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{{Featured|June 2020}}
 
{{Unit
  
{{Unit
 
| image = Spare Squadron Formation.jpg
  
| image = Spare Squadron Formation.jpg
  +
| fullname = Air Force Base 444 Squadron{{Note|name=designation|group=a|There are three different designations for Spare Squadron in official material:
−
| fullname = 444th Fighter Squadron
  
  +
  +
*'''Air Force Base 444 Squadron'''<ref name="AC7-M07"/><ref name="AC7-M09"/><ref name="AC7-M10"/>
  +
*'''Osean Air Force Base 444 Squadron'''<ref name="AC7-M10"/><ref name="AC7-M05"/>
  +
*'''Osean Air Defense Force Air Base 444th Squadron'''<ref name="AAW19-100">''[[Aces At War: A History 2019]]'', page 100.</ref>}}
 
| emblem = [[File:Spare Squadron Emblem.png|100px]]
  
| emblem = [[File:Spare Squadron Emblem.png|100px]]
 
| leader = [[AWACS Bandog]]<br><s>Colonel [[D. McKinsey]]</s>
  
| leader = [[AWACS Bandog]]<br><s>Colonel [[D. McKinsey]]</s>
Line 9: Line 14:
 
| equipment = [[F/A-18F Super Hornet]]<br>[[Mirage 2000-5]]<br>[[Su-33 Flanker-D]]<br>[[MiG-29A Fulcrum]]<br>[[F-15C Eagle]]<br>[[F-16C Fighting Falcon]]
  
| equipment = [[F/A-18F Super Hornet]]<br>[[Mirage 2000-5]]<br>[[Su-33 Flanker-D]]<br>[[MiG-29A Fulcrum]]<br>[[F-15C Eagle]]<br>[[F-16C Fighting Falcon]]
 
}}
  
}}
−
{{Quote|This is the penal unit. I decide when you die.|[[AWACS Bandog]]<ref name="AC7-M05">{{Cite game|AC7|M05}}</ref><ref name="AC7-M09">{{Cite game|AC7|M09}}</ref>}}
 +
{{Quote|Remember, you're not bona-fide military; you're expendable.|Colonel [[D. McKinsey]]<ref name="AC7-M08">{{Cite game|AC7|M08}}</ref>}}
−
'''Spare Squadron''', officially the '''444th Fighter Squadron''', is a former {{Wp|penal military unit}} in the [[Osean Air Defense Force]], formerly under the command of Colonel [[D. McKinsey]]. The unit is comprised of [[Osea]]n military personnel who have committed some form of crime. Members of this squadron are considered expendable by the [[Osean Defense Forces]].<ref name="AC7-M07">{{Cite game|AC7|M07}}</ref> Following [[Operation Flush]], Spare Squadron was recognized as a legitimate Osean Air Force squadron and all members were pardoned.<ref name="AC7-M10">{{Cite game|AC7|M10}}</ref>
 +
'''Spare Squadron''', officially the '''Air Force Base 444 Squadron''',{{Note|name=designation|group=a}} is a former {{Wp|penal military unit}} in the [[Osean Air Defense Force]], formerly under the command of Colonel [[D. McKinsey]]. The unit is comprised of [[Osea]]n military personnel who have committed some form of crime. Members of this squadron are considered expendable by the [[Osean Defense Forces]].<ref name="AC7-M07">{{Cite game|AC7|M07}}</ref> Following [[Operation Flush]], Spare Squadron was recognized as a legitimate Osean Air Force squadron and all members were pardoned.<ref name="AC7-M10">{{Cite game|AC7|M10}}</ref>
   
−
The squadron had no standardized aircraft, but all planes were decorated with "sin lines" on the tails in the form of white dashes blocking out previous unit decals. The number of marks depended on the severity of the crime committed.<ref name="AC7-M05"/> Spare Squadron was first stationed at the [[444th Air Base]] in [[Zapland]] and was later transferred to [[Tyler Island]].<ref name="AC7-M10"/>
 +
The squadron had no standardized aircraft, instead using a variety of formerly mothballed fighter jets that were restored by [[Avril Mead]]. The tail of each plane was painted with "sin lines" in the form of white dashes blocking out previous unit decals. The number of marks depended on the severity of the crime committed by the plane’s respective pilot.<ref name="AC7-M05"/> Spare Squadron was first stationed at the [[444th Air Base]] in [[Zapland]] and was later transferred to [[Tyler Island]].<ref name="AC7-M10"/>
   
