The TRAPCON, for transportable radar approach control, airmen at Balad AB, Iraq, who control the airspace in central Iraq average less than four years in service. And, the environment is much more dynamic than the formula, FAA-controlled US airspace. “These airmen amaze me every day,” SSgt. Brandi Cannedy told the Red Tail Flyer. She went on to say that there is a “steep learning curve,” and the airmen have much more responsibility than when she started out in the career field.
Less than a day after arriving in the Middle East, F-15E Strike Eagles from Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C. defended Israel from an Iranian attack in April 2024. DUDE flight, four F-15Es from the 335th Fighter Squadron, downed two dozen Iranian drones in roughly 45 minutes.