IP-19: Fleet Conversion Procedures

INTERCEPT PROCEDURES TEXTBOOK

IP-19: FLEET CONVERSION PROCEDURES

PART I

Introduction

The conversion is a long-range (30 nm) set-up where the bogey is taken off collision in order

to manipulate the given TA. Previously, the main goal of the intercept was to place the bogey on

collision to decrease the range between the fighter and bogey in the fastest way possible. The

initial target aspect was preserved with the knowledge that lateral separation, which equates to

turning room in the CT, was different for each different TA. By conducting a conversion

intercept, the fighter can optimize TA or lateral separation for a particular situation.

There will be times and circumstances where certain specific target aspects or lateral

displacements are appropriate. Consider a few:

(1)

Sun position, terrain, and other environmental considerations

(2)

Lack of one or the other type of missile

(3)

Section tactics and restrictions

(4)

Enemy tactics and formations

(5)

Position of home-base, a defended force, or the defended point

(6)

Requirement to visually identify the bogey

The goal of this text is to introduce tactical conversion fundamentals so that the weapons

officer can come up with a viable game plan for application in VT-86. A successful conversion

intercept includes achieving (as close as possible) the lateral separation and/or TA geometry

dictated by the tactical situation, while properly employing the Sparrow and Sidewinder missiles.

In order to maneuver around the bogey's flight path, the fighter will be faced with what might

initially be an uncomfortable situation: a drifting bogey. The fighter will have to keep track of

drift and the changing target aspect to perform the conversion intercept successfully.

One more concern of real-world intercepts will be addressed in this unit: jinking bogies.

Most bogies won't maintain a steady heading throughout the intercept. The procedures to

recognize and counter jinking bogies will be introduced following the discussion of the

conversion intercept.

Advanced Modes

Students should be familiar with the advanced modes of the APG-66NT, in particular the

Down Look Search (DLS) mode. The Down Look Search mode will be the primary mode for all

conversion intercepts, but the data block will be available for students' use only on a limited

basis. The advantage of DLS with the data block is that all target parameters are displayed,

including bogey's aspect, speed, heading, and altitude. A bogey can, therefore, be put on

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