 
==History==
  
==History==
 
===Formation===
  
===Formation===
  +
{{Refimprove}}
−
Spare Squadron was formed sometime in May 2019<ref name="AC7-Cut03">{{Cite game|AC7|Cut03}}</ref> when a concept of the penal unit was proposed by Colonel McKinsey.<ref name=AC7-M06/> In May 17, the prisoners were transported to [[Zapland]] where the [[444th Air Base]] was functioned as their base of operations.<ref name="AC7-Cut03"/>
 +
Spare Squadron was formed sometime by May 2019<ref name="AC7-Cut03">{{Cite game|AC7|Cut03}}</ref> when a concept of the penal unit was proposed by Colonel McKinsey.{{Refneed}}
−
 
  +
⚫
In June 2019, [[Erusea]]n bombers fell for the Osean facade and began conducting bombing operations on the decoy 444th Air Base in Zapland. In order to make the base seem more legitimate, Spare Squadron was assembled for the sole purpose of deceiving the Erusean military. The squadron was deployed multiple times during this period.<ref name="AC7-Cut05">{{Cite game|AC7|Cut05}}</ref>
  
  +
After being convicted of breaking wartime aviation laws for flying [[F-104C -Avril-|an unauthorized aircraft]] at the start of the war, [[Avril Mead]] was moved to a cargo ship along with other Osean prisoners and a collection of mothballed aircraft. On May 17, the prisoners were transported to [[Zapland]] where the [[444th Air Base]] functioned as both their prison and their stationed air base.<ref name="AC7-Cut03"/> Mead was initially tasked to make the mothballed aircraft appear legitimate on the base's fake runway<ref name="AC7-Cut03"/> but was eventually forced to make them fully functional.<ref name="AC7-Cut05"/> Her skill at restoring aircraft for the members of Spare Squadron earned her renown on the base; coupled with her temper and "acting like she's royalty," the other prisoners began calling her "Scrap Queen."<ref name="AC7-M05"/>
  +
  ⚫
In June 2019, the [[Erusean Air Force]] fell for the Osean facade and began conducting bombing operations on the decoy 444th Air Base in Zapland. In order to make the base seem more legitimate, Spare Squadron was assembled for the sole purpose of deceiving the Erusean military. Unlike other squadrons, Spare Squadron had no official flight lead and instead only took orders from an [[Airborne Warning and Control System|AWACS]] operator. The squadron was deployed multiple times during this period.<ref name="AC7-Cut05">{{Cite game|AC7|Cut05}}</ref>
   
 
===Deceiving Erusea===
  
===Deceiving Erusea===
⚫
[[File:AC7 Spare Squadron Aircraft.jpg|thumb|250px|Spare Squadron shortly before taking off. Note the "sin lines" covering the planes' tail designations.]]
  
 
{{Main|Operation High Card}}
  
{{Main|Operation High Card}}
  ⚫
[[File:AC7 Spare Squadron Aircraft.jpg|thumb|250px|Spare Squadron shortly before taking off. Note the "sin lines" covering the planes' tail designations.]]
−
Following [[Operation Lighthouse Keeper]], [[Trigger]] was tried and found guilty of assassinating former President [[Vincent Harling]] and transferred to Spare Squadron. Shortly after his transfer, Erusean bombers started bombing the base once again, believing the Osean Air Force was concentrated on it. Spare was sent up without access to their weaponry. During the battle, contact with Colonel McKinsey was lost, prompting [[AWACS Bandog]] to allow Spare access to their weaponry. Trigger almost singlehandedly shot down all bombers shortly afterward.<ref name="AC7-M05"/>
 +
Following [[Operation Lighthouse Keeper]], [[Trigger]] was tried and found guilty of assassinating former President [[Vincent Harling]] and transferred to Spare Squadron. Shortly after his transfer, Erusean bombers started bombing the base once again, believing the Osean Air Force was concentrated on it. Spare was sent up without access to their weaponry. During the battle, contact with Colonel McKinsey was lost, prompting [[AWACS Bandog]] to allow Spare access to their weaponry. Trigger almost singlehandedly shot down all bombers shortly afterward.<ref name="AC7-M05">{{Cite game|AC7|M05}}</ref>
   
