Target Pattern Procedures
Weapons
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, and barometric 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 8). 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.
1
2
3
4
Figure 8: BREAKUP AT TARGET
(4-03) Original
Page 17
Previous Page
