Air Force C-130s participate in airdrop demo

RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany — Two C-130 Hercules aircraft from Ramstein Air Base recently participated in a NATO-sponsored Precision Airdrop Capabilities demonstration at the Centre d'Essais Lancement de Missiles at Biscarrosee and at Cazaux Air Base, France on June 19.

"Over three days we conducted four to six drops a day with different GPS computers," said Capt. Bryant Jarrell, a 37th Airlift Squadron pilot aboard the JPADS flights.

"It was a unique experience to drop cargo at a high altitude (ranging 6,000 to 10,000 feet above ground)," he said.

During the three-day event, 49 equipment loads were dropped and 21 special operation forces and military paratroopers were delivered from high altitudes, according to the NATO Web site.

Officials from 13 nations attended as were 150 national and NATO participants including military, industry, aircrews and jumpers. Systems from eight nations were demonstrated and displayed.

The international event left a good impression on Ramstein AB aircrew members.

"Everybody was very hospitable and willing to help with anything we needed," Air force Captain Jarrell said. "It was an awesome experience to work with our NATO partners."