−
After arriving back at base, all squadron members were thrown into solitary by Colonel McKinsey for using weaponry without his permission.<ref name="AC7-M05"/>
 +
After arriving back at base, all squadron members were thrown into solitary by Colonel McKinsey for using weaponry without his permission.<ref name="AC7-M05">{{Cite game|AC7|M05}}</ref>
   
 
===Assault on Roca Roja===
  
===Assault on Roca Roja===
Line 34: Line 42:
   
 
===Rescuing the LRSSG===
  
===Rescuing the LRSSG===
⚫
[[File:AC7 Su-30SM Kulbit.jpg|thumb|250px|Mihaly engaging Champ over Yinshi Valley]]
  
 
{{Main|Operation Two Pairs}}
  
{{Main|Operation Two Pairs}}
  ⚫
[[File:AC7 Su-30SM Kulbit.jpg|thumb|250px|Mihaly engaging Champ over Yinshi Valley]]
 
Eight days after the attack on Roca Roja, Spare was tasked with securing a return route for the [[Long Range Strategic Strike Group]] squadrons, [[Cyclops Squadron|Cyclops]] and [[Strider Squadron|Strider]]. Shortly after the destruction of Erusean ground forces within [[Yinshi Valley]], both Cyclops and Strider Squadrons entered the airspace while being pursued by MQ-99s. Almost singlehandedly, Trigger managed to shoot down the drones and protect the Osean aircraft. Following the destruction of the drones, [[Champ]] was suddenly engaged by [[Mihaly A. Shilage]] who, after a brief exchange of maneuvers, shot down and killed him before also downing Spare 10. With the threat of losing more friendlies, Bandog ordered Trigger and Tabloid to engage the [[Su-30SM]]. A dogfight between Trigger and Mihaly ensued, however, it was cut short as clouds were moving in, prompting [[Sol Squadron]] to withdraw.<ref name="AC7-M07">{{Cite game|AC7|M07}}</ref>
  
Eight days after the attack on Roca Roja, Spare was tasked with securing a return route for the [[Long Range Strategic Strike Group]] squadrons, [[Cyclops Squadron|Cyclops]] and [[Strider Squadron|Strider]]. Shortly after the destruction of Erusean ground forces within [[Yinshi Valley]], both Cyclops and Strider Squadrons entered the airspace while being pursued by MQ-99s. Almost singlehandedly, Trigger managed to shoot down the drones and protect the Osean aircraft. Following the destruction of the drones, [[Champ]] was suddenly engaged by [[Mihaly A. Shilage]] who, after a brief exchange of maneuvers, shot down and killed him before also downing Spare 10. With the threat of losing more friendlies, Bandog ordered Trigger and Tabloid to engage the [[Su-30SM]]. A dogfight between Trigger and Mihaly ensued, however, it was cut short as clouds were moving in, prompting [[Sol Squadron]] to withdraw.<ref name="AC7-M07">{{Cite game|AC7|M07}}</ref>
   
Line 41: Line 49:
   
 
===Crippling Erusea===
  
===Crippling Erusea===
⚫
[[File:Spare Squadron 2.jpg|thumb|250px|Spare Squadron forming up on Trigger during Operation Flush]]
  
 
{{Main|Operation Three of a Kind|Operation Flush}}
  
{{Main|Operation Three of a Kind|Operation Flush}}
  ⚫
[[File:Spare Squadron 2.jpg|thumb|250px|Spare Squadron forming up on Trigger during Operation Flush]]
 
On July 22, Spare Squadron was ordered to destroy fuel facilities in [[Artiglio Port]], with the ultimate goal of crippling Erusea's drone fuel supply. Spare succeeded in destroying the majority of the fuel supplies, however, several Erusean trucks loaded with oil manage to escape into the sandstorm Inessa 2, which had just entered the area of operations. Despite the hazardous conditions and subsequent arriving of Erusean drones, Spare managed to destroy all the escaping trucks.<ref name="AC7-M08">{{Cite game|AC7|M08}}</ref>
  
