Step 4
After you oriented the scan zone in the direction of the target, you should allow the IRST to search
each increment for four to six seconds; this allows the IRST to properly search that portion of sky.
The number of dashes that comprise a target marker on the HUD corresponds to the size of the
infrared signature. Generally, large aircraft have larger infrared signatures. The exception would be
an aircraft in afterburner.
Step 5
Once the target has been detected, you next need to lock it up.
To do so, place the TDC over the contact and press the [Enter] key. If the target distance and
infrared signature permit, the IRST will initiate an STT lock. The target will then be framed by a
circle on the HUD.
Step 6
Once in STT mode and the distance to target is 85% or less than that of the maximum range of the
selected missile, the LA – "launch authorized" message will appear on the HUD. With this
authorization, you may launch the missile by pressing the launch weapon button on your joystick or
by pressing the [Space] key. You should press and hold the weapon launch button for at least 1 sec
until the missile launches.
It should be mentioned that launching from the maximum range on a maneuvering targets is not
very effective because the target can avoid the missile by performing a simple missile avoidance
maneuver. If the situation permits, wait until Rpi range is reached; this will greatly increase your
probability of kill.
Missiles with IR seekers are "fire-and-forget" and do not require any additional support from the
launch aircraft. Once launched, the pilot can immediately begin engaging in other tasks.
THE R-27T/ET MEDIUM RANGE MISSILES MUST HAVE AN INFRARED SEEKER LOCK ON A TARGET BEFORE FIRING.
THESE SYSTEMS ARE IR-HOMING ALL THE WAY AND DO NOT USE A DATA LINK SYSTEM.
Close Air Combat
Close air combat (CAC) is combat with the enemy at visual distances. This leads to fast, hard turning
fights with each side looking for an advantage that will enable them to get the first shot.
CAC ranges are usually limited by the targeting and weapon system’s maximum detection and
engagement ranges in CAC modes; this equates to about 10 km.
In CAC, highly-maneuverable missiles are often used, such as R-73. These have wide-angle IR
seekers that are optimized to attack maneuverable targets performing high G tactics. These missiles
are often used in conjunction with guns.
Several targeting modes used in CAC are described below:
To Next Page
Loading...