180 Breakup and Rensezvous

CHAPTER FOUR

T-6A FORMATION

NOTE

This exercise will only be accomplished in VMC conditions. Lead

and Wingman instructors will be vigilant during the separation

maneuver while the students direct the appropriate aircraft

maneuvers.

405. 180 BREAKUP AND RENDEZVOUS

Operational military squadrons employ the rendezvous when aircraft takeoff and join-up while

climbing to altitude. The Lead proceeds straight ahead after takeoff and then makes a turn,

during which the other aircraft in flight use a shorter radius of turn to join the Lead.

In basic formation training, the rendezvous has been made level and is combined with the

breakup, which establishes interval for the rendezvous. To simulate aircraft taking off

individually, form a column by effecting a breakup. The 180 breakup and rendezvous is a

co-airspeed, co-altitude rendezvous. This provides practice in using radius of turn to effect a

rendezvous when an airspeed advantage is not present.

1. The Lead. Prior to initiating the maneuver, the Lead must ensure the 180 breakup and

rendezvous can be accomplished from the present heading. It is necessary you understand in

what direction the rendezvous will move the track of formation. That is, if the breakup turn is

commenced from a northerly heading, the track of the formation will be in an easterly or westerly

direction, depending on area constraints. The 180 breakup and rendezvous can be made from a

right or left parade position. The student will:

Check the Wingman is in position.

Check the area is clear.

Give the breakup and rendezvous signal (Figure 4-6).

Ensure the Wingman acknowledges the signal.

Check the area is clear.

Kiss off and call for a break away from the Wingman (Figure 4-7).

4-6 SECTION PARADE