On July 22, Spare Squadron was ordered to destroy fuel facilities in [[Artiglio Port]], with the ultimate goal of crippling Erusea's drone fuel supply. Spare succeeded in destroying the majority of the fuel supplies, however, several Erusean trucks loaded with oil manage to escape into the sandstorm Inessa 2, which had just entered the area of operations. Despite the hazardous conditions and subsequent arriving of Erusean drones, Spare managed to destroy all the escaping trucks.<ref name="AC7-M08">{{Cite game|AC7|M08}}</ref>
   
 
Five days later, Spare Squadron infiltrated the [[Waiapolo Mountains]] in order to destroy the Erusean military's communications network. As the area was guarded by satellite-guided anti-air missiles, Spare was forced to fly under cloud cover and only ascend in order to attack the radar facilities. Prior to the operation, Full Band managed to acquire more classified information, resulting in Bandog showing distaste with his actions. Following the destruction of the radar facilities, a squadron of [[F/A-18F Super Hornet]]s with [[Osean Maritime Defense Force]] markings entered the airspace and attacked Spare. Unable to fire back due to their IFF, Spare formed up around Trigger, which allowed Bandog to register all blips in the formation as allies; while doing so, Bandog asked Full Band for his position. After destroying all the hostile aircraft, Bandog registers Full Band as an enemy and informs Count of the remaining hostile, causing him to unknowingly shoot down his wingman.<ref name="AC7-M09">{{Cite game|AC7|M09}}</ref>
  
Five days later, Spare Squadron infiltrated the [[Waiapolo Mountains]] in order to destroy the Erusean military's communications network. As the area was guarded by satellite-guided anti-air missiles, Spare was forced to fly under cloud cover and only ascend in order to attack the radar facilities. Prior to the operation, Full Band managed to acquire more classified information, resulting in Bandog showing distaste with his actions. Following the destruction of the radar facilities, a squadron of [[F/A-18F Super Hornet]]s with [[Osean Maritime Defense Force]] markings entered the airspace and attacked Spare. Unable to fire back due to their IFF, Spare formed up around Trigger, which allowed Bandog to register all blips in the formation as allies; while doing so, Bandog asked Full Band for his position. After destroying all the hostile aircraft, Bandog registers Full Band as an enemy and informs Count of the remaining hostile, causing him to unknowingly shoot down his wingman.<ref name="AC7-M09">{{Cite game|AC7|M09}}</ref>
   
  ⚫
===Fate===
−
===Transfer to Tyler Island and Escape===
  
⚫
[[File:Ac7 c130.png|thumb|250px|Spare Squadron and 444th Air Base personnel on board multiple C-130 transports]]
  
 
{{Main|Operation Full House|Operation Reflux|Operation Daredevil}}
  
{{Main|Operation Full House|Operation Reflux|Operation Daredevil}}
  ⚫
[[File:Ac7 c130.png|thumb|250px|Spare Squadron and 444th Air Base personnel on board multiple C-130 transports]]
−
Due to their accomplishments, Spare Squadron was now officially recognized as a legitimate unit within the Osean Air Defense Force and all members were pardoned. The majority of the squadron was ordered to relocate to [[Tyler Island]], however, Trigger and Count were personally selected by the General Staff Office to escort the colonel to [[Bulgurdarest]].<ref name="AC7-M10"/>
  
  +
Because of their accomplishments, the Spare Squadron, along with the rest of the 444 inmates, were pardoned and integrated into the Osean military. Exceptionally, Trigger received more than a pardon; a court of appeal heard his case and cleared him of all charges.
   
