.

In the scenario presented, a multinational NATO force was attacked by a hostile force. Two M11 Panhard vehicles from the Reconnaissance Squadron of Regimento de Cavalaria Nº3 made the first contact with the opposing force. After reporting their position and making a request for Close Air Support, these two vehicles withdrew from the front line. With CAS carried out by two Portuguese Air Force F-16 aircraft, a defensive line made up of 3 Spanish Leopard 2A6s and 3 Portuguese Pandur II ICVs, garrisoned by Romanian infantry, opened fire on the hostile force. In order to suppress the enemy, they were supported by indirect fire from 2 M109 self-propelled howitzers and 1 M114A1 howitzer, followed by mortar fire from an M106 Mortar Carrier (a variant of the M113 APC). Having inflicted heavy damage on the retreating enemy forces, the Allied forces positioned themselves in a defensive line further to the rear.

On the second day of fighting, what remains of the opposing force launches a new counter-attack, which is again met with suppressive fire from the M109/M114 and mortars, along with Close Air Support from the F-16s. The allied forces in the defensive line, this time equipped with Leopard 2A6 and Pandur II IFV (version equipped with 30mm automatic cannon) from the Portuguese Army and VCI Pizarro from the Ejército de Tierra, open fire and completely eliminate the enemy force.

On the 7th and 8th, the Portuguese Army also decided to open its doors to military enthusiasts and photography lovers by organizing a Spotters Day.

This type of event makes it possible to watch all the action up close and creates ideal moments for capturing unique images of the vehicles and capabilities of the Land Component in operations.

I'll end this photo report by thanking the Portuguese Army and its Public Relations, in the person of the Spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Parcelas, for the excellent initiative and for the friendliness and professionalism with which he treated all the spotters present. I would also like to thank Alferes Salvador and the rest of the team who accompanied us over the two days, who did everything in their power to ensure that our visit went as smoothly as possible, always welcoming us and treating us with sympathy, kindness and professionalism.

Source Information: Exército Português, Facebook

Firepower on Tracks: Rosa Brava 24-2

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 16:35:31 GMT

As a way of testing their units' skills, the Mechanized Brigade organizes the "Rosa Brava" exercise on a yearly basis. They continually put their combined arms training matrix into practice, always adapting it to the current reality, geared up to operate, ready to engage and emerge victorious.

The second phase of this exercise took place between April 15 and 19, at the Campo Militar de Santa Margarida, home of the Mechanized Brigade and the only place that offers the dimensions and conditions to carry out this type of operation.

The objectives of "Rosa Brava" are to integrate and train the capabilities of the Mechanized Brigade's Manoeuvre, Fire Support, Combat Support and Service Support Units, putting their skills to the test by carrying out large-scale operations. This year's exercise is also notable for the integration of the readiness phase of a platoon of Main Battle Tanks that will be part of the national force deployed in Slovakia as part of a NATO operation and for the "Command Post Exercise (CPX)" phase for the "Orion 24" exercise.

During the first few days, the "Field Training Exercises" (FTX) were conducted in which various units from this Brigade were on the field, spread over the immense area of the training camp, with a practical component of various operations within the concept of combined arms. On the days we had the opportunity to accompany the maneuvers, it was possible to observe a platoon of Main Battle Tanks, consisting of a total of 4 Leopard 2A6s, supported by a platoon of the Anti-Tank Group using the M113, two of which were equipped with the BGM-71 TOW system (U.S. made anti-tank missile). These two platoons took up a defensive line that would eventually be confronted by an opposing force. They were supported by the 15.5 Self-Propelled Field Artillery Group (Grupo de Artilharia de Campanha 15,5 Autopropulsionado - GAC 15.5 AP) which had positioned itself in the rear, so that it could provide fire support but far enough away from the enemy. They used the M109A5 self-propelled howitzer to provide that fire support, supported by an M548 tracked cargo carrier and an M577 (command and control variant of the M113).

On April 18, a tactical training exercise with live fire took place at the Dom Pedro firing range. In this simulated scenario, a platoon from the Anti-Tank Group was forced to withdraw after heavy contact with a hostile force. Under the cover of smoke created by indirect fire from two 107mm mortars and 155mm M109A5 self-propelled howitzer, these units retreated to a defensive line. They are then reinforced by a platoon of four Leopard 2A6 Main Battle Tanks and an engineering unit. This Engineering unit will be responsible for clearing an obstacle and creating a safe passage, allowing the remaining units to launch a counter-attack in order to eliminate the opposing force.

(Leopard 2A6 firing a DM88 round (“Cone Stabilised, Discarding Sabot-Tracer Practice Cartridge” (CSDS-T PRAC CTG), Turrent external view)

The " Command Post Exercise (CPX)" phase of the Orion 24 exercise was carried out from the command post of the Mechanized Brigade and was set up as the command post of EUBG 25-2/26-1 (European Union Battle Group 25-2/ 26-1). In this way, it was also possible to use, in a campaign environment, part of the prototype developed by the Army which in the future aims to digitize and reconfigure the M 577 vehicles. The European Union Battle Group 25-2/26 is a joint and combined force of the European Union, which includes resources from the four components: Air, Land, Naval and Special Operations, prepared to intervene in crisis and conflict scenarios.

On January 26, 2024, the Grupo de Carros de Combate began preparing a platoon with the aim of being deployed, at the beginning of July 2024, in the NATO MultiNational Battle Group Slovakia (MNBG SVK).

This platoon consists of 4 Leopard 2A6, with a further unit going as a reserve, making a total of 5 units. There are around 24 soldiers directly assigned to this platoon, plus 2 more who will be working in the General Staff at the Brigade Unit Headquarters, and 1 more who will be working in the General Staff at the MNBG SVK Headquarters, making a total of 27 military personnel deployed.

In "Rosa Brava", the Main Battle Tank Platoon received technical and tactical instructions, as well as maintenance and preparation of the armored vehicles training. At this stage, the exercise plays the role of a pre-assessment of the force's readiness, which will have to be certified in the "Orion 24" exercise.

NATO currently has a total of eight Battle Groups on its eastern flank (from north to south): Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria. From July, the NATO Multinational Battle Group in Slovakia will be commanded by Spain, which will deploy a force from its Galicia VII Brigade (BRILAT).

Source Information: Brigada Mecanizada, Facebook

Museu do Ar - Preserving our aviation heritage since 1971

anacletofoto@outlook.com (Santiago Anacleto) — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 17:48:07 GMT

The Air Museum plays a key role in preserving and promoting Portugal's rich aviation history, allowing current and future generations to appreciate and learn from the nation's aviation legacy. By preserving aircraft, artifacts and historical documents, the museum not only honors the past, but also inspires innovation and progress in the field of aviation, highlighting the cultural and technological importance of this heritage to Portuguese society.

Since the early days of aviation in Portugal, the creation of a space for the preservation of this heritage has been on the horizon.

In July 1971, the Museu do Ar (Air Museum) was created and opened to the public. It was based in Alverca, in an old military aviation hangar. But this space was quickly occupied, creating the need for a larger area.

The Portuguese Air Force, with the support of Sintra Town Hall, ANA - Aeroportos de Portugal and TAP, thus began the refurbishment of an old hangar at Air Base No. 1. Once the works were completed, the space was inaugurated in December 2009 and is still the main museum space and headquarters, with a hub in Alverca. The Ovar hub, based at the current No. 8 Air Base, is temporarily closed due to the need to renovate the space to accommodate the recently activated 551 Squadron - "Panteras".

In Sintra, the museum is divided into several areas, covering the various periods and important milestones of aviation in Portugal and documenting Man's desire to fly.

In the main hangar, which is the largest area of the museum, various aircraft are displayed in chronological order, complemented by a photographic panel documenting the first 100 years of aviation in Portugal. The various aircraft on display include the Junker JU 52 (1930), the Avro Cadet (1931), the DH-87 Hornet (1934), the DH-89 Dragon Rapide (1934), the Spitfire (1934), the DC-3 Dakota (1935) and the F-86 Sabre (1947).

We can also highlight the presence of a Sikorsky H-19D Chickasaw, which was the first helicopter model that the Portuguese Air Force had, the recently restored F-84G which was one of the first jet fighters used by the Portuguese Air Force, constituting a modernization factor and a milestone in history, and also the replica of the SPAD 7C1 aircraft, which was a biplane used by the Portuguese forces in aerial combat in the skies of France during the First World War.

