Weapons
Target Pattern Procedures
TARGET PATTERN PROCEDURES
This section describes the ordnance delivery patterns used in the Training Command. These
patterns are used because they develop consistency, permit the greatest degree of safety, and
afford the most efficient use of allotted target time.
BREAKUP
Once the lead has obtained clearance into the target area, he will bring the flight in cruise echelon
over the target, at release altitude and airspeed. This is the trim run, made to trim the aircraft at
release parameters and check the pitot static system. As the flight lead reaches release true
airspeed over the target, he will call out his true airspeed, mach number and altitude so the rest of
the flight members can cross-check their instruments. The lead will break as the flight passes over
the target, climbing to intercept the pattern. Other flight members break at eight-second intervals
(ten seconds for three-plane pattern). This interval will allow the lead to release and commence
recovery just as #2 aircraft reaches the roll-in point (Figure 19). Each aircraft will then call the
abeam position with fuel state except dash four, he will wait until the lead has called off safe and
then call his position and fuel state. This will initiate the Comm cadence.
1
2
3
4
Figure 19: BREAKUP AT TARGET
SWITCHOLOGY
Prior to the initial breakup, reset LAW to standard setting:
30-degree pattern - 2,000 feet
20-degree pattern - 1,500 feet
10-degree pattern - 600 feet
These settings are based on a 450 KIAS dive recovery with a 4-g pull.
During the trim run, you may set your armament switches, except for the Master Armament switch.
Be sure that your gunsight comes on and that you have the correct mil settings for your intended
ordnance and pattern.
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