• These lists are not all inclusive.
• Use plain English when required.
• Words listed below should be used in lieu of words or phrases with similar definitions.
• When a flight lead makes directive calls, the wingman must respond with the directed action to the best of his ability.
• If the wingman uses a "directive" term/word, it is a request and the flight lead reserves the right to approve/deny the wingman's requested action.

Allied nations may have different meanings for some of the terms/words listed here (reference ACP 165). They are indicated by an asterisk (*) behind the term/word.

ABORT

Directive to cease action/attack/event/mission.

ACTION

Directive to initiate a briefed attack sequence or maneuver.

AIRCRAFT AXIS

There are three axis which are mutually perpendicular and have a common point of intersection. The aircraft longitudinal axis is parallel to the fuselage reference line. Aircraft rotation around this axis is roll or bank. The aircraft vertical axis is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis through the center of the aircraft. Rotation around this axis is yaw. The aircraft lateral axis is perpendicular to both the longitudinal and vertical axes at the point of intersection. Rotation around this axis is pitch.

ALPHA CHECK

Request for bearing and range to described point.

ANCHOR

Orbit about a specific point; ground track flown by tanker. Information call indicates a turning engagement about a specific location.

ANGLE OF ATTACK (AOA)

The angle between the cord line of the wing and the relative wind.

ANGLE-OFF

The angular difference between the longitudinal axis of the attacker and the logitudinal axis of the defender.

ANGELS

Height of aircraft in thousands of feet.

APEX/ALAMO

Training term used to denote simulated launch of enemy, all-aspect radar missile.

APHID/ARCHER

Training term used to denote simulated launch of enemy, rear hemisphere heat seeking missiles.

ARCING

Cutoff in plane of target motion to decrease range to targetdefender allows attacker to use cutoff.

ARM/ARMED (Safe/Hot)

Select armament (safe/hot), or armament is safe/hot.

AS FRAGGED

Fighter, FAC, mission package, or agency will be performing exactly as stated by the air tasking order.

ASPECT

Request/comment regarding target aspect information.

ASPECT ANGLE

The angle between the longitudinal axis of the target (projected rearward) and the line-of-sight to the fighter, measured from the tail of the target. The attackers heading is not a consideration. (Whenever the attacker is pointed at the bogey, angle-off and aspect are the same.)

ATTACK/ATTACKING()

Indicates air-to-surface attack on a specific ground target.

ATOLL

Rear hemisphere heat-seeking missile.

ATTACK AXIS

An orientation direction usually thought of as an imaginary line passing through the target on some particular headingexample, the range run-in heading.

AUTHENTICATE()

To request or provide a response for a coded challenge.

AUTONOMOUS

Aircrew is operating without benefit of GCI/AWACS control.

AUTONOMOUS INTERCEPT

Intercepts initiated by aircrew when no target information is being received from command and control sources.

BANDIT(Radar/Heat/Striker)

Known enemy aircraft and type ordnance capability, if known.

BARO

A term used synonymously used with System Altitude. (See System Altitude)

BARREL ROLL MANEUVER

A vertical rolling maneuver used to reduce aspect angle while keeping sight of the bogey and maintaining nose-tail separation.

BASE (Number)

Reference number used to indicate such information as headings, altitudes, fuels, etc.

BEAM/BEAMER (Direction)

Aircraft maneuvering stabilized within 700 to 1100 aspect; generally given with cardinal directions: east, west, north, south.

BELLYCHECK

A momentary unloaded bank to check the blind side of a turning aircraft.

()BENT

Identified system inoperative.

BFM ( Basic Fighter Maneuver )

Training designed to apply aircraft handling skills to gain proficiency in recognizing and solving range, closure, aspect, angle off, and turning room problems in relation to another aircraft to either attain a position from which weapons may be employed or deny the adversary a position from which weapons may be launched or defeat weapons employed by an adversary. Examples are the high speed yo-yo, quarter plane maneuver, Immelmann turn, barrel roll. BFM training builds appreciation of pursuit geometry, cutoff, radial G, rolling maneuvers and energy management.

