You jest, but that movie was a realistic representation of at least one thing: rules of engagement. In the opening scene, you see the squadron commander scream at the radio operator:
"150 miles! Get 'em out of here! If they break 100 miles, launch the Alert 5 aircraft!"
In the days of Reagan, we didn't let the Evil Empire buzz our ships.
The Exocet in the Falklands was a definite wake up call!
That is why the range of interception.
Yep, and our submarines and ASW ships/P3s/UK Nimrods would hound their submarines relentlessly. Actually, all the stories I've heard, I'm really suprised the Russians didn't get fed up and shoot back. However, some say they actually did!.
They should Buzz the White House!