Visual Signals

CHAPTER 4

AIR FORCE T-38 TRACK INTERMEDIATES

405.

VISUAL SIGNALS

Flight Lead

Use visual signals to the maximum extent possible. Any nonstandard visual signals must be

briefed. Do not hesitate to use the radio to avoid confusion. If a Wingman does not

acknowledge a signal, it should be interpreted as a request for clarification. Repeat the signal or

make a radio call.

Wingman

Acknowledge all visual signals. This acknowledgment will take the form of a head nod, a

thumbs up, or a change in formation position as appropriate. Make your head nod big and clear.

Likewise, make all visual signals big and clear. Do not make your Flight Lead wonder whether

or not you saw the signal. You should not acknowledge any unclear visual signals and maintain

position until receiving clarification.

406.

COLLISION AVOIDANCE

Each aircrew member shares the responsibility to avoid collision. The Wingman retains

primary responsibility for deconfliction between flight members. This responsibility transfers to

the Flight Lead if the Wingman becomes blind or is placed in a blind cone during tactical

maneuvering.

Flight Lead

The Flight Lead should focus on traffic avoidance and maintaining a safe altitude above the

ground. Flying in the lead position allows the most flexibility to clear visually for the flight

while interpreting traffic calls from ATC.

Wingman

If any conflict exists between flight members, the Wingman should transmit personal

intentions affording the other aircraft a means to deconflict. Example: the Wingman transmits,

"Knight Two is going high," while crossing Lead's flight path in a delayed turn nearly in-plane.

The transmission indicates that Knight Two will be maneuvering above the Flight Lead to

remain well clear. The Flight Lead then may maneuver anywhere away from the new plane of

motion. This technique prevents an aircraft from directing a course of action that the other

aircraft may be unable to perform. While maintaining position in formation, Wingmen also have

standard visual lookout responsibilities. If the Wingman detects a traffic conflict, initiate a

directive call to Lead. Follow up the directive call with a descriptive call to allow other flight

members to acquire the traffic and maneuver appropriately (e.g., "Knight One, climb," "traffic

12 o'clock, level, 1 mile"). Wingmen should also provide mutual support by maintaining

situational awareness through calls from controlling agencies describing the position of potential

traffic conflicts.

407.

VISUAL LOOKOUT

All flight members share visual lookout responsibilities. While employing in a Tactical

Formation, lookout priorities change based on the mission, weather, threat, altitude, formation,

etc.

4-6 T-38 FORMATION BASICS