Between the Main Hangar and the Historic Hangars, we have the TAP Space which, as the name implies, is an area reserved for TAP - Air Portugal and which shows visitors the history of the company, from its foundation in 1945 to the present day. In this exhibition we can see, among other things, the first flight simulator for training pilots, as well as uniforms and on-board tableware.

In the Historic Hangars, of which there are three, we can see various exhibitions:

Hangar 1: There is a multimedia auditorium as well as a variety of military and civilian aircraft, including the Reims-Cessna FTB337G Super Skymaster, affectionately known as the “Puxa-Empurra”, and the De Havilland Canada DHC-1 Chipmunk.

Hangar 2: Dedicated to the Portuguese Colonial War, it displays the aircraft used in the three theaters of the conflict, including the North American T-6 Harvard and its array of weapons and a Fiat G-91/R4 with two of its four Colt Browning M3 12.7 mm machine guns on display. You can also see the three main rotary-wing aircraft used by the Portuguese Air Force in the Colonial War, such as the Alouette 2, Alouette 3 and SA-330 PUMA. One curiosity: the Alouette 3 is equipped with the MG-151 20 mm cannon, which earned it the nickname “Lobo Mau” (“Big Bad Wolf”).

Hangar 3: We have a Falcon 20 used for VIP transportation and radio aid calibration and a T-6 Harvard with cutaway. You can also see a classic Volkswagen Kombi Type 2 ambulance.

The Pioneer Room is also part of the third hangar. This room takes us back to the period when the Portuguese flew around the world. It displays personal documents, trophies and navigational instruments used at the time. It features the most important flights made by Sacadura Cabral, Gago Coutinho, Sarmento de Beires, Brito Pais, Humberto da Cruz and Carlos Bleck.

On the upper floor there is a space dedicated to the company Aeroportos e Navegação Aérea, ANA, where you can see, among other things, the original model of Lisbon Airport, inaugurated in 1942, as well as the original equipment and furniture that fitted out the first Air Traffic Control Tower.

At the end of the tour, we have to go outside and visit the Air Museum Stand. On display here are a number of recent and large aircraft, including models such as the P2V-5 Neptune, the P-3P Orion, the C212 Aviocar, two Alpha-Jets, the T-38 Talon, the Cessna T-37C Dragonfly and the T-33 Shooting Star.

A small curiosity: the P2V-5 Neptune, with tail number 4711, is unique in Europe and one of the few remaining worldwide. Given this legacy and its importance in the history of aviation, not only nationally but also internationally, it's a pity about the state of deterioration of this example.

Mastering Mountain Rescue: Insights from the 'Heli Resgate em Montanha' Seminar at Arouca Rafting Summit

Sun, 28 Jan 2024 10:10:39 GMT

The growing popularity of nature sports in the extensive Arouca GeoPark region has generated a significant increase in both reputation and financial gain, especially for the companies operating in the area. But there is one factor that has also grown in parallel: the risk of accidents. An accident in a remote area that is difficult to access could well jeopardize the victim's survival. That's why, more than ever, it's important to address the issue, share experiences and train teams to carry out this type of rescue, so that the people who play sports there can rest assured.

On Friday, January 26th, the "Heli Resgate em Montanha" seminar and exercise took place. It was held in the Auditorium of Alvarenga, and the exercise took place in the village of Espiunca, as part of the "Arouca Rafting Summit" program.

It was attended by more than 150 civil protection agents (firefighters, GNR, municipal civil protection services) and various members of tourist entertainment companies. They came together to share their knowledge and experience of rescue in remote areas with aerial support.

It was led by the Mayor of Arouca, Margarida Belém, the President of the Alvarenga Town Hall, Luís Filipe Teles, and the Regional Emergency and Civil Protection Commander of the Northern Regional Command of the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority, Army Lieutenant Colonel Carlos Alves. The event was also supported by the Portuguese Air Force, ANEPC – Autoridade Nacional de Emergência e Proteção Civil and the Arouca Volunteer Fire Department.

After the opening session, there was a presentation by Miguel Ângelo Ferreira, Senior Sports Technician at the Municipality of Arouca, who gave an introduction to the various sports practiced at Arouca GeoPark, from water sports such as rafting and canoeing, to mountain biking, climbing and trail running, among others. We noted the rapid growth of these activities and the number of people who attend them throughout the year, and how important it is to have teams prepared to respond when tragedy strikes.

Next up was Sérgio Azevedo, Adjunto de Comando of the Arouca Volunteer Fire Department, who shared his experience as an operative, describing the difficulties that rescue teams encounter when dealing with these cases. The lack or insufficiency of precise communication of the victim's location, access and even communication between the team on the ground and the crew of the helicopter requested to the scene are all aspects that compromise the speed of rescue and that need to be improved in order to guarantee the safeguarding of life.

After a short coffee break, it was the turn of António Barbosa, a doctor from INEM - Instituto Nacional de Emergência Médica (National Institute of Medical Emergency), to give a brief introduction to the structure and management of emergency calls from the 112 network, as well as some information on the process of assigning resources to the reported emergency and the activation of Portuguese Air Force aircraft, if necessary.

Albano Teixeira, Sub-Regional Emergency and Civil Protection Commander for the Porto Metropolitan Area, was also on stage to give an insight into the whole process, from the initial alert, through the request for SAR (Search and Rescue) equipment, to the link between the National Emergency and Civil Protection Command and the General Staff of the Armed Forces, which coordinates with the Air Force Air Command to provide and activate the aircraft necessary.

Finally, the Portuguese Air Force was present with a crew of three from the 552 Squadron - "Zangões", namely the pilot Captain João do Amaral Prata, the rescue swimmer First Sergeant Jorge Correia and the winch operator Sargento-Ajudante Rui Elias. During this presentation, a comprehensive overview was given of the capabilities and operations of the Leonardo AW 119 Koala helicopter, highlighting both its main characteristics and the critical missions in which it is employed. The presentation also included an analysis of the main equipment used by the retriever for the safe transportation of victims, as well as the various techniques employed by the crews to ensure effective operations. Essential procedures and precautions were also shared during all phases of air operations, from working in stationary flight at low altitude, with an emphasis on the challenges caused by downwash, to the take-off and landing processes in varied terrain.

In the afternoon, the exercise took place on the River Paiva, where the participants were confronted with an accident involving a raft that capsized, resulting in one injured person.

After collecting the injured person to the shore, the colleagues carried out first aid and called 112 for assistance. When the emergency teams arrived, they found the victim in a difficult-to-reach place, which would complicate his extraction. After assessing the victim's clinical condition and immobilizing him, the operations commander requested aerial support, which led to the activation of the Portuguese Air Force, which quickly deployed the AW119 Koala to the scene of the accident. With the visual signal provided by a smoke flare, the aircraft approached the site and the rescue swimmer was lowered to the teams on the ground. The victim was carefully placed in a rescue bag and lifted into the helicopter, after which he was transferred to an ambulance belonging to the Arouca Volunteer Fire Department, with the support of INEM. This drill demonstrated the importance of effective coordination between ground and air teams to ensure safe rescue in challenging environments.

See more photos here:

Flight Log 2023: A Year in Review - Portuguese Air Force

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 17:33:41 GMT

In 2023, the Portuguese Air Force played a vital role in safeguarding the nation through diverse missions. From airspace surveillance ensuring territorial integrity to swift search and rescue operations, their commitment was evident. Maritime patrolling bolstered security at sea, and their support in wildfire fighting efforts showcased versatility. Let's see the numbers:

Source: Força Aérea Portuguesa / Portuguese Air Force

50 Years Soaring: The Enduring Legacy of the F-16 Fighting Falcon

Sat, 20 Jan 2024 20:25:03 GMT

The legendary F-16 Fighting Falcon, also known as “Viper”, had its first flight in an unexpected way. Its story could have ended there, but thanks to its test pilot, Phil Oestricher, the No.1 unit was saved and thus began its incredible legacy.

(Photo: Lockheed Martin)

On this day, the F-16 celebrates 50 years since its maiden flight. It’s one of the most famous and recognizable fighters in the skies, with more than 3100 units in service, operated by 25 countries.

Counting with more than 19.5 millions flight hours and more of 13 millions sorties, the F-16 continues to provide a solid platform in present times, keeping up with most advanced fighters and giving advanced interoperable capabilities that enhance and strengthen partnerships between ally nations.

