Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/1193118
on changes of heading or other unforeseen events. Being in the air, the pilot must find the unidentified jet, recognize it, attain a visual ID and then escort it, as it stays in the protected portion of the airspace. QRAs usually involve intercepts of the aircraft that violate the NATO airspace or that do not follow the directions of the ATC. Flights without transponder turned on or without a flight plan filed, can also be a subject to intercept. Military aircraft are not the only reason for Air Policing QRAs. Civil aircraft in COMMLOSS (Communication Loss) scenarios or in case of Renegade situation (hijacking) are also to receive fighter escort - this is a standard procedure and it's where Iceland Air Policing Mission and F-35s work well. The first F-35 air policing deployment was finalized in late October. However, it may be considered to be a success, as it became a start of a new chapter for NATO. Numerous capabilities that these jets have make the pilot's lives easier also reinforcing the air patrol capabilities, making this duty safer and more modern. The experience gathered in Iceland will have a positive effect on the future operations. We can be almost certain that F-35 jets would be employed in the Air Policing role again. The author would like to thank NATO Allied Air Command for the opportunity to create coverage with regards to the Air Policing mission. AVIATION