ETAP-T missions are very varied and include both real and simulated engine running onload/offload operations and combat offloads.

Becoming more and more numerous with the Luftwaffe, the Atlas has proven itself to be a very versatile transport aircraft.

A German Airbus A400M Atlas receives last-minute instructions from a Spanish Combat Control Team from the EADA before conducting a low approach to the dirt runway at the Ablitas airfield.

Some years ago the runway at Ablitas was reinforced and widened in order for the prototype Airbus A400M to undertake some of its certification tests. Since its commissioning, Ejercito del Aire Ala 31 Atlas are frequent visitors here, as are the unit's Hercules.

Both the classes and training organised as part of the ETAP are open to nations outside of the programme. Romania, Bulgaria and Lithuania frequently participate as invited countries.

Zaragoza has not hosted the multinational ETAP-T exercise, which was formerly known as EATT, since 2013.

The Aeronautica Militare sent one of its Alenia MC-27J Praetorian to Zaragoza. The aircraft is operated by 98 Gruppo/46 Brigatta Aerea based at Pisa-San Giusto.

This C-130J-30 Super Hercules was recently handed over to the Armee de I'Air and is operated by ET 02/61 based at BA123 Orleans-Bricy. The first pilots for the French C-130J-30 came from the C-130H, C-160R and CN235 with a minimum of 1,200 to 1,500 flight hours of experience.

Royal Air Force Hercules C4 ZH870 is seen here during a tactical landing on the dirt runway at Ablitas airfield.

Cargo bay of an Austrian C-130 prepared for a combat offload.