The YF-16 Project

The year was 1969 and the Department of Defense funded two major aeronautical names, General Dynamics and Northrop, so that they could come up with concepts for the Advanced Day Fighter program. This fighter had to be small and lightweight, with the capacity to maneuver with the lowest energy loss possible and should have an increased thrust-to-weight ratio, as asked by Colonel John Boyd who is considered by many as the “Father of the F-16”.

General Dynamics started to work on a prototype, known as YF-16, that combined the best technology available at that time. They used a blended-wing body that offered additional lift and control, a critical fly-by-wire system that stabilized the design and increased its agility, a bubble canopy that enhanced visibility and control for the pilot and a lot more.

On January 20, 1974, the test pilot Phil Oestricher was doing a high-speed taxi test, in preparation for the first flight scheduled two weeks later, when a series of strong oscillations occurred, making the aircraft strike the runway with its right horizontal stabilizer and bounce multiple times on the main landing gear. Oestricher was forced to take off in an attempt to save the aircraft and, after a 6 minutes flight, he returned to Edwards Air Force Base, where he landed safely.

In a testimony of the experience undergone by Oestricher, he refers the two problems with the prototype and explains the situation he was facing, “First, the roll control was too sensitive, too much roll rate as a function of stick force. Second, the exhaust nozzle control for the prototype was wired incorrectly. You had to be on the ground for the nozzle to be wide open, so as soon as you took the weight off the wheels, the nozzle closed and essentially doubled the thrust at idle.” With the problems solved, the maiden flight scheduled for February 2 took place and everything went according to plan.

Looking at the remarkable features that the YF-16 had, like the use of the same engine as the F-15 Eagle, longer range, better maneuverability, and lower operating cost as its rival, the Northrop YF-17, the U.S. Air Force would have no choice but to award General Dynamics as the winner of the competition.

(Photo: Lockheed Martin)

The Evolution

Through the years, the F-16 platform suffered a lot of changes and upgrades, from avionics, to weapons systems, to the implementation of night/all-weather capabilities, but always maintaining its unmistakable silhouette.

F-16 A/B
Maiden flight: December 8, 1976;
First used by U.S. Air Force;
Twin seat version: F-16B;
Block 1, 5, 10, 15, and 20;
Block 15 had new larger horizontal stabilizers.

F-16 C/D
Maiden flight: June 19, 1984;
Block 25;
APG-68 radar;
Multi-function displays;
Wide-angle holographic Head-Up Display;
AGM-65D Maverick and AIM-120A AMRAAM;
New fire control and stores management computers.

F-16 C/D Block 30/32
Year of debut: 1986;
As part of the Alternative Fighter Engine program, they were supplied by two engines manufacturers (Pratt & Whitney and General Electric)
Block 30: GE F110 engine (fitted with larger engine air intakes to provided more thrust);
Block 32: P&W F100 engine.

Block 40/42
Year of debut: 1988
Know as “Night Falcon”;
LANTIRN navigation and targeting pods;
Associated holographic HUD (allowing the use of Paveway laser guided bombs);
GPS;
Improved APG-68V(5) radar;
Digital flight controls and automatic terrain following system.

Block 50/52
Year of debut: 1991;
New improvements for radar, countermeasures and avionics;
Capability to employ the Joint Direct Attack Munitions and Joint Stand-Off Weapons;
Some units were modified to perform Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses with the AGM-88 HARM and the ASQ-213 HTS (HARM Targeting System).

Block 50/52+
Upgraded version of the Block 50/52 ;
Conformal fuel tanks;
Dorsal spine compartment;
APG-68(V9) radar;
On-Board Oxygen Generation System;
JHMCS helmet.

Block 60
Export version for the United Arab Emirates
Conformal Fuel Tanks;
Internal FLIR and Targeting System;
APG-80 Active Electronically Scanned Array radar;
Airborne Self-Protection Jammer;
Many avionics improvements.

Block 70/72
Latest version of the F-16;
Maiden flight (factory new): 2023;
APG-83 AESA radar;
Center Pedestal Display;
Link 16 datalink;
Full Night Vision Imaging System compatibility;
Embedded GPS/INS;
Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System;
Countries operating versions of the F-16 that were delivered in 2019 are suitable to receive the upgrade to the Block 70/72 variant.

While many countries fly the F-16, some of them still operate the older variants and they are reaching their maximum operational service time, leaving those Air Forces no choice but to take them out of service. As technology progresses, the market keeps filling up with choices as more modern aircraft are becoming operational. But even so, the reputation of the F-16 prevails and continues to be a choice for many nations that are looking to replace their older fighters.

Lockheed Martin claims that new F16 production will allow for structural and capability upgrades, thus ensuring that the international fleet will operate until 2060 and beyond.

Source:

Lockheed Martin
TheAviationist.com

European Rotors 2023

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 15:12:54 GMT

After the success of the first edition in 2021 and with the sporadic growth in the 2022 edition, the third edition of EUROPEAN ROTORS took place this year in Madrid, from the 27th to the 30th of November.

The European Helicopter Association (EHA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have come together to create an exceptional showcase for the European VTOL sector: the industry, operators and regulator are coming together to shape the future of vertical flight, with focus on the latest developments from a safety point of view.

EUROPEAN ROTORS is a unique platform for the industry, driven by the desire of leading OEMs to do business and share knowledge through a comprehensive educational program. During the duration of the four days, all participants can meet the entire value chain, including OEMs and 1st, 2nd and 3rd tier suppliers, discover the latest technical innovations and future trends of the VTOL community, expand their network by meeting international organizations participating in different areas of the industry, engage with people of various professional levels, from young talents to expert industry leaders, showcase their products and future developments and much more.

EUROPEAN ROTORS' unique concept is complemented by certified training sessions, best practice seminars and workshops.

The show will empower the helicopter community to face future challenges and highlights the contribution of VTOL operations to the European community.

The Conferences:

Over the course of EUROPEAN ROTORS, participants are offered a range of educational opportunities, tailored to the needs of the different sectors and professional levels of the VTOL community.

The content of these courses will enable operators, maintenance personnel, pilots, managers and others to succeed in today's industry dynamic environment.

In order to ensure that all visitors have the possibility of participating in these conferences, they were held on 3 stages located close to the static display area. During the conferences, all the latest and upcoming developments in the sector were covered, from air ambulance, aerial work, police and parapublic to offshore, general aviation and drones - always highlighting the perspective of the industry, operators and regulator.

Leonardo:

Leonardo is a world player in the Aerospace, Defence and Security industry. As a world leader in the Helicopters sector, Leonardo integrates the most advanced mission suites and meets the latest safety standards. Their helicopters offer unparalleled flexibility and availability and have set a well-established track record for multi-mission support. They have the most modern and complete range of models and an around-the-clock and around-the-world customer service.

In their stand, it was possible to visit their next-generation, high performance, single-engine helicopter AW 09 and 2 AW 169 helicopters that are in the light-intermediate category, very versatile, combining best-in-class performances with superior range and safety. One of the AW 169 belonged to the UNI-FLY and was configured for offshore helicopter hoist operations and the other belonged to the italian Carabinieri and was configured for security services.

Airbus Helicopters:

Airbus is a leader in designing, manufacturing and delivering aerospace products, services and solutions to customers on a worldwide scale. As the largest aeronautics and space company in Europe and a worldwide leader, Airbus is at the forefront of the aviation industry.

They strive to provide the most efficient helicopter solutions to their customers who serve, protect, save lives and safely carry passengers in demanding environments. Its helicopters are in service across more than 150 countries worldwide, performing nearly every type of vertical flight task imaginable. The company’s product line offers the full spectrum of rotary-wing aircraft solutions for civil, government, military, law enforcement and parapublic uses.

In their 2 stands, it was possible to visit their single-engine helicopter H125, known for its performance, versatility, low maintenance, and low acquisition costs, while also excelling in high-and-hot and extreme environments, their twin-engine H135, known as one of Airbus’ most successful lightweight rotorcraft due to is endurance, compact build, low sound levels, reliability, versatility, and cost-competitiveness, their simplified and versatile H120 model and finally the latest member of the company’s four-tonne-class twin-engine rotorcraft product range the H145, that is suitable for a variety of civil and military missions.

Bell:

“Thinking above and beyond is what we do.”

With history going as far as 80 years, Bell has been reimagining the experience of flight and where it can take us. They were the first to break the sound barrier and to certify a commercial helicopter. NASA’s first lunar mission had a part of Bell’s engineering and one of the most advanced tiltrotor systems was brought to market by them.

