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Caption:
In the skies over Afghanistan (Oct. 31, 2001) -- An F/A-18 Hornet
from the "Mighty Shrikes" of Strike Fighter Squadron Nine Four (VFA-94)
fires flares during a training mission. Flares are part of the
aircraftÕs defense against surface-to-air and air-to-air
infra-red (IR) heat-seeking missile attacks. IR missiles follow a
heat source. The heat created by the flare will hopefully burn
hotter than the aircraft engine and attract the incoming missile away
from the aircraft. VFA-94 is assigned to Carrier Airwing Eleven
(CVW 11) aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and conducting missions in
support of Operation Enduring Freedom. U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Steve
Lightstone. (RELEASED)
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