Launch interceptors for patrol?

[phiwum]

I recall that in the XCOM game, one would sometimes launch interceptors to look for alien bases.  As far as I can tell, I can only launch an interceptor when a UFO has been spotted.  Once airborne, I can redirect it to wherever I want.

Is there a method to launch an interceptor (or troop carrier, for that matter) when no UFO has been spotted?

Thanks.

[Nutter]

There's a launch image next to the craft name in the aircraft screen if I remember correctly but I'm not sure.


Anyway, look for a blue icon somewhere in the aircraft tab. If I remember correctly, it also throws you out of the screen for some reason. Bit of a pest when you're trying to launch multiples.

[Hertzila]

You can 'manually' launch aircraft from the equipping screen. There's a small button in the description box right next to their status/location.
Then simply select it from the geoscape and click where you want it to go.

It's somewhat unwieldy compared to a specific patrol/go-to button, but at the moment it's the only way.

[phiwum]

Ah!  Much thanks.