Recent US Intelligence Gathering Operations
Operation Rhino Duty
Primary Operating Location: ?
Assigned Units:
– U/I Elements of Air Combat Command
Start Date: 2009?
End Date: Ongoing
Summary: Operation Rhino Duty involved C-130 Senior Scout overflights of the US Africa Command (AFRICOM) area of responsibility. These operations were conducted in support of various efforts, 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 “Duty” are generally associated with the C-130 Senior Scout aircraft. It is not clear how this differs from operation nicknames with the second word “Pavon,” also generally associated with the C-130 Senior Scout aircraft. It could potentially have to do with the specific type of intelligence gathered or a minor variation in the configuration of the aircraft. In addition, the while the first word Rhino is known to be associated with AFRICOM, it is unclear whether it has any additional significance, such as a specific area of operation.
America's Codebook: Africa 