Photos: Air Force Sends A-10 Warthogs to Escort a Ballistic Missile Sub

America's nuclear ballistic missile subs are some of the highest-value maritime assets in the world, and they always have a force-protection escort when they enter and exit a port. Previous experiences with assymetric threats have taught the U.S. Navy to be cautious about drones and small craft. However, the escort task force for the latest departure of "boomer" USS Nebraska (SSBN 739) caught plenty of attention: the U.S. Air Force dispatched a squadron of iconic A-10 Warthogs to fly overwatch as Nebraska exited the Strait of Juan de Fuca.