The Afterburn Podcast

In this episode of the Afterburn Podcast, host Mike "Flash" McVay continues the exploration of the Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) in Part II of the series. Joined by Pat “Curly” Pence, they delve into the evolution of the Wild Weasel mission during Operation Desert Storm. Curly recounts his progression from pilot training to becoming a Wild Weasel, sharing insights into the challenges and tactics of air combat against surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems. The conversation further explores the preparation for conflict, intelligence assessments of enemy capabilities, and the execution of strike packages. Curly highlights the realities of engaging with air defense systems and the significance of pre-conflict training missions. He also discusses the evolution of weapon systems in air-to-ground tactics. Additionally, Flash and Curly examine the intricacies of the High-speed Anti-Radiation Missile (HARM) system, its development, and tactical lessons from various military engagements. Curly shares personal accounts of radar engagements, underscoring the importance of system proficiency and tactics in countering SAMs. The episode also covers the transition from the F-4G to the F-16C Block 50, the critical nature of SEAD missions, and the ongoing necessity for effective intelligence in modern warfare.   🛫 Become a Fighter/Bomber/Cargo/Tanker/RPA Pilot 🎯 : http://bogidope.com/?bd=tappodcast 🛫🔺 Aviation & Defense Newsletter - https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter 🔺✈ Your Pilot Destination E3 Aviation Association: https://bit.ly/E3AviationBecome a Patron, Support the Show, & Gain Exclusive Benefits: https://www.patreon.com/c/theafterburnpodcast🥷 Scrub Your Info from Data Brokers & Protect Yourself | https://aura.com/afterburn 14-day free trialFighter Pilot Book Recommendations: https://amzn.to/4nlA67m Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Afterburn Podcast, Mike “Flash” McVay hosts Leonard “Lucky” Ekman and Jim “Gringo” Webster, two original Wild Weasel fighter pilots from Vietnam, as they share firsthand experiences and insights from their military careers. This is Part I of the five-part Suppression of Enemy Air Defense (SEAD) Series. The discussion follows their journeys from joining the military to their roles in some of the most dangerous combat missions of the Vietnam War. They dive deep into the evolution of the Wild Weasel mission, a high-risk operation designed to counter deadly surface-to-air missile (SAM) threats. “Lucky” and “Gringo” reflect on their intense training, the dangers they faced in combat, and the unbreakable camaraderie among fighter pilots. They recount harrowing encounters with SAMs, detailing the tactics and strategies Wild Weasel crews developed to survive and protect their fellow aviators. The conversation highlights the evolution of air combat tactics, the advanced technology used in their aircraft, and the role of intelligence in mission success. They share personal accounts of flying against formidable air defenses, the mental and physical demands of their missions, and the calculated risks that defined the Weasel community. This episode is a deep dive into the Wild Weasel legacy—its impact on modern air warfare, the sacrifices made, and the lessons passed down to future generations of fighter pilots. 🛫 Become a Fighter/Bomber/Cargo/Tanker/RPA Pilot 🎯 : http://bogidope.com/?bd=tappodcast 🛫🔺 Aviation & Defense Newsletter - https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter 🔺✈ Your Pilot Destination E3 Aviation Association: https://bit.ly/E3AviationBecome a Patron, Support the Show, & Gain Exclusive Benefits: https://www.patreon.com/c/theafterburnpodcast🥷 Scrub Your Info from Data Brokers & Protect Yourself | https://aura.com/afterburn 14-day free trialFighter Pilot Book Recommendations: https://amzn.to/4nlA67m Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) mission has evolved alongside the development of Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) systems. In this episode of The Lowdown, host Mike "Flash" McVay takes a deep dive into the history and advancements of SAM technology, from its early origins to today’s modern, highly integrated air defense networks.🛡️ How did SAMs start? The first concepts of surface-to-air guided weapons were developed in WWII, but it wasn’t until the Cold War that the technology became a true threat to air superiority.🚀 The Rise of Soviet SAMs – From the SA-1 and SA-2 in the Vietnam War to modern S-400 and S-500 systems, the Russian IADS (Integrated Air Defense System) remains one of the most formidable air defense networks todayy⚡ How the U.S. Responded – The Wild Weasel program, AGM-88 HARM missiles, and the shift to electronic warfare and cyberattacks to neutralize enemy air defenses.