Their headquarters is located in Fort Worth, Texas, but they have strategic locations around the globe. Since nearly one quarter of their workforce have served, Bell has a passion for helping the military achieve their missions.

They assume the commitment to deliver exceptional experiences to their customers. Efficiently and reliably, always with safety at the forefront.

In their static display area, we could see the light, twin-engine helicopter Bell 429, belonging to the Air Zermatt with the HEMS configuration and the Bell 505 Jet Ranger X, which is Bell's new five-seat aircraft designed for safety, efficiency and reliability through advanced avionics technology.

MD Helicopters:

First time comers to European Rotors, MD Helicopters is a leading light helicopter manufacturer for civil and military operators worldwide. They guarantee a safe, agile, and hard-working platform and consistently deliver light helicopters capable of reliable performance. For nearly 70 years, MD Helicopters has been helping customers accomplish their mission, wherever it takes them. With new leadership and a clear vision,they’re moving boldly ahead.

They had on display one of their models, the versatile and high performance MD 530F model. This model delivers increased operational capabilities, greater mission versatility, and superior performance. It can operate more effectively in hot, high environments than other helicopters in its class. Can be used in a wide range of missions, from Law Enforcement, Utility and VIP services.

Konner S.r.l.:

The company was officially born in the year 2002 and is located at Amaro, Italy. They offer a long term experience in the field of turbomachinery, aerospace and precision mechanical engineering, granting them the ability to apply experience and innovative thinking to the development and production of aeronautical products.

With the idea of making flying easier and safer, and after years of constant research and improvements, Konner gave birth to cutting edge aviation products: the TK 250 diesel turbine, the K1 and K2 helicopters.

The K1 (two seats) and K2 (four seats) are lightweight, single-engine helicopters, built using cutting edge technology and with reliability, safety and easy operation in mind. With this, they guaranteed their customers satisfaction and their own technological successes, allowing the company to expand both its production facility and business.

Helitak:

Helitak Fire Fighting Equipment is a world leader in aerial firefighting systems.

They offer a vast array of solutions that differ from the normal underbelly tanks on the market. Their expandable fire tank offers many very distinctive advantages such as:

- The size of the tank does not interfere with the structure of the landing gear and doesn’t pose a threat to the safety of the aircraft during landing on unprepared surfaces;

- The external installation of the Helitak fire tank leaves the internal cargo space for both passengers and equipment;

- The carbon fiber construction provides a lightweight alternative;

- Their capacity ranges from 1000 liters to 11,000 liters for Helicopter use and 15,000 liters for fixed wing applications;

- They offer a unique Fire Tank Controller, that allows the operator and the Helitak to control and record variable application rates, water collection and delivery, maintenance and operations data telemetry;

- The top of the tank has several openings, facilitating access for carrying out maintenance tasks.

On display, they had 2 models: the FT1400, attached to an Airbus AS350, and the FT4500, attached to a Sikorsky UH-60A.

On the static display area, many stands belonged to the first-, second-, and third-tier suppliers. They offer a showcase of systems that are essential to the VTOL industry and that can drastically improve the way the operator's mission is completed. We saw from highly advanced avionics to cutting edge manufacturing techniques and materials, from high quality personal use equipment to the equipment and gear required to guarantee the survivability of the crew, surveillance and reconnaissance systems, NightSun searchlights. Also present were industries that make, maintain and operate UAV VTOL systems, used in the most various types of missions.

It’s also important to mention one of the most crucial parts that are the communication and media partners, responsible for bringing to the World what's going on in the VTOL community, such as Vertical and RotorHub.

EUROPEAN ROTORS returns in 2024 and it will be held in Amsterdam, the Netherlands

If you want to see more about this event, you can consult their website:

https://www.europeanrotors.eu/en

See more photos here:

43 Grupo - Fighting Fires from the Air

Sat, 02 Dec 2023 21:21:16 GMT

These “Air Firefighters” are on alert, 365 days a year, to fight any forest fire that appears on their radar. They are the courageous men and women who make up the 43 Grupo de Fuerzas Aéreas of the Ejército del Aire y del Espacio.

The 43 Grupo is based at the Torrejón de Ardoz Air Base, Madrid and its creation dates back to 1971, more precisely on February 8, when they received the first units of the Canadair CL 215. These were located at the Getafe Air Base, Montreal and were part of the 803 Escuadrón de Fuerzas Aéreas. Their first operational mission, contrary to what was expected, was a search and rescue mission on March 11, 1971, and it was only on July 9 that they carried out their first mission to extinguish forest fires. In 1973, together with the Dornier 27, they formed the 404 Escuadrón de Fuerzas Aéreas. Since the use of the CL 215 was a success, it was decided to purchase more units and, in December 1973, the Squadron was transferred to the Torrejón de Ardoz Air Base. On May 8, 1980, the 404 Escuadrón de Fuerzas Aéreas became known as the 43 Grupo de Fuerzas Aéreas.

Mission:

According to the current collaboration agreement between the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of the Environment, the main mission of the 43 Group is to collaborate with the General Directorate of Biodiversity in extinguishing forest fires. From October 1st to June 15th, this Squadron always keeps 2 aircraft and their crews on alert. From June 15th, which is when the “Fire Season” begins, and until September 30th, the Squadron maintains a minimum of 70% of its fleet and crews ready to respond to emergencies in various parts of the country. Each year they have several detachments, these being in Santiago de Compostela, Talavera la Real, Salamanca, Zaragoza, Albacete, Málaga and Pollensa, also maintaining assets in Torrejón de Ardoz.

This type of mission is, without a doubt, one of the most riskiest: flights at very low altitude, reduced visibility due to smoke, winds that cause turbulence and fuel the fire, the large concentration of air assets in the same airspace, the topography of the area fire... these are all risk factors that the crews of 43 Grupo assume and face with safety, cold-blood, determination and, above all, a lot of training and planning. It is easy to understand the large number of hours of experience required before acting as a pilot commander in this type of mission.

This unit can also perform search and rescue missions, in support of the various SAR squads of the Ejército del Aire and International Forces.

Aircraft:

At the moment, the 43 Grupo has a fleet of 18 aircraft, 14 of which are the Canadair CL 215T and the remaining 4 are the more modern CL 415.

The CL215/215T/415 are twin-engine amphibious aircraft, designed and initially built by Canadair, that were later built by the company Bombardier and were created from scratch with the mission of fighting forest fires in mind. The CL 215 has two belly tanks with a total capacity of 5436 liters and is able to fill them in 12 seconds. The CL 215T version is a modernization of the CL 215, where the piston engines were replaced by turboprop engines.

The CL 415 model emerged from Bombardier's decision to move forward with a replacement for the CL 215 version instead of continuing with upgrades to the CL 215T. The main difference between the CL 215T and the 415 is the EFIS avionics suite. There were also additional improvements such as the inclusion of winglets and finlets, higher operational weight capacity, greater tank capacity (6,136 liters) and the addition of a fire retardant injection system. Another main difference is that the CL-215T has a two-door bomb bay, while the CL-415 has a four-door bomb bay, thus gaining the ability to carry out split discharges.

Normally they fly with a crew of 3, 2 pilots and a flight mechanic.

For this unit, it’s a source of immense satisfaction to achieve, year after year, campaign after campaign, the final objective of its mission, the extinction of the fire in which it’s operating.

The unit is also aware that this objective would not be achieved without the cooperation and help of the rest of the means deployed in the fight against the fires, both military and civil, air or land, national or foreign, and whose selfless and exemplary work it would be unfair not to remember. and recognize from here.

Portuguese Army's Day 2023

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 20:56:35 GMT

Between the 24th and 29th of October 2023, the Army Day Celebrations took place in the city of Viana do Castelo.

During these days it was possible to visit the various static displays, watch operational demonstrations and the Military Ceremony. On the 28th and 29th, the Portuguese Army provided military and photography enthusiasts, amateurs and professionals, with the opportunity to participate in Spotters Days. Here is the report made from that perspective.

The static displays were spread between the Viana do Castelo Cultural Center and Jardim da Marina. At the Cultural Center, it was possible to see the equipment and weapons used by various forces of the Portuguese Army, the Raven mini-UAV system, the TOW anti-tank system, among others.

At Parque da Marina, it was possible to see and visit various land assets that make up the Army's motorized component, such as the Leopard 2A6 Main Battle Tank, several versions of the Pandur II 8x8 APC, the light armored tactical vehicle URO Vamtac ST5, the light reconnaissance vehicles Panhard M11 and the two support and emergency vehicles URO Vamtac EMER and Ambulance.

