While the diplomatic relations between Washington and Jerusalem are at an all time low, the defence relations between the two countries are continuing as normal.
The transport-oriented “Noble Shirley” training exercise held by the IAF and the USAF has been completed. The exercise was held earlier this month, at the southern Israeli airforce (IAF) Nevatim Airbase, where the forces practised various scenarios.
“This exercise takes place once every few years. We practise classic missions typical for the tactical transport squadrons, such as airdropping supply, parachuting special forces and flying solo or in formation,” Lieutenant Colonel Amiram, commander of the “Yellow Birds” Squadron operating the C-130 transport aircraft, told the IAF web site.
“The highlight was the joint flights, such as parachuting American and Israeli paratroopers,” the IAF officer said.
The Israeli C-130 squadron led the training exercise.
At a certain point in the exercise, the IAF’s “Elephant” squadron, operating C-130Js, also joined.
The IAF’s C-130 squadron commander explained that the USAF C-130s which participated are based in Europe, where they deal with many imposed flight restrictions
“The training spaces in Israel suit the kind of training they lack in Europe,” the officer added.
The USAF officers that participated in the exercise emphasised that despite the different operational conditions, the joint exercise is a great opportunity to see the challenges of transport aircraft squadrons from a “different angle”.
The IAF’s C-130 transports squadron are a major pillar of the Israeli defence forces’ new “Depth Command”.
