Low-flying aircraft in Watertown part of National Guard base flying operations

WATERTOWN, CT (WFSB) – Low flying aircraft reported in Watertown on Wednesday night were part of a National Guard base’s increased flying operations, the guard said.

Watertown police assured residents that there were aircraft in the area, but that there was no issue.

The 104th Fighter Wing reported that it increased its flying operations out of the Barnes Air National Guard Base in Westfield, MA.

The flights were said to be outside of standard operating hours, and include weekend and night flying sorties. The operations were in support of higher headquarters taskings and not part of its normal training cycle.

“We are residents of the greater Westfield community and truly appreciate the continued support of our neighbors as it allows us to conduct our state and federal missions,” said Col. David ‘Moon’ Halasi-Kun, 104FW Commander.

The 104th Fighter Wing is made up of highly trained personnel ready to provide air superiority on-demand anywhere in the world with F-15C eagle aircraft. Additionally, the 104FW is an aerospace control alert-trained Air National Guard Wing that is routinely called upon to support homeland defense missions.

Watertown police said they were in contact with federal agencies about the aircraft.

Several residents in the area and surrounding towns reached out to Channel 3 to report seeing the low-flying aircraft.

“What flew over Waterbury and surrounding area about an hour ago?! Shook the houses!” said Dina, of Watertown.

Watertown police released a statement:

Stay with Eyewitness News for updates.

Copyright 2022 WFSB. All rights reserved.