On the 28th it was possible to watch an operational demonstration by the Special Operations Group, where they rescue a hostage who is in the hands of a hostile force. They are deployed by fast-rope from an EH-101 Merlin from the 751 Squadron, while two shooters were on board an AW119k from the 552 Squadron ensuring top-cover of the forces on the ground. After ensuring the security of the HVT and responding to a counterattack, the forces are withdrawn by URO Vamtac SOF, quad bike Polaris TP1 SOF and Polaris TP4 SOF

On the 29th there was the Military Ceremony where several high entities and the Minister of National Defense, Helena Carreiras, were present. Congratulatory speeches were given to the Army and the Men and Women who serve in it, decorations were awarded to various soldiers, civil entities and former combatants for various achievements and at the end the Army paraded with on foot and motorized Forces, with around 1200 military personnel and 170 vehicles.

After the Military Ceremony, the soldiers that will be part of the 4ª Força Nacional Destacada that are going to be stationed in Romania, belonging to CAt/Mec, carried out an operational demonstration, simulating a response to an ambush:

After an attack on one of the Pandur II 8x8 ICV armored vehicles, the soldiers inside leave, creating a security perimeter and launching smoke grenades, in order to create cover for the affected vehicle. The remaining Pandur II in the column move to flanking positions, in order to surround the hostile forces while their teams advance on the position, eliminating the shooters. After ensuring the safety conditions of the location, the teams regroup and board the vehicles again, continuing with their mission.

At the end of October 29th, the Lowering Ceremony of the National Flag, the Flag of the city of Viana do Castelo and the Army took place, thus marking the end of the 2023 Army Day Celebrations, in Viana do Castelo.

I would also like to mention the Army's gift to the city of Viana do Castelo in recognition for hosting the celebrations of the Army Day 2023, which was the “Coração de Viana”. The work as an iconic symbol of the City, was made by Professor Luís Miguel de Morais, professor at the Army 's Instituto dos Pupilos.

See more photos here:

1st Joint Training PJM x 552 Squadron "Zangões"

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 16:42:12 GMT

The first joint training between the Polícia Judiciária Militar and Squadron 552 - "Zangões" of the Portuguese Air Force happen in the month of September and took place in Aeródromo de Manobra Nº1, Ovar.

This training aims to provide the Polícia Judiciária Militar with airborne capabilities that allow them to be inserted in places that are difficult to access by land and where situations that fall within its jurisdiction occurred.

ALA 23 - Making Spanish Fighter Pilots since 1953

Sun, 01 Oct 2023 19:12:26 GMT

The 23rd Wing, of the Spanish Ejército del Aire y del Espacio, is based at the Talavera la Real Air Base, in Badajoz, just a few kilometers away from the border with Portugal.

It was founded in 1953 and received the name of Escuela de Reactores. Its creation came from the need to instruct pilots in the use of new jet fighters available in the Spanish arsenal. They were initially equipped with the T-33A "Shooting Star" fighters at the beginning of 1954, and in 1958 they were equipped with the F-86 Saber fighters. In 1970, the T-33A and F-86 were replaced by the F-5M, and they are currently still in service, with this aircraft having just over 162,000 flight hours.

To this day, the 23rd Wing is responsible for training the 5th year students of the Academia General del Aire in the aspects of air-to-ground and air-to-air combat being that, in all its years of history, they held around 108 Instrucción de Caza y Ataque courses.
After completing their training, pilots will head to one of the fighter squadrons of the Ejército del Aire y del Espacio, that are equipped with the F-18 Hornet or the EF-2000 Eurofighter.

The Aircraft:

The 23rd Wing is equipped with the F-5M Freedom Fighter, that is a two-engine, multi-role fighter (spanish designation: AE.9), built by NORTHROP, and in service since 1970, thus completing 53 years of operation this year. This platform underwent various upgrades during the years, being the last one an avionics update in 2003. This is a two seat version, where the student takes the spot in the front and the instructor flies in the backseat. It is a fighter equipped with a huge range of equipment and armaments that allows future pilots to be prepared for the most advanced weapons systems such as the Hornet or the Eurofighter. As this system is increasingly a rare sight, this visit was an excellent opportunity to see them in action and hear that beautiful roar, which for many is the Sound of Freedom.

Ground Crew:

The Ground Crew are a vital part in the mission since they give support to the pilot after entering the aircraft, like helping them with the harness system and strapping them to the seat so in case of an ejection, they are correctly strapped and avoid potential harm. During start-up procedures and before the aircraft rolls to the taxiway, they assure that everything is functional (example: flight surfaces, air brakes, canopies and wheel brakes) to minimize the risk of a mal-fuction that can put the life of the student and his instructor in danger.

Before the aircraft rolls to the runway and takes-off, the Ground Crew does a 360º inspection to ensure it's ready for another mission.

233 Squadron:

Since 2019, the 23rd Wing and the Talavera la Real Air Base are the home to the recently acquired Predator-B UAV systems, belonging to the 223 Squadron. The Ejército del Aire y del Espacio currently has 4 units in its arsenal, giving them an enormous intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. This system is capable of an autonomy of more than 25 flight hours and carrying out ISR missions using infrared and radar sensors, to search, locate and follow targets in any weather condition, fixed or mobile, both day and night. This missions can be flown from the main base or from a location that gathers the necessary conditions. The crew is composed of two elements, the pilot (responsible for flying the UAV) and the systems operator (responsible for using the surveillance equipment)

I would like to finish the photo-report with a thank you to the Ejército del Aire y del Espacio and the 23rd Wing, in the person of Lt. Col. Alfredo Lago, Chief of Training and Squadron Commander, for making this possible. Also a big thank you to the student pilots who accompanied me during this photo-report for the help, support and sympathy.

4th FND CAtMec/ROU - Preparing to go to Romania

Sun, 24 Sep 2023 17:18:08 GMT

Military personnel from 32 units participate in the CARPHATOS START exercise at the Santa Margarida Military Field, in the preparation phase to join the 4ª Força Nacional Destacada CAtMec/ROU that will be deployed in Romania at the end of this year. In this exercise, various types of training are carried out, such as the Field Training Exercise and session on the Shooting Range.

Following the invasion of Ukraine by Russia and subsequent activation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) defense plans, it was decided to send a Company to Romania. This participation with a total of 200 military personnel translates into the creation of the 4ª Força Nacional Destacada of the CAtMec (Companhia de Atiradores Mecanizada), within the scope of NATO's “Enhanced Vigilance Activities” mission.

The group is made up of military personnel from the three branches of the Armed Forces and its preparation took place at Infantry Regiment No. 13, in Vila Real, with part of the preparation period taking place at the Santa Margarida Military Field.

The 4ª Força Nacional Destacada is made up of a mechanized infantry company, divided into three infantry platoons and a cannon section. These are joined by an anti-aircraft defense module, an intelligence module and a support detachment that guarantees the group all the administrative support necessary for its operations.

The anti-aircraft defense module's main mission is to secure airspace, defending ground forces from possible aerial threats. This module is also supported by a radar team, which monitors the airspace and, if any hostile aircraft appears, relays this information to the anti-aircraft defense team.

Anti-aircraft defense is guaranteed by a team of 3 elements, armed with the Stinger missile launcher system. This American-made system is known for being portable, short-range, of the "Fire and Forget" type. It is an infrared-guided surface-to-air missile. These 3 elements also use the VTLB VAMTAC ST5 vehicle to guarantee their high mobility.

The radar team consists of 4 elements, 3 of which guarantee the assembly of the AN/PPQ-2 PSTAR (Portable Search and Target Acquisition Radar) system while one guarantees the security perimeter.

During the Field Training Exercise, the forces carried out several ambush response drills where, after an attack on a Pandur II 8x8 ICV armored vehicle, the soldiers inside leave, creating a security perimeter. After initiating contact with hostile forces, they carry out flanking maneuvers in order to eliminate the threat.

In other exercises, where more Pandur II vehicles were involved, they simulated the response to ambushes on a column of vehicles. In these maneuvers, after the first vehicle is hit and the soldiers inside leave to create a security perimeter, the remaining Pandur IIs in the column move to flanking positions so that their teams can advance on the hostile position, eliminating the shooters. After ensuring the safety conditions of the location, the teams regroup and board the vehicles again, continuing with the mission.

