Not since the An-12 era has the Polish military possessed an airlift capability comparable with that offered by its former US Air Force C-130Es. The aircraft are essential for sustaining Polish operations in Afghanistan and easing the burden on the C295.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed C-130 Hercules - СШАUSA - 1954

The 'owned' C-130Es are in pristine condition, having been substantially refurbished and overhauled in the United States. US civilian contractors provide on-site support.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed C-130 Hercules - СШАUSA - 1954

Awaiting painting in Polish colours as '1507', this ex-USAF C-130E is on lease to compensate for the late arrival of the refurbished aircraft.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed C-130 Hercules - СШАUSA - 1954

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed C-130 Hercules - СШАUSA - 1954

C-130E 1502 sits on a Powidz ramp full of 86th AW C-130Js, on June 21, 2010. The USAF unit returned with its second-generation Hercules in August, for a week of training under Operation Screaming Eagle.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed C-130 Hercules - СШАUSA - 1954Lockheed C-130J Super Hercules - СШАUSA - 1996

Brig Gen Mikutel met with the USAF's Brig Gen Mark Dillon during the 86th AW's June 2010 visit to Poland. Dillon was at Powidz for the signing of a letter of intent declaring the USAF's recognition of the 86th and 3rd Air Transport Brigade as 'sister wings'.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed C-130 Hercules - СШАUSA - 1954

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed C-130 Hercules - СШАUSA - 1954

The 2.gpr helicopters at Minsk Mazowiecki are kept on call to provide assistance in civil and military emergencies. With the W-3 well established in service, the veteran Mi-2, including 4437, is approaching retirement.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Миль Ми-2 - РоссияRussia - 1961

The only An-28TD resident at Powidz remains in the bright markings of 2 elt. Now on 14.eltr strength, the aircraft flies similar taskings to the M-28s.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Антонов Ан-28 - РоссияRussia - 1969

Although it is controlled from Powidz, the 2.gpr flies from Minsk Mazowiecki with its Mi-2, W-3R and W-3RL (as here) helicopters. The unit bases its operations in this lightweight hangar.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: PZL W-3 Sokol - ПольшаPoland - 1979

Several M-28 Bryza aircraft fly from Powidz under 14.eltr. Primarily used on light transport and communications tasks, they also undertake parachute training sorties.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: PZL M28B Bryza / M28 Skytruck - ПольшаPoland - 1984