A component of the German Transalls was dedicated to special operations support, these machines being fitted with modernized flight system / navigation avionics, and cockpits compatible with night vision goggles (NVGs). These aircraft - reportedly some 24 - received an external modification on the side of the fuselage just in front of the wings. The EloKa self-defense system was developed to enhance the Transall's self-protection capabilities during missions flown in support of the German ISAF Troops operating in Afghanistan.