They also trained the correct response to attacks by anti-vehicle mines, how they should position the vehicles in a way they guaranteed their safety and can quickly evacuate the wounded.

The cannon section is equipped with a Pandur II 8x8 Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV). This version was designed to guarantee greater firepower capacity, maintaining all the principles and characteristics inherent to the base ICV and RWS versions. It is armed with a 30mm automatic cannon, with stabilization and automatic tracking system, a 7.62mm coaxial machine gun and a 7.62mm machine gun located on top of the turret.

The presence of this vehicle in a Pandur II ICV column is extremely important, as it guarantees a fire capacity and “more muscular” response to any contact with hostile forces.

During the preparation phase, this section carried out maneuvering and firing training.

In order for the forces to be as well prepared as possible with their weapons, several shooting sessions were held. The soldiers practiced shooting with the .50 caliber Browning M2 heavy machine gun and the 5.56 mm and 7.62 mm FN MINIMI light machine guns. In these training sessions, “Fire & Move” movements were simulated, where while a Pandur vehicle and its garrison provided covering fire, the other vehicle repositioned itself and so on.

The soldiers also had the opportunity to practice fire with the Carl Gustav multipurpose portable anti-tank recoilless cannon. The Carl-Gustaf system is highly versatile as a large-caliber portable weapon, largely due to the fact that it can fire various types of ammunition that can be decisive in specific situations, ranging from anti-armor to adjustable anti-personnel (with airburst), to ammunition against fortified areas and grenades for other special situations such as; smoke and lighting.

The 40mm FN40GL grenade launcher was also another type of weapon used in training. The soldiers initially practiced with anti-personnel grenades and later with HE grenades. They also had shooting sessions with the SCAR-L and H rifles and the Glock 17 pistol.

See more photos here:

Open Day'23 - Aeródromo de Manobra Nº1 Maceda

anacletofoto@outlook.com (Santiago Anacleto) — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 16:18:36 GMT

As part of the celebrations for the 71st anniversary of the Portuguese Air Force, the bases in Portugal and the archipelagos opened their doors to the public, showing the units that exist there and their missions.

On July 16, it was the turn of Aeródromo de Manobra Nº1, located in Maceda, Ovar. This base currently has a permanent detachment from the 552 "Zangões" Squadron, which operates the AW 119 Koala helicopter and is responsible for ensuring Search and Rescue on the coast and in remote areas. AM1 is also home to the Air Force Dog Training Center which, since 1985, has been training Polícia Aérea dog units for a wide range of operations, from security to detecting explosives or drugs.

In the North Hangar, visitors were offered various exhibits from different units such as the Polícia Aérea, where all the material, individual light weaponry and collective heavy weaponry used by this force was on display, the OPSAS (Assistance and Rescue Systems Operator) who are responsible for responding to different types of emergencies within the airfield, among others. There were also various civilian exhibitors such as pilot training schools, the 509th Tigers simulation flight squadron and various local gastronomy businesses.
Also inside the hangar we had a stand from the Air Force recruitment center and an area dedicated to providing visitors with a VR experience.

In the morning, we saw the arrival of two Chipmunk MK20s from the Air Force Academy which, before landing, performed a flight demonstration.

Also in the morning, the AW119 Koala helicopter from the "Zangões" Squadron gave a Search and Rescue demonstration, where they simulated the rescue of a victim using the Quick Strop, which is a piece of equipment that allows a quick and safe way of removing the victim, but only if they are conscious and not seriously injured. After this demonstration, they passed through the taxiway and took the opportunity to greet the visitors present.

It wouldn't be a "party" at an Air Force base if there weren't flyovers by the F16s, which once again, with their speed and roar, gave the rest of us a view that always appeals to any Air Force admirer.

At the end of the day, military personnel from the Air Force Dog Training Center gave a demonstration of how well the human-dog duo works. Their level of harmony is tremendous and shows how "man's best friend" can provide support in the most diverse types of missions, from security and conflict management to the detection of explosives and drugs. At the end, there was a simulation of a hostile barricaded with a firearm, where the use of a canine unit had many advantages for the security team, whose mission was to stop the hostile without resorting to lethal force.

See more photos here:

Portuguese Navy's Day 2023

Sat, 27 May 2023 14:21:11 GMT

Between the 18th and 21st of May 2023, the Navy Day Celebrations took place in the city of Porto. During these days it was possible to visit the various exhibitions, participate in various activities, watch operational demonstrations and the Military Ceremony. During these days, the navio-escola NRP Sagres, the frigate NRP D. Francisco de Almeida and the ocean patrol vessel NRP Sines were also moored next to Cais da Ribeira. These 3 vessels were open to visits.

The exhibitions were spread between the Maritime Police Pier and the Infante D.Pedro Park. At the Maritime Police Pier, it was possible to see the equipment and vehicles used by various Navy forces, such as the LARC-5 amphibious vehicle and the semi-rigid patrol and boarding boats, equipment and weapons used by the Marines and DAE, the various UAV and USV systems, among others. The Navy also promoted various activities such as diving, climbing and visiting the vessels.

At Parque do Infante D.Pedro, it was possible to see some light land and naval assets that represent the Navy's rapid mobility, such as the Yamaha Rhino buggy, a semi-rigid boat and watercraft from the Maritime Police and a 4x4 Polaris buggy and motorbike belonging to the Marines.

On the 21st, after the Military Ceremony, there was a demonstration of the capabilities of the Navy and National Maritime Authority.

1st Activity: Military personnel from the Boarding Platoon are placed via fast-rope from a Lynx Mk95 on a vessel considered hostile. After ensuring the safety of the vessel's deck, the remaining elements of the Maritime Police's Grupo de Ações Táticas (G.A.T.) carry out the approach using semi-rigid boats and, together with the Fuzileiros, guarantee the safety of the remaining vessel and proceed with the arrest of the crew.

2nd Activity: Marines simulate an infiltration into hostile territory, using the Lynx Mk95 helicopter, where they initially launch inflatable boats and later jump from the helicopter that hovers at a low altitude. After this, the Marines prepare the vessel and proceed with the assault. In order to support this force, other soldiers are quickly equipped with a 4x4 Polaris buggy, using the suspended load capacity of the Lynx. This allows a quick response from these forces.

3rd Activity: The Lynx crew also demonstrates their skills in Search and Rescue, rescuing a shipwrecked man using a winch.

At the end of the demonstration, two Lynx Mk95 perform a small aerial display, ending with a salute to the tribune and audience present and the many small watercrafts used on the demonstration paraded in front of the old building of Alfândega do Porto.

On May 25th, it was possible to photograph the departure of NRP Sagres in the early hours of the day, thus marking the end of the Portuguese Navy's visit to the North and the city of Porto.

See more photos here:

2021 Lifeguard Course for Military Personnel

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 11:37:00 GMT

As part of a partnership between the 751 Squadron “Pumas”, the Portuguese Air Force and the ISN, a lifeguard course for military personnel was created.

During the month of May, several members of the Portuguese Air Force attended the Lifeguard Course, held at Air Base No.6 in Montijo.

The objective of this course is to train military personnel in the skills of lifeguards, ensuring that all trainees are in the most physically and psychologically fit condition and providing them with the skills and techniques necessary to carry out their mission.

After training in closed swimming pools, the trainees move to the sands of Air Base No.6 in Montijo and face the cold temperatures of the Tagus River (Rio Tejo) while carrying out the various exercises.

The 751 Squadron provides, in the first phase, support for a resistance exercise where trainees will be positioned underneath the EH-101 Merlin, while it hovers at a certain altitude, so that they can feel the effects of the downwash.

In the final phase of the course, 751 participates again by carrying out recovery exercises of the trainees, using the winch.

See more photos here:

NATO Tiger Meet 2021: Clawing Back to the Skies

Tue, 25 May 2021 20:44:42 GMT

After a year-long enforced break due to the COVID-19 pandemic, NATO Tiger Meet (NTM) returned in force in 2021, in an edition marked by resilience, tactical innovation, and a demonstration of interoperability between elite NATO and partner nation squadrons. Between May 2 and 14 at Air Base No. 11 in Beja, Portugal, the exercise brought together around 550 military personnel, 56 aircraft, and eight operational squadrons in one of the largest and most complex air exercises held in Europe that year.

Under the motto “Hard to be Humble,” the event was organized by the Portuguese Air Force's 301 Squadron - “Jaguares,” one of the oldest members of the Tiger community.

