[wiggen]

how much exactly does it cost to scramble those jets? what exactly are they going to be doing up there?

[Jedidah]

I would imagine they practice all the time anyway. A little real-world action might be good training.

[El Gato]

how much exactly does it cost to scramble those jets? what exactly are they going to be doing up there?

Not much in this situation. But it's still good practice for the pilots and their ground controllers.