  +
On August 5, the squadron left the 444th Air Base. Of entire squadron, both Trigger and Count were separated to escort Colonel McKinsey to [[Bulgurdarest]]. [[Avril Mead]] also attempted to join them, but was rebuffed.<ref name="AC7-M10" /> The escort mission was particularly hazardous, as Trigger and Count had to deal with Erusean camouflaged SAM sites, interceptor wings, and an experimental [[ADFX-10]] drone.<ref name="AC7-M10"/> In the aftermath of the mission, the Osean military deployed Colonel McKinsey, who had been boastful of his own achievements, to the front lines, where the combat was at its hottest.<ref name="AC7-M10" /> Trigger and Count, however, joined the [[Long Range Strategic Strike Group]] (LRSSG), where Trigger assumed command of the [[Strider Squadron]] and Count became a member of the [[Cyclops Squadron]].<ref name="AC7-M11">{{Cite game|AC7|M11}}</ref>
−
On August 5, the majority of Spare Squadron departed from the base and headed west, while McKinsey's transport, Roper 1, headed north. While heading towards Bulgurdarest, Trigger sought out and destroyed multiple [[Surface-to-Air Missile|SAM]] sites across Erusean territory while Count remained nearby Roper 1. During the mission, multiple Erusean squadrons approached the transport and were subsequently intercepted and shot down by Trigger and Count. After crossing the border into Bulgurdarest, Erusean aircraft withdrew, however, an [[ADFX-10]] quickly approached Roper 1 shortly afterward. With the transport under threat, Bandog ordered Trigger to engage the aircraft while Count escorted the transport. Despite the ADFX-10's inhuman dog-fighting capabilities, Trigger shot down the drone. Cyclops Squadron then entered the airspace and guided McKinsey, along with Spare, back to their base.<ref name="AC7-M10"/>
  
   
 
[[File:Dusty Ruins.jpg|thumb|250px|Tabloid, Mead and 444th Air Base personnel on Tyler Island]]
  
[[File:Dusty Ruins.jpg|thumb|250px|Tabloid, Mead and 444th Air Base personnel on Tyler Island]]
  ⚫
The remainder of the Spare Squadron departed for the [[Tyler Island]]. By the time they arrived, however, the global satellite communications network was lost and radio contact with the Osean command authority was cut. The island had fallen to splintered Erusean factions who were fighting each other, as well as Oseans. The former Spare members were at the risk of attack from both Eruseans defending the island and Oseans mistaking them for a rebelling Osean penal unit. They would remain isolated on the island until October 10, when LRSSG would arrive to rescue them.<ref name="AC7-M17">{{Cite game|AC7|M17}}</ref>
−
On August 10, Trigger and Count were officially transferred to the [[Long Range Strategic Strike Group]].<ref name="AC7-M11">{{Cite game|AC7|M11}}</ref>
  
   
  ⚫
Three weeks later, they helped escort refugees into the [[International Space Elevator]]. However, Tabloid was crushed by falling debris in the process.<ref name="AC7-M19">{{Cite game|AC7|M19}}</ref> Following the end of the war, they helped provide supplies for refugees at the Space Elevator.<ref name="AC7-M20">{{Cite game|AC7|M20}}</ref>
⚫
Believing Tyler Island to have been secured, Spare Squadron and other personnel of the 444th Air Base landed. However, the airbase had not yet been secured, and so Spare could not provide air support. Following the breakdown of Erusean and Osean communications network, the island fell into chaos, and Spare was at risk of attack from both Eruseans defending the island and Oseans mistaking them for a rebelling Osean penal unit. They would remain isolated on the island until October 10, when the Long Range Strategic Strike Group would arrive and rescue them.<ref name="AC7-M17">{{Cite game|AC7|M17}}</ref>
  
   
  +
==Members==
⚫
Three weeks later, they helped escort refugees into the [[International Space Elevator]]. However, Tabloid was crushed by falling debris in the process.<ref name="AC7-M19">{{Cite game|AC7|M19}}</ref>
  
  +
===Pilots===
−  
−
Following the end of the war, they helped provide supplies for refugees at the Space Elevator.<ref name="AC7-M20">{{Cite game|AC7|M20}}</ref>
  
−  
−
==Roster==
  
⚫
===Members===
  
 
*Spare 1
  
*Spare 1
 
*[[Count]] (Spare 2)
  
*[[Count]] (Spare 2)
Line 79: Line 83:
 
*[[Trigger]] (Spare 15)
  
*[[Trigger]] (Spare 15)
   
−
===Scrap Queen===
 +
===Others===
  +
*[[Avril Mead]] (Scrap Queen)
−
After being convicted of breaking wartime aviation laws, [[Avril Mead]] was transported to the [[444th Air Base]] where she was tasked with restoring old, mothballed aircraft to working condition. Her ability to restore aircraft and provide the pilots of Spare Squadron with refurbished aircraft eventually earned her renown and the title of "Scrap Queen".
  
