I may have misunderstood - correct me if I'm wrong - but are you saying
theescort aircraft would allow (or escort) the Soviet aircraft close to
theaircraft carrier so it could take pictures rather than escorting it
awayfrom any ships? If so, why?Mike


Mike,
During peace time in international waters you can fly were ever you want. It
wasn't unusual to have them in the Case one marshal stack or down in the
landing pattern. During the Iranina crisis the Mays (IL-38) would do flight
deck level passes close to port trying to see in the hangar bay. We had the
rescue (CH-53) helos on board below decks.
I have a picture taken on Christmas day 88 flying escort on a bear in my trusty
KA-6d. I was suprised how fast he was at altitude.

Sparky