Aviagraphers visited Montijo air base, home of the transport, patrol and Search and Rescue assets of the Portuguese air force and navy.

Starting with the heavy haulers of Esquadra 501 Bisontes (Bisons), the venerable C-130 is operated by them.

The fleet consists of three regular C-130H and two stretched C-130H-30, this 16801 is one of those.

The versatile C295M is used by Esquadra 502 Elefantes (Elephants).

Seven are in transport configuration, registered 16701 to 16707; seen here is 16706.

Five others are modified for patrol duties, with additional equipment. In evidence is a sideward looking radar, a radome and forward looking infrared turret on the 16710 sticking its nose out of the hangar.

They keep permanent detachments at Madeira and Lajes, Açores.

Still kept in storage, awaiting their fate, are the former mounts of Esq502 the venerable C212s.

Some wear special markings.

And are kept in condition by the maintenance unit, also famous for its barbeque equipment!

In a separate area, on the bank of the river Tejo, the helicopters live.

Esquadra 751 is the proprietor of the EH101. These superseded the Pumas in the Search and Rescue role; Para que otros vivam (So that others may live).

They have a dozen, registered 19601 to 19612 and they also keep detachments.

We were in luck, as nine of them were 'home'.

Around the corner, literally, is the Naval helicopter squadron,  Esquadrilha de Helicópteros.

With five Super Lynx Mk95s at their disposal, registered 19201 to 19205. These are currently being upgraded even further by Leonardo at Yeovil, United Kingdom.

So these two were the only ones present. We say goodbye to our friendly hosts at Montijo and hope to return their some day soon!