BFM ADVANTAGE

The command or use of maneuvering airspace usually OUT OF PLANE OF A BANDIT`S TURN TO ALLOW the attacker to gain or maintain an offensive advantage or close to a gun solution. Requires positional and/or energy advantage.

BINGO

Prebriefed fuel state which is needed for recovery using prebriefed parameters.

BLIND

No visual contact with friendly aircraft; opposite of term "VISUAL."

BLOWTHROUGH

Directive/informational call that indicates aircraft will continue straight ahead at the merge and not turn with target/targets.

BOGEY

A radar/visual contact whose identity is unknown.

BOGEY DOPE

A request for bearing and range to bogey and as available, heading, speed, and altitude.

BOMB RANGE (BR)

The horizontal distance a bomb will travel from release to impact.

BOMB TRAIL

The distance that represents bomb drag in weapon ballistic computation.

BONE

Term used to indicate the formation will remain in a Racetrack-type holding pattern (with all wingmen's tums into lead); exit formation must be specified by lead.

BOX

Groups/contacts/formations in a square or offset square.

BRACKET

Indicates geometry where aircraft will maneuver to a position on opposing sides either laterally or vertically from the target.

BREAK (Up/Down/Right/Left)

Directive to perform an immediate maximum performance turn in the indicated direction. Assumes a defensive situation.

BREVITY

Term used to denote radio frequency is becoming saturated/degraded and briefer transmissions must follow.

BROADCAST

Request/directive to switch to Broadcast Control.

BROKE LOCK

Loss of radar/IR lock-on (advisory).

BUDDY SPIKE (Position/Azimuth/Altitude)

Receiving friendly AIRWR.

BUGOUT (Direction)

Combat separation for low fuel, loss of tactical advantages or accomplishments of mission objectives; intent is to permanently separate from that particular engagement/attack.

BULLSEYE

An established reference point from which the position of an aircraft can be determined.

BULLSEYE

An established reference point from which the position of an aircraft can be transmitted. Sometimes referred to as "broadcast control" if more than one bullseye is used, designate by Alpha, Bravo etc.

BUMP/BUMP-UP

A fly-up to acquire line of sight to the target or laser designation.

BUNT

A pushover maneuver.

BURNER

Directive to select/deselect afterburner (generally to fly at maximum speed).

BUZZER

Electronic communications jamming.

CAP/CAP(Location)

An orbit at a specified location. Establish a combat air patrol at (location).

CATA

Collision Antenna Trail Angle. The azimuth of your radar antenna when tracking (locked on) a target that is on a collision course with your aircraft.

CHAFF/ FLARE

Directive to deploy CHAFF and / or FLARES and deselect AB (Situation permitting). Often added immediately after directing a flight member to do a defensive maneuver. Also informative by one using CHAFF/FLARE(S) as a reminder to his partner to use them when necessary.

CHAMPAGNE

An attack of three distinct groups with two in front and one behind. The leading two groups are attempting to bracket with the trailing third group flying up the middle.

CHANDELLE TURN

A near vertical turn up, used to attack a high bandit from a medium to front quarter aspect. Does not require as much altitude separation as the Immelmann turn. Should terminate in a rear hemisphere weapons envelope with overtake.

CHATTERMARK

Begin using briefed radio procedures to counter comm jamming.

CHEAP SHOT

A qualifying statement to indicate the shot had low probability of success.

CHECK ( )

A directive statement made to momentarily monitor (specified items/systems).No response is required if status is normal.

CHECK LEFT/RIGHT

By GCI: Alter course ( ) degrees left or right momentarily for airborne search positioning, then resume original heading.

By Flight Lead: Alter course to new heading, 30 degrees if not specified.

CHECK ANGELS /FUEL

An information statement made by GCI to aircrew ng ACBT. No aircrew response required.

CHICKS

Friendly fighter aircraft.

CHRISTMAS TREE

Directive to briefly turn on exterior lights to enable visual acquisition.

CIRCLE (RIGHT/LEFT)

Flight-lead-directed defensive maneuver in which the flight establishes a circular holding pattern for mutual support.

CLEAN

No radar contacts; used to confirm a good battle damage check (i.e., no air-to-surface ordnance remaining on the wingman's aircraft).

