Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance flight identifies unapproved runway
In the early morning hours of May 25, a Brazilian Air Force (FAB) A-29 fighter aircraft was used to serve as a security measure in the area where Operation Agate Uiara is being carried out. Through an Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (IVR) flight, an unapproved airstrip was identified in the municipality of Barcelos (AM).
Teams from the Brazilian Navy (MB), the Brazilian Army (EB) and the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) sent troops to the site, where a camouflaged aircraft, covered by tree branches and leaves, was found in a temporary camp with approximately 400 kg of narcotics: cocaine, skunk and marijuana.
A team from the Airborne Rescue Squadron (PARA-SAR) opened a 20 meter clearing in the forest, so that the H-60L (Black Hawk) aircraft could land safely with the 14 special operators on board, among them two Federal Police Officers.
Brigadier General Ricardo Moussallem, Chief of the Joint Staff, spoke about the action employed in the Operation. “The employment of aerospace power in the uncertain situation of the forest region is essential to ensure the success of the operation to combat illicit activities and ensure the safety of the troops on the ground,” highlighted the General Officer.
In addition to the FAB aircraft, a Navy UH-12 flew over the area and transported special operators to Santa Isabel do Rio Negro and Tefé, cities neighboring the point of interest.
Agate Operation – Uiara Joint Command
The Armed Forces, under the coordination of the Ministry of Defense, began, in early May, the Operation in the border strip between Brazil, Peru and Colombia, in cooperation with government agencies and federal, state and municipal agencies. The purpose of the Operation is to combat cross-border and environmental crimes, and to intensify the presence of the Brazilian State in the region.
Photos: FAB