[PDF] Viper Pilot Summary - Dan Hampton (2024)

Viper Pilot by Dan Hampton provides a detailed first-hand account of his experiences as a U.S. Air Force fighter pilot, from rigorous training and indoctrination into the elite fighter pilot culture to intense aerial combat missions during the Gulf War and the War in Iraq. Hampton narrates his journey through the milestones of becoming a combat-ready aviator, offering insights into the principles, mindset, and evolving tactics of military aviation.

Hampton reflects on the changing nature of aerial warfare, addressing threats ranging from state actors with sophisticated anti-aircraft capabilities to asymmetric warfare from non-state groups. He underscores the enduring importance of the Wild Weasel mission in ensuring air dominance while also expressing reservations about overreliance on technology and the neglect of vital specialized roles like neutralizing mobile air defenses.

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Other Perspectives

• The influence of a commanding officer might be limited if there is a strong second-in-command or a group of non-commissioned officers who have a significant impact on the squadron's culture.
• The unique nature of a fighter squadron might also be influenced by the training systems and educational backgrounds of its members, which could be standardized across the military, reducing the impact of individual qualities.
• Traditions may sometimes reflect outdated principles that do not align with contemporary values, such as inclusivity and diversity, which are also important in shaping a squadron's ethos.
• In times of increased operational stress or during deployments, the opportunities for a relaxed and festive atmosphere are likely to be reduced, which could affect the morale of those who have come to expect such an environment.
• Budget constraints or operational tempo could limit the ability of some squadrons to engage in recreational activities, making such trips a rarity rather than a common occurrence.

Squadron culture highly values its traditions, rituals, and the assignment of unique pilot identifiers.

Hampton also details the reinforcement of squadron culture through numerous rituals and traditions. He provides a captivating but slightly unsettling description of the traditional gastronomic test that new aviators at the airbase in Spain must endure as an initiation. This gastronomic adventure features a variety of questionable Spanish specialties, all paired with generous amounts of red wine. Enduring to the conclusion, often while battling nausea, individuals earn a distinctive nickname.

Context

• Initiation rituals serve as a rite of passage, marking the transition from outsider to accepted member, which can be crucial for integrating new pilots into the squadron.
• Such tests can also serve to assess the mental toughness and adaptability of new recruits, important traits for military personnel.
• The inclusion of alcohol, such as red wine, in these rituals can serve to lower inhibitions and encourage bonding, though it also adds a layer of challenge due to its effects on the body and mind.
• Such traditions are common in military units worldwide, serving to maintain morale and continuity of culture within the squadron.

The roles and responsibilities of key personnel in a military aviation group.

Officers tasked with assessing performance and ensuring uniformity, as well as those who oversee flight operations and weapons management, play a crucial role in maintaining combat preparedness and the successful execution of missions.

Hampton describes the roles and responsibilities of key personnel in a military aviation squad, such as the leaders of aerial missions, officers skilled in armaments, commonly known as "Patchwearers," and those tasked with overseeing conformity and assessment procedures. He recounts the demanding progression from serving as a wingman to taking on the role of a flight leader. This involves not only delivering briefings with exceptional skill but also demonstrating leadership qualities and consistently exceeding the standards set by the squadron. Hampton delves into the complex duties and qualifications of Evaluators, emphasizing their critical role in conducting flight evaluations, gauging the abilities of pilots, and maintaining consistent proficiency across the board.

Context

• They often work closely with other units and departments to ensure that all aspects of a mission are aligned and that there is a cohesive approach to operations.
• These are established protocols that officers must follow to ensure consistency and safety in operations. Adherence to SOPs is crucial for maintaining order and efficiency in high-pressure environments.
• Beyond technical skills, mission leaders must exhibit strong leadership qualities, such as the ability to inspire and motivate their team, maintain morale, and foster a cohesive unit.
• The Weapons School is often compared to the Navy's TOPGUN program and is known for producing highly skilled tactical experts and instructors.
• They play a key part in risk management by identifying potential issues before they arise and developing strategies to mitigate them.
• A wingman is typically responsible for supporting the lead pilot, maintaining formation, and ensuring the safety of the flight. This role requires strong situational awareness and the ability to follow commands precisely.
• In a dynamic combat environment, the ability to exceed standards reflects a leader's adaptability and readiness to handle unforeseen challenges effectively.
• This process involves a series of tests and assessments, both in simulators and actual flight conditions, to evaluate a pilot's ability to handle various scenarios, including emergency situations, combat maneuvers, and adherence to protocols.
• Evaluators provide detailed feedback to pilots, highlighting areas of strength and identifying opportunities for improvement. This feedback is essential for continuous development and helps pilots refine their skills.

