The requirement for a practical deep interdiction fighter/bomber have long been the subject of controversy within the naval aviation community, especially when it comes to the F-14D Tomcat versus the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. Often, however, the definition of deep interdiction is changed to fit the aircraft carrier under discussion, rather than taking into account the real-world theater of operations for which it is destined. Events over Afghanistan, however, have forced us to formalize what is really needed if an aircraft is to strike an enemy deep within its country. Today, we know that the politics of surrounding countries can dictate mission distances that stretch the ability of current aircraft to their limits. The U.S. relies on Navy aircraft carriers as bases. So, when putting fighter/bombers over Afghan targets, which aircraft led the charge? the tried-and-true F-14D Tomcat with the F/A-18 Hornet well behind.