Surprising amount of paint erosion on leading edges; particularly fin and engine intakes. Is this because of increased low level? [have seen them at low level - awesome!!]

I noticed that too. I’m also struggling to understand the tactical purpose of such an exercise. If carrying nuclear weapons I think they missed the 4 minute window, and if carrying conventional hardware - what’s the rush? Looks like a good way to have a peacetime accident for no reason.

Yes, watching paint dry!