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4.7    Defensive BFM (DFBM). The goal of DBFM is to train the fighter pilot to survive while maneuvering from a position of disadvantage. The correct mindset is critical to DBFM, and a will to survive is paramount. Unlike offensive, DBFM requires the pilot to...

4.8    High-Aspect BFM (HABFM). HABFMs may occur throughout many phases of a tactical engagement. During the transition from the intercept to the BFM phase, the Bandit may have a tally or may be turning into the attacker based on RWR indications, radar contac...

4.9    Air Combat Maneuvering (ACM). ACM is a substantial leap from BFM in terms of employment. No longer is it a single-man concept where your only cross-check is the Bandit. You now have to bring your element mate into your cross-check along with the normal...

5.1    Introduction. BSA is the building block for all air-to-ground missions. This chapter addresses surface attack definitions, premission planning, delivery parameters, controlled range patterns, and weapons delivery. Refer to Figure 5.1.

5.2    Surface Attack Definitions. Several surface attack terms must be understood for the fighter pilot to fly the attack and arrive as close as possible to the planned weapons release window. While these concepts are introduced and defined here, specific me...

5.3    Mission Planning/Preparation. BSA mission planning starts with and is based on the type of weapon used and the target. The use of a BSA conventional or tactical pattern simplifies most of the planning by removing the target “weaponeering” and allows pi...

5.4    Ground Ops. Confirm the weapons menus are set up correctly to include delivery parameters and break X altitude. Target coordinates and target elevation should be verified (or entered if required) on the ground. Set the altitude warning to radar altimet...

5.5    Range Entry. Prior to entering the range, flight lead will call the range operator who will provide range entry clearance, the current altimeter, which targets are available, and additional information IAW range regulations. Every member of the flight ...

5.6    Range Comm. With the exception of safety of flight calls (say position or KIO), full call signs will be used when communicating on the range (for example, “VIPER 2’S BASE”). The ultrahigh frequency (UHF) radio will be used exclusively to keep the Range...

5.7    Range Exit. Flight lead will add “C/S LAST PASS” to his base and in call and “C/S up for the rejoin,” after completion of his safe escape. After pickle AND completion of a valid safe escape, turn in the briefed direction and look for the preceding airc...

5.8    Switches Safe/FENCE OUT.  Flight lead will call for the FENCE OUT as a directive call for all flight members to safe the master arm and CMD. Once safed, acknowledge in order by position number. Complete the rest of the FENCE OUT as briefed or directed....

5.9    Abnormal Procedures: 5.9.1    Fallout/Late Join Up. Have a game plan for how you will execute if any member falls out, both on the ground and in the air. If a flight member joins up late on the range, one technique is to have them hold above your curr...

5.10    Conventional Pattern Procedures: 5.10.1    Purpose. The conventional pattern allows orderly, repetitive weapons delivery practice for up to four aircraft on the range. It is designed to allow you to get from one pass to the next as efficiently as pos...

5.11    Tactical Pattern Procedures: 5.11.1    Purpose. Like the conventional pattern, the tactical pattern allows “canned” delivery pattern training. In the tactical pattern you will perform popup attacks. Popup attacks are flown when weather or threats for...

5.12    Level Pattern Procedures: 5.12.1    Level Pattern. The level pattern is similar in shape to the conventional pattern with the exception of a wider base distance; the flight lead will brief the specific ground track plan. Basic priorities and tasks re...

5.13    Weapons Employment: 5.13.1    Roll In. You should use the target as your reference for when to roll in; attempt to lead turn so as to roll out on final at the planned attack heading. Roll-in pacing will vary based on altitude and airspeed at the roll...

5.14    Error Analysis. Once established on downwind, with SA on the aircraft in front of you, assess your last pass relative to the plan. Both pilot-induced errors and wind can cause deviations. Many pilot-induced errors can be fixed by returning to and rein...

5.15    High-Angle Strafe (HAS). HAS is defined as any strafe pass planned with 15° of dive or greater. Currently, each fighter MDS executes HAS slightly differently. For example, F-15Es typically use 20°; F-16s use 25°; and A-10s use 30° or greater. The mini...

5.16    Low Angle Strafe (LAS). LAS is defined as any strafe pass planned with less than 15° of dive and is normally planned for 10°. The minimum recovery altitude is 75 feet AGL. The minimum cease fire slant range is 2,000 feet. 5.16.1    Pattern. LAS can ...

6.1    Overview. Although several definitions of SAT exist throughout the CAF, for the purposes of this chapter, SAT will be the bridge between BSA sorties and close air support (CAS). This mirrors the A-10 community’s use of the acronym and purpose of the so...