  +
*[[AWACS Bandog]]
  +
*Colonel [[D. McKinsey]]
  +
  +
==Equipment==
  +
===Aircraft===
  +
Most of Spare's aircraft (Trigger excluded) were refurbished from mothballed aircraft from a junkyard, meaning that the aircraft usually did not belong to the convict prior to their conviction and imprisonment.
  +
  +
*[[F/A-18F Super Hornet]]
  +
*[[Mirage 2000-5]]
  +
*[[Su-33 Flanker-D]]
  +
*[[MiG-29A Fulcrum]]
  +
*[[F-15C Eagle]]
  +
*[[F-16C Fighting Falcon]]
  +
  +
===Tail codes===
  +
The squadron bore no unique tail code for its aircraft, so each plane wore the Osean tail code of the mothballed parts it was rebuilt from. Trigger was the only exception, wearing the tail code of [[Mage Squadron|his previous squadron]].
  +
  ⚫
*Trigger wore "FG" for [[Fort Grays]].
  +
*Count wore "HK", possibly for [[Heierlark Air Force Base]] in [[North Osea]], the same tail code worn by [[Sorcerer Team]] and [[Wizard Team]].
  ⚫
*Tabloid wore "MN", most likely for [[McNealy Air Force Base]] in southwestern Osea.
  +
*Champ wore "DN" for an unknown location.
  ⚫
*High Roller wore "OR", potentially meaning [[Oured]].
  ⚫
*Full Band and the rest of the squadron wore "AD" for an unknown location.
   
 
==Gallery==
  
==Gallery==
Line 90: Line 117:
 
</gallery>
  
</gallery>
   
  +
{{Notelist}}
−
==Trivia==
  
−
*The number 4 is considered an {{Wp|Tetraphobia|unlucky number}} in Japan; it can be pronounced "shi", which shares the same pronunciation for death (死).
  
−
*The squadron bears no unique tail code for its aircraft, so the aircraft wear the tail codes of its members' previous squadrons. 
  
⚫
**Trigger wears "FG" for [[Fort Grays]].
  
−
**Count wears "HK" for an unknown base, possibly [[Heierlark Air Force Base]] in North Osea.
  
⚫
**Tabloid wears "MN", most likely for [[McNealy Air Force Base]] in southwestern Osea.
  
−
**Champ wears "BN", likely meaning [[Bana City|Bana]].
  
⚫
**High Roller wears "OR", likely meaning [[Oured]].
  
⚫
**Full Band and the rest of the squadron wear "AD" for an unknown location.
  
−  
 
{{Reflist}}
  
{{Reflist}}
 
[[ru:Запасная эскадрилья]]
  
[[ru:Запасная эскадрилья]]
  +
[[zh:後援者隊]]
 
[[Category:Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown]]
  
[[Category:Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown]]
 
[[Category:Allied squadrons]]
  
[[Category:Allied squadrons]]

Latest revision as of 14:50, 16 February 2023

"Remember, you're not bona-fide military; you're expendable."
― Colonel D. McKinsey[6]

Spare Squadron, officially the Air Force Base 444 Squadron,[a] is a former penal military unit in the Osean Air Defense Force, formerly under the command of Colonel D. McKinsey. The unit is comprised of Osean military personnel who have committed some form of crime. Members of this squadron are considered expendable by the Osean Defense Forces.[1] Following Operation Flush, Spare Squadron was recognized as a legitimate Osean Air Force squadron and all members were pardoned.[3]

The squadron had no standardized aircraft, instead using a variety of formerly mothballed fighter jets that were restored by Avril Mead. The tail of each plane was painted with "sin lines" in the form of white dashes blocking out previous unit decals. The number of marks depended on the severity of the crime committed by the plane’s respective pilot.[4] Spare Squadron was first stationed at the 444th Air Base in Zapland and was later transferred to Tyler Island.[3]

History

Formation

footnote
This article or section needs additional citations for verification.
Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources.
Unsourced material may be challenged and removed.