CLEAR

No enemy aircraft are a threat to your rear quadrantthat is, your six is clear. Also used when flight lead is authorizing change of command or role swap for wingman from supporting to engaged.

CLEARED

Requested action is authorized (no engaged/support roles are assumed).

CLEARED DRY

Ordnance release not authorized.

CLEARED HOT

Ordnance release is authorized.

CLOSE CONTROL

The maximum degree of control that GCI can provide.

CLOSING

Bandit/bogey/target is getting closer in range.

COLD

In context; attack geometry will result in a pass or roll out behind the target; or, on a leg of the CAP pointed away from the anticipated threats. Air-to-surface, dry or no-ordnance attack.

"COLD" SIDE

The side of the RED opposite that where collision antenna train angle occurs.

COMEBACK HIGH/ LOW/LEFT/RIGHT

Informative call requesting the addressed fighter to reposition accordingly.

COMEOFF (Left/Right/High/Low/Dry)

A directive to maneuver as indicated to either regain mutual support or to deconflict flight paths for an exchange of engaged and supporting roles. Implies both "visual" and "tally."

COMMITTED/COMMIT

Fighter intent to engage/intercept; weapons director (WD) continues to provide information.

CONNING

Leaving contrails or otherwise marking aircraft position.

CONTACT

Radar/IR contact at the stated position; should be in bearing, range, altitude (BRA), Bullseye, or geographic position format.

CONTACT

Radar and/or IP pick-up at the stated position. Position usually stated in magnetic bearing, range, altitude (BRA), Bullseye, or geographic position format if locked on. Friend or foe unknown.

CONTINUE

Continue present maneuver; does not imply clearance to engage or expend ordnance.

CORNER VELOCITY

Minimum speed at which maximum allowable aircraft G can be attained. Minimum turn radius and maximum rate are achieved by most aircraft types at corner velocity. The F-16ås unique flight control character are such that it doesn't have a corner velocity in this classic sense. IMG SRC="/archive/images/img_arc-12/counter.jpg" alt="COUNTER" align=bottom hspace=5 vspace=5>

COUNTEROFFENSIVE MANEUVERING

Maneuvers which are performed by an aircraft under attack and which are designed to negate the present threat and proceed to an offensive position as the attacker.

COVER

Directive to assume briefed support position and responsibilities.

CRANK (Direction)

F-Pole maneuver; implies illuminating target at radar gimbal limits.

CROSS TURN/CROSS

A 180 heading reversal by a flight where aircraft turn into each other.

CUTOFF

Request for, or directive to, intercept using cutoff geometry.

DAISY CHAIN

Numerous fighters in-trail maneuvering for shots on one another.

DEADEYE

Informative call by an airborne laser designator indicating the laser is inoperative.

DEFENSIVE (Spike/Missle/SAM/Mud/AAA)

Aircraft is in a defensive position and maneuvering with reference to the stated condition. If no condition stated maneuvering is with respect to A/A threat.

DEFENSIVE TURN

A planned turn designed to prevent an attacker from entering/ remaining in the defender's vulnerable cone. This maneuver has limitations since it may allow arcing; however, done early enough and properly executed, allows defender to keep sight, makes attacker's BFM problem more difficult, and may cause attacker to overshoot.

DEPLOY

Directive for the flight to maneuver to briefed positioning.

DISENGAGE

Discontinue the current attack.

DIVERT

Proceed to alternate mission/base.

DOLLY

Data link equipment

DOPE

Directive to "delay the engagement."

DRAG/DRAGGING (Direction)

Bogey/Bandit maneuvering to 60 degress or less aspect.

DUKE IT OUT

Meet the enemy head on to engage.

ECHELON (Cardinaldirection)

Groups/contacts/formation with wingman displaced approximately 45 deg behind leader's wing line.

ELEMENT

Formation of two aircraft.

ENGAGED

Maneuvering with the intent of achieving a kill. If no additional information is provided (bearing, range, etc.), ENGAGED implies visual/radar acquisition of target

ENGAGED (FIGHTER)

Indicates the fighter or element is maneuvering to attain or deny weapons release parameters or is in the visual arena maneuvering in relation to the targetWC stops providing specific target information and continues with situation awareness information.

