Communications - P-3670042

CHAPTER 4

AIR FORCE T-38 TRACK INTERMEDIATES

404.

COMMUNICATIONS

Communications are an excellent indicator of flight discipline. All communication must be

clearly understood by every flight member. During this phase of training, Lead may direct radio

frequency changes with a visual signal or radio call, whichever is most convenient. Lead will

initiate a positive check-in on all new frequencies. Wing does not repeat visual signals, but

should acknowledge with a head nod. If unsure of a signal, do not respond, and Lead should

repeat it. If unable to comply with a signal, shake it off. Radios can be used to avoid confusion

or anytime it is required for safety of flight.

Radio discipline requires not only clarity and brevity in the message, but limiting unnecessary

transmissions as well. The first part of any radio call should always be a full call sign (e.g.,

Knight 11, go channel 3). This step serves to alert the listener (Wingman) that a message is

coming (the attention step) and to specify who is making the call or to whom it is directed. The

second part is the execution step and tells the flight member the action to be taken. Relying on

voice recognition or tone/inflection to identify another aircraft is not adequate. Wingmen should

acknowledge with call sign and repeat any specific data required unless briefed otherwise (e.g.,

Knight 11, go channel 5, acknowledgments: "Two"). If calls are unclear, query the Flight Lead.

Use complete call signs and make commands, directions, or information clear and concise.

Limit radio use to essential calls. To keep radio calls to a minimum, use visual signals when

practical.

Flight Lead

Ensure calls are clear and concise, and combine calls when practical. Radio channel changes

may be directed at any time. Delay flight check-in as necessary based on Wingman capability or

flight conditions. Based on proficiency, Flight Leads should consider putting Wingmen in Route

to perform cockpit tasks.

Wingman

Change radio channels only when directed by the Flight Lead and only after all flight members

have acknowledged. When performing a channel change, maintain your formation position

unless otherwise briefed. A technique would be to count clicks while rotating the selectors and

then confirm proper mode and frequency. Wingmen will mimic the format of the Flight Lead's

calls, but provide accurate information (e.g., "Knight 11, Ops check," "1's 5.0, 4.2 Gs," "2's 5.0,

4 Gs"). Unless briefed, the Flight Lead speaks for the flight when communicating with other

agencies until flight split up. Wingmen will respond to all directive calls, unless briefed

otherwise. An exception to this is tactical maneuvering (e.g., "Knight 11, 90 left," no response

required). No response necessary since the Flight Lead can see movement to the position.

Conversely, "Knight 31, fence-in." Two." The Flight Lead cannot witness switch actuation.

4-4 T-38 FORMATION BASICS