A method for identifying hostile missile launch locations is disclosed. In response to a receipt of a message containing information regarding a hostile missile had been launched at an aircraft, a determination is made as to whether or not a tail number contained within the message is a valid tail number for the aircraft. If the tail number contained within the message is a valid tail number for the aircraft, another determination is made as to whether or not the aircraft was at a valid location at the time the message was sent. If the aircraft was at a valid location at the time said message was sent, pertinent information are retrieved from the message in order to identify the exact launch location of the hostile missile.