EXTEND (LEFT/RIGHT)

Gain energy and distance using proper energy profile with the possible objective of reentering the fight.

EXTENSION

A straight-line unloaded (slightly less than 1 G) acceleration maneuver. This maneuver may be interrupted by a series of checkturns so that the extending fighter can maintain sight of the attacking aircraft.

ESTIMATE

Using information available to provide data required, implies degradation.

EXTEND (Direction)

Directive to gain energy and distance with the possible intent of reengaging.

EYEBALL

Fighter with primary visual identification (VID) responsibility.

FADED

Previous radar contact is lost

FAST

Target speed is estimated to be 600 knots ground mach 1 or greater.

FEBA

Forward edge of the battle area as set during the scenario briefing.

FEET WET/DRY

Flying over water/land.

FENCE

Boundary separating hostile and friendly area.

FENCE CHECK

Set cockpit switches as appropriate.

FIGHTER DOPE

Request for bearing and range to friendly aircraft.

FLANK/FLANKING

Target with a stable aspect of 120 deg. to 150 deg.

FLARES

Flares have been detected or directive to deploy flares.

FLASH (MODE)

Temporary activation of IFF transponder on desired mode/code.

FLOAT

Directive/informative to expand the formation laterally within visual limits to maintain a radar contact or prepare for a defensive response.

FOLLOW DOLLY

Follow data-link commands.

FOX

Air-to-air weapons employment.

FOX ONE

Simulated/actual launch of radar-guided missile.

FOX TWO

Simulated/actual launch of infrared-guided missile.

FOX THREE

Simulated/actual launch of AMRAAM/Phoenix missile.

FOX FOUR

Bomber gunner has simulated firing on a target.

FOX MIKE

VHF/FM radio.

FURBALL

A turning fight involving multiple aircraft.

FUSELAGE REFERENCE LINE (FRL)

A basic reference line extending through the fuselage, parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aircraft.

GADGET

Fire control radar / Emitter of radar equipment.

GADGET SICK

Airborne FCS/ ground equipment is degraded.

GADGET BENT

Airborne FCS/ ground equipment is inoperative.

GADGET WELL

Airborne FCS/ ground equipment is working.

GIMBAL (Direction)

Radar target is approaching azimuth or elevation limits.

GO ACTIVE

Go to briefed Have Quick net.

GO SECURE

Activate secure voice communications.

GORILLA

Large force of indeterminable numbers and formation.

GREEN (Direction)

Direction determined to be clearest of enemy air-to-air activity.

GROUP

Radar target(s) within approximately 3 NM of each other.

GUN (Direction)

Visual acquisition of gunfire, AAA site, or AAA fire.

GUNS

An air-to-air or air-to-surface gunshot.

GUNS

Indicates a simulated guns shot.

GUNS BREAK

Directive call to perform a break out of the plane.

GUNS JINK or JINK (DIRECTION)

Directive call to perform gun defensive maneuvers.

HARD (Direction)

High-G, energy sustaining turn.

HARD TURN

Maximum G turn sustaining energy. Whether to use AB or not is a briefing item.

HARMONIZATION

The adjustment of a gun and sight of an aircraft so that when within effective range, the tracking index will indicate the impact point of the bullets.

HASSLE

Two or more aircraft involved in an air combat maneuver.

HAWK

Staying above the flight.

HEAD

Target with an aspect of 160 deg. to 180 deg.

HEADS DOWN

Call to infom aircrew that leader/wingman is head-down in the cockpit and wingman/leader is responsible for clearing.

HEADS UP (Direction/Altitude)

Enemy/bogey got through; no kill.

HIGH

Target above 30,000 feet MSL.

HIGH DEFLECTION GUNSHOT

Gun attack during which the fighter is firing as the bandit passes through the pipper at high angle-off. Tracking is impossible due to excessive line-of-sight rate of the bandit. High deflection gun shots normally terminate in close-in overshoots of the target's flight path by the attacker.

HIGH YO-YO

An out of plane offensive BFM performed to control overtake while closing from a low aspect. Also used to reduce aspect angle.

