That's because NAS Jax is home to sub killers, P-3s, P-9s etc. Yes, they run out to the ocean and appear to be "looking for" something. They do this a lot, it is how they train. This is what NAS Jax does. There are other bases in Jax including a FANG base at the Jax International, where you may find yourself qued for takeoff in front of or behind an F16. Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay nearby gives Jacksonville the third largest military presence in the country. Having lived there while I was married to a navy officer, I can tell you seeing listening helis and Orions off the coast is normal.
That's because NAS Jax is home to sub killers, P-3s, P-9s etc. Yes, they run out to the ocean and appear to be "looking for" something. They do this a lot, it is how they train. This is what NAS Jax does. There are other bases in Jax including a FANG base at the Jax International, where you may find yourself qued for takeoff in front of or behind an F16. Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay nearby gives Jacksonville the third largest military presence in the country. Having lived there while I was married to a navy officer, I can tell you seeing listening helis and Orions off the coast is normal.