SWANTON, Ohio – Residents in Southeastern Ohio, especially those near Hillsboro and Chillicothe, may notice the sounds of F-16 fighter jets in the skies this week as the 180th Fighter Wing conducts nighttime flying operations and an air defense exercise.
Beginning Monday, Nov. 18, and continuing through Thursday, Nov. 21, weather permitting, the 180th Fighter Wing will carry out evening flights, with jets taking off and landing until approximately 8:30 p.m. This training aims to keep pilots mission-ready and enhance nighttime flying capabilities.
Additionally, on Monday, Nov. 18, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., an air defense exercise will take place over Southeastern Ohio. During this exercise, residents in the Hillsboro and Chillicothe areas may see F-16 jets in close proximity to a Civil Air Patrol aircraft, simulating a “Track of Interest” (TOI) scenario. The TOI aircraft will play the role of a potential threat, testing response, and coordination protocols for air defense.
The 180th Fighter Wing reminds the community that while the exercise is scheduled for specific times, flights could be delayed, relocated, or canceled due to weather or mission changes. These training sessions are a crucial part of maintaining the readiness and defense capabilities of Ohio’s Air National Guard.
Residents are encouraged to view the jets as a symbol of the nation’s dedication to security, as the “sounds of freedom” soar over Ohio.