ETAP-C 2019 : Europe's Tactical Airlift Elite Trains at Orléans



In May 2019, Air Base 123 "Commandant Charles Paoli" in Orléans-Bricy hosted the ETAP-C (European Tactical Airlift Programme – Course), a major tactical airlift training event. Organized under the framework of European defense cooperation, this high-level exercise brought together aircrews from several allied nations to enhance interoperability and operational effectiveness.






A Large-Scale European Initiative


Coordinated by the European Defence Agency (EDA), ETAP-C is an advanced tactical training course designed for military air transport crews. France hosted the 2019 edition, offering its modern facilities at Air Base 123 along with key air assets such as the A400M Atlas and C-130 Hercules aircraft.

Over the course of several days, participating crews carried out a wide range of simulated missions in complex environments: paratrooper drops, tactical landings, aerial refueling, medical evacuations, and landings on unprepared fields. These missions gave crews valuable experience in realistic and demanding conditions.

Strengthening Multinational Cooperation


Air forces from several European countries — including Germany, Spain, Belgium, and Italy — participated in the exercise, contributing their own aircraft, crews, and expertise. This multinational setup helped harmonize procedures and fostered a shared operational culture among partner nations.


ETAP instructors also focused on debriefings, mission analysis, and the implementation of NATO standards. A key goal was to prepare aircrews for future joint operations in multinational environments, such as those frequently seen in overseas deployments.


French Expertise in the Spotlight


By hosting ETAP-C, France reaffirmed its leadership in tactical airlift within Europe. Air Base 123, a strategic hub for French air mobility, successfully met the logistical and operational challenges of the exercise. French units also used the opportunity to showcase their capabilities, particularly in the field of airborne troop deployment in coordination with ground forces.

Conclusion


The 2019 ETAP-C exercise at Orléans-Bricy was a resounding success, both in terms of training and European cooperation. It enhanced the ability of European forces to conduct joint tactical airlift operations in demanding environments and strengthened the bonds between partner nations.



I would like to particularly thank the French Air Force & Ba 123 personnel for their accessibility and kindness, without their accreditations these pictures would not have been possible !



Thank you for your trust without which this inside tour would not have been possible.



More pictures here : https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCbfg8




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