Pitchout

CHAPTER 5

AIR FORCE T-38 TRACK INTERMEDIATES

510.

PITCHOUT

a. Description. The pitchout is similar to the "180 degree breakup and rendezvous"

taught in primary. The pitchout is used to introduce spacing in the formation for practice

Rejoins, initiate a G-exercise, or indicate that the wingman should take spacing in the overhead

pattern break or closed pull-up.

b. General. Pitchouts can be accomplished in either direction, but always away from

the wingman. When not accomplished as part of a G-exercise or pattern break/closed the

pitchout is usually a steep banked level turn of 180 degrees or more followed by a Rejoin to

fingertip. A pitchout is an effective technique to quickly reverse direction when pressing area

boundaries. The pitchout maneuver is always initiated with the wingman in fingertip.

c. Procedures

(1)

Lead:

(a)

If the wingman is in Route, direct him to fingertip with three small wing

rocks.

(b) Lead gives the pitchout signal. (Circling finger similar to "breakup and

rendezvous" signal [see Appendix A]. Wing will not acknowledge the signal. There is no USAF

equivalent to the "kiss off" signal.)

wingman using 60 or more degrees of bank while adding power to 1015 torque and maintaining

altitude. Continue turn for approximately 180 degrees of heading change.

(d) After rolling out on heading and sufficient time has elapsed for the

wingman to complete the turn and roll out in trail (typically 5 seconds) initiate a Rejoin by

giving three large wing rocks. Follow appropriate Rejoin procedures.

(2)

Wing:

(a)

Observe Lead's pitchout signal.

(b) Wait 5 seconds after Lead turns away then turn aggressively to follow,

matching Lead's bank angle. Add power to 1015 torque and maintain altitude throughout the

turn. Plan to roll out at Lead's six o'clock position.

one "fist width" above the horizon.

(d)

Follow appropriate Rejoin procedures when you observe lead rock wings.

5-10 T-38 FORMATION ADMIN