Various departments in the squadron, such as Scheduling and Mobility, play a crucial role in ensuring operations proceed seamlessly and without interruption.

Hampton also emphasizes the importance of squadron shops, which are specialized units responsible for managing various aspects of carrying out missions. He details the responsibilities of the Scheduling Shop in planning missions and keeping pilots' flight qualifications up to date, and he outlines the duties of the Mobility Shop in coordinating the transportation of the squadron, its personnel, and equipment. He also provides a concise overview of the different groups, encompassing those in charge of survival systems and reconnaissance, in addition to the squads dedicated to instruction, and the experts devoted to armaments and strategic methods. Hampton emphasizes the importance of every individual's contribution to sustaining the functional efficiency of a flight group.

Context

• Reconnaissance units gather intelligence through surveillance and data collection, providing crucial information that informs mission planning and execution.
• In military aviation, a squadron is a unit consisting of multiple aircraft and their personnel. It is typically part of a larger group or wing and is responsible for specific operational tasks.
• The Scheduling Shop acts as a central communication point for disseminating mission details and updates to all relevant squadron members, ensuring everyone is informed and prepared.
• Advanced software and tracking systems are often employed to monitor the movement of assets and personnel, allowing for real-time updates and adjustments.
• These experts manage the maintenance, loading, and deployment of weapons systems on aircraft. They ensure that all munitions are safely handled and that pilots are trained in the effective use of their aircraft's weaponry.
• Efficient management of resources, including personnel, equipment, and time, is essential. Each individual's role in managing these resources impacts the squadron's ability to function smoothly.

The author's perspective and storytelling are deeply rooted in his personal experiences during the conflicts that occurred within the borders of Kuwait and Iraq.

The author's experiences in dogfights throughout Middle Eastern hostilities are examined in this section. He provides in-depth accounts of the first military engagements in Desert Storm, the onset of Operation Iraqi Freedom, his involvement in "Shock and Awe," and the challenges encountered in urban warfare against a determined enemy. He narrates his evolution into an experienced aviator, a path distinguished by an abundance of encounters in warfare.

The author first experienced combat during the Gulf War.

The author initially reacted to the severe confrontations and Iraq's robust air defense network.

In Chapter 3, Hampton describes his initial encounter with combat, which occurred at the onset of Operation Desert Storm. He provides a detailed and intense account of his engagements with enemies and several missiles designed to target aircraft during a mission targeting a runway near Mosul in Iraq. He acknowledges that the experience was rather disconcerting. During his training, nothing could fully prepare him for the intense shock of being in the crosshairs, with enemy missiles tracking his aircraft, and witnessing the loss of comrades in battle. This experience, he notes, is akin to "seeing the Elephant"—a phrase he explains, originating from the era when Hannibal's troops crossed the Alpine mountain and has since come to symbolize the confrontation with one's own mortality during various epochs of warfare.

