Object

22nd Tactical Fighter Wing F-16s' Missiles

Missiles equip F-16 fighters from the 22nd Tactical Fighter Wing, escorting Air Force One on a moonless night amid landing gear failure. Leo cites them during urgent office talks with Margaret, Josh, Tom Landis, and Simmel, stressing their role in deterrence while he orders Sit Room fabrications of a fuel spill cover and escort confirmations to shield the crisis.

2 appearances

Purpose

Deterrence and potential air-to-air engagement during Air Force One escort

Significance

Escalate aviation emergency stakes, compel Leo's pragmatic secrecy blending military ops with political theater to protect Bartlet and White House credibility

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

2 moments

S4E19 · Angel Maintenance

Staged Cover for a Covert Air Force One Landing

Missiles are mentioned as being armed on the 22nd Tactical Fighter Wing's F-16s — a detail Leo invokes to underscore the seriousness and deterrent posture of the military escort while asking for secrecy and a staged cover on the ground.

Before: Loaded/armed on escorting F-16s.

After: Remain armed, serving as deterrence and signaling heightened military posture during the covert landing preparations.

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S4E19 · Angel Maintenance

Leo Demands Levy — and a Cover Story

Missiles belonging to the 22nd Tactical Fighter Wing are referenced to underscore the deterrent presence of the F-16 escorts and to add gravity to the cover story and the administration's posture.

Before: Armed on the 22nd Tactical Fighter Wing F-16s assigned to escort duties.

After: Remain armed as part of the escort posture while the staged spill/cover story is enacted.

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