HIT

Radar return in search (A/A). Weapons impact within lethal distance (air-to-ground [A/G]).

HOLD DOWN

Directive to key transmitter for DF steer.

HOLDING HANDS

Aircraft are joined in formation, implies visual contact by all flight members.

HOME PLATE

Home airfield.

HOOK (LEFT OR RIGHT)

Directive to perform an in-place 180 deg. turn.

HOOKING (LEFT OR RIGHT)

Directive/information call to approach target from a single/indicated side.

HOT

In context; attack geometry will result in rollout in front of the target; or on a leg of the CAP pointing toward the anticipated threats (A/A). Ordnance employment authorized, expected, or completed (A/G).

"HOT" SIDE

The side of the REO where the collision antenna train angle is located.

HOTEL FOX

HF radio.

HOUND DOG

Call made by supporting fighter or a wingman indicating he has visual, tally, and a clear path to the bandit and is in an advantageous position to engage. Clock position and distance are normally added to indicate bandit position relative to the flight, or wingman position relative to the leader.

ID

Directive to intercept and identify the target; also aircrew ID accomplished, followed by type aircraft.

IMMELMANN TURN

A vertical turn up designed to solve a high angle-off and high aspect angle attack situation. Optimally performed, the Immelmann turn should terminate in the defender's 6 o'clock, within heat missile range and a relatively high energy state. Normally performed from head-on aspect with large altitude separation.

IN PLACE (Left, Right)

Perform indicated maneuver simultaneously.

INTERCEPT

An intercept can begin at virtually any distance beyond 15 NM. The object is to get outside of the enemy radar cone and prevent them from detecting your flight until you have launched on them within high Pk parameters. An advantage is maintaining formation integrity and isolating the threat to one side while also achieving a good altitude split in your formation.  

 

IN TRAIL

Perform suggested maneuver maintaining relative position in formation.

JINKOUT MANEUVER

Unpredictable maneuvers to negate a gun tracking solution. A series of changes in roll, pitch, and G performed to prevent an attacker from achieving a gun tracking solution. This maneuver will not be effective against missiles.

JOKER

Prebriefed fuel state above Bingo at which separation/bugout/event termination should begin.

JUDY

Aircrew has radar/visual contact on the correct target, has taken control of the intercept and only requires situation awareness information; weapons director (WD) will minimize radio transmissions.

JUDY ANGLE

Call made by the fighter stating the fighter will position himself in azimuth and GCI will provide range info to the target from the fighter.

KILL

Directive to commit on target with clearance to fire in visual or beyond visual range; implies hostile and ROE compliance; in training, fighter call to indicate KILL ROE has been fulfilled.

KNOCK-IT-OFF

Terminate any intercept/ engagement in progress.

LADDER

Three or more groups/contacts/formations in trail.

LAG CORNER

A maneuver, executed from an offensive position, where excess energy is used to drive to defender's blind cone, then a high G turn is used to solve angle off. This maneuver is only effective if the attacker has an obvious turn performance advantage.

LAG PURSUIT ATTACK

An attack geometry that will cause the attacker to fly behind the target. The nose of the attacking aircraft remains pointed behind the defender. (At some point a successful attack will usually have to transition to pure / lead pursuit.)

LAG ROLL

A rolling maneuver, executed from an offensive position, performed opposite the direction of target turn in an attempt to reduce aspect angle and/ or control closure. Used to achieve rear aspect heat missile parameters.

LEAD PURSUIT ATTACK

An attack geometry that will cause the attacker to fly in front of the target. The nose of the attacker's aircraft remains pointed ahead of the defender's aircraft.

LEAD TURN

A turn which is initiated prior to passing the opponents 3/9 line.

LINE ABREAST

Two groups/contacts/formations/aircraft side-by-side.

LINE-OF-SIGHT (LOS)

An imaginary straight line from an observer's eye to a target.

LOCKED (BRA/Direction)

Final radar lock-on; sort is not assumed

LOW

Target altitude below 10,000 feet AGL

LOW YO-YO

A maneuver, executed from an offensive position, used to close on the target aircraft by the effective use of cutoff and acceleration.

LUFBERRY

A circular stagnated fight with no participant having an advantage.

MAGNUM

launch of AGM-88 HARM.

MARKING

leaving contrails or otherwise marking aircraft position.

MAXIMUM TURNING PERFORMANCE

Turn performance during which the maximum obtainable turn rate is achieved.

MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE

Performance near the limits of the maneuvering envelope, includes minimum speed, maximum speed, low G, and placard G.

MEDIUM

Target altitude between 10,000 feet AGL and 30,000 feet MSL.

MERGE(D)

Informative that friendlies and targets have arrived in the same visual arena.Call indicating radar returns have come together.

MICKEY

Have Quick time-of-day (TOD) signal.

MIDNIGHT

Informative call advising that command and control functions (GCI/AWACS) are no longer available.

MIL ( Milliradian )

An angular measurement which subtends one foot at 1.000å (17.45 mils equal 1 degree ). Also, military power.

MINIMUM ATTACK PERIMETER (MAP)

An imaginary circle centered on the target which depicts the distance from the target at which rollout occurs and tracking begins. The radius of this circle varies with planned delivery parameters.

MISS DISTANCE (MD)

The distance and direction of bomb impact from the target due to imperfect release conditions.

MEL

Directive to select military power.

MORT

Simulated kill on a friendly aircraft in ACBT.

MUD (Direction-Type)

Indicates unknown RWR ground threat displayed; followed normally by clock position.

MUSIC

Electronic radar jamming. On AI radar, electronic deceptive jamming.

MUTUAL SUPPORT

The coordinated maneuvering of two or more aircraft to provide combined firepower and survivability. This coordination can be achieved via position, radio, fire control system or a combination of these factors.

NAKED

No RWR indications. Opposite of term "spike".

NEGATIVE CONTACT

Lack of radar and/ or SIF contact.

NO JOY

Aircrew does not have visual contact with the target/bandit; opposite of term "TALLY."

NOTCH (Direction)

All-aspect missile defensive maneuver to place threat radar/missile near the beam.

OFF (Direction)

Informative call indicating attack is terminated and maneuvering to the indicated direction.  

 

OFFSET (Direction)

Informative call indicating maneuver in a specified direction with reference to the target.

OPTIMUM TURN

A turn during which energy remains constant and turn rate is maximized.

OVERSHOOT ( Flight path overshoot )

Attacking aircraft is forced to the outside of his intended victim's flight path while attempting to achieve a shot. In a severe overshoot, the attacker's flight path carries him forward of the defender's 3-9 line and roles can be reversed.

PACKAGE

Geographically isolated collection of groups/contacts/formations.

PADLOCKED

Informative call indicating aircrew hqs "tally" and cannot take eyes off an aircraft/ground target without risk of losing tally/visual.

PAINT

Friendly AAI/APX interrogation retum.

PARROT

A military IFF transponder.

PERCH

Position from which an attack can be launched.

PICTURE

Situation briefing which includes real-time information pertinent to a specific mission.

PIGEONS (Location)

Magnetic bearing and range to a specified point.

PINCER

A tactic designed to maneuver an enemy into a defensive position by simultaneous attack from both sides of bogey.  

 

PIPPER

A HUD symbol representing an aiming line of sight. The pipper is in the center of the reticle.

PIRQUETTING

Rolling an aircraft about its longitudinal axis while pointed up or down at low G thus effecting a rapid change in heading when higher G is again applied.

PITCH/PITCHBACK (Left/Right)

Directive call for fighter/flight to execute a nose-high heading reversal.

PLACARD G LIMIT

The limiting cockpit G for the particular configuration.

PLANE OF TURN

Plane defined by the flight path of an aircraft and its turn radius.

PLAYTIME

Amount of time aircraft can remain on station.

POINT

Directive for an element to turn towards each other either as a defensive response or to reestablish a mutually supportive formation.

POP

Starting climb for air-to-surface attack.

POPEYE

Flying in clouds or area of reduced visibility.

POSIT

Request for position; response normally in terms of a geographic landmark, or off a common reference point.

POST ATTACK (Direction)

WD transmission to indicate desired direction after completion of intercept/engagement.

POST-ATTACK (DIRECTION)

Cardinal direction weapons controller assigns a fighter for the purpose of leaving the target area.

POST-ATTACK (HEADING)

Specific heading passed by the weapons controller after aircrew has completed the attack.

POST HOLE

Rapid descending spiral.

POWER

Reminder to set the throttles appropriately considering the IR threat and desired energy state.

PRESS

Directive / informative call to continue the attack. Normally given by supporting fighter in response to engaged fighter's statement of intentions and means he is in a position to attack should the engaged fighter's position deteriorate.

PRESSING

Term describing a delay resulting in releasing ordnance closer and/or lower to a target than planned.

PULLING

Descriptive of the situation where the bandit is behind the one stating "I'm pulling."

PUMP

A briefed maneuver to stop closure on the threat or geographical boundry while maintaining situation awareness.

PURE

Call indicating pure pursuit is being used or directive call to go pure pursuit.

PURE PURSUIT ATTACK

An attack geometry that will cause the attacker to fly directly at the target. The nose of the attacker's aircraft remains pointed at the defender's aircraft.

PUSH (Channel)

Go to designated frequency.

PUSHING

Descriptive of the situation where the bandit is in front of the one stating "I'm pushing".

QUARTER PLANE MANEUVER

A maneuver, executed from an offensive position, used to preserve nose-tail separation and a positional advantage for future maneuvering when presented with an impending flight path overshoot or to counter a reversal attempt by the defender. An aggressive, exaggerated rolling pull out of the bandit's plane of motion at close range to reposition the attacker's lift vector at least 90 degrees away from the bandit's plane of motion. This maneuver is often performed instead of a high yo-yo when the attacker realizes too late how quickly the aspect is increasing.

RADIAL G

The vectored sum of cockpit G and gravity.

RANCH HOUSE (Altitude)

Directive or informative indicating subject fighters will return to CAP.

RANGE WIND

That component of a wind that is parallel to the attack axisi.e., headwind or tailwind.

RAYGUN (Position/Azimuth/Altitude)

Radar lock-on to unknown aircraft. Request Buddy Spike/Naked reply.

REFERENCE (Direction)

Directive to assume stated heading.

REFERENCE (HEADING)

Heading to fly as directed by the flight lead. Reference 270.

RENO

Indicates that more than one radar contact is observed and aircrew is able to distinguish the assigned target from chicks. Does not imply sorted.

REVERSAL

A counter-offensive rolling maneuver designed to reverse roles on an attacker after he overshoots.

RIFLE

AGM-65 launch.

ROGER

Indicates aircrew understands the radio transmission; does not indicate compliance or reaction.

ROLLING SCISSORS

A series of rolling maneuvers in which each of two opposing aircraft is attempting to roll to his opponent's 6 o'clock. An energy depleting, maximum performance situation which frequently ends up in a slow speed, high AOA descent.

RUMBA

Ownship maneuvering and ranging (OMAR), F-15 angle on ranging (AOR), F-16.

RUN/RUNNING (Direction)

Directive/Informative

Perform a defensive maneuver to place the threat radar/missile on the tail.

SAM (Direction)

Visual acquisition of a SAM or SAM launch. Should include position.

SANDWICH

A situation where an aircraft / element finds themselves in between opposing aircraft / element(s).

SANDWICHED

A situation where an aircraft/element finds themselves between opposing aircraft/elements.

SAUNTER

Fly at best endurance. Loiter.

SCISSORS

A series of turn reversals designed to cause an attacking aircraft to overshoot and lose nose-tail separation.

SEARCH LEFT / RIGHT / HIGH / LOW

Search area indicated as briefed and report all contacts.

SEPARATE

Leave the fight/engagement due to loss of advantage, change of odds or situation. Similar to bugout, except bugout is usually permanent separation. May or may not reenter.

SEQUENTIAL ATTACK

Swapping of roles of engaged and supportive fighters as one or the other comes into a more favorable position to achieve a kill.

SHACKLE

One weave; a single crossing of flight paths; maneuver to adjust/ regain formation parameters.

SHADOW

Follow indicated target.

SHIFT

Directive to illuminate second target with laser designator.

SHOOTER

Aircraft designated to employ ordnance.

SHOTGUN

Launch of antiradiation (SHRIKE) missile by Wild Weasel.

SICK

Described equipment is degraded.

SIGHT PICTURE

Term used to describe the position of the pipper at release.

SIGNAL CHARLIE

Landing area is clear; commence approach. (NAVY air operations in control of airborne jets)

SIGNAL DELTA

Landing area is foul (not clear); commence standard holding pattern. (NAVY air operations in control of airborne jets)

SIGNAL BUSTER

Use maximum speed (burner for those so equipped). (NAVY air operations in control of airborne jets)

SILENT

"GO SILENT" directive to initiate briefed EMCON procedures.

SKIP IT

Veto of fighter commit call; used by radar facility when higher priority target is present, usually followed with further directions.

SLICE

An informative call for fighter to execute a nose-low heading reversal to reposition as stated . Often used to obtain a change in flight path direction while maximizing radial G and sustaining airspeed or accelerating.

SLICE/SLICEBACK (Left/Right)

Directive to perform a high-G descending turn in the stated direction; usually 180 deg. turn.

SLOW

Target with ground speed of less than 300 kts.

SNAP SHOT

High angle off Attack or passing gun shot. Attacker's turn rate does not equal defender's LOS rate, whether intentional or unintentional.

SNAP ( )

An immediate vector (bearing and range) to the group described.

SNAP VECTOR

A quick vector to the requested position.

SORTED

Criteria have been met which ensure individual flight members have separate contacts; criteria can be met visually, electronically (radar) or both. Final radar lock taken.

SPARKLE

Target marking by a gunship or FAC using incendiary rounds.

SPIKE

RWR indication of AT threat is displayed. Add clock position, and type threat (radar/heat) if able.

SPITTER (Direction)

An aircraft that has departed from the engagement.

SPLASH

Missile time of flight is expired or missile destroyed; target or bomb impact.

SPLIT

Request to engage a threat; visual may not be maintained, requires flight lead acknowledgement (air-to-air). Also, directive to begin briefed maneuver/attack.

SPLIT PLANE MANEUVERING

Two or more aircraft maneuvering in different planes of motion.

SPOOFING

Informative that voice deception is being employed.

SPOT

Informative that laser target designation is being received.

SQUAWK ( )

Operate IFF as indicated or IFF is operating as indicated.

STACK

Two or more groups/contacts/formations with a high/low altitude separation in relation to each other.

STATUS

Request for an individual's tactical situation; response is normally "offensive," "defensive," or "neutral" with number of targets. May be suffixed by position and heading.

STERN

Request for, or directive to, intercept using stern geometry.

STERN ONLY

Intercept will be completed using stern geometry. A conversion to a "CUTOFF" will not be attempted.

STINGER

Formation of two or more aircraft with a single in trail.

STRANGER

Unidentified traffic that is not a participant in the mission.

STRANGLE ( )

Turn off equipment indicated.

STROBE

AI radar indications of noise radar jamming.

SUNRISE

Informative call that command and control functions are available from GCI/AWACS (opposite of MIDNIGHT).

SUPPORTING

The act of assisting the engaged fighter in killing the bandit while maintaining overall battle situation awareness.

SWITCH/SWITCHED

Indicates an attacker is changing from one aircraft to another.

TALLY

Sighting of a target/bandit; opposite of "NO JOY".

TARGET()

Specification of sort responsibility.

THREAT (Direction)

(GCI/AWACS) Informative that an untargeted bandit/bogey is within 10 NM of a friendly.

TIED

Positive radar contact with element/aircraft.

TRACK

A series of related contacts indicating direction of travel.

TRACKING

Stabilized gun solution.

TRAIL

Tactical formation of two or more aircraft following one another.

TRAILER

The last aircraft in a formation.

TRASHED

Informative call; missile in flight has been defeated.

TUMBLEWEED

Describes one who is "NO JOY, " åBLINDå and rapidly losing situation awareness, in a request for directive commentary and orientation. Colloquially NO TALLY; NO VISUAL, NO CLUE!

UNIFORM

UHF/AM radