Combat Aircraft takes a trip down memory lane to join F-14B Tomcats conducting operational evaluation of the Joint Direct Attack Munition. Strap in — it’s time to fly with the ‘Bombcats’.

Four F-14Bs, led by a section of VF-11 jets, with VX-9 and VF-143 ‘Pukin’ Dogs’ examples in tow.

IF YOU COULD go back in time to a particular day, a special moment in aviation, this might just be one of those occasions. Picture the scene: it’s NAF El Centro in southern California during 2001. There’s a row of F-14B Tomcats in the flight line, and they’re all carrying heavy weapons.