Recent US Intelligence Gathering Operations
Operation Python Wind
Primary Operating Location: ?
Assigned Units:
– U/I Elements of 55th Wing, Air Combat Command
Start Date: 2010?
End Date: Ongoing
Summary: Operation Python Wind involved RC-135V/W Rivet Joint overflights of the US Africa Command (AFRICOM) area of responsibility. These operations were conducted in support of various efforts, likely including those broadly associated with Operation Enduring Freedom, including Operation Enduring Freedom – Trans Sahara in the Sahel region of Africa. Air Combat Command operation nicknames with the second word “Wind” are generally associated with the RC-135V/W Rivet Joint aircraft.
Mentioned in the declassified portions of the history of Air Combat Command for 2010, it is unclear what areas Python Wind targeted and whether it had any effect on missions flown under Operation Brave Wind. Operation Brave Wind was not mentioned in released portions of the history, but this did not necessarily mean Python Wind had supplanted that operation.
America's Codebook: Africa 