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Beja Airbase
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Beja Air Base (Portuguese: Base Aérea de Beja; IATA: BYJ, ICAO: LPBJ), officially designated as Air Base No. 11 (Portuguese: Base Aérea Nº 11, BA11) is one of the most important military airbases in Portugal, 9 km (5.6 mi) northwest of Beja,[1] 100 km (62 mi) north of Algarve. It is used by the Portuguese Air Force (PoAF) and has two parallel runways in the 01/19 direction, the biggest being 3,450 m × 60 m (11,320 ft × 200 ft).[1] The base is home to two training squadrons, one helicopter squadron and one maritime patrol squadron.

Key Information

History

[edit]
The flight-line at Beja Air Base during Exercise Trident Juncture 2015

The base was established on 21 October 1964, originally built to serve as a training facility for the German Air Force (Luftwaffe), due to airspace limitations within West Germany.[2] The Luftwaffe operated from the airbase until 1993, during which period it was used particularly for weapons training.[3] In 1987 the Portuguese Air Force's 103 Squadron using Lockheed T-33 and Northrop T-38 aircraft was relocated from Montijo. After their arrival, the base started to host a mixed array of fixed and rotary-wing trainers, as well as maritime patrol aircraft.[2]

Between 1993 and 2018, the PoAF has operated Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jet aircraft from the airbase, which were donated by Germany as compensation for leaving the air base in 1993.[3]

Current state

[edit]
A Portuguese Air Force P-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft taking-off from Beja Air Base

The base is now modern and well-equipped, employing around 1,000 personnel.[2] It comprises two parallel runways running north–south (01L/19R, 01R/19L, the largest being 3,450 m (11,320 ft) in length and the other 2,951 m (9,682 ft) long. A third parallel runway/taxiway supports its helicopter facilities.[2] Beja Air Base is one of the most important training facilities of the PoAF and during 2008 operated over 70,000 flying hours.[4] The first training phase comprises flying on Socata TB 30 Epsilon aircraft, which currently has 15 operational aircraft.[5] The 552 Squadron operates 5 AgustaWestland AW119 Koala helicopters tasked with tactical transport for the army, helicopter pilot training and search and rescue. The 601 Squadron currently uses 5 P-3C Orion Cup + aircraft which provide 24/7 search and rescue and anti-submarine warfare cover.[6] The 506 Squadron equipped with KC390 aircraft is tasked with tactical air transport operations, air refueling and firefighting.

Construction of a civilian terminal was undertaken in 2009, with this facility being aimed at low-cost carriers.[7]

Beja's runway is the only mainland Portugal runway capable of accommodating an Airbus A380. The Portuguese wet lease airline Hi Fly previously operated its A380, purchased second-hand in 2018, from Beja.[8]

Tenant units

[edit]
Portuguese Air Force
  • 101 Sqn. - TB30 Epsilon[9]
  • 103 Sqn. "Caracóis" (Snails) — complementary flying training and operational transition training[5]
  • 552 Sqn. "Zangões" (Drones) — tactical air transport operations and complementary flying training in helicopters[10]
  • 601 Sqn. "Lobos" (Wolves) — maritime patrol squadron[6]
  • 506 Sqn. "Rinocerontes"[11] (Rhinoceros) — tactical air transport operations, air refueling and firefighting

