Throughout the United States. the Federal Aviation Administration and the Department of Defense have implemented new communications procedures that allow them to share real-time radar data and to immediately collaborate on threat assessments and responses.

North American Aerospace Defense Command

The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), established in 1958, is tasked with air sovereignty and air defense of the United States and Canada against attack from all enemies, foreign and domestic. NORAD operations are now closely coordinated with the Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration and the Federal Aviation Administration, including monitoring and enforcement of flight restrictions and ADIZs as part of NORAD’s mission profile. NORAD fighters scramble or divert from air patrols in the U.S. Northern Command Area of Responsibility an average of 500 times per year to respond to possible air threats. NORAD’s U.S. interceptors consist of the F-16 Fighting Falcon and the F-15 Eagle.

Dedicated Intercept Aircraft

In addition to the F-16 and F-15 fighter interceptors operated by NORAD, the Department of Homeland Security’s U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) operates a fleet of armed HH-65C Dolphin helicopters and Falcon Jets flown by armed crews that can intercept, investigate, identify, escort, and deter suspicious aircraft. This mission has the Coast Guard working directly under the direction of the NORAD and partnering with other federal, state and local agencies to protect critical infrastructure and personnel. In addition to possibly hostile threats, the Dolphins intercept “low and slow” aircraft violating the ADIZ without the proper flight plan and clearance. These helicopters and are equipped with civilian-frequency VHF radios plus electronic signboards so that their crews can communicate with pilots who might be having mechanical or radio problems. The Coast Guard pilots have the training and experience to safely intercept GA aircraft that inadvertently violate the ADIZ, and escort them to an appropriate landing place. The U.S. Coast Guard is the only federal entity with both law enforcement and defense authority.