24 September 2023 - Operation Enduring Freedom Week 13

[Trim]

After Action Report
Operation: Syrian Air Patrol Mission - 24 September, 2023

Prepared by:
Mission Commander: CAPT Trim
Date: 27 September, 2023

MISSION SUMMARY:

On 24 September, 2023, VFA-41 Operating as Dealers 1, 2, & 3 executed an Air-to-Ground (A2G) combat air patrol mission over the volatile region around Palmyra, Taqba dam, and Hatay, Turkey. This mission aimed to provide air support and target engagement capabilities against ISIS remnants, Assad forces, and rebel combatants while maintaining vigilance against potential threats, primarily MANPADs and hostile Chinese fighters. The mission was conducted under Weapons Free rules with a strong emphasis on target verification to minimize civilian casualties.

MISSION EXECUTION:

Dealer 3: As the closest unit to the area of operation, Dealer 3 promptly responded to a simultaneous, multi-pronged attack on Damascus airport and eliminated the attackers.

Dealer 1: Converged on the Damascus airport area to provide additional support and cover for Dealer 3 if required.

Dealer 2: While flying their assigned routing encountered an SA-11 'Gadfly' surface-to-air missile threat. Dealer 2 took evasive action, avoiding a missile hit, and retaliated by effectively neutralizing the SA-11 with an AGM-88C HARM missile.

Dealer 1-2 Diversion: Due to the inability to complete in-flight refueling, Dealer 1-2 was forced to divert to Beirut. This decision was made to ensure the safety of the flight crew and equipment.

THREATS ENCOUNTERED:

MANPADs: The presence of MANPADs in areas not controlled by friendly forces remained a significant threat throughout the mission. No incidents involving MANPADs were reported during this operation.

Chinese Fighters: There were concerns about potential harassment and unprofessional airmanship from Chinese fighters; however, no such encounters were reported during the mission.

Pop-up SAM Launches: In recent missions, pop-up SAM launches from SA-11 'Gadfly' vehicles in government-controlled areas posed a threat. In response, all strike aircraft were equipped with at least one AGM-88C HARM missile for self-protection, which proved effective in neutralizing SAM threats.

MISSION ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

Successful elimination of attackers at Damascus airport by Dealer 3, preventing further damage.

Evasion and destruction of an SA-11 'Gadfly' SAM threat by Dealer 2, demonstrating the effectiveness of HARM missiles in countering SAM threats.

Strict adherence to Rules of Engagement (ROE) to minimize civilian casualties.

Effective communication and coordination among flight units, ensuring the safety of the mission.

LESSONS LEARNED:

Adequate fuel management and planning are crucial for the success of extended missions. Dealer 1-2 experienced fuel exhaustion, necessitating their diversion to Beirut. Review and refine in-flight refueling procedures to ensure mission sustainability.

The deployment of AGM-88C HARM missiles as a standard self-protection measure was justified and effective in countering SAM threats.

Continuous vigilance and communication are essential to respond swiftly and effectively to evolving threats on the battlefield.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Conduct a thorough review of in-flight refueling procedures and equipment to identify and address any issues that led to the inability to complete refueling during this mission.

Continue to emphasize the importance of target verification and minimizing collateral damage during missions in densely populated areas.

Maintain readiness for potential threats from hostile forces, including MANPADs and uncooperative fighter aircraft.

CONCLUSION:

Despite the challenges faced, the Syrian Air Patrol mission on 24 September, 2023, was overall successful. The Black Aces demonstrated exceptional skill and professionalism in their execution of the mission objectives. Addressing the issues related to in-flight refueling will enhance the mission's sustainability and effectiveness in future operations in the region.

ASSIGNMENTS:

Dealer 1:
CAPT Hedgehog - Simulator Disconnect
ENS Jega - Diverted to Beirut
CAPT Trim - Trapped

Dealer 2:
LT Maniac - Ground Targets, Trapped
CDR Mr. Bean - Trapped

Dealer 3:
LT Chaos - Ground Targets, Trapped
LTJG Crash - Ground Targets, Trapped
LCDR Rhino - Ground Targets, Trapped

[Rhino]

I really like this after action report format! Well done!

[Hedgehog]

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aar oer13a.jpg (125.5 KiB) Viewed 1279 times

[Hedgehog]

Pilot records and Greenie Board updated.

[Trim]

I really like this after action report format! Well done!

I can't take the credit, it was pretty much all ChatGPT.