Ep 19. The Adversaries

In JAG season 4 episode 19, entitled 'The Adversaries,' the main focus is on the legal case of two Marine pilots who are accused of disobeying orders. The episode begins with the two pilots, Captain Ballantine and Lieutenant Andrews, conducting an exercise in the Gulf of Mexico. However, the mission quickly goes awry as Captain Ballantine's aircraft goes down, and Lieutenant Andrews is ultimately forced to eject from his own aircraft.

Upon their return to shore, the pilots are taken into custody and charged with disobeying a direct order from their superior. This order stated that they were not to engage in evasive maneuvers during the exercise, yet both pilots claim they had no choice but to do so given the circumstances. Captain Ballantine reveals to JAG officers Harm and Mac that he was forced to maneuver his aircraft to avoid a collision with a Russian fighter jet that had entered US airspace.

As the case progresses, it becomes clear that the JAG officers must not only defend the pilots but also prove that the Russian fighter jet violated US airspace. However, this proves to be difficult, as the Russian ambassador denies any involvement. The JAG officers soon find themselves in a tough spot, as they must not only navigate the legal system but also navigate the political tensions between the US and Russia.

Meanwhile, Bud and Harriet are dealing with their own legal issue. Bud is trying to secure custody of his half-brother, Mikey, who has been living in a foster home. However, their mother, who has been absent for most of Mikey's life, suddenly reappears and tries to take custody of him herself. As Bud and Harriet fight for custody, they must also deal with their own personal issues, including Harriet's pregnancy and Bud's impending deployment.

Throughout the episode, the tension builds as both legal cases become increasingly complex. The JAG officers must navigate the complicated legal system while also dealing with the political tensions between the US and Russia. As the case heads to trial, the fate of the pilots and the truth about the Russian fighter jet's involvement hang in the balance.

In the end, the JAG officers are able to successfully defend the pilots and prove that the Russian fighter jet violated US airspace. The pilots are cleared of all charges, and the Russian ambassador is forced to apologize. Meanwhile, Bud and Harriet are able to secure custody of Mikey, and their personal issues are resolved. As the episode comes to a close, the JAG officers reflect on the challenges they faced and the victories they achieved.