E-11A aircraft, equipped with the Battlefield Airborne Communication Node (BACN), have been pivotal in facilitating humanitarian airdrops in Gaza since early March 2024, according to a press release from the 378th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs.
The E-11A aircraft, assigned to the 430th Expeditionary Electronic Combat Squadron, enhances communication and coordination during operations.
The BACN acts as a communication relay and gateway system, significantly improving the versatility and effectiveness of these missions.
Lt. Col. R. Clayton McCart, commander of the 430th EECS, explained, “Initially, the BACN was created in response to a need for an airborne gateway that could support a variety of communication protocols. The request was to be mounted on an assortment of aircraft and the ability to move around the battlespace for versatility.”
The E-11A’s role has evolved post-Afghanistan to support U.S. partners and allies in Gaza. The aircraft ensures mission success by consolidating critical data from various sources for seamless coordination. Since March 2024, the E-11 has helped deliver over 2.3 million pounds of aid, ensuring precise and timely airdrops.
McCart spoke of the continuous learning and adaptation, stating, “Many lessons were learned, and modifications made to the mission in that time to carry those lessons forward and to other local geographic locations. We’ve refined the process to a science to be most effective to our package players and coalition partners and their mission demands.”
Col. Seth Spanier, commander of the 378th Air Expeditionary Wing, highlighted the aircraft’s importance, saying, “The E-11 is one of those platforms that most people don’t know a lot about. But it’s absolutely essential to everything we do. They touch every major operation in theater and are a lynchpin to mission success.”
The E-11A and BACN were originally designed for use in Afghanistan but have been continually upgraded to meet current operational needs. The aircraft is now establishing a permanent home at Robins Air Force Base by 2027, under the newly formed 18th Airborne Command Control Squadron.
