150 aircraft and a data-driven operation

Far from the classic frontal attack model, the mission was based on a central principle of modern warfare: observation, analysis and understanding. To achieve this, the US Navy deployed a diverse set of aircrafteach with a specific technological role within the system.

Los F-22A Raptor y F-35 Lightning II (in its variants A and C) represented the technological core of the air domain. Both fifth-generation fighters are designed around sensor fusion: AESA radars, infrared systems, passive detection and data links are integrated into a single interface that offers the pilot a complete picture of the environment.

The F-22 stands out for its air superiority capabilities and low detection level, while the F-35 acts as a true flying intelligence center, capable of collecting information and distributing it to other platforms in real time. Together, they function more like in-flight data processors than like traditional airplanes.

They were joined by F/A-18E/F Super Hornetadvanced fourth generation aircraft that provide versatility, attack capacity and full compatibility with modern systems. Its strength lies in interoperability, allowing missions to be executed based on information generated by more stealthy platforms.

One of the technological pillars of the operation was electronic warfare, carried out by the EA-18G Growlera specialized variant of the Super Hornet. This aircraft does not attack physical targets: attacks systems. Its mission is to detect, jam and neutralize enemy radars, communications and air defenses.

Equipped with advanced jamming pods and highly sensitive sensors on its wings, The Growler allows you to “turn off” or confuse the nervous system of the adversary. In operations like this, their role is decisive in opening safe corridors and ensuring that other aircraft can operate without being detected or attacked.

The E-2D Hawkeye fulfills a less visible, but essential function: see everything before anyone else. This airborne early warning and control aircraft is equipped with a state-of-the-art radar capable of tracking hundreds of targets simultaneously, both in the air and on the surface.

From its position, the Hawkeye acts as a air command centercoordinating movements, assigning priorities and maintaining system coherence. In an operation with dozens of aircraft and drones, their traffic management and early detection capabilities are essential.

The aircraft that provided long-range attack capability and high payload. Although it is a strategic bomber, its technological evolution allows it to execute missions with precision guided weaponryminimizing collateral damage.

The role of the B-1B Lancer within the system is not only offensive, but also deterrent: the presence of a bomber of this type expands the margin of action of the rest of the force and reinforces the pressure on enemy defenses.

For the land phase, the focus fell on highly specialized helicopters. The MH-47 Chinook y UH-60M Black Hawk They were used for transportation and insertion of special operations forces. Both have night navigation systems, low-altitude flight and electronic countermeasures.

He AH-64E Apachefor its part, provided close armed support. Equipped with electro-optical sensors, fire control radars and guided weapons, the Apache functions as a precision attack platform, capable of operating in hostile environments with a high degree of autonomy.

Among the most sensitive platforms is the RQ-170 Sentinel, a stealth drone designed for high-risk reconnaissance missions. Its low profile radar and advanced sensors allow it to collect critical information without being detected.

In operations of this type, drones not only observe: they feed the decision system. The data they generate is integrated with that of satellites and manned aircraft, completing the operational panorama in real time.

None of this deployment would be possible without the KC-135tanker planes responsible for in-flight refueling. Its function is silent but essential: to extend the autonomy of fighters, bombers and drones, allowing the operation to be sustained for hours without the need to land.

Aerial refueling is one of the factors that turns a one-time mission into a sustained operation, and requires precise data-driven coordination and algorithmic planning.

Beyond the political context of the operation, the United States made clear that its modern aerial machinery can be executed as a complex digital systemwhere each aircraft fulfills a specific function within a larger architecture. In this model, supremacy is defined by the ability to integrate information, automate decisions and coordinate actions in real time.