THE NATURE OF TIGER MEETS: BEYOND FELINE CAMOUFLAGE

Created in 1961 with the aim of fostering comradeship, sharing tactical knowledge, and strengthening ties between squadrons with Tigers in their emblems, the NATO Tiger Meet has evolved into much more than a simple symbolic gathering. Over the decades, it has become one of the most prestigious and technically demanding aerial warfare exercises in Europe, even though it is not officially part of NATO's structure.

The NTM is coordinated by the NATO Tiger Association (NTA), composed of permanent, associate, and honorary members. The event retains a strong symbolic component, from custom aircraft paint schemes to social events, but it is eminently operational, with highly realistic daily missions requiring in-depth planning, precise execution, and a high degree of interoperability.

One of the F16 Fighting Falcons from 335 Mira, in this case, the one featuring the special Tiger Meet paint scheme.

"Belly of the Beast"

TACTICAL OBJECTIVES

This exercise focused on COMAO (Composite Air Operations) - missions composed of multiple aircraft of different types, nationalities, and functions, operating under a common plan. The main objectives were:

● To train multinational integration in complex and contested air environments;

● Simulate air-to-air and air-to-ground operations in a high-intensity conflict context;

● Carry out missions with realistic scenarios;

● Exercise tactical air command and control (TAC C2) in real time;

● Assess joint capabilities and interoperability between different platforms and doctrines.

The area of operations covered southern Portugal, including reserved airspace, maritime areas, and firing ranges, with support from the Air Force Reporting and Control Center (Centro de Relato e Controlo - CRC).

Eurofighter Typhoon, from the 12° Gruppo, with their NTM paint scheme

One of the F/A-18 from the Swiss Fliegerstaffel 11

301 SQUADRON “JAGUARES”: THE FELINE PRIDE OF THE PORTUGUESE AIR FORCE

Based at Air Base No. 5 in Monte Real, 301 Squadron - “Jaguares” is a highly prestigious fighter unit of the Portuguese Air Force and a full member of the NATO Tiger Association since 1978. With an impressive operational history, 301 Squadron hosted the NATO Tiger Meet 2021, having been awarded the “Silver Tiger” trophy at the last edition of the NTM, which took place in Mont-de-Marsan, France, in 2019.

History and Mission

The history of 301 Squadron “Jaguares” began in January 1969, when it began operations at AB5 Nacala, in Mozambique, with the original designation of 502 Squadron and equipped with Fiat G-91. In this context, the “Jaguares” carried out combat missions such as anti-guerrilla warfare, interdiction, and independent attack. They established three permanent deployments in Porto Amélia, Mueda AM51, and Nampula (3rd Air Region Command), as well as other non-permanent deployments in Nova Freixo AB6, Vila Cabral AM61, and Beira BA10.

After the end of the colonial war, and with the restructuring of the Portuguese Air Force, the "Jaguares" began operating from Air Base No. 6 in Montijo, under the new designation of 62 Squadron. In 1978, with the reorganization of the air unit numbering system, they received their current designation of 301 Squadron.

During this period, they continued to operate the Fiat G-91 until 1993, participating in numerous exercises, both national and international. They carried out Close Air Support, Battlefield Interdiction, and Tactical Air Reconnaissance missions. Also noteworthy is the organization, for the first time on Portuguese territory, of the 1987 edition of the NATO Tiger Meet.

In 1994, 301 Squadron was transferred to Air Base No. 11 in Beja and equipped with Alpha-Jet, continuing to perform the same type of missions. They participated again in the NATO Tiger Meet in 1996 and 2002, operating the Alpha-Jet until 2004. The following year, in 2005, they began a new phase when they received the F-16 MLU (Mid-Life Update) fighter, operating from Air Base No. 5 in Monte Real, where they remain today, maintaining their motto: “De nada a forte gente se temia” (“Nothing to fear from strong people”).

It is important to note that the history of the "Jaguares" is deeply linked to the heritage of other squadrons that also operated the Fiat G-91 in former overseas theaters of operation. Among these, the 121 Squadron “Tigres” stands out, created in 1966 at Air Base 12 in Bissalanca, Guinea, being the first unit to operate the Fiat G-91. The “Tigres” carried out various types of missions like reconnaissance, bombing, fire support, cooperation with friendly forces, and protection of land and river convoys. Until 1974, the ‘Tigres’ demonstrated their prowess in the complex combat missions they carried out, while facing growing threats such as SA-7 “Strella” anti-aircraft missiles. They were later reactivated on January 13, 1981, at Air Base No. 4 in Lajes as the 303 Squadron, to reinforce the Azores Air Command with air assets for defense and maritime patrol of the Portuguese Exclusive Economic Zone.

Another unit whose tradition the “Jaguares” also inherited was the 702 Squadron ‘Escorpiões’, created in 1971 at AB7 Tete Chingosi, Mozambique. Like the “Jaguares,” the “Escorpiões” carried out similar combat missions and operated in the same deployments. They were even the first pilots to successfully confront the threat of SA-7 missiles.

The 301 Squadron “Jaguares” is not only one of the most emblematic units of the Portuguese Air Force, but also the legitimate heir to the traditions and fighting spirit of the "Tigres" and "Escorpiões", perpetuating the history of national combat aviation.

Detail of the host F16 paintwork beneath the canopy

“Tiger” Spirit and Previous Participations

The 301 Squadron is known not only for its operational competence but also for its strong esprit de corps and adherence to the values of the Tiger community. It has won several distinctions at previous Tiger Meets, including awards such as the Tiger Spirit (2019) and the prestigious Silver Tiger Trophy (1980, 1985, 2011, and 2019).

For NTM 2021, the Jaguars presented a special commemorative paint scheme on an F-16, with a stylized tiger on the gray fuselage, maintaining the artistic tradition of the community. This paint scheme earned them the Best Tiger Aircraft award.

Detail of the Drop Tank of the F16 of the 301 Squadron

Legacy and Vision for the Future

301 continues to be a benchmark in NATO combat aviation, both for its operational readiness and its full integration into international missions. The Squadron has regularly participated in deployments for Baltic Air Policing (BAP), Enhanced Air Policing (eAP), and other international exercises such as Red Flag, Real Thaw, and Trident Juncture.

Hosting NATO Tiger Meet 2021 was more than an honor—it was an unequivocal demonstration of the squadron's operational and logistical maturity, projecting Portugal's name as one of the pillars of allied tactical aviation.

The full painting scheme of the F-16 from the host squadron, the 301 Squadron "Jaguares"

MULTINATIONAL PARTICIPATION: UNITY IN DIVERSITY

NATO Tiger Meet 2021 saw reduced participation from squadrons from eight countries, including NATO members and partner nations:

• 301 Squadron – “Jaguares” (Portuguese Air Force) – F-16A/B MLU Fighting Falcon

• 12° Gruppo (351st Tiger - 36° Stormo, Aeronautica Militare - Italy) - Eurofighter Typhoon

• 21º Gruppo (Aeronautica Militare - Italy) - HH.212 and HH.101 Caesar

• 335 Mira (Elliniki Polemiki Aeroporia - Greece) - F-16C/D Fighting Falcon

• 142 Escuadrón (Ala 14, Ejército del Aire - Spain) - Eurofighter Typhoon

• 6 Eskadra Lotnicza (Siły Powietrzne - Poland) - F-16C/D Fighting Falcon

• Fliegerstaffel 11 (Schweizer Luftwaffe - Switzerland) - F/A-18C/D Hornet

• 313 Squadron (Koninklijke Luchtmacht - Netherlands) - F-16A/B MLU Fighting Falcon

Unfortunately, due to several cases of COVID-19 infections, 313 Squadron was forced to abandon the exercise.

