Cope Tiger 2005.

Personnel from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, deployed aboard Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), participated in Cope Tiger 2005, an international exercise held in Korat, Thailand, from 24 January to 4 February. Each fixed-wing squadron in the air wing was represented. F/A-18C Hornets from the Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 82 Marauders and the VFA-151 Vigilantes conducted offensive counter air, defensive counter air, and strike missions. F/A-18E/F Super Hornets from the VFA-2 Bounty Hunters and the VFA-137 Kestrels conducted these missions and also provided airborne refueling support. EA-6B Prowlers from the Electronic Attack Squadron 131 Lancers were involved in suppression of enemy air defense and strike missions. Airborne early warning responsibilities were handled by E-2C Hawkeye 2000s from the Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 116 Sun Kings. The C-2 carrier onboard delivery aircraft from Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 30 provided the logistical support to transport personnel and equipment from Lincoln to Thailand.

The Royal Thai Air Force supplied approximately 35 aircraft to the exercise, including F-5 and F-16 jets. The Republic of Singapore Air Force contributed 40 aircraft, including F-5s, F-16s, and an E-2C. The U.S. Air Force contributed F-15A Eagles and F-15C Eagles, as well as two E-3C Airborne Warning and Control System aircraft.

During the two-week exercise, CVW-2 flew a total of 256 sorties tallying just under 400 flight hours.

Thanks to Ltjg. Douglas Hool of VFA-2 and Lt. Perry Solomon of VFA-82 for their contributions to this article.