Belgian Army Demos Rapid Deployment of HIMARS with A400M Aircraft

Belgian military demonstrated rapid deployment of HIMARS launchers from an Airbus A400M transport plane during the first HIRAIN mission held recently.

An A400M from the 20th Squadron Tactical Airlift of the 15th Wing completed the inaugural HIRAIN mission during the Winter Shield exercise, with participation from American and Latvian soldiers and the NATO Enhanced Presence Battlegroup.

The mission involved the transportation of a HIMARS mobile rocket launch system and its accompanying crew from the American base in Ramstein, Germany, to the Latvian air base Lielvārdes. The intricate logistics of loading and unloading were efficiently managed, allowing the equipment to be swiftly moved to the Ādaži military training area. Under the guidance of Latvian Special Forces, the HIMARS system discharged three guided missiles at pre-determined targets before returning to the A400M Atlas, retracing its route.

While the A400M's involvement in facilitating this operation is acknowledged, the focus remains on the complexities and achievements of the mission itself. This deployment marks a milestone in the context of strategic capabilities, showcasing the potential for rapid deployment of systems worldwide in defense of NATO territory.

Furthermore, the success of the mission highlights the collaborative efforts among the A400M crew, RavAir (air supply) personnel, and the U.S. 18th Field Artillery Brigade. The coordination played a crucial role in the efficient execution of the mission, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation within the broader framework of NATO Airlift Integration.