Spare Squadron was formed sometime by May 2019[7] when a concept of the penal unit was proposed by Colonel McKinsey.[citation needed]

After being convicted of breaking wartime aviation laws for flying an unauthorized aircraft at the start of the war, Avril Mead was moved to a cargo ship along with other Osean prisoners and a collection of mothballed aircraft. On May 17, the prisoners were transported to Zapland where the 444th Air Base functioned as both their prison and their stationed air base.[7] Mead was initially tasked to make the mothballed aircraft appear legitimate on the base's fake runway[7] but was eventually forced to make them fully functional.[8] Her skill at restoring aircraft for the members of Spare Squadron earned her renown on the base; coupled with her temper and "acting like she's royalty," the other prisoners began calling her "Scrap Queen."[4]

In June 2019, the Erusean Air Force fell for the Osean facade and began conducting bombing operations on the decoy 444th Air Base in Zapland. In order to make the base seem more legitimate, Spare Squadron was assembled for the sole purpose of deceiving the Erusean military. Unlike other squadrons, Spare Squadron had no official flight lead and instead only took orders from an AWACS operator. The squadron was deployed multiple times during this period.[8]

Deceiving Erusea

Main article: Operation High Card
AC7 Spare Squadron Aircraft

Spare Squadron shortly before taking off. Note the "sin lines" covering the planes' tail designations.

Following Operation Lighthouse Keeper, Trigger was tried and found guilty of assassinating former President Vincent Harling and transferred to Spare Squadron. Shortly after his transfer, Erusean bombers started bombing the base once again, believing the Osean Air Force was concentrated on it. Spare was sent up without access to their weaponry. During the battle, contact with Colonel McKinsey was lost, prompting AWACS Bandog to allow Spare access to their weaponry. Trigger almost singlehandedly shot down all bombers shortly afterward.[4]

After arriving back at base, all squadron members were thrown into solitary by Colonel McKinsey for using weaponry without his permission.[4]

Assault on Roca Roja

Main article: Operation One Pair

On July 4, Spare Squadron was sent to the desert region of Roca Roja in order to cripple a large Erusean base situated in the area prior to the main forces' assault. Without suitable armaments, Spare was deployed and commenced attacking the base. At the onset of the engagement, multiple Spare aircraft ran out of ammo and were unable to resupply due to Colonel McKinsey's orders. Commenting on the potential failure of the operation, Count eventually managed to convince Bandog to grant them permission to resupply. During the operation, Trigger destroyed substantial portions of the base, causing Erusea to deploy multiple MQ-99s to defend the base. As the operation continued, High Roller and squadron members were shot down, causing many of the remaining Spare aircraft to flee from combat. Undeterred, Trigger, Count, Full Band, and Tabloid managed to successfully complete the operation.[9]

Upon returning to base, Spare was thrown into solitary once again by McKinsey, this time due to members of the squadron resupplying during the operation without his permission.[9]

Rescuing the LRSSG

Main article: Operation Two Pairs
AC7 Su-30SM Kulbit

Mihaly engaging Champ over Yinshi Valley

Eight days after the attack on Roca Roja, Spare was tasked with securing a return route for the Long Range Strategic Strike Group squadrons, Cyclops and Strider. Shortly after the destruction of Erusean ground forces within Yinshi Valley, both Cyclops and Strider Squadrons entered the airspace while being pursued by MQ-99s. Almost singlehandedly, Trigger managed to shoot down the drones and protect the Osean aircraft. Following the destruction of the drones, Champ was suddenly engaged by Mihaly A. Shilage who, after a brief exchange of maneuvers, shot down and killed him before also downing Spare 10. With the threat of losing more friendlies, Bandog ordered Trigger and Tabloid to engage the Su-30SM. A dogfight between Trigger and Mihaly ensued, however, it was cut short as clouds were moving in, prompting Sol Squadron to withdraw.[1]

Following the successful effort of Cyclops and Strider, Spare was thrown into solitary yet again by McKinsey, due to returning without his permission and "failing as escorts".[1]

Crippling Erusea

Main article: Operation Three of a Kind or Operation Flush
Spare Squadron 2

Spare Squadron forming up on Trigger during Operation Flush

On July 22, Spare Squadron was ordered to destroy fuel facilities in Artiglio Port, with the ultimate goal of crippling Erusea's drone fuel supply. Spare succeeded in destroying the majority of the fuel supplies, however, several Erusean trucks loaded with oil manage to escape into the sandstorm Inessa 2, which had just entered the area of operations. Despite the hazardous conditions and subsequent arriving of Erusean drones, Spare managed to destroy all the escaping trucks.[6]

