Could've been a currency hop, maint check flight, 1v0 (go out and explore the handleing max performing the jet), just a good deal go burn gas and G yourself retarded, or a number of other things, instrument currency, shooting approaches, etc. All count as training.

Given the media, the only fact that's probably correct is that the jet is missing.

Here's to hoping the crew is sitting by a camp fire cold and bored waiting to get picked up....