Figure 9-18 Post-Bubble Attack Scenario

BASIC FIGHTER MANEUVERING (BFM) THEORY

CHAPTER NINE

Figure 9-18 Post-Bubble Attack Scenario

As the attacker approaches the defender's bubble (B), the attacker will notice the Track Crossing

Rate (relative movement of the target in his canopy) starts to increase (the defending aircraft will

also notice an increased Track Crossing Rate as he watches the attacker quickly move aft across

his canopy).

At this point, the attacker must make a lag correction towards the defender's control zone, as

required, to remain behind the center of the turn circle (post). This lag maneuver may require

driving straight ahead for 2 - 4 seconds or may require a momentary turn away from the defender

(C).

NOTE

The defending aircraft will also see this and use it as information

as well. The attacking aircraft should see his range to the target

begin to stabilize.

Once behind the post, the attacker will have to correct two remaining problems: Angle-off the

defender's tail and lead. Advanced lead and lag maneuvers (such as low and high yoyos to be

introduced in chapter 10) will solve these geometric problems (D). The attacker will utilize

pursuit curves as required to enter the control zone on the way to the control point. With plane

of motion range and lead solved, the attacker will be in position for a valid guns shot (D).

A valid shot against a non-cooperative target is a fleeting opportunity. It is imperative that the

attacker does not fly through a perfectly good weapon opportunity in a desire to "saddle in".

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BASIC FIGHTER MANEUVERING (BFM) THEORY