At CRUZEX 2024, units operating the same systems share resources and knowledge.
In CRUZEX 2024, a joint exercise held at Natal Air Base (BANT), the maintenance cell plays a key strategic role in ensuring the readiness and efficiency of aircraft and systems used in simulated operations. Coordinated by the Maintenance Support Center (MSC) in collaboration with Natal Logistics Group (GLOG-NT), the cell brings together representatives from Center of Aeronautical Material (PAMA) from various regions of Brazil, responsible for maintaining the systems and aircraft in action.
The main mission of the maintenance cell is to ensure the optimal functioning of equipment and to prevent technical failures that could impact the pace of training and missions. For this, CRUZEX 2024 adopts an integrated maintenance approach, where units operating the same systems share resources and knowledge, increasing technical exchange among teams. This collaborative model ensures that aircraft are ready to operate efficiently in simulated combat missions, such as alert, air defense, and in-flight refueling.
During the exercise, managing the maintenance cell involves coordinating support equipment for aircraft operations, such as starting and refueling units. Additionally, it includes managing spaces for extended aircraft maintenance, with organization of hangars and specific areas for storing materials and supplies. Ground support and resource management are also essential aspects of this process.
According to the GLOG-NT Commander and Chief of MSC Cell, Colonel André Fernando Albuquerque Bergo, the main daily challenge is coordinating activities within the stipulated time. “The day before, countries request resources such as fuel and equipment, which are registered and organized by the maintenance team. The MSC coordinates these requests by time and location, ensuring that all needs are met within the necessary timeframe. The critical factor is ensuring that aircraft receive fuel and power support at the exact time they need to take off, which requires agility, especially during refueling between morning and afternoon flights. For this, supplier support is essential, as the fuel volume is high and their equipment usage increases considerably,” he highlighted.
Exchange of knowledge
According to Colonel Bergo, one of the MSC’s main lessons at CRUZEX is the joint work between mechanics from different units, promoting the exchange of experiences and best practices. “Collaboration with foreign teams has brought valuable lessons, especially on safety and care in handling heavy items. Additionally, exchanging knowledge on mobilizing and demobilizing resources from different countries has helped optimize resource use, making operations more effective and safer. The greatest lesson is continuous improvement and refinement of adopted practices,” he emphasized.
Safety Break
The maintenance cell also applies the “Safety Break” concept after intense activity periods, reducing the complexity of training in certain phases as a safety measure. This practice reinforces a commitment to operational safety, preventing excessive strain on teams and supporting more efficient execution of subsequent missions without compromising operational integrity.
