In this Old Fly Guy Episode – Virtual Flightline episode, F-111 combat veterans Rusty O’Brien and Mace Carpenter bring decades of real-world experience to one of today’s most complex and dangerous conflicts—Iran.
Drawing from their time flying during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm, they break down what’s happening today through the lens of those who have planned, flown, and executed combat missions in the same region.
This conversation goes far beyond headlines.
They explore the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, where nearly a fifth of the world’s oil supply moves through a narrow and highly vulnerable corridor—and what happens if that flow is disrupted. They also dive into Iran’s evolving military capabilities, including anti-ship missiles, drones, and the role of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, a uniquely motivated and ideologically driven force.
But one of the most important takeaways is this:
Air power alone is not enough.
From the realities of air-to-air refueling risk to the need for joint operations across air, sea, and intelligence domains, Rusty and Mace explain why modern conflict requires far more than precision strikes. They also reflect on the challenges of defining strategic objectives, communicating intent, and managing global perception in a conflict that could have far-reaching economic and geopolitical consequences.
If you want a clear, experienced-based perspective on what’s happening—and what it really means—this is a conversation you don’t want to miss