Under what conditions do aircraft recovery missions take place?

Aircraft recovery missions occur primarily under the condition that the tactical situation allows for the recovery to take place and that the aircraft in question is deemed worth recovering. This means that commanders must assess several factors, including the risks involved, the potential for successful recovery, and the strategic importance of the aircraft and its contents.

In a combat environment, resources are often limited, and decisions must be based on the situation's demands. If the tactical situation is unfavorable—such as ongoing enemy fire, risk of ambush, or other hazards—attempting to recover an aircraft might not be feasible or safe. Conversely, if an aircraft carries critical information, capabilities, or personnel, its recovery may take priority even under challenging conditions.

While factors like weather, available personnel, and proximity of allied forces can influence the recovery operations, they are secondary to the primary considerations of tactical viability and the value of the aircraft itself. Hence, the correct answer is focused on the overarching strategic context within which recovery missions are conducted.