The end of America's presence in Afghanistan is likely to come at any time now. Last rotary assets can self deploy out. Considering the threat level now, we can expect sooner than 31st. They can demo a lot of equipment in place and call it a day.
The perimeter becomes a bigger issue with every pair of boots that leaves, but the threat from mortars, rockets, and drones is really the most concerning at this point.
Always remember we do have one trick up our sleeves as this comes to an end. V-22 Ospreys. For smaller groups they can reach Kabul and make it back via aerial refueling. Runway independent. Just something to remember for contingency.
Depending on the final footprint before it goes to zero, V-22s could do a long-range exfil, hit the airfield, grab the final group, and that would be that. Nost necessarily USMC, Air Force CV-22 as well, possibly both. This would be more flexible than taking C-130s out etc.
Of course, this depends on the size of the final footprint. The special operations guys could be it and just leave on their own platforms.
They can also cover a larger final evac movement before just heading out themselves. The DAPs are the king of that mission.
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