VFA-41 was tasked with destroying two Grisha warships docked at Hormoz Harbor for repairs. The harbor was known to be defended by SA-6 SAM's and their destruction was deemed essential for a ship strike on the Grisha ships. Coordinates were provided by intel prior to flight time on several known SA-6 sites, other "new" sites were reported up and on station at time of launch around the target area. Hostile air threats were expected and encountered. Trim took down a Mig-21 after unloading his JSOW's.
The mission profile consisted of two flights; Dealer 1 for CAP / SEAD, Dealer 2 for Strike.
Dealer 1-1 - Trim: - Sam Hits, Mig-21 Kill, trapped.
Dealer 1-2 - Shadow: Weapons Malfunction, trapped.
Dealer 1-2 - Mad Dog: Sam Hits, Killed on Landing at Kasab.
Dealer 2-1 - Ticman: Grisha and SAM hits, trapped
Dealer 2-2 - Hedgehog: Grisha hits, trapped
Dealer 2-3 - Lion: Grisha hits, Private Yacht hit, trapped
Dealer 2-4 - Cord: Grisha Hit, Maverick malfunctions, trapped.
Due to a long flight and loiter time, VFA-41 landed at Kasab for refuel before heading back to Stennis. One hornet was lost on Kasab landing, an investigation has been launched to find its cause.
Primary target Grisha's were not sunk but suffered severe damage during the strike.
4 August 2019 - Grisha Justice
Re: 4 August 2019 - Grisha Justice
The Area Commander has characterized this mission as a success. Both Iranian warships were severely damaged and taken out of service for a very long time. The message was also clearly conveyed to Iran that there will be a steep price to pay for continued acts against international shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Re: 4 August 2019 - Grisha Justice
Pilot records and Greenie Board updated.