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Beja Airbase

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Beja Airbase, officially designated as Air Base No. 11 (Base Aérea N.º 11), is a primary military installation of the situated approximately 9 km northwest of the city of Beja in Portugal's , spanning about 800 hectares. Established on October 21, 1964, by Portaria N.º 20856, the base was initially developed as a training facility under bilateral agreements with , hosting units for F-104 Starfighter and Alpha Jet operations from 1970 to 1993 due to airspace constraints in . integration began in 1987 alongside ongoing use until 1993, and since then it has primarily supported Portuguese squadrons and missions, including advanced pilot training, , , and air transport, while also accommodating foreign forces for joint exercises. The base's infrastructure was completed in 1968, with its command structure formalized in 1967, enabling rapid operational readiness. Key units stationed there have included Esquadra 103 ("Caracóis"), operational since 1987 and formerly with Alpha Jets (1993–2018) for advanced training, now receiving A-29N Super Tucano aircraft with initial deliveries in 2025; Esquadra 101 ("Roncos"), relocated to Beja in 2020 with TB-30 Epsilon trainers for basic flight instruction; Esquadra 301 ("Jaguares"), stationed at Beja from 1993 to 2005 with Alpha Jets; Esquadra 552 ("Zangões"), based there since 1993 with Alouette III helicopters until 2019 and AW119 Koala since 2020 for transport and search-and-rescue; Esquadra 601 ("Lobos"), established in 1986 and based at Beja since 2008 with P-3C Orion for maritime patrol; and Esquadra 506 ("Rinocerontes"), activated in 2023 with KC-390 Millennium transport aircraft. Its core missions encompass maintaining the operational readiness of air units, providing logistical and administrative support, ensuring base security, and facilitating international cooperation, such as hosting the NATO Tiger Meet 2025 exercise from September 21 to October 3, 2025, which involved over 40 aircraft from multiple allied nations. In recognition of its contributions to the local community, the base received the Medal of Honra do Município from the Beja Municipal Council in 2007 and includes a residential zone with 330 homes for personnel.

Overview and Facilities

Location and Geography

Beja Airbase, officially designated as Air Base No. 11, is situated at coordinates 38°04′44″N 007°55′57″W, approximately 9 km northwest of the city of Beja in the of southeastern . This positioning places it within the expansive plains of Baixo Alentejo, a subregion known for its agricultural landscapes and historical significance. The airbase covers an area of around 800 hectares, divided between dedicated military facilities and civilian operations under the management of Beja International Airport. The surrounding terrain is predominantly rural, with the exhibiting Portugal's lowest at approximately 17 inhabitants per square kilometer, facilitating unobstructed for aviation activities. This low-density environment minimizes conflicts with commercial air traffic, making the location particularly suitable for extensive military training exercises that require large uncontested areas. The base's elevation of 194 meters above further contributes to favorable meteorological conditions for year-round operations in this temperate zone. Strategically, Beja Airbase lies about 50 km inland from Portugal's Atlantic coastline, enhancing its role in supporting maritime surveillance and operations over the nation's vast . This proximity to the southern coast, combined with the region's open geography, positions the facility as a key asset for support, including patrols conducted by resident squadrons equipped for ocean reconnaissance.

Infrastructure and Runways

Beja Airbase features two parallel runways oriented 01/19, designed to support a wide range of and operations. The primary runway, 01L/19R, measures 3,450 meters in length and 60 meters in width, with a surface rated at a pavement classification number (PCN) of 44/R/B/W/T, enabling it to accommodate heavy such as the A380. The secondary runway, 01R/19L, is 2,951 meters long and 30 meters wide, also paved with (PCN 45/R/B/W/T), though it is primarily utilized for and low-intensity operations due to limited and no stopway or . Both runways are equipped with precision approach systems, including PAPI for the main runway, ensuring safe operations in varying weather conditions. The airbase's support infrastructure includes multiple hangars for aircraft maintenance, such as a dedicated military hangar capable of housing two Embraer KC-390 transport aircraft and civilian facilities operated by MESA, including a 9,500 square meter hangar opened in 2021 for widebody maintenance and a second 11,000 square meter hangar under construction since 2025 to triple capacity. Fuel depots provide JET A-1 aviation fuel with a storage capacity of 100,000 liters and a delivery rate of 2,000 liters per minute. Additional assets encompass a control tower, radar systems for air traffic management, and extensive maintenance workshops equipped for both routine and heavy overhaul tasks. Since 2009, modernization efforts have enhanced the base's dual-use capabilities, including the of a €33 million EU-funded civilian passenger terminal that opened in April 2011 to support low-cost carriers and flights, alongside dedicated handling areas for freight operations. These upgrades have integrated the facility with ICAO standards, incorporating advanced aids such as an (ILS) for runway 19R (frequency 110.300 MHz) and VOR/DME systems for precise guidance. Weather stations provide real-time meteorological data, while fire and rescue services operate at Category 8 level during peak hours, ensuring comprehensive emergency response compliance.

