Seven new Air Defense controllers have completed the training course to become "fighter guide". The course, divided into various phases, provided the skills necessary to operate as an Interception Controller who, during an immediate take-off order (Scramble), guides the pilot to the aircraft to be intercepted, supporting him in the accomplishment of the mission to defend the NATO and National Airspace.
The military first had to attend the 4 ° Weapons Control Course at Air Space Control Training Department (RACSA) of Pratica di Mare and subsequently, a theoretical-practical internship in the respective operational departments. These study and training phases were interspersed with training courses at the 4 ° Stormo Caccia in Grosseto and the 61 ° Stormo in Galatina, where the controllers trained with the pilots in simulated and real activities.
The new "hunting guides" are part of the complex system of Air Defense active twenty-four hours a day, 365 days a year, consisting of a capillary network of sensors in operation to identify any suspicious aircraft. Interceptor fighter aircraft are ready to take off in a few minutes, thanks also to air traffic service and hunting guide operators.
The air defense is a complex and articulated instrument, through which the Air Force protects the national airspace from any violation, task performed since the day of its establishment and that, after the tragic events of 11 September 2001, has become not only extremely topical but also and above all delicate and difficult to fulfill.
Air defense is guaranteed with Eurofighter 2000 'Typhoon' aircraft, flexible and highly technological vehicles, supplied to the 4th Wing of Grosseto, the 36th Wing of Gioia del Colle (Bari) and the 37th Wing of Trapani Birgi. The surveillance service of the national airspace is ensured thanks to certain rules of engagement and a unique chain of command, capable of responding promptly to any possible form of threat coming from the sky.
