In June, the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) carried out the REVO AR Technical Exercise, the first In-Flight Refueling Exercise (REVO) with helicopters, under the coordination of the Preparation Command (COMPREP).
The purpose of the Exercise is to train Rotary Wing pilots in REVO capability. The activity was carried out in Rio de Janeiro (RJ), with the t use of aircraft from the Air Bases of Natal, Santa Cruz and Galeão.
The First Squadron of the First Transport Group (1st/1st GT) – Gordo Squadron, with the KC-130 Hércules refueling aircraft, the First Squadron of the Eighth Aviation Group (1st/8th GAV) – Falcão Squadron and the Third Squadron of the Eighth Aviation Group (3rd/8th GAV) – Puma Squadron, operating H-36 Caracal helicopters. The flights were carried out on the south coast of Rio de Janeiro, under military control.
With this exercise, the FAB will optimize its operating capacity, allowing helicopters to operate more quickly and efficiently throughout the national territory, including the ocean area under its responsibility. Which, in addition to enabling a more distant rescue from the Brazilian coast, also allows the use in an operational mission of Rescue in Combat (CSAR).
FAB's H-36 aircraft has already carried out a rescue 270 kilometers from Fernando de Noronha. At the time, it was necessary to land on the island for refueling. With the In-Flight Refueling capability, the aircraft will be able to respond to the most distant occurrences without the need for intermediate landings, increasing the prompt response to rescue missions.
According to the Operational Manager of the H-36 Project, Aviator Captain Israel Azevedo Luz, REVO flying with helicopters involves study and preparation, bearing in mind the difference in performance between the KC-130 and H-36 aircraft.
“With this training, Brazil s the select group of countries that have the capability of REVO with Rotary Wing aircraft”, said the Officer.
Street: FAB
