From this Thursday (09), the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) begins airdropping supplies in Rio Grande do Sul. The action is part of Operation Taquari II, a t effort by the armed forces in of the state of Rio Grande do Sul that is suffering from floods.
Coordinated by the Aerospace Operations Command (COMAE), the Onça Squadron, a unit at Campo Grande Air Base (MS) used the freighter Airbus C-105 Amazonas on the mission. In total, 2,4 tons of water and basic food baskets assembled in special packages by the Brazilian Army were delivered by air to São Jerônimo.
The force of the rains left this and other cities completely islanded, which prevents the delivery of material by land. In this way, FAB begins airdropping donations and essential materials in the cities most affected by the floods. In parallel, food and water are also delivered by the various helicopters (civil, military and public security) employed in RS.
The twin-engine aircraft take off from Santa Maria Air Base, where they operate temporarily, and land in Canoas to receive the loads that will be launched through the air. According to FAB, the material was conditioned using the CDS method (from English Container Delivery System) and equipped with parachutes by the Army's Folding, Parachute Maintenance and Air Supply Battalion (B DOMPSA).
The collection and distribution of material released by the FAB is the responsibility of local authorities.
After the launch mission, the plane returned to Canoas where it was loaded with 4,5 tons of hospital supplies and rescue equipment. The material was taken to Santa Maria.
“It is very important for the Squadron to see that our work is being useful in such an emergency time. This is what we train for and always stay prepared for. Carrying out cargo launch missions in a difficult-to-access area is rewarding and demonstrates the military transport aircraft’s usability.”, said Captain Aviator Kleber Aurelio Saugo, one of the pilots involved in the mission.
Also this Thursday, an SC-105 aircraft used for searches in the flood area threw a load of supplies to a family that was stranded near the municipality of Rio Pardo. Among the material thrown were bottles of water, food, flashlights and ponchos.
The aircraft's crew sends out a message asking those stranded to signal if they need rescue or supplies. Residents are asked to set up a “Y” sign on the ground if they need to be rescued or “X” if they want supplies. In this case, the islanders set up an X sign.
FAB has also raised tons of donations through their air bases.
