"Received. Avenger squadron, turn towards target area. Numbers 1 and 2 attack directly, Numbers 3 and 4 provide high-altitude cover, watch out for air defense threats."
Two Apaches break formation, drop altitude to two hundred meters, speed increased to one hundred and twenty knots.
Brenan's helmet display shows clear thermal images of the brickyard—multiple bright muzzle flashes and numerous smaller heat sources.
"Lock on to the first target, KPV on the west side of the kiln."
Brenan uses his helmet sight to frame the location where fire bursts continuously.
The fire control computer calculates, the M230 chain gun adjusts its angle.
"Fire."
Bam-bam-bam-bam!
Four 30mm shells roar out.
Bip-bip-bip-bip—
But almost simultaneously, Brenan's helicopter warning system suddenly shrieks.
"Missile warning! MANPADS threat! Three o'clock direction!"
Brenan instinctively yanks the control stick while pressing the flare deployment button.
