The Intruders is a 1994 novel by Stephen Coonts.
Plot
After two combat cruises, Grafton is now a flight instructor on a naval base. During a visit to his girlfriend Callie, he has an argument with her father, who's anti-war. Distraught, Grafton is later involved in a bar brawl with another man who's anti-war. His shore duty is cut short and he is sent on another cruise with a USMC A-6 squadron.
Grafton witnesses accident by accident, some with fatal results. A faulty arresting cable, an in-flight fire, landing at night in bad weather, a cold shot, and lightning strike his aircraft. Grafton is thinking about quitting the Navy but eventually makes up his mind to stay.
The book ends when Grafton is shot down by a weapon smuggler and is captured. He and his BN survive, albeit injured and escape from their captor.
The Intruders by Stephen Coonts is an engaging book that delves into thrilling aviation adventures. Written by the renowned author, this volume, the sixth in the series, offers a captivating narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.