In addition to these NTA squadrons, we also had the participation of some external squadrons and other forces such as:

• 552 Squadron – “Zangões” (Portuguese Air Force) - AW-119 Koala

• 601 Squadron – “Lobos” (Portuguese Air Force) - P-3C Orion

• 751 Squadron – “Pumas” (Portuguese Air Force) - EH-101 Merlin

• 502 Squadron – “Elefantes” (Portuguese Air Force) - Casa C-295

• AVDef - Falcon DA-20

• NATO Allied Air Command - Cyber SME (Subject Matter Experts)

• US Space Force - Space SME (Subject Matter Experts)

• CAE - Groupleader Mission Support

• TACP (Tactical Air Control Party) - Portugal, Denmark, and the Netherlands

• Land Forces (Portuguese Army) - Commandos, Special Operations CTOE, Paratroopers

• EDCA 0/36 “Berry” (AWACS – French Armée de l'Air) - Boeing E-3F

• Flying Squadron 1 (NATO AWACS) - Boeing E-3A

• CTF-67 (US Navy) - P-8A Poseidon

• Portuguese Navy - Various naval asset s

Fliegerstaffel 11 (Schweizer Luftwaffe - Switzerland) - F/A-18C/D Hornet

21º Gruppo (36° Stormo, Aeronautica Militare - Italy) - HH.212 and HH.101 Caesar

6 Eskadra Lotnicza (Siły Powietrzne - Poland) - F-16C/D Fighting Falcon

AVDef - Falcon DA-20

313 Squadron (Koninklijke Luchtmacht - Netherlands) - F-16A/B MLU Fighting Falcon

601 Squadron – “Lobos” (Portuguese Air Force) - P-3C Orion

552 Squadron – “Zangões” (Portuguese Air Force) - AW-119 Koala

TACTICAL AND DOCTRINAL FRAMEWORK

NTM21 focused on conducting combined tactical air operations (COMAO - Composite Air Operations), replicating realistic war scenarios in a multi-domain environment (air, land, and sea). These operations aimed to train and strengthen interoperability between NATO forces and partner countries, both at the technical and human levels, while also promoting the so-called “Tiger spirit,” which reinforces the bonds of comradeship between the participating squadrons.

The COMAO operations, carried out mainly in the morning, included various types of coordinated missions, including:

• Air defense,

• Attacks on ground and maritime targets,

• Suppression of enemy air defenses,

• Escorts and penetration operations in hostile airspace.

During the afternoon and evening, operations focused on smaller-scale missions, such as:

• CAS (Close Air Support) in coordination with ground forces,

• Air interception missions,

• Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) operations with helicopters,

• Dissimilar Air Combat Training (DACT) and Basic Fighter Maneuvers (BFM).

Night operations were also an essential component of the exercise, with the aim of training complex missions in low-visibility environments.

In addition to the tactical aspect, NTM21 was also a forum for developing joint skills, with familiarization flights between pilots of different nationalities and the sharing of lessons learned. These activities reinforced NATO's common operational standards while fostering a spirit of cooperation and solidarity among the squadrons.

Polish Air Force F-16C Block 52+ with NTM tail

Two-seater F16 from the 335 Mira

AIR SAFETY AND THE PANDEMIC: AN ADDITIONAL CHALLENGE

The 2021 edition took place under strict health and safety measures due to COVID-19. All participants were subject to regular testing, operational bubbles, and limited social events. Even so, the Portuguese Air Force's coordination ensured a safe and effective exercise without compromising tactical objectives.

The presence of international observers and media coverage was limited, but operational quality was not affected—on the contrary, the technical and functional nature of the exercise was reinforced.

Portuguese F16 MLU with squadrons 50 anniversary tail

THE TIGER RISES AGAIN: LEGACY AND THE FUTURE

NATO Tiger Meet 2021 proved that, even in an adverse global scenario, the cohesion, professionalism, and adaptability of the allied air forces remain unshakeable. The return of tactical roar to Europe was not only a sign of operational normality but also a reinforcement of collective readiness.

For the pilots, controllers, and technical teams involved, NTM 2021 was more than an exercise—it was an affirmation of aerial excellence. And for the 301 Squadron, an exemplary host, it was another milestone in its legacy as one of the pillars of the Tiger community.

Exhaust nozzles covers with a tiger scheme of a Swiss Air Force F/A-18

CONCLUSION: THE SPIRIT OF THE TIGER LIVES ON

The NATO Tiger Meet is more than just a gathering of squadrons with feline emblems. It is a concrete affirmation of NATO's ability to train jointly, effectively, and in a technologically advanced manner. In 2021, Beja was the stage where the spirit of the Tiger showed, once again, that it is still alive, fierce, and ready for the challenges of the future of aviation.

Face to face with the Italian Typhoon

One of the Typhoon from the Italian 12° Gruppo

The detail of the Greek flag on a F-16

The "Claws" of a HH.212 from the Italian 21º Gruppo

The "Claws" of a HH.101 Caesar from the Italian 21º Gruppo

F16 Fighting Falcons from 335 Mira

The Polish F16 lineup

anacleto-photography---defense-and-air

F-35 or Gripen? The choice that will define Portuguese air defence for the next four decades

Saab recently acknowledged that OGMA has the potential to produce parts of the Gripen in Portugal. The news went largely unnoticed, but it got me thinking more systematically about a decision that will commit Portugal's defence budget for the next four decades.

﻿

The technological fetish and the economic reality

The numbers: what the study reveals

Cost comparison: F-35A vs. Gripen E/F vs. F-16V

The new threat: drones and ground vulnerability

The value of what is defended and the inventory ratio

The onion metaphor: layered combat and Portugal's role

Operational dispersal and technological sovereignty

The limitations of this argument

Conclusion: the choice that reveals our strategy

The Super Tucano and Portugal: Why It Makes More Sense Than It Seems

﻿

Let’s get to what matters.

A Platform That Speaks for Itself

What the A-29N Actually Brings to the Table

Advanced Training: A Long-Overdue Gap to Fill

Combat: More Versatile Than It Looks

The New Paradigm: Drones, and the Need to Stop Them

The EEZ: One of the World’s Largest, and Not Always Well Guarded

The Portugal-Embraer Pattern: This Has Happened Before

Portugal as Europe’s A-29N Industrial Hub

Conclusion: This Is Not Nostalgia. It Is Strategy.

Aviation & Defense Photography Guide Season 1: From Gear Strategy to High-Speed Action

Mastering your equipment in this field goes beyond simply achieving a "correct" exposure. When you are operating under pressure, your camera settings - Aperture, Shutter Speed, and ISSO - transition from being mere technical variables to vital storytelling choices.

Before we dive into the specific tactical applications and the gear that gets the job done, we need to recalibrate how we look at the foundational mechanics of photography.

The Exposure Triangle: A Tactical Baseline

1. Shutter Speed: The "Frozen Rotor" Anomaly and the Pace of the Battlefield

The "Frozen Rotor" Anomaly in Aviation

�� Tactical Field Note: Rotor Blur Execution

Momentum on the Ground

2. Tactical Composition: Commanding the Viewer's Eye

1. Rule of Thirds

2. Leading Lines

3. Symmetry

4. Balance

5. Golden Ratio

6. Golden Rectangle

7. Golden Triangle

8. Fill the Frame

9. Negative Space

10. Framing

11. Foreground Element

12. Depth of Field

13. Color Contrast

14. Repetition

15. Rule of Odds

3. Focal Length: When the Environment Dictates the Gear

The "Inside Man" (Ultra-Wide to Wide: 14mm - 35mm)

The "Workhorse" (Standard Zoom: 24-70mm)

The "Sniper's Optic" (Telephoto & Super-Telephoto: 70-200mm, 100-400mm, 150-600mm)

4. The Loadout: Building Your Tactical Kit

4.1. Tactical Criteria: Choosing the Right Body

4.2. Tactical Advantage: The "Crop Factor" Cheat Code

4.3. The Primary Weapon: Telephoto Lenses

4.4. Close Quarters Combat (CQB): Short Range Glass

4.5. Choosing Your Class: DSLR vs. Mirrorless

4.6. The System Hack: Cross-Gen Compatibility

4.7. Recommended Loadouts

Your Turn Begins Now

Your Mission Path:

5. Readout Speed: The Invisible Lag of Your Sensor

5.1. How the Sensor Sees the World (The Scanner Theory)

5.2. The Electronic Shutter Trap: Benchmarking Latency

5.3. Visual Anomalies on the Battlefield

5.4. Tactical Countermeasures (Zero-Cost Solutions)

5.5. The Elite Standard: Stacked BSI & Global Shutter

6. Memory Cards: Decoding the Alphabet Soup

6.1. The Anatomy of a Memory Card

6.2. Mission Specs: Format and Capacity (Legend 1 & 2)

6.3. The Data Highway and Speed Classes (Legend 3)

6.4. The Great Illusion (Legend 4)

6.5. Tactical Redundancy & Heavy Artillery

7. RAW vs. JPEG: The Tactical Choice

7.1. Saving the Mission: Exposure and Color Precision

7.3. The Redundancy Protocol (RAW + JPEG)

7.4. Rules of Engagement

Wrapping Up: Season One & What's Next