AIR PATROLS AFNORTH can step up its air patrols across the country in support of Operation Noble Eagle at anytime - even during civil support operations. Military aircraft assigned to AFNORTH as the Continental U.S. NORAD Region can increase sorties over high threat areas around the country at a moments notice. The patrols are a smart, efficient way to protect American lives and resources in any region of the country. Air patrols are carefully planned and closely controlled to ensure public safety and ensure rapid response capability. CONR, under its NORAD parent command, has conducted air patrols throughout the U.S. and Canada since the start of ONE -- the command's response to the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.