335th FS supports Operation Noble Eagle

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Brittain Crolley
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  Multiple F-15E Strikes Eagles from the 335th Fighter Squadron were launched, Sept. 23-25, in support of Operation Noble Eagle.

The jets were generated to provide air defense of temporary flight restrictions placed by the Federal Aviation Administration during Pope Francis' visit to the U.S. During their shifts, the aircrew were tasked to investigate any suspicious activity noted by military ground controllers as well as be prepared to intercept any threats that violated the airspace.

Although this type of mission does not come around very often, aircrew at the 335th FS are always prepared when called upon.

"We train to a very high standard," said one pilot from the 335th FS who participated in the operation.  "With this mission, we have to (familiarize ourselves again) because it's a little bit different than what we typically train for on a daily basis. At the end of the day, we're well-prepared because we practice to such a high standard."

According to the pilot, the Strike Eagles provided a huge benefit for missions like this. He said the jet's air-to-air capabilities allow them to respond and neutralize any threat they may encounter during flight. He also noted another crucial strength of the F-15E is the two-person crew.

"The two-crew concept of the F-15E helps out tremendously, especially when there's so much going on in congested airspace," he explained. "There are so many different variables when you're flying up there. You have to be in constant communication with air traffic control, there's aircraft everywhere. So being able to have two people talking and split the crew duties to make it happen, that helps us be more accurate, more precise, and also I think it helps us perform any intercept that we could possibly have to execute more rapidly."

The three-day operation concluded without fail, ensuring the Pope's safe travels as he ventured from Washington, D.C. to New York and ultimately to Philadelphia.

"The entire 4th Fighter Wing came together to make this mission happen once again," said Col. Mark Slocum, 4th FW commander. "The dedication of our team to get these jets ready and in the air just speaks to the level of professionalism and work ethic of our phenomenal Airmen."