Five days later, Spare Squadron infiltrated the Waiapolo Mountains in order to destroy the Erusean military's communications network. As the area was guarded by satellite-guided anti-air missiles, Spare was forced to fly under cloud cover and only ascend in order to attack the radar facilities. Prior to the operation, Full Band managed to acquire more classified information, resulting in Bandog showing distaste with his actions. Following the destruction of the radar facilities, a squadron of F/A-18F Super Hornets with Osean Maritime Defense Force markings entered the airspace and attacked Spare. Unable to fire back due to their IFF, Spare formed up around Trigger, which allowed Bandog to register all blips in the formation as allies; while doing so, Bandog asked Full Band for his position. After destroying all the hostile aircraft, Bandog registers Full Band as an enemy and informs Count of the remaining hostile, causing him to unknowingly shoot down his wingman.[2]

Fate

Main article: Operation Full House, Operation Reflux, or Operation Daredevil
Ac7 c130

Spare Squadron and 444th Air Base personnel on board multiple C-130 transports

Because of their accomplishments, the Spare Squadron, along with the rest of the 444 inmates, were pardoned and integrated into the Osean military. Exceptionally, Trigger received more than a pardon; a court of appeal heard his case and cleared him of all charges.

On August 5, the squadron left the 444th Air Base. Of entire squadron, both Trigger and Count were separated to escort Colonel McKinsey to Bulgurdarest. Avril Mead also attempted to join them, but was rebuffed.[3] The escort mission was particularly hazardous, as Trigger and Count had to deal with Erusean camouflaged SAM sites, interceptor wings, and an experimental ADFX-10 drone.[3] In the aftermath of the mission, the Osean military deployed Colonel McKinsey, who had been boastful of his own achievements, to the front lines, where the combat was at its hottest.[3] Trigger and Count, however, joined the Long Range Strategic Strike Group (LRSSG), where Trigger assumed command of the Strider Squadron and Count became a member of the Cyclops Squadron.[10]

Dusty Ruins

Tabloid, Mead and 444th Air Base personnel on Tyler Island

The remainder of the Spare Squadron departed for the Tyler Island. By the time they arrived, however, the global satellite communications network was lost and radio contact with the Osean command authority was cut. The island had fallen to splintered Erusean factions who were fighting each other, as well as Oseans. The former Spare members were at the risk of attack from both Eruseans defending the island and Oseans mistaking them for a rebelling Osean penal unit. They would remain isolated on the island until October 10, when LRSSG would arrive to rescue them.[11]

Three weeks later, they helped escort refugees into the International Space Elevator. However, Tabloid was crushed by falling debris in the process.[12] Following the end of the war, they helped provide supplies for refugees at the Space Elevator.[13]

Members

Pilots

Others

Equipment

Aircraft

Most of Spare's aircraft (Trigger excluded) were refurbished from mothballed aircraft from a junkyard, meaning that the aircraft usually did not belong to the convict prior to their conviction and imprisonment.

Tail codes

The squadron bore no unique tail code for its aircraft, so each plane wore the Osean tail code of the mothballed parts it was rebuilt from. Trigger was the only exception, wearing the tail code of his previous squadron.

Gallery

  • Spare Squadron forming up on Trigger

    Spare Squadron forming up on Trigger

  • Trigger flying with Count

    Trigger flying with Count

  • Various Spare Squadron aircraft assembling on the flight line at the 444th Air Base

    Various Spare Squadron aircraft assembling on the flight line at the 444th Air Base

Footnotes

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 There are three different designations for Spare Squadron in official material:
    • Air Force Base 444 Squadron[1][2][3]
    • Osean Air Force Base 444 Squadron[3][4]
    • Osean Air Defense Force Air Base 444th Squadron[5]

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 Mission 07: "First Contact", Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 Mission 09: "Faceless Soldier", Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 Mission 10: "Transfer Orders", Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 Mission 05: "444", Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown.
  5. ↑ Aces At War: A History 2019, page 100.
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 Mission 08: "Pipeline Destruction", Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown.
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 7.2 Cutscene 03: "444th Air Base", Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown.
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 Cutscene 05: "Fetid Air", Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown.
  9. ↑ 9.0 9.1 Mission 06: "Long Day", Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown.
  10. ↑ Mission 11: "Fleet Destruction", Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown.
  11. ↑ Mission 17: "Homeward", Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown.
  12. ↑ Mission 19: "Lighthouse", Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown.
  13. ↑ Mission 20: "Dark Blue", Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown.
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