Historical Development

Construction and Early Years

The construction of Beja Airbase, officially designated as Air Base No. 11, was initiated under bilateral agreements between and signed in 1960, aimed at establishing a strategic facility in response to evolving requirements during the . These accords followed a shift in Portugal's national priorities in 1959, emphasizing aerial defense and logistical support for allied forces. Planning and preparatory works began as early as 1960 with the rubrication of a key administrative convention in December of that year, leading to the formal start of construction shortly thereafter. The project was designed to alleviate airspace constraints faced by allies, particularly , which lacked sufficient training areas for high-performance within its borders. Funded jointly by and , the initial investments focused on essential infrastructure to support operational training and logistics, including the construction of basic s, hangars, and a residential zone comprising 330 quarters for personnel. The airbase spans approximately 800 hectares and was engineered to accommodate advanced aviation activities, with the Germans bearing costs for modernization elements such as expansions. Construction progressed amid the broader geopolitical tensions of the , where sought to strengthen ties while managing domestic colonial conflicts that began in 1961. Integrating the facility into Portugal's existing military infrastructure posed logistical challenges, including coordination of bilateral oversight through the newly formed Luso-German in 1963. The airbase was established and opened in 1964 and officially activated on 21 October of that year through Ordinance No. 20856, marking its role as a dedicated training site, though full completion extended to 1968. Early operations commenced shortly thereafter, with the first arrivals recorded in 1965, primarily for testing and initial Portuguese military evaluations before handover to West German forces. This phase set the foundation for the base's role in multinational exercises, though command establishment occurred in 1967.

Luftwaffe Era (1964–1993)

The Beja Airbase, established on 21 October 1964 through Portuguese Ordinance No. 20856, was originally constructed as a dedicated facility for the to circumvent severe airspace restrictions in during the . Base command facilities became operational by 1967 and full infrastructure—including runways, hangars, and support buildings—completed in 1968, enabling the to establish it as their primary overseas hub in . From 1970 onward, the became the base's dominant tenant, deploying squadrons equipped with jets for specialized gunnery practice and tactical maneuvers, which were infeasible in Germany's densely populated and restricted airspace. The era's operations spanned over two decades of intensive NATO-aligned activities, peaking in the with frequent squadron rotations and deployments that emphasized and weapons delivery . In 1970, two F-104 squadrons initiated operational use, conducting hundreds of sorties annually in structured cycles until their reassignment to in 1973; these efforts were later supplemented by light attack aircraft from 1979, which supported advanced pilot proficiency in simulated combat scenarios. To accommodate these demands, the oversaw key infrastructure adaptations, including the development of dedicated weapons ranges over southern and the Atlantic, along with flight simulators customized for German pilots to enhance tactical skills without live-fire risks in domestic airspace. In the early , elements of Air Transport Wing 61 also utilized the base for crew retraining on , broadening its role beyond fighter operations. The facility's expansive layout, capable of hosting up to 120 aircraft, facilitated large-scale exercises involving RF-104G and F-4 Phantom variants for reconnaissance and strike . By the late 1980s, activities at Beja began a gradual drawdown amid post- restructuring following in 1990 and ongoing bilateral handover negotiations with . Initial involvement commenced in 1987 with the relocation of training squadrons, marking the transition phase. Full control transferred to Portuguese authorities by 1993, concluding nearly three decades of exclusive German stewardship and solidifying Beja's legacy as a critical training asset during the .

Portuguese Air Force Integration (1987–Present)

In 1987, the (Força Aérea Portuguesa, FAP) began its deeper integration with Beja Airbase by relocating Esquadra 103 "Caracóis" from Monte Real Air Base to Beja, marking a shift toward establishing the site as a key training hub under full national control. This move laid the groundwork for advanced jet training operations, with the squadron commencing activities in 1993 using aircraft transferred from the departing German contingent. The Alpha Jets served for 25 years in advanced pilot training roles before their retirement in January 2018, during a farewell at Beja that highlighted the squadron's contributions to FAP readiness. To bolster basic flight training capabilities, the FAP introduced the Socata TB-30 Epsilon in 1989 at Sintra Air Base, operated by Esquadra 101 "Roncos", replacing older propeller trainers and supporting the airbase's evolution into a comprehensive training center; the squadron transferred to Beja in 1993. Esquadra 101's ongoing activities at Beja intensified post-2018, following the Alpha Jet phase-out and associated squadron adjustments, enhancing the base's role in initial pilot screening and formation flights. Maritime patrol operations expanded the airbase's multi-role profile when Esquadra 601 "Lobos" relocated from Montijo to Beja in February 2008, bringing Lockheed P-3C Orion aircraft upgraded for anti-submarine warfare and surveillance missions. Recent transitions underscore Beja's modernization, with KC-390 Millennium beginning arrivals in October 2022 and the first entering operational service in October 2023 as part of Esquadra 506 "Rinocerontes," configured to standards for and cargo duties. As of July 2025, three KC-390 have been delivered to the squadron. Infrastructure upgrades, including new hangars and facilities adapted for multi-role use, have supported these changes, enabling integration of units like the Rotores de display team with Alouette III since the early 2000s. These enhancements align with 's and commitments, facilitating NATO-standard operations such as multinational exercises hosted at Beja. A notable milestone occurred in May 2007, when Beja Airbase received the from the Beja Municipality in recognition of its distinguished services to the community and national defense.

