Move to Emergency Extraction Point [Mission Success]

Acknowledging the vulnerability of the initial Extraction Point, the team opted to relocate the landing zone (LZ) to a secondary location 200 meters NORTH of their current position. This decision required swift coordination with callsign RAPTOR, who executed a challenging “go-around” maneuver amidst enemy fire to reach the new LZ. Operating the V-22 Osprey in Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) mode added significant complexity to this maneuver.

While the team tactically advanced to the new Extraction Point, they maintained cover to shield themselves from enemy forces across the N’Mai River.  Despite encountering resistance, the V-22 successfully completed the “go-around” maneuver, albeit sustaining damage from small arms fire. Ultimately, callsign RAPTOR managed to land safely at the new LZ, beyond the effective range of enemy small arms fire, enabling swift embarkation before departure.

The return flight to JRH was introspective, with each member reflecting on the events and their rapid decision-making. Upon arrival, the team received prompt medical attention, addressing minor injuries sustained during the operation.

An initial After Action Review (AAR) conducted the following day commended the team’s adaptability and tactical acumen in relocating the LZ amidst hostile conditions, while also lauding callsign RAPTOR’s adept handling of the go-around maneuver, under fire.  The AAR also underscored the team’s oversight in not recognizing the operational limitations of the V-22 Osprey.  It emphasized that without the expertise of callsign RAPTOR and the rest of the V22’s Special Operations Aviation crew, the mission would certainly have failed.

Despite the stinging critique, the success of the operation bolstered the unit’s morale and underscored the significance of air-land integration in modern combat.  Furthermore, the mission’s strategic success reinforced military cooperation among coalition partners while showcasing the strategic utility of Special Operations Forces.