🌍 SAMs Today & The Future – Countries around the world are developing more advanced, mobile, and networked air defense systems, making SEAD missions riskier than ever.The SEAD mission is evolving, and understanding how SAMs have shaped air warfare is critical for today’s modern air combat operations.  🛫 Become a Fighter/Bomber/Cargo/Tanker/RPA Pilot 🎯 : http://bogidope.com/?bd=tappodcast 🛫🔺 Aviation & Defense Newsletter - https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter 🔺✈ Your Pilot Destination E3 Aviation Association: https://bit.ly/E3AviationBecome a Patron, Support the Show, & Gain Exclusive Benefits: https://www.patreon.com/c/theafterburnpodcast🥷 Scrub Your Info from Data Brokers & Protect Yourself | https://aura.com/afterburn 14-day free trialFighter Pilot Book Recommendations: https://amzn.to/4nlA67m Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

🔺 Grab our free newsletter for insights into aviation, defense, and geopolitics - https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter 🔺In this week’s Lowdown on The Afterburn Podcast, we cover the Korean F-16 bombing mishap, the Air Force grounding KC-46 tankers, Ukraine’s new GBU-39 bomb strikes, and Russia’s Su-57 stopping in Iran. From defense industry failures to high-stakes air combat updates, this is your go-to briefing for global military and aviation news.🚀 Topics Covered:South Korean F-16s accidentally drop bombs on a populated areaUkraine’s GBU-39 smart bombs now being used on Su-27s and F-16sBoeing’s KC-46 tanker plagued with structural cracks, delaying deliveriesAir Force cheating scandal—100 cadets under investigation at the AcademyUS B-52s flying near Russia, escorted by NATO F-18s and F-35sHigh-powered microwave weapons deployed to counter drone swarmsF-16s now equipped with AGM-84 Harpoon anti-ship missiles🔹 Subscribe for more aviation & defense insights!🔹 Join the newsletter for free giveaways! https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter🔹 Support the show on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/c/theafterburnpodcast/membership🎙️ Sponsor Links🎙️🎯 Become a Fighter Pilot: https://bogidope.com/?bd=rain🇺🇸 Support Veterans: http://gunsgarin.com/rain 🇺🇸💻 🕵🏼‍♂️Scrub Your Info from Data Brokers & Protect Yourself | https://aura.com/afterburn 14-day free trial ☕️ Coffee Made by Fighter Pilots: https://bit.ly/Attack_Coffee🛫 E3 Aviation - Exclusive Deals, Content, & Aviation Education: https://bit.ly/E3Aviation 🛫 Become a Fighter/Bomber/Cargo/Tanker/RPA Pilot 🎯 : http://bogidope.com/?bd=tappodcast 🛫🔺 Aviation & Defense Newsletter - https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter 🔺✈ Your Pilot Destination E3 Aviation Association: https://bit.ly/E3AviationBecome a Patron, Support the Show, & Gain Exclusive Benefits: https://www.patreon.com/c/theafterburnpodcast🥷 Scrub Your Info from Data Brokers & Protect Yourself | https://aura.com/afterburn 14-day free trialFighter Pilot Book Recommendations: https://amzn.to/4nlA67m Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) mission, better known as the Wild Weasel mission, has been a critical component of air warfare since Vietnam. In this special five-part series, host Mike "Flash" McVay explores the evolution of SEAD from its early days in Rolling Thunder to Desert Storm, Kosovo, and today’s modern air battles.🛫 Become a Fighter/Bomber/Cargo/Tanker/RPA Pilot 🎯 : http://bogidope.com/?bd=tappodcast 🛫🔺 Grab our free newsletter for insights into aviation, defense, and geopolitics - https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter 🔺☕️Attack Coffee : https://www.attackcoffee.com/🥷 Scrub Your Info from Data Brokers & Protect Yourself | https://aura.com/afterburn 14-day free trial  In this episode of the Afterburn Podcast, we lay the groundwork—how the Soviet Union’s SAM (Surface-to-Air Missile) technology changed air combat forever and how the U.S. Air Force adapted tactics, aircraft, and weapon systems to counter these threats. From the first Wild Weasel F-100s to the F-4G Phantom, F-16CJ, and the modern F-35, we trace the development of anti-radiation missiles, electronic warfare, and SEAD strategy that have enabled air superiority for decades.As we move into great power competition, air dominance is no longer guaranteed. This series will bring in veteran SEAD pilots who have executed the Wild Weasel mission in combat, sharing firsthand experiences from Vietnam to present-day threats.The Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) mission, better known as the Wild Weasel mission, has