17 December 2023 - Operation Enduring Resolve Week 21

Trim · Post by **Trim** » Wed Dec 20, 2023 9:44 pm

After Action Report

Operation: Routine A2G Operations over Syria

Date: 17 December 2023
Time: 1445 local

Mission Overview:

The operation conducted by VFA-41, comprising three separate units—Dealer 1, Dealer 2, and Dealer 3—was focused on executing A2G Combat Air Patrols over central Syria. Each flight was assigned distinct tasks aimed at targeting threats and potential opportunities within the designated area of operations.

Dealer 1 (Aircraft: 2x F/A-18C)

Tasking: Locate a commercial tanker under attack by small speedboats and neutralize the attackers.

Action: Dealer 1-1 and Dealer 1-2 successfully located the distressed tanker, witnessing multiple small boats surrounding it. Despite initial warning shots, the boats persisted in their aggressive behavior. Consequently, the decision was made to eliminate the threat by sinking the boats with strafing runs. Post-engagement, the aircraft rendezvoused with a refueling tanker over Cyprus for replenishment before safely returning to CVN-73.

Dealer 2 (Aircraft: 3x F/A-18C)

Tasking: Intercept and neutralize an enemy convoy.

Action: Operating in a challenging scenario, Dealer 2-1, Dealer 2-2, and Dealer 2-3 took turns refueling while scouring the area for the targeted enemy convoy. Eventually, they successfully located the high-speed convoy and engaged it using GBU-12s, effectively neutralizing approximately 75% of the vehicles. Post-mission, the squadron returned safely to CVN-73.

Dealer 3 (Aircraft: 3x F/A-18C)

Tasking: Destroy a factory located in a specific area.

Action: Dealer 3-1, Dealer 3-2, and Dealer 3-3 successfully identified and targeted the designated factory using GBU-12s, effectively demolishing the facility. During the return to CVN-73, Dealer 3-2 encountered fuel depletion issues and, despite attempts, failed to refuel from the recovery tanker. Consequently, the pilot was forced to eject. The SAR helicopter promptly recovered the pilot, although the aircraft was lost.

Observations and Conclusion:

The missions carried out by VFA-41 were executed with precision and effectiveness, achieving the assigned objectives with minimal collateral damage. However, challenges with refueling and unexpected fuel depletion resulted in the loss of one aircraft and the successful ejection and recovery of the pilot. Coordination with supporting assets, such as refueling tankers and SAR, played a pivotal role in the overall success of the operation.

The completion of these tasks contributes to the ongoing efforts in the region, marking a significant contribution to the mission objectives. Lessons learned from this operation emphasize the importance of adaptability, fuel management, and effective coordination in dynamic operational environments.

Recommendations:

Review and refine procedures for refueling operations, particularly in challenging or urgent scenarios.
Conduct debriefings to gather insights and lessons learned from each mission segment to enhance future operations.
Emphasize the significance of maintaining situational awareness and fuel conservation to all aircrew members.

Units:

Dealer 1:
Trim - Ground Targets hit, Trapped
Hedgehog - Ground Targets hit, Trapped

Dealer 2:
Rhino - Ground Targets hit, Trapped
Crash - Trapped
Chaos - Ground Targets hit, Trapped

Dealer 3:
Lion - Ground Targets hit, Trapped
Sabot - Ground Targets hit, Ejected while on recovery
Maniac - Ground Targets hit, Trapped

Submitted by:
Trim
Captain, VFA-41
20 December 2023