Tactical Formation
Flight Procedures
COMBAT SPREAD TURNS
All combat maneuvering is designed to maintain maximum maneuvering potential when a section
performs turns. Combat spread turns are used to turn the section as much as 180 degrees during
patrolling flights. There are three types: 1) cruise turns used for navigation, 2) shackle turns used to align
or realign the section, and 3) engaging turns used in a high threat environment to actually engage the
enemy.
CRUISE TURNS
There are three types of cruise turns: called, uncalled, and check. Called and uncalled cruise turns turn
the section 90 degrees, either into (Figure 5), or away (Figure 6), from the wingman. Check turns turn the
section 30 degrees or less (Figure 7).
Called/Uncalled Cruise Turns
The lead initiates called cruise turns by transmitting, “[Call sign], 90 right/left.” The wingman
acknowledges by calling “[Two],” and the lead then initiates the turn into or away from the wingman.
Uncalled cruise turns into or away are executed in the same manner as called cruise turns, except that no
radio communication is used. The lead initiates the turn by giving a wing flash in the direction of the turn
instead of a radio call. Upon recognizing the wing flash, the wingman executes the turn either into or
away, when the lead rolls into his 30-degree AOB turn. If the wingman does not see the wing flash, he
soon discovers the lead turning. If the wingman does not recognize the wing flash direction, he must
assume a turn away to prevent the section from being separated. Assuming a turn away, the wingman will
still maintain sight of the lead and be able to react when he recognizes the direction of turn.
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