Surface Attack Instructions

Intent — The emphasis of the surface attack phase is to gain student proficiency in range procedures, range patterns, achieving weapons delivery parameters, safe escape, and error analysis.

Instrument Training — See paragraph 5-2 for instrument approach requirements.

Formation Training — Missions may launch with fewer than four aircraft when scheduling or maintenance constraints will not support a four-ship. However, each student must fly at least one four-ship range mission prior to graduation. If a briefed member of the formation ground or air aborts, a three-ship may fulfill this requirement. Scheduling a three-ship mission does not meet the intent of this requirement.

Instructor Continuity — Students will fly with the same IP on S-1 and S-2 (and S-3 if flown solo).

Mission SPINS

a. Weapons Events — Every attempt will be made to expose the student to all weapons delivery events. If weather or circumstances preclude 20-degree or 30-degree deliveries, the student may advance in training with the appropriate mission labeled incomplete. The minimums for graduation are level patterns, 10-degree basic and 10-degree popup deliveries. The student may graduate with 20-degree or 30-degree deliveries graded to a 1- level if attempted on only one ride. Annotate any shortfalls in training on the student’s training reports.

b. Range Requirements — Surface attack training should be accomplished on a class A range to the maximum extent possible. Annotate the student’s gradesheet if a class A range is not used.

c. Strafe and 45-degree HADB are familiarization events. If not accomplished, annotate the student’s gradesheet, unaccomplished task log and training report.

d. Simulated Ordnance Load

(1) BDU-33 or as briefed
(2) 450 rounds with a maximum effective slant range of 4,000 feet
(3) 30 flares and 60 chaff bundles

e. Low Level (Track C)

(1) The student is required to prepare a map for the low-level route and provide the IP with a copy.

(2) Based on the student’s ability, the IP is encouraged to challenge the student’s situational awareness and navigational ability by deviating from the pre-planned route during the flight.

f. Popup Attacks — Popup attacks will be simple and conservatively planned and will not involve complex tactical scenarios. See AFI 11-214 and AETC Sup to AFI 11-214 for restrictions.