Figure 3-11 Tactical Tanker Head-on Offset Rendezvous

CHAPTER THREE

LOW-LEVEL AND TACTICAL FORMATION

rate, 180 turn toward the receiver(s). This rendezvous may be done electronically using Radar

and IFF range and bearing in formation or by utilizing Air to Air TACAN; however, due to

equipment limitations in the TC-12, we will practice the rendezvous by using standard rate turns

at certain speeds/times (approximate offset achieved by flying 210 KIAS is 2.5 NM). The tanker

will plan to be abeam the ARCP with the 3 nautical mile offset on a reciprocal track heading at

refueling altitude approximately 5 minutes prior to the ARCT. The receiver will be at the ARIP

3 minutes prior to ARCT 1000 feet below refueling altitude. The tanker should plan to make a

standard rate turn back to the AR track 3 minutes prior to ARCT. (At this time, the distance

between the tanker and receiver should be 2 NM) After completion of the turn, the tanker should

be 1 NM in trail of the receiver(s) on the AR track. The tanker should overtake the receiver(s) 4

NM prior to the ARCP. Upon overtaking the receiver(s), the tanker will slow to the refueling

airspeed of 170 KIAS while the receiver(s) accelerates to 170 KIAS in preparation for maneuver

and climb to the observation position. The receiver(s) will maintain 1000 feet vertical separation

until the tanker passes overhead or abeam and clears the receiver(s) to the observation position.

Figure 3-11 Tactical Tanker Head-on Offset Rendezvous

3-10

TACTICAL/AERIAL REFUELING PROCEDURES