Jet fighters are recognized by their relatively small size, highly aerodynamic shapes (pointy nose, short wings), and big noise. Learn to identify them from the photos, or study the front-view, side-view, and bottom-view silhouettes.

Fighters were originally designed for air-to-air combat, but most are capable of air-to-ground combat too. Around Las Vegas, the F-15s and F16s are most common, but keep an eye out for the new F-22 Raptors, which are new in the US arsenal. Around Las Vegas, we also have the benefit of Red Flag Exercises based at Nellis Air Force Base. During Red Flag, allies bring their big toys from around the world and join us in realistic, live ammunition training exercises. We never know for sure who is going to fly by, and with Groom Lake and Area 51 nearby, we never know what is going to fly by!

Note: All distances, elevations, and other facts are approximate.
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