been a critical component of air warfare since Vietnam. In this special five-part series, host Mike "Flash" McVay explores the evolution of SEAD from its early days in Rolling Thunder to Desert Storm, Kosovo, and today’s modern air battles.In this episode, we lay the groundwork—how the Soviet Union’s SAM (Surface-to-Air Missile) technology changed air combat forever and how the U.S. Air Force adapted tactics, aircraft, and weapon systems to counter these threats. From the first Wild Weasel F-100s to the F-4G Phantom, F-16CJ/CM, and the modern F-35, we trace the development of anti-radiation missiles, electronic warfare, and SEAD strategy that have enabled air superiority for decades.As we move into great power competition, air dominance is no longer guaranteed. This series will bring in veteran SEAD pilots who have executed the Wild Weasel mission in combat, sharing firsthand experiences from Vietnam to present-day threats. 🛫 Become a Fighter/Bomber/Cargo/Tanker/RPA Pilot 🎯 : http://bogidope.com/?bd=tappodcast 🛫🔺 Aviation & Defense Newsletter - https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter 🔺✈ Your Pilot Destination E3 Aviation Association: https://bit.ly/E3AviationBecome a Patron, Support the Show, & Gain Exclusive Benefits: https://www.patreon.com/c/theafterburnpodcast🥷 Scrub Your Info from Data Brokers & Protect Yourself | https://aura.com/afterburn 14-day free trialFighter Pilot Book Recommendations: https://amzn.to/4nlA67m Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Afterburn Podcast, he reflects on his time in 3rd Ranger Battalion, the intense urban warfare of Black Hawk Down. Recently, Brad was featured in Netflix’s Surviving Black Hawk Down. #blackhawkdown Brad takes us inside the realities of special operations, how gear and tactics evolved, and the raw, unfiltered truth about Mogadishu that Hollywood didn’t tell. Brad Thomas has lived multiple lives—Army Ranger assigned to the 75th Ranger Regiment and combat veteran of the Battle of Mogadishu. Brad later went on to serve as a Delta Force Operator. Following a career in the Army Brad tapped into his passion for music and went on to found the band Silence and Light with fellow veterans. Beyond the battlefield, we explore his passion for music, leadership, and veterans' mental health, as well as the upcoming projects with his band. If you're interested in military history, elite training, and how combat experiences shape veterans' lives, this episode is a must-listen. Brad's IG: https://www.instagram.com/bradthomas_official/?hl=en 🎵 Brad's band Silence and Light: https://silenceandlightmusic.com/ Netflix's Surviving Black Hawk Down: https://www.netflix.com/title/81737703 🛫 Become a Fighter/Bomber/Cargo/Tanker/RPA Pilot 🎯 : http://bogidope.com/?bd=tappodcast 🛫 🔺 Grab our free newsletter for insights into aviation, defense, and geopolitics - https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter 🔺 ☕️Attack Coffee : https://www.attackcoffee.com/ 🥷 Scrub Your Info from Data Brokers & Protect Yourself | https://aura.com/afterburn 14-day free trial   🛫 Become a Fighter/Bomber/Cargo/Tanker/RPA Pilot 🎯 : http://bogidope.com/?bd=tappodcast 🛫🔺 Aviation & Defense Newsletter - https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter 🔺✈ Your Pilot Destination E3 Aviation Association: https://bit.ly/E3AviationBecome a Patron, Support the Show, & Gain Exclusive Benefits: https://www.patreon.com/c/theafterburnpodcast🥷 Scrub Your Info from Data Brokers & Protect Yourself | https://aura.com/afterburn 14-day free trialFighter Pilot Book Recommendations: https://amzn.to/4nlA67m Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

🔺 Lowdown Newsletter Defense & Aviation - https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter 🔺 The U.S. Navy’s USS Harry S. Truman was struck by a merchant vessel in the Mediterranean. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s air exercise featured JF-17s, Rafales, F-16s, and F-15s, showcasing multinational airpower. A drone strike at Chernobyl punctured the protective dome over Reactor 4, highlighting security vulnerabilities. China’s J-20 stealth fighter was spotted in "Beast Mode" carrying up to 14 PL-15 long-range missiles, signaling a shift in air combat strategy. The EA-18G Growler crashed into San Diego harbor, with both pilots ejecting safely. 🔹 Subscribe for more aviation & defense insights! 