Current Operations and Role

Mission and Capabilities

The Beja Airbase, designated as Air Base No. 11 (BA11) within the (PoAF), serves as a critical hub for executing core military missions that bolster national defense and commitments. Its primary roles encompass elementary and basic pilot training through the 101 Squadron ("Roncos"), utilizing turboprop aircraft for foundational flight instruction; advanced maritime surveillance and via the 601 Squadron ("Lobos"), operating P-3C Orion aircraft to monitor exclusive economic zones and support search-and-rescue (SAR) operations; tactical air transport, , and firefighting with the 506 Squadron ("Rinocerontes") employing KC-390 Millennium jets; and helicopter-based tactical transport, pilot training, SAR, and by the 552 Squadron ("Zangões") with AW119 Koala helicopters. These missions ensure logistical support across diverse operational theaters, including rapid deployment for and , while fostering with allied forces through joint exercises. The airbase's capabilities are tailored for multi-domain operations, accommodating jet, , and rotary-wing on its extensive , which includes parallel runways capable of handling heavy platforms. It maintains high operational readiness through integrated facilities and robust protocols, enabling sustained missions in challenging environments. Historically, the base has logged over 70,000 annual flying hours, underscoring its scale as a premier and operational center, though recent figures reflect ongoing adaptations to modern fleet requirements. BA11 also provides essential logistical and administrative support to deployed units, ensuring seamless coordination for national and international contingencies, such as NATO-led patrols in the Atlantic and Mediterranean regions. With approximately 1,000 active personnel, including pilots, technicians, and support staff, BA11 emphasizes and equipment availability to achieve mission success rates exceeding standard benchmarks. This workforce undergoes rigorous simulation-based to enhance skills in high-threat scenarios, complemented by advanced practices that support rapid turnaround times for . As the PoAF's key southern hub, the airbase facilitates swift response capabilities in southern European and transatlantic theaters, contributing to collective defense under frameworks and reinforcing Portugal's strategic positioning in allied operations.

Dual Military-Civilian Operations

Beja Airbase operates as a dual-use facility, integrating and activities since the establishment of a dedicated civilian terminal in 2011. This setup allows the to maintain its primary role in training and operations while enabling commercial and uses, primarily focused on , , , and services. The transition to dual operations aimed to leverage the base's for regional economic development in the area, though civilian traffic has remained limited compared to major hubs like and Faro. The civilian integration began with the opening of Beja Airport's terminal on April 15, 2011, initially targeting low-cost carriers and flights to boost connectivity in southern . In practice, it has primarily supported sporadic operations, storage, and maintenance, with notable examples including Hi Fly's activities; the airline, headquartered at Beja, conducted a farewell flight for one of its A380s from the airport in December 2020 and ferried additional A380s for maintenance and reactivation in January 2025. Cargo and also utilize the facility, particularly for business jets and logistics, underscoring its role as a secondary for operations. Management of the dual operations involves coordination between the , which oversees military activities at Air Base No. 11, and , a subsidiary responsible for the civilian terminal and infrastructure. ANA handles passenger services, ground operations, and partnerships for maintenance firms like Hi Fly and MESA, while ensuring compatibility with military schedules through established protocols for and use. This structure includes arrangements to accommodate military training exercises, allowing segregated procedures during high-intensity drills without disrupting civilian access. The airport's 3,400-meter runway, the longest in , supports wide-body jets such as the A380, enabling heavy maintenance and storage for up to several simultaneously. Civilian usage peaked modestly in the early with around 1,000 passengers annually but has since become sporadic, handling fewer than 200 passengers in some years due to its inland location and competition from coastal airports. Recent investments, including a €60 million project for a second MESA maintenance announced in March 2025, have shifted focus toward aero-industrial activities like recycling and specialized cargo. Balancing military and civilian demands presents challenges, including scheduling conflicts during multinational exercises that temporarily restrict civilian access, contributing to the airport's reputation as a "ghost" facility with underutilized infrastructure. However, the dual model provides economic benefits to the , generating jobs in maintenance and logistics through hangar expansions and fostering tourism through occasional airshows and business aviation. Collaborations, like the 2023 carbon neutrality initiative between ANA and Hi Fly, further enhance and regional appeal.

