It is an easier way to see that by F11 key (free view), or shooting an AIM-120 upward from high altitude. But flying an eagle there would surely be more fun (a bit tricky, though)!
How did you guys pass the airfield defense mission (Mission 5?)? There are so many bandits and hard to handle. And many of them are using ECM, which screws up BVR combat. The bomber has tough armour and take two missiles to splash.