🔹 Join the newsletter for free giveaways! https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter 🔹 Support the show on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/c/theafterburnpodcast/membership 🎙️ Sponsor Links🎙️ 🎯 Become a Fighter Pilot: https://bogidope.com/?bd=rain 🇺🇸 Support Veterans: http://gunsgarin.com/rain 🇺🇸 💻 🕵🏼‍♂️Scrub Your Info from Data Brokers & Protect Yourself | https://aura.com/afterburn 14-day free trial ☕️ Coffee Made by Fighter Pilots: https://bit.ly/Attack_Coffee 🛫 E3 Aviation - Exclusive Deals, Content, & Aviation Education: https://bit.ly/E3Aviation 🛫 Become a Fighter/Bomber/Cargo/Tanker/RPA Pilot 🎯 : http://bogidope.com/?bd=tappodcast 🛫🔺 Aviation & Defense Newsletter - https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter 🔺✈ Your Pilot Destination E3 Aviation Association: https://bit.ly/E3AviationBecome a Patron, Support the Show, & Gain Exclusive Benefits: https://www.patreon.com/c/theafterburnpodcast🥷 Scrub Your Info from Data Brokers & Protect Yourself | https://aura.com/afterburn 14-day free trialFighter Pilot Book Recommendations: https://amzn.to/4nlA67m Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Afterburn Podcast, Mike “Flash” McVay sits down with Col (Ret) Derek "Woody" Oaks, a pilot who made the rare transition from flying C-130 to the A-10. Woody shares his experiences flying combat missions, the challenges of transitioning between vastly different airframes, and the leadership lessons he learned throughout his Air Force career. From his time at the Air Force Academy to commanding a fighter group, “Woody” reflects on decision-making in combat, the art of close air support, and what it means to lead in high-pressure environments. Whether moving troops and cargo in the C-130 or delivering firepower from the A-10, his stories capture the essence of military aviation, camaraderie, and the evolution of airpower. 🛫 Become a Fighter/Bomber/Cargo/Tanker/RPA Pilot 🎯 : http://bogidope.com/?bd=tappodcast 🛫 🔺 Grab our free newsletter for insights into aviation, defense, and geopolitics - https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter 🔺 ☕️Attack Coffee : https://www.attackcoffee.com/ 🥷 Scrub Your Info from Data Brokers & Protect Yourself | https://aura.com/afterburn 14-day free trial     🛫 Become a Fighter/Bomber/Cargo/Tanker/RPA Pilot 🎯 : http://bogidope.com/?bd=tappodcast 🛫🔺 Aviation & Defense Newsletter - https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter 🔺✈ Your Pilot Destination E3 Aviation Association: https://bit.ly/E3AviationBecome a Patron, Support the Show, & Gain Exclusive Benefits: https://www.patreon.com/c/theafterburnpodcast🥷 Scrub Your Info from Data Brokers & Protect Yourself | https://aura.com/afterburn 14-day free trialFighter Pilot Book Recommendations: https://amzn.to/4nlA67m Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Marine Corps is reshaping its F-35 fleet, swapping some F-35Bs for more F-35Cs. The Air Force ingeniously mended two damaged F-35s into a single viable aircraft. Meanwhile, espionage heats up as a former Fed official faces charges for selling secrets to China. The U.S. is also responding to increased Russian activities in the Arctic by deploying F-16s to Greenland. Plus, developments in hypersonic missile technology and innovative coffee solutions from fighter pilots promise to keep listeners on the edge of their seats!

🔺 Grab our free newsletter for insights into aviation, defense, and geopolitics - https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter This week on The Lowdown, we break down the latest aviation and defense stories. An F-35 crashed in Alaska, but the pilot ejected safely. Meanwhile, Iran has secured a deal to purchase Su-35 fighters from Russia, adding to its aging fleet of F-14s and MiG-29s. We also discuss Sweden’s massive $1.2 billion military aid package to Ukraine, which includes combat boats, anti-tank missiles, and long-range strike drones. 🛫 Become a Fighter/Bomber/Cargo/Tanker/RPA Pilot 🎯 : http://bogidope.com/?bd=tappodcast 🛫 ☕️Attack Coffee : https://www.attackcoffee.com/ 🥷 Scrub Your Info from Data Brokers & Protect Yourself | https://aura.com/afterburn 14-day free trial ☕️ Coffee Made by Fighter Pilots: https://bit.ly/Attack_Coffee 💻 Try Perplexity $10 Off: https://perplexity.ai/pro?referral_code=ZSEH95VD 🛫 E3 Aviation - Exclusive Deals, Content, & Aviation Education: https://bit.ly/E3Aviation 🎯 🛫 Become a Fighter/Bomber/Cargo/Tanker/RPA Pilot 🎯 : http://bogidope.com/?bd=tappodcast 🛫🔺 Aviation & Defense Newsletter - https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter 🔺✈ Your Pilot Destination E3 Aviation Association: https://bit.ly/E3AviationBecome a Patron, Support the Show, & Gain Exclusive Benefits: https://www.patreon.com/c/theafterburnpodcast🥷 Scrub Your Info from Data Brokers & Protect Yourself | https://aura.com/afterburn 14-day free trialFighter Pilot Book Recommendations: https://amzn.to/4nlA67m Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.