Baoji Suburban Airport, the next day.
While He Xin and the other crew members were still enjoying their brief leave, two East African transport planes were refueling on the airport apron.
These two transport planes had actually arrived at Baoji Airport yesterday on the same flight rotation as He Xin's squadron, but their mission was different from his and the others'.
The small formation of two transport planes was temporarily led by Team Leader Clayton.
An accompanying flight mechanic reported to Clayton, "Team Leader Clayton, refueling is complete. We can prepare for takeoff at any time."
Clayton said, "Very good. Before we take off, I want to emphasize something to everyone once more."
"This flight mission will be a challenge for our team. Our next task is an airdrop of supplies."
"Moreover, the drop zone is a rather sensitive place. We may even get drawn into a war, though that possibility is extremely small."
"Still, I hope none of you let down your guard. We cannot afford to gamble even on a one-in-ten-thousand chance, so this mission must be completed swiftly and cleanly."
"After reaching the skies over Yan'an, the center of the Northwest Armed Forces, drop the supplies in the shortest possible time, then immediately return according to plan."
Clearly, when Clayton spoke of returning, he did not mean flying back to Baoji Suburban Airport, but heading directly to Shule Airport.
After all, once the supplies had been dropped, there was no need for them to turn back to Baoji. That would not only waste time, but serve no purpose.
Half an hour later.
The formation led by Clayton had moved onto the runway, ignited their engines, taken off, climbed above Baoji City, and then headed northwest.
During this time, someone had clearly noticed where the two transport planes