Last spring, F-15 fighter pilot Maj. Benjamin “Irish” Coffey found himself in a harrowing situation when Iran launched a massive attack against Israel. The US military was caught off guard by over 300 drones, ballistic, and cruise missiles fired by Iran on April 13.
Coffey and his crew mate, weapons systems officer Capt. Lacie “Sonic” Hester, were tasked with using all available weapons to counter the Iranian assault. In a risky move, they attempted to engage an Iranian drone using the jet's gun, flying at dangerously low altitudes. Despite the danger, they were unable to hit the target.
The US forces, including Hester and Coffey, managed to intercept 70 drones and three ballistic missiles that night, successfully thwarting a significant portion of the attack. However, the operation posed challenges for the F-15 pilots, weapons officers, and ground crew involved.
The incident highlighted the military's need to adapt to a new era of warfare, where advanced fighter jets face off against inexpensive, slow-moving attack drones that can evade radar systems. The F-15 pilots faced a shortage of effective weapons against the drones, depleting their missile supply within 20 minutes of combat.
Landing back at the US military base became even more perilous as Iranian missiles and drones intercepted by the base's air defense systems exploded overhead. Some jets had to land with malfunctioning missiles, adding to the already tense situation.
Despite the chaos, military personnel displayed remarkable courage and discipline, with many receiving awards for their bravery. Hester and Coffey were awarded the Silver Star, while others received honors such as the Bronze Star and Distinguished Flying Cross with valor.
The night's events underscored the evolving nature of aerial combat, where protecting civilian lives from aerial threats takes precedence over traditional dogfights. The bravery and dedication of the F-15 pilots and crews in the face of adversity exemplify the challenges and heroism of modern warfare.
