United States National Guard

A joint reserve component of the US Army and US Air Force. Air National Guard pilots were frequently scrambled to intercept UFOs tracked on radar, acting as an extension of the nation's air defense network. Notable engagements include the fatal 1948 Mantell UFO incident, where an Air National Guard pilot died pursuing an unidentified object.

Provided interceptor aircraft and pilots who engaged in direct aerial pursuits of UFOs over US territory.