Air-Air SOP's

[jex]

Now that everyone is getting skilled in their techniques, I would like to start looking at some SOP's for A-A engagments. A-A engagements happen quickly, so it is important that everyone is on the ball and sorting their targets quickly. To aid in this, I propose that the following criteria are met in any A-A engagement.

1) In briefing, make sure you have a plan on how to deal with bandits. Go over

- What distance you will engage
- How you will engage your targets

2) Once you have committed yourself to the contacts, make sure you give a bullseye reading of your target. Do this in order of flight number. If your bullseye matches someone else, you have the wrong target locked up. If you cannot sort your target, inform lead that you cannot and give the bullseye of the target you have - the flight will then work around you (this also happens in real life where targets are handed off to other pilots so don't be afraid to speak up)

3) Once everyone has their targets, AWAC's declares will be done in order of flight number. Once done, pilot will call (eg) "Stud 1-1 sorted bullseye 219 for 65" - the bullseye is given one last time to make sure targets are sorted correctly. (Other info could be added here but it wastes time).

4) Once the declares are completed, attack your target as briefed prior to takeoff


Add suggestions/alterations here.

We must start to use SOP's when we fly as often the flight is locking up the same target, which is pointless. If you need help with anything, book some training with an IP.

[Toshido]

Quick simple question...

How do you tell range to target?

[jex]

It's displayed on the HUD, lower right as (eg)

FO13.3

in addition to jex's comments:
1) Flight Leaders - It is your duty to assign targets and/or shooters when A-A engagements are impending. If you are not flight lead, then you should request permission to fire from flight lead BEFORE releasing your ordinance.

2) Flying tight formations isn't just for show - it is imperative to good situational awareness, and helps confuse the enemy at bvr distances. The flight that stays tight in is much more likely to return home together.

In the heat of the moment, it is far to easy to get wound up and forget what your doing, soon you will find yourself separated from the rest of your flight , with noone left to watch your tail except a lone Mig29.
In falcon the enemy WILL try to trick you into flying over their AAA and SAM sites - it's a fact, so be aware of it.

[EyeSeePeeDude]

** not to interrupt **

if we're going based on real-life practices, then it's actually the wingman who calls out who he's going for -- his entire job as wingman is to protect his lead. If the element leads (*1 and 3*) see a bogey before the wingman calls it out, then he can point his wingman towards him, but as soon as the wing picks it up, he's on his own.

** back to my hammock in the corner **

[jex]

Actually (lol), the proper action is for the flight to sort around the guy who has the least SA. If your a 2 ship and one of you can only pick out 1 contact from 2, then the other will lock up the other contact, regardless of who s/he had locked before.

As for the wingman, he will never commit by himself to a contact and will never be on his own. wingman is a 2 way relationship and is not based upon flight lead.

[jex]

lol

here check this link http://www.combatsim.com/htm/jan99/ACM-pt1a.htm

[jex]

I've never read anything that states a wingman should go off alone or is responsible for attacking the enemy over the flight lead. Everything I've read seems to state otherwise - however, I'm here to learn so some info and links would be good. I'd rather do it the proper way than make it up

[EyeSeePeeDude]

well, if I could link my TO's, I would. I can only say what I know based on my training and experience.

[jex]

So do we need to keep with the guessing game or can we cut some corners here and cut to the chase?

[jex]

No I meant don't beat around the bush and come clean with what real life experience you've had/ served. Be prepared for lot's of questions though...

[EyeSeePeeDude]

I've removed my posts - didn't mean to cause such a commotion around here...

[jex]

lol no trouble. If you were in the service then I'd appreciate the input, as I think a lot of people around here would. Don't get many guys who can give direct input so if you can shed any light onto SOP's, etc, please do

[EyeSeePeeDude]

well, I was trying, but as I can't site specific sources (*due to classifications*), it's better that I just go with the flow...

(*still in, BTW*)

[jex]

I've read the USAF official F16 pilots handbook, plus a guide to wingmen back from the korean war (again official), and reading Robert L shaw's book which provide plenty of exmaples.

None of this is 'classified', so if you have something to say, say it please. What you're doing right now is nothing ore than trolling, which is a term used against those who like to stir.

I don't wish to label you, but if you cannot add anytthing constructive, why did you bother to comment?