A Forward Arming and Refueling Point (FARP) or Forward Area Refueling Point is a NATO term for an area where aircraft (typically helicopters) can be refuelled and re-armed at a distance closer to their area of operations than their main operating base.
This reduced distance allows a faster turnaround time during sustained operations. FARPs are typically temporary, transitory facilities- particularly if the forward edge of the battle area is highly mobile or if there is a high threat from enemy aircraft or artillery.
Recently, US soldiers stationed in Japan held a FARP exercise. This is according to a social media post by U.S. Marines that read, "Marines with the 31st Marine Expedition Unit refuel an AH-1Z Cobra during a Forward Arming and Refueling Point (FARP) exercise on Okinawa, Japan. A FARP is used to extend aircraft capabilities by rearming and refueling without having to fall back to a forward operating base."
The social media post was then followed by photos showing the Marines fueling the AH-1Z Cobra. The Bell AH-1Z is a twin-engine attack helicopter developed and manufactured by the American rotorcraft manufacturer Bell Helicopter. This helicopter was manufactured primarily for the United States Marine Corps.
The Bell helicopter has a crew of two people, weighs five tons when empty and a cruise speed of 300 km/h.
In addition to that the AH-1Z helicopter is armed with guns, rockets and air-to-air missiles.
Content created and supplied by: Ledward (via Opera News )
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