Based Units and Aircraft

Training Squadrons

The Training Squadrons at Beja Airbase form the core of the Portuguese Air Force's pilot development pipeline, focusing on elementary, basic, and advanced flight instruction to prepare cadets for operational roles. These units operate under a structured that emphasizes , skill progression, and integration of modern technologies to optimize efficiency and reduce costs. Esquadra 101 "Roncos" (Roars) is responsible for elementary and basic pilot training, conducting instruction using the TB-30 , a single-engine trainer. The squadron maintains a fleet of 16 operational (out of 18 originally procured), which support foundational skills such as , instrument flying, and basic . Established in its current form in 1978 and equipped with the since 1989, the unit has been based at Beja Airbase (BA11) during key periods, including 1993–2009 and since July 1, 2020, with interim relocations to Airbase (BA1) for operational reasons. This setup allows for hands-on training in a controlled environment, preparing cadets for subsequent phases. The basic training phase under Esquadra 101 follows a multi-phase curriculum, typically involving over 40 flight hours per on the , complemented by academic and simulator sessions to build proficiency in and emergency procedures. Simulators play a critical role, enabling risk-free practice of instrument approaches and while minimizing wear on the aircraft fleet. Esquadra 103 "Caracóis" (Snails) handles advanced and operational transition training, bridging basic skills to tactical proficiency for combat aircraft. Relocated to Beja in 1987, the squadron previously operated trainers from 1993 until their retirement on January 13, 2018, after accumulating over 28,000 flight hours. It has since transitioned to the A-29N Super Tucano, a light attack with advanced for interoperability; as of November 2025, five aircraft have been delivered, with the first three arriving on September 1, 2025, and two more on November 8, 2025, and a total of 12 planned to equip the unit fully. emphasizes tactical maneuvers, weapons delivery simulation, and light attack tactics, preparing pilots for frontline squadrons. The advanced curriculum at Esquadra 103 builds on prior phases with additional flight hours focused on operational conversion, integrating live and simulated scenarios for . Overall, these programs contribute to an annual output of 20–30 qualified pilots, supporting the Air Force's personnel needs amid evolving mission requirements.

Transport and Maritime Patrol Squadrons

The 506 Squadron, known as "Rinocerontes" (Rhinoceroses), is a multi-role unit based at Beja Airbase, operating the KC-390 Millennium aircraft. The squadron's missions encompass tactical and strategic airlift for troops and cargo, to support extended operations, , delivery, , and . originally ordered five KC-390s in 2019, with a sixth added in September 2025; the first aircraft delivered in May 2023 and achieving initial operational capability in October 2023; the third was received in July 2025. These aircraft are configured to standards, enhancing interoperability with allied forces during joint missions. The 601 Squadron, nicknamed "Lobos" (Wolves), specializes in and , utilizing an expanded fleet of Lockheed P-3C Orion CUP+ aircraft, originally five acquired from the and upgraded between 2008 and 2010, plus six more acquired from with deliveries completed by late 2025. Stationed at Beja Airbase since February 2008, the squadron conducts over Portugal's Atlantic approaches, , coordination, and to safeguard national maritime interests. The P-3C CUP+ upgrades include advanced sensors for extended endurance, enabling sorties of up to 10 hours to cover vast ocean areas. Both squadrons contribute to NATO commitments through joint exercises, such as the 2025 ETAP-C tactical transport course at Beja, where the KC-390 supported multinational interoperability training, and the 601 Squadron's deployments for operations like Sea Guardian in the Mediterranean.

