Soesterberg

Nevertheless, the USAF scrambles two F-15's from their airbase in Soesterberg in the Netherlands. Once in the air, a lot of confusion starts to arise, because three different person are trying to communicate with the pilots in the air.

However, thanks to the calm and professional reaction by the lead pilot, and the radar of the F-15, both aircraft meet the MiG-23 in mid-air. Once they get close to the aircraft, the pilots are surprised to find the aircraft without a canopy and no ejection seat. Is appears the pilot has bailed out and no weapons are on board.

To prevent any casualties on the ground, it is decided to let the aircraft keep on flying until the English Channel, where it will be shot down.