Figure 6-1 The Cone

AIR FORCE T-38 TRACK INTERMEDIATES

CHAPTER 6

Figure 6-1

The Cone

611.

WING'S TOOLS TO MAINTAIN THE CONE

Before we go further, let us describe the cone that you must maintain. You must manage three

things to maintain position; the first two, Aspect and Range, are ingredients you reference from

Lead's aircraft. The Aspect is approximately 30-45 degrees and range is 300-500 feet behind

Lead. As a technique, most pilots fly in the aft portion of the cone, 400-500 feet, so that you

have time to react to Lead's maneuvering. The third item you need to stay in the cone is a little

more subtle; it is energy. Since the goal of Extended Trail for Wing is to maintain the cone, then

Wing must emulate Lead's energy state to a certain extent. If Lead is going over-the-top

(Cloverleaf, Half Cuban Eight, etc.), then Wing must ensure he has sufficient airspeed to do the

same. Splitting the outboard wing with the vertical stabilizer (ventral fin point on "cutout") will

define 45 degree angle-off; Lead's nose on the canopy bow approximates 30 degree angle-off.

Distance behind Lead can be estimated by noting the amount of detail on Lead's aircraft.

Clearly reading the side number approximates 500 feet; the ability to discern detail on the lead

pilot's helmet will indicate range inside of 300 feet. One area to avoid, but is still in the cone,

however, is Lead's high six. Avoid this area, since it is easy to lose sight of Lead under the

engine.

T-38 FORMATION AREA WORK

6-11