F-14 Tomcat Units Of Operation Enduring Freedom Apr 2026

The following squadrons were central to the initial phases of the air campaign starting in October 2001:

During Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), the F-14 Tomcat evolved from a maritime interceptor into a critical "Bombcat" strike platform. Operating from the North Arabian Sea, F-14 squadrons flew some of the longest carrier-launched missions in history—often six to eight hours—to provide precision strikes and close air support for Special Operations Forces in Afghanistan. F-14 Tomcat units of Operation Enduring Freedom

Deployed with the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71). This squadron was notable for its heavy use of precision-guided munitions and a rare "tank kill" with its 20mm cannon while defending Special Forces near Tarin Kowt. The following squadrons were central to the initial