Practical Tips

• Develop a personal "air defense" strategy for your mental well-being by identifying stress triggers and creating a plan to counteract them. For example, if you know that tight deadlines cause you stress, you could set up a system of early warning signals, like calendar reminders, to start projects earlier. This proactive approach acts as a defense mechanism against the stress of looming deadlines.
• Reflect on your own "firsts" to build resilience by writing about a time you faced something new and challenging, focusing on the emotions and thoughts you experienced. This exercise can help you understand your reactions to stress and prepare you for future unknowns. For example, if you remember the first time you spoke in public, write down how you felt before, during, and after the event, and what strategies you used to cope.
• Develop your situational awareness by participating in activities that require constant vigilance and adaptability, such as paintball or laser tag. These activities can train you to be more observant of your surroundings and to anticipate potential threats or challenges, similar to how a pilot must be aware of their environment and potential dangers.
• Use role-playing to prepare for potentially disconcerting situations. With a friend or family member, act out scenarios that you anticipate might be uncomfortable. This practice can help you develop strategies to navigate these experiences more effectively. For instance, if you're worried about an upcoming social event, role-play conversations and practice responses to situations that could arise.
• Engage in role-playing games that involve conflict resolution to develop quick thinking under pressure. By participating in these games, you'll be forced to make decisions and deal with the consequences in a safe environment, which can help build resilience and adaptability for unexpected challenges.
• Practice stress management techniques during intense video games. Choose games that put you in high-stakes situations and use breathing exercises or mindfulness to stay calm. This can be a way to train your body and mind to remain composed in stressful real-life situations.
• Engage in a creative project like painting, music, or writing that expresses themes of camaraderie, loss, and the human spirit. Use your chosen medium to convey emotions and stories that resonate with you, providing an outlet for expression and a form of tribute to those who have shown bravery in the face of adversity.
• You can explore new perspectives by attending a cultural festival you've never been to before. This allows you to immerse yourself in a different culture's customs, food, and activities, broadening your understanding of the world, much like the metaphor of "seeing the Elephant" suggests a novel experience that expands one's horizons.
• Use the concept of "seeing the Elephant" to frame a photo essay or social media series that captures moments of personal triumph or overcoming obstacles. Each photo could be accompanied by a brief description that connects the moment to the metaphor of facing a great challenge, similar to crossing the Alps.
• Create a "mortality mindfulness" ritual where you spend a few minutes each day contemplating the impermanence of life. This could be through meditation, a walk in nature, or simply sitting quietly. The goal is to foster a deeper appreciation for the present and a more profound understanding of life's fragility.

The author's effective neutralization of hostile aerial defenses and provision of assistance to terrestrial troops.

Hampton adeptly executed his responsibilities, neutralizing the Iraqi Air Defense while ensuring the protection of his coalition's aircraft. He narrates his skillful maneuvering of the aircraft to evade incoming missiles and his successful launching of radar-seeking missiles that significantly contributed to the destruction of enemy radar sites. In the aftermath, he details the process for debriefing, analyzing mission data, and preparing for the subsequent day's military engagements. Hampton reminisces about his initial fervor and sense of honor in response to the aggressive maneuvers Saddam Hussein initiated against Kuwait.

Practical Tips

• Develop a habit of conducting SWOT analyses (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) on personal projects or career goals to preemptively address potential obstacles. By assessing your 'air defenses' metaphorically, you can create contingency plans and strengthen your approach, much like preparing for potential countermeasures in a strategic operation.
• Protect your car in a manner akin to aircraft defense by investing in modern security features. Look into aftermarket products like steering wheel locks, brake pedal locks, and GPS trackers that can deter theft and aid in recovery if your vehicle is stolen. Additionally, always park in well-lit, secure areas and be mindful of leaving valuables in plain sight, which can attract thieves.
• Improve your strategic planning by creating a "target elimination" game with friends or family. This game would involve setting up a series of challenges or puzzles that represent different "radar sites," and participants must devise strategies to "destroy" these targets by solving the challenges. This playful approach can sharpen your ability to prioritize and tackle objectives in a sequence that maximizes efficiency and effectiveness, much like strategically taking out radar sites to cripple an enemy's defenses.
• You can enhance your personal project reviews by creating a "mission debrief" template. Start by designing a simple form that prompts you to reflect on the objectives, outcomes, and lessons learned from any significant personal project or event. For example, after hosting a dinner party, use the template to evaluate what went well, what didn't, and how you can improve the next event.
• You can enhance your daily preparedness by starting a "readiness ritual" each evening. Set aside 15 minutes before bed to review your schedule for the next day, lay out any necessary materials, and visualize the steps you'll take to tackle each task. This could involve arranging documents for a meeting, selecting workout clothes for a morning exercise session, or even mentally rehearsing a presentation.
• Use historical or current events as case studies to practice decision-making. Choose a conflict or aggressive action from the news or history, research the background, and then decide what you would do if you were in a position of influence. This exercise can help you develop a sense of honor and conviction in your decisions.

The writer's involvement in the conflict in Iraq.

The author played an active role in the early stages of the Iraq conflict, which employed a strategy characterized by rapid and overwhelming force.

