RAF, USAF C-130 crews train together Published Oct. 17, 2006 By Airman 1st Class Tim Bazar 314th Airlift Wing Public Affairs LITTLE ROCK AFB, Ark. (AETCNS) -- Seventy Royal Air Force airmen and 15 British Army loadmasters flew two RAF C-130s across the Atlantic Ocean to work with American C-130 crews during a combined training exercise this month. During the week-long exercise, British and American crews trained together on maneuvering formations, avoiding enemy threats and flying at low levels (between 300-500 feet). They also performed 40 sorties and nearly 20 heavy-equipment and container airdrops. "Overseas, it's difficult for us to do a lot of training because of the restrictions on where we can and can't fly," said Flight Lt. Jon Wood, RAF 70th Air Dispatch Squadron. "It's great that we get to come here, work together and focus our efforts." One of the most valuable things taken from the week's events was getting more familiar with the RAF's capabilities, said Maj. Matt Lewis, a 50th Airlift Squadron pilot. "By simply learning their terminology and understanding the different systems they have, we can take advantage of all the differences we have," he said. Although training was at the forefront, strengthening the bond between nations was another important piece of the puzzle, said 1st Lt. Sarah Dahlin, a 50th AS pilot. Participants said the best part about working with each other was putting names with faces and working out the kinks in the language barrier. Although the two groups both use English, they don't speak the same language. "It's been quite a challenge figuring out each other's lingo and acronyms," said Lieutenant Dahlin. "But working together now will improve our productivity overseas."