FLIGHT TRAINING INSTRUCTION T-45 WEAPONS/STRIKE - Cnatra

CHAPTER SEVEN T-45 WEAPONS/STRIKE
Powering-up at the Approaching Position – The Gouge
Set the release power setting when the nose of the aircraft is perpendicular to the run-in line, i.e.
the 90° approaching position. Refrain from using the HDG bug on the HSI as a crutch to
indicate the 90° position. This only promotes head’s down/instrument flying. A good scan
combination of the target, run-in line and roll-in point will enable you to better evaluate the pull
required for you to get the aircraft to the roll-in point. Scanning the HSI / CRS Line would only
be required in the event the target does not have a displayed Run-in Line on the ground.
As a Technique for setting the power: Power-up by “feel” first, place Master Arm Switch –
ARM, then fine tune power setting by checking N2 gauge. This will allow for RPM spool-up
time.
You should strive to be as close to pattern airspeed as possible. In the event you have deviated
from the pattern airspeed, set power based on current airspeed.
For example, in the 30° pattern: Use 94% as the base release power setting for 250 KIAS, and
adjust +/- 1% for every 10 KIAS off of 250. The Z diagram calls for 92 – 94%.
250 KIAS – 94% (simulator use 93% as the base)
260 KIAS – 93%
240 KIAS – 95%
Be consistent with the power-up point. Set the release power setting at the same place in the
pattern every time to have some type of basis for power setting.
Note the airspeed at release – adjust as necessary on follow-on passes (1% for every 10 knots off
450T).
One of the reasons for inaccuracy of hits is due to slow scan development of airspeed at release.
Most common error is to be too fast, causing long hits, especially in the Low Pattern.
The Approaching to the Roll-in Point
Never in the pattern can this be more emphasized to be an outside/inside scan. DO NOT fly the
aircraft exclusively referencing the instruments without referencing the target!
Extend the run-in line out visually and vary your pull to arrive at the roll-in point roughly 30° off
run-in heading. Visually, 30° off equates to the outside target ring (300’ ring) touching the base
of canopy bow.
Maintain a level turn across horizon. A common error is to let Velocity Vector sag in turn –
losing altitude, resulting in a shallow Initial Sight Picture.
If the Attack Cone Distance (ACD) is reached prior to this point (nose more than 30° off), the
approaching position was too tight. You will need to commence the roll-in at the ACD or the
7-20 TARGET AREA PROCEDURES