What Jet Follows Air Force One?
Air Force One is the official air transportation of the President of the United States, and it is one of the most recognizable and iconic aircraft in the world. But have you ever wondered what jet follows Air Force One? The answer is not as simple as it seems, as there are several jets that follow Air Force One, each with its own unique role and purpose.
The Escort Fleet
The jets that follow Air Force One are part of the Air Force’s Escort Fleet, which is a group of specially trained and equipped aircraft that provide security and support to the President’s plane. The Escort Fleet is made up of a variety of jets, including:
- F-16 Fighting Falcons: These multi-role fighter jets are used for air-to-air combat and air-to-ground missions.
- F-15 Eagles: These twin-engine fighter jets are used for air-to-air combat and air-to-ground missions.
- F/A-18 Hornets: These multi-role fighter jets are used for air-to-air combat and air-to-ground missions.
- C-17 Globemaster III: This large military transport jet is used to transport personnel and equipment.
The Role of the Escort Fleet
The Escort Fleet plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of Air Force One. Their primary mission is to provide airborne protection to the President’s plane, detecting and intercepting any potential threats. They also provide communications support, relaying messages and information between Air Force One and other aircraft and ground stations.
The Escort Fleet’s Flight Plan
When Air Force One is in flight, the Escort Fleet follows a specific flight plan, which is designed to ensure the President’s safety and security. The flight plan typically includes:
- Formation flying: The Escort Fleet flies in a formation behind Air Force One, with each jet maintaining a specific distance and position.
- Scanning and surveillance: The Escort Fleet jets use their sensors and radar to scan the skies for any potential threats.
- Communication relay: The Escort Fleet jets relay messages and information between Air Force One and other aircraft and ground stations.
The Commander of the Escort Fleet
The Commander of the Escort Fleet is a highly experienced and trained pilot who is responsible for leading the fleet and ensuring the safety and security of Air Force One. The Commander is chosen from a pool of highly qualified pilots who have undergone rigorous training and have extensive experience flying fighter jets.
The Escort Fleet’s Training
The Escort Fleet undergoes rigorous training to prepare for its mission. The training includes:
- Simulator training: The pilots train on simulators to practice formation flying, scanning, and surveillance.
- Flight training: The pilots train in actual flight, practicing formation flying, scanning, and surveillance.
- Communication training: The pilots train on communication protocols and procedures.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the jet that follows Air Force One is part of the Air Force’s Escort Fleet, a group of specially trained and equipped aircraft that provide security and support to the President’s plane. The Escort Fleet plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of Air Force One, and its pilots undergo rigorous training to prepare for their mission.
Table: Escort Fleet Composition
| Jet | Role | Number of Jets |
|---|---|---|
| F-16 Fighting Falcons | Air-to-air combat and air-to-ground missions | 4-6 |
| F-15 Eagles | Air-to-air combat and air-to-ground missions | 2-4 |
| F/A-18 Hornets | Air-to-air combat and air-to-ground missions | 2-4 |
| C-17 Globemaster III | Transport personnel and equipment | 1 |
Bullets: Key Points
• The Escort Fleet is a group of specially trained and equipped aircraft that provide security and support to Air Force One.
• The Escort Fleet is made up of F-16 Fighting Falcons, F-15 Eagles, F/A-18 Hornets, and C-17 Globemaster III jets.
• The primary mission of the Escort Fleet is to provide airborne protection to Air Force One.
• The Escort Fleet follows a specific flight plan, which includes formation flying, scanning and surveillance, and communication relay.
• The Commander of the Escort Fleet is a highly experienced and trained pilot who is responsible for leading the fleet and ensuring the safety and security of Air Force One.
• The Escort Fleet undergoes rigorous training to prepare for its mission.