Helicopter and Support Units

The 552 Squadron, known as "Zangões" (Bumblebees), is the primary unit based at Beja Airbase, specializing in rotary-wing operations for the . Established in 1978 and relocated to Beja in 1993, the squadron focuses on tactical air transport as its core mission, alongside pilot training for both and personnel. It also conducts (SAR), medical evacuations (MEDEVAC), and support for rural fire combat operations (DECIR), including coordination with assets for regional emergencies. The squadron operates a fleet of AW119MKII Koala helicopters, introduced starting in 2019 to replace the aging Alouette III, which were phased out by 2020 after accumulating over 300,000 flight hours. These single-engine, multi-role aircraft feature a cabin capacity for up to seven passengers or 1,400 kg of cargo, with advanced SAR equipment enabling quick-reaction deployments for utility support, troop transport, and exercises. By 2023, the fleet had been augmented with additional AW119Kx variants, enhancing capabilities for , wildfire assessment, and missions. Support functions at Beja Airbase complement rotary operations through dedicated logistical, administrative, and units under control. These include base-wide logistics for aircraft sustainment, security patrols, and services such as radio communications and operations, ensuring 24/7 readiness for all based elements. teams handle routine inspections and repairs for the AW119 fleet, prioritizing rapid turnaround for emergency responses. Dedicated personnel support rotary and support roles, integrating with squadron operations to maintain operational tempo.

Notable Events and International Involvement

Key Exercises and Airshows

Beja Airbase has hosted the Beja International Airshow as a prominent public event showcasing (PoAF) capabilities, with the 2024 edition marking its third occurrence on June 1–2. The airshow featured demonstrations by PoAF assets, including the KC-390 Millennium transport aircraft, alongside international displays such as patrols from renowned aerobatic teams and a historic visit by U.S. F-35A II fighters from the . This event engaged the local community and highlighted military aviation excellence, coinciding with Portugal's 75th anniversary of membership. The airbase served as the venue for major multinational exercises, including the NATO Tiger Meet 2025, held from September 21 to October 3 and hosted by PoAF's Esquadra 301. This annual training event involved over 80 and approximately 1,700 personnel from more than 10 Allied and partner nations, focusing on tactical scenarios to enhance under standards. Participants included squadrons with tiger-themed insignia, featuring special F-16 liveries from the PoAF and other forces, as well as integration with AWACS E-3A Sentry aircraft for airborne . The exercise improved operational readiness through simulated and joint planning. In May–June 2024, Beja simultaneously hosted Real Thaw 2024 and Hot Blade 2024, two synergistic multinational exercises from May 22 to June 5, emphasizing operations, , and interoperability. Real Thaw focused on tactical air transport and force projection with assets like C-130s and KC-390s, while Hot Blade targeted multinational tactics involving nations such as , , and the . These exercises trained over 500 personnel in joint scenarios, boosting allies' ability to conduct rapid deployments. Another significant event was the European Tactical Airlift Programme-Training (ETAP-T) 2023, conducted from July 2 to 14 at Beja and organized by the PoAF in collaboration with the European Air Transport Command (EATC). This exercise involved transport aircraft from , , and other allies, simulating tactical missions such as cargo drops and personnel transport across central and southern . With emphasis on and realistic scenarios, it engaged hundreds of personnel from multiple nations, including Spanish A400M and C-295 units, to refine coordinated operations. These events collectively underscore Beja's role in advancing PoAF and NATO training objectives, fostering public engagement through airshows while enhancing multinational readiness via exercises that integrate diverse assets and personnel.

