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.

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.

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.

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.

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'.

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.

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.

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.

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.