During the initial phases of (OEF) in 2001, the F-14 Tomcat emerged as a primary asset for precision strike and forward air control , flying long-range missions from aircraft carriers in the North Arabian Sea to targets deep within Afghanistan. The Tomcat's ability to carry large payloads over long distances and its LANTIRN targeting pod made it the Navy's "go-to" precision bomber during the conflict's opening months. Key F-14 Squadrons in OEF (2001–2003)
The following units were among the primary F-14 squadrons deployed during the critical early stages of the air campaign: F-14 Tomcat Units of Operation Enduring Freedom