On the Atlantic frontier

摘要

Due to its strategic position in Europe's southwestern extremity and its long Atlantic coast, Portugal needs aircraft specially equipped for long-range maritime patrol. They must be capable of a wide spectrum of missions, such as SAR, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), countering illegal immigration, environmental protection, as well as anti-surface warfare and ASW. For this, the Forca Aerea Portuguesa (FAR Portuguese Air Force) employs two different aircraft types: the P-3C CUP+ Orion, operated by Esquadra 601 'Lobos' (Wolves), and the C295MPA Persuader from Esquadra 502 'Elefantes' (Elephants).