Dutch Cougars and F-16s reach ISAF flight hour milestones
Both the F-16's and Cougar transport helicopters for the Dutch Air Task Force (ATF) last week reached a milestone in the number of flight hours for the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF).
The F-16s had achieved 14,000 flight hours, the Cougars had built up 4,000.
Under the command of the ISAF headquarters in Kabul the F-16s provide air support throughout Afghanistan, while the Cougars carry out transport duties for the ISAF ground troops in southern Afghanistan. With this support the ATF provides an important contribution to the ISAF target for a safe and stable Afghanistan.
The Cougars from 300 Squadron of the Defense Helicopter Command (DHC) at Gilze-Rijen Airbase, five helicopters operate from Kandahar Airfield. The Cougars have flown continuously since 2006 for the ISAF mission. They work in conjunction with the DHC-based Chinook transport helicopters of 298 Squadron.
The F-16s and associated air force personnel come from the Volkel and Leeuwarden airbases. Four F-16s are stationed at Kandahar Airfield. Of these, 2 are available for Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) duties.
The fighters have been flying since 2003 for the ISAF mission. First from Manas airbase in Kyrgyzstan, then from Kabul International Airport and then since November 2006 from Kandahar Airfield.
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