Fighter Combat - Tactics and Maneuvering

314 UNLIMITED-AIRCRAFT TACTICS
doctrine also generally provides the quickest kills, which are critical in the
hostile arena. When the fighters are committed to engage bogeys of superior
speed, it is usually preferable to continue the engagement to its conclusion
rather than attempt to escape and risk being caught and re-engaged
defensively. The difficulty of escape must be given careful consideration
when deciding whether to use strike-rejoin-strike methods against large
numbers of superior bogeys.
Although the elements of a section or a division should generally plan to
remain together for mutual support in the few-versus-many environment,
a high probability exists that breakdowns will occur and pilots will find
themselves in a one-versus-many situation. Therefore, this contingency
should be preplanned for, and the critical decision of whether to continue
the mission under those conditions should be made before takeoff. For the
same reason, pilots should be well trained in single-plane attack and
survival techniques. GCI/AIC control and prearranged rendezvous points
are valuable aids in reforming separated elements.
Many-versus-Many
The many-versus-many scenario denotes large and roughly equivalent
numbers of friendly and hostile fighters in the combat area. These fighters
may be on coordinated missions or simply be in the same arena by chance.
Because large numbers of fighters are difficult to control, they are generally
operated in sections or small divisions that are able to coordinate their
efforts to achieve a given objective. Each element can therefore operate just
as in the few-versus-many case. All pilots should be trained in the same
techniques so that they can join with other friendly fighters and operate
with undiminished efficiency should they become separated from their
own wingmen in the heat of battle. All pilots should monitor the same
radio frequency for better coordination, but strict radio discipline is absolutely
essential if there is to be any hope of pilots receiving life-or-death
transmissions.
In fighter flying, a panic message is the greatest of all crimes. Practice on the
ground the exact words you will use to cover any situation in the air. Say it
over and over again until it becomes automatic.
Group Captain Reade Tilley, RAF
Although strike-rejoin-strike methods are still preferable in most
many-versus-many scenarios, the presence of more friendly fighters in the
general area makes engagement somewhat less risky. In addition, enemy
fighters are likely to be less aggressive and less eager for extended engagement
than they are under previously discussed conditions. Loose deuce
and gaggle tactics continue to be most effective in this environment.
Additional elements should refrain from joining a mature engagement of
roughly equal opposing forces in which friendly fighters appear to be
holding their own. A more effective tactic is to cruise outside the periphery
of such a fur ball, remain in a defensive posture, and be alert for bogeys
exiting the fight and the arrival of additional hostile forces.