Figure 2-4 Fluid Trail Formation Position

LOW-LEVEL AND TACTICAL FORMATION

CHAPTER TWO

Figure 2-4 Fluid Trail Formation Position

Several potentially hazardous positions exist in which WING could position themselves. Two of

these will be discussed to illustrate how WING must anticipate LEAD's actions.

One position is directly abeam LEAD (similar to Line Abreast, which is discussed below).

If LEAD begins a turn towards WING, a conflict exists. There are several things WING could

do. The first is to simply turn away from LEAD; however, WING would first lose sight of

LEAD and then actually pass LEAD. This is not a good option. The second is for WING to turn

towards LEAD aiming to pass behind LEAD. This works as long as WING is not directly

abeam. The third is for WING to initiate a turn towards LEAD while climbing to pass above

LEAD. Once LEAD safely passes, quickly reverse the turn and descend to avoid being thrown

out of the cone.

Inadvertent IMC presents another hazard since wingmen are not in a set position and

therefore no set procedures can be established. If IMC is encountered, LEAD and WING must

quickly communicate and decide the safest method to separate the flight. LEAD must be

directive to prevent a serious situation from developing. For example, if both WING aircraft

have maneuvered to the same side as LEAD, it would be appropriate for LEAD to direct TWO to

fly straight, while LEAD and THREE fly 45 away from TWO for 2 minutes. It is imperative

that all aircraft quickly communicate to ensure separation.

Fluid trail is usually prebriefed to begin at a point prior to entering a threat environment. It ends

at the IP since WING must be back in the in-trail position for the run-in and drop.

Line Abreast. Line abreast is used to cross lines of communications or for coastal penetrations.

It minimizes the amount of time a formation is exposed to sight since all three aircraft cross a

TACTICAL FORMATION

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