The number of Operation Noble Eagle sorties flown during the month of October dropped compared to September, according to the most recent data provided by Air Forces Northern at Tyndall AFB, Fla. The Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Command flew about three times the number of fighter sorties as the active force. The total flying hours since ONE began is now at 180,551. (See chart for stats.)
All 12 American bombers deployed in Britain rapidly returned to the U.S. on Oct. 4 following security concerns about a potential Iranian threat to their base in the U.K.