Foreign Aircraft Deployments and Cooperation

Beja Airbase has served as a key hub for foreign aircraft deployments, particularly from NATO allies, facilitating joint training, interoperability exercises, and multinational operations that enhance collective defense capabilities. In June 2024, the United States Air Force's 48th Fighter Wing deployed two F-35A Lightning II aircraft to the airbase for the Beja International Airshow, marking the first visit of fifth-generation fighters to Portugal and including static displays alongside training opportunities with Portuguese forces. This deployment underscored the airbase's role in strengthening transatlantic partnerships through advanced tactical integration. Earlier U.S. involvement included C-130 deployments during Exercise Real Thaw 2019, where aircraft from the 700th Airlift Squadron, 94th Airlift Wing, conducted tactical airlift operations alongside Portuguese C-130H and C-295 units at Beja, focusing on night flying, airdrops, and joint force interoperability. Other NATO activities at Beja have emphasized transport and multi-domain cooperation. In July 2025, the Royal Netherlands Air Force initiated crew training for its forthcoming C-390 Millennium fleet at the airbase, leveraging Portuguese expertise to prepare for operational integration within NATO structures. Spanish Air Force participation occurred during the ETAP-T 2023 exercise in June 2023, where transport aircraft from Spain joined allied forces for tactical airlift maneuvers organized by the Portuguese Air Force and the European Tactical Airlift Centre, enhancing regional response capabilities. Building on historical Luftwaffe use of the airbase during the Cold War, bilateral cooperation with Germany continues in the NATO framework. Recent highlights include AWACS participation in the Tiger Meet 2025 exercise from September 21 to October 3, where E-3A aircraft provided airborne over Beja, integrating with more than 70 allied fighters and helicopters for multidomain training. Beja also supports cross-training for allies on platforms like the KC-390 Millennium, as seen in the ETAP-C 25-04 exercise in October 2025, where six European nations practiced advanced tactical operations incorporating the aircraft.

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  48. https://www.emfa.pt/news-5414-two-more-a29n-super-tucanos-on-portuguese-soil
  49. https://www.emfa.pt/aeronave-81-kc390
  50. https://www.emfa.pt/noticia-5222-fap-recebe-terceiro-kc390
  51. https://thedefensepost.com/2025/09/19/portugal-millennium-nato-sales/
  52. https://theaviationist.com/2023/10/20/first-kc-390-for-fap/
  53. https://www.emfa.pt/aeronave-15-lockheed-p3c-cup-orion
  54. https://www.facebook.com/TheDailyAviationNews/posts/the-portuguese-air-force-is-set-to-significantly-enhance-its-maritime-patrol-and/646484834979640/
  55. https://www.keymilitary.com/article/european-maritime-patrol-aircraft-2
  56. https://www.emfa.pt/noticia-5353-forca-aerea-em-missao-de-patrulhamento-do-mediterraneo
  57. https://etac-mil.eu/success-of-etap-c-25-04-exercise-in-portugal-with-the-participation-of-six-european-nations-and-the-incorporation-of-the-portuguese-kc-390/
  58. https://verticalmag.com/features/flying-with-the-koalas/
  59. https://www.key.aero/article/aw119-koala-portugals-one-engined-wonder
  60. https://www.scramble.nl/military-news/delivery-of-four-new-helicopters-to-portugal
  61. https://www.key.aero/article/flying-mountain-operations-aw119s-portugals-esquadra-552
  62. https://www.emfa.pt/p-1114-beja-airshow
  63. https://www.lakenheath.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3807114/us-fifth-generation-fighters-make-historic-arrival-in-portugal/
  64. https://www.dvidshub.net/image/8466339/beja-airshow-2024
  65. https://www.natotigers.org/tiger-meet/ntm2025
  66. https://ac.nato.int/archive/2025-2/tigers-roar-over-portugal-during-the-annual-nato-tiger-meet
  67. https://natotigermeet.emfa.pt/
  68. https://awacs.nato.int/media-center/press-releases/2025/squadron-1-represents-nato-awacs-at-nato-tiger-meet-2025
  69. https://www.outono.net/elentir/2025/09/23/spectacular-livery-of-a-portuguese-air-force-f-16-for-the-tiger-meet-2025/
  70. https://www.emfa.pt/p-1281-hotblade-real-thaw
  71. https://mhtc-mil.com/news-4640-hot-blade-24
  72. https://www.emfa.pt/news-4234-etapt-2023-takes-off
  73. https://www.emfa.pt/news-4251-cargo-drop-at-etapt-2023
  74. https://www.outono.net/elentir/2023/07/06/the-exercise-of-military-transport-aircraft-from-spain-and-other-allied-countries-in-portugal/
  75. https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Press-Releases/Article/1967898/us-airmen-aircraft-arrive-in-portugal-for-real-thaw-2019/
  76. https://www.aeroflap.com.br/en/Netherlands-begins-training-of-C-390-Millennium-crew-in-Portugal/
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