In Chapter 7, Hampton narrates his re-engagement with active service in Iraq, twelve years after his involvement in the Gulf War, where he participates in the opening attacks of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He narrates his participation in the major air attack that marked the beginning of the conflict, which was designed to overpower and dishearten Iraq's armed forces. He offers detailed accounts of the continuous onslaught of anti-aircraft artillery he encountered while piloting missions above Baghdad. Hampton recounts adjusting his tactics and perspective, choosing to engage in a fluid partnership alongside a fellow aviator from his squad, and simultaneously employing minimal communication to increase nimbleness and reduce reaction times in combat.

Context

• Air power played a crucial role in the initial phase of the Iraq War, with extensive bombing campaigns designed to destroy key military targets and infrastructure, thereby reducing the capability of Iraqi forces to respond effectively.
• The strategy faced criticism for its focus on military might over diplomatic solutions and for the subsequent challenges in stabilizing Iraq post-invasion.
• Anti-aircraft artillery refers to weapons designed to target and destroy aircraft, posing significant risks to pilots during missions.
• The operation involved a coalition of countries, primarily led by the United States and the United Kingdom, with support from other nations, contributing various military resources and personnel.
• This strategy was informed by lessons from previous conflicts, such as the Gulf War in 1991, where air superiority and rapid deployment were crucial in achieving military objectives.
• Pilots like Hampton had to constantly adapt their flight paths and tactics to avoid being hit by AAA. This involved flying at high speeds, using electronic countermeasures, and performing complex aerial maneuvers.
• Pilots must also consider environmental conditions, such as weather and terrain, which can affect visibility, aircraft performance, and the effectiveness of certain tactics. Adjusting to these factors is crucial for mission success.
• Such partnerships rely heavily on mutual trust and extensive training, as pilots must anticipate each other’s actions and intentions without explicit instructions.
• The concept of minimal communication has been used in various military operations where speed and surprise were essential, drawing from lessons learned in past conflicts to refine tactics.

The author faced difficulties adjusting to the evolving threat landscape, which included urban combat and dealing with mobile units armed with missile systems designed to target aircraft.

Throughout Chapters 7-12, Hampton shares harrowing accounts of the challenges of urban warfare against an increasingly desperate and unpredictable enemy. He describes the challenges of distinguishing friend from foe amidst the turmoil of combat, the difficulties posed by a severe sandstorm, and the persistent threat posed by mobile anti-aircraft missile launchers, particularly those of French design known as ROLAND units. In the ninth chapter, Hampton recounts a difficult mission where he encountered a significant convoy of Iraqi military vehicles hidden within a severe storm, located south of the country's capital. He narrates his narrow escape from a dense barrage of ground-to-air missiles. He acknowledges that the mission led him into an area so dangerous that the Elephant itself would not dare to enter.

Context

• Sandstorms can severely impair visibility and navigation for pilots, complicating missions and increasing the risk of accidents or misidentification of targets.
• Urban environments can limit the effectiveness of traditional air support due to the close proximity of buildings and the risk of friendly fire or civilian casualties.
• The psychological stress of distinguishing between civilians and combatants in urban settings can lead to hesitation or errors in judgment, impacting mission outcomes and safety.
• The ROLAND system is equipped with radar and optical tracking capabilities, allowing it to engage targets in various weather conditions, including sandstorms, which are common in desert warfare.
• Convoys often carry essential supplies, reinforcements, or command units, making them high-value targets in military strategy.
• These are mobile, short-range air defense systems developed by France and Germany, capable of tracking and engaging aircraft with precision.
• This expression might highlight the psychological impact of the mission, emphasizing the fear and tension experienced by pilots when facing overwhelming odds.

The author narrates his experiences as a Wild Weasel during the conflict in Iraq.

The author was instrumental in undermining the adversary's aerial defense systems, which in turn strengthened the overall military efforts.

Hampton emphasizes the pivotal role that Wild Weasels played in the military engagements of both Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. He details how their meticulous planning and tactical approaches were pivotal in neutralizing Iraq's air defense network, thus granting greater freedom of movement to coalition aircraft. He describes the demanding process of “slapping the bull” — intentionally provoking enemy air defense sites to reveal their locations and then directing attack aircraft to destroy them.

Other Perspectives

• The term "key role" is subjective and could be interpreted differently by other participants or observers of the military efforts, who might credit different aspects of the campaign or other individuals for the success achieved.
• The focus on Wild Weasels' role may overshadow the broader strategic and logistical planning that was essential for the coalition's success in these military engagements.
• It's possible that the air defense network of Iraq was already compromised or weakened, which could have made the task of neutralizing it less challenging than suggested.
• The statement doesn't account for the contributions of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other reconnaissance assets that may have provided critical intelligence for navigating and suppressing enemy air defenses.
• This approach may escalate the conflict unnecessarily, potentially causing a broader engagement than intended or leading to higher levels of violence.
• Directing attack aircraft to destroy enemy air defenses after they have been revealed assumes that the enemy does not have mobile or hidden assets that can be redeployed or remain undetected.

The author's innovative tactics and armament utilization were crucial in securing dominance in the skies.

Hampton also underscores his contribution to the evolution of aerial dogfighting techniques, centering on the enhancement of head-on confrontation tactics rather than reliance on electronic warfare and proactive defense measures. He often highlights the constraints associated with the High-speed Anti-Radiation Missile but also acknowledges the improvements in its targeting features, crediting these developments to engineer Gregg and his own efforts, which have collectively transformed it into a more powerful weapon. Hampton provides in-depth accounts of his confrontations with Iraqi airstrips and their protective systems, explaining the various armaments he utilized, including munitions that cover a wide area, missiles guided with precision, and the integral cannon of his plane, demonstrating his profound knowledge of their operational advantages and limitations. He attributes the success of the American air campaign to the independence given by senior officers such as Colonel Rew, who allowed pilots to address tactical challenges through their own discretion, instead of following rigid directives from distant strategists.

Context

• Traditional dogfighting often emphasized outmaneuvering the enemy from behind. Head-on tactics represent a shift, focusing on direct engagement and quick resolution of encounters.
• The mention of engineer Gregg suggests a collaborative effort between military personnel and defense contractors or engineers, highlighting the importance of field feedback in the iterative development of military technology.
• The ability to choose from a variety of weapons allows pilots to adapt to changing combat situations, selecting the most effective armament based on the mission objectives and the nature of the threat.
• The transformation of the HARM into a more powerful weapon could involve enhancements in its electronic counter-countermeasures, allowing it to better evade enemy attempts to jam or mislead the missile.
• Airstrips are critical for launching and recovering aircraft, making them strategic targets in military operations to disrupt enemy air capabilities.
• Military rules and protocols governing the use of force can influence how and when different armaments are used in combat situations.
• During conflicts like the Gulf War, where Dan Hampton served, the fast-paced nature of air combat required quick decision-making that centralized command could not always provide.
• Empowering pilots with decision-making authority can boost morale and confidence, as they feel trusted and valued for their expertise and judgment.

The changing global security landscape and progress in military tactics have altered the roles and duties of those who pilot combat aircraft.

The book concludes with an exploration of the evolving nature of combat. Hampton provides perspectives drawn from his own experiences related to the incident at the Khobar Towers, scrutinizing the lack of accountability for a preventable breach in security. He expresses apprehension regarding an excessive dependence on technology, which could lead to a diminished emphasis on the aggressive combat mindset. Throughout the book, Hampton offers an insightful view on the changing difficulties encountered by those who pilot fighter aircraft.

The increasing threat of asymmetric warfare and non-state actors

The author's perspective, shaped by the incidents that occurred in the vicinity of the Khobar Towers, emphasizes the necessity for continuous improvements in defensive tactics.

Hampton reflects on the changing nature of warfare, particularly the growing threat posed by non-state actors and terrorist groups. He recounts his personal experience with the 1996 Khobar Towers incident, during which a substantial truck bomb detonated close to where he lived, causing the fatalities of nineteen American citizens and wounding numerous others. He conveys his discomfort with the lack of adequate safety measures at the location and emphasizes the need to bolster the security of American personnel rather than merely appeasing the officials of the host nation. The Wing Commander's emphasis on sustaining diplomatic ties with Saudi viewpoints, despite the clear dangers posed by vehicle-borne explosives, resulted in a neglect of critical safety protocols and consequently, a devastating loss of life.

Context

• Regular training and preparedness exercises are crucial for military personnel to respond effectively to new and evolving threats.
• The rise of non-state actors became more pronounced after the Cold War, as power vacuums and regional conflicts provided fertile ground for these groups to gain influence.
• In subsequent years, the U.S. sought to hold Iran accountable for its alleged role in supporting the attackers, leading to legal actions and ongoing diplomatic tensions.
• At the time, security measures for U.S. military installations abroad often focused on traditional threats rather than unconventional attacks like vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIEDs).
• Events like the Khobar Towers bombing have influenced U.S. defense and foreign policy, leading to increased funding for security infrastructure and a reevaluation of how American forces are deployed and protected overseas.
• Balancing security needs with diplomatic relations can be challenging, as host nations may have different priorities or sensitivities that affect the implementation of robust security measures.

The evolving role of technology in modern warfare

Hampton delves into the changing landscape of contemporary combat, voicing his apprehension regarding an excessive dependence on remote weaponry and autonomous systems. While he acknowledges the benefits of technological advancements, he underscores the importance of a pilot's ability to adapt to unexpected situations and make critical choices in the heat of battle. He conveys his frustration with the assignment to safeguard drones on operations, which he believes would fail in real battle conditions, maintaining that the capabilities of these sophisticated technologies are frequently overstated.

Practical Tips

• Write a short speculative fiction story that explores the future of drone warfare. This creative exercise allows you to explore the implications of drone vulnerabilities in a combat scenario, encouraging you to think outside the box and consider solutions that might not be immediately apparent.
• You can critically assess the performance of consumer-grade UAVs by conducting your own tests. Start by defining specific tasks you want the UAV to perform, such as aerial photography or simple delivery. Then, measure how well the UAV completes these tasks in different conditions, noting any discrepancies between your results and the manufacturer's claims. This hands-on approach will give you a realistic understanding of the UAV's capabilities.

The pivotal function of the Wild Weasel mission in modern military tactics.

The author underscores the lasting importance of the Wild Weasel mission as a crucial component in the triumph of joint military operations, despite shifts in strategic priorities.

Hampton underscores the enduring importance of the Wild Weasel mission as the strategic environment evolves and new challenges emerge. He argues that the success of missions conducted in the air hinges significantly on the ability to neutralize hidden and mobile systems designed for air defense. He contends that while various tactics or weapons can mitigate the threat of established missile defense installations, the risk presented by rapidly deployable systems such as the SA-6 and ROLAND requires an immediate, decisive, and adaptable response that only Wild Weasels can provide.

Context

• The Wild Weasel program began during the Vietnam War in response to the increasing threat of Soviet-supplied SAMs. It was the first dedicated effort to counteract radar-guided missile systems.
• As air defense technology evolves, so must the tactics and equipment used to counter them. This requires continuous innovation and adaptation in military strategy and technology.
• This term refers to the overall context in which military operations are planned and executed, including geopolitical, technological, and tactical factors. Changes in this environment can affect how military missions are prioritized and conducted.
• Pilots and crews of Wild Weasel aircraft undergo specialized training to handle the complex and dangerous nature of SEAD missions, emphasizing quick decision-making and precision.

The author expresses apprehension that institutional prejudices and financial constraints might lead to the disregard of the Wild Weasel mission.

He is concerned that the Air Force's inherent inclinations, along with the push for integrated operations and reduced personnel, might result in neglecting the vital task of engaging with hostile aerial fortifications. Hampton argues that the superiority of the United States in air battles was evident in the Iraqi conflicts, yet he believes that future confrontations with equally powerful opponents will be more intricate. The fundamental skills required for the execution of the Wild Weasel mission, a task focused on detecting and disabling mobile air defense systems to safeguard accompanying aircraft and guarantee operational success, will remain vital.

Other Perspectives

• Financial constraints necessitate prioritization, and it's possible that resources are being allocated to areas that are deemed more critical to current and future operations.
• The push for integrated operations could lead to better inter-service cooperation and resource sharing, potentially increasing the effectiveness of missions like Wild Weasel without necessarily increasing the number of personnel.
• The complexity of future confrontations might not solely depend on the opponent's power but also on the nature of the conflict, rules of engagement, and the geopolitical context, which could simplify or complicate matters in ways not directly related to the opponent's military capabilities.
• Diplomatic efforts and international treaties aimed at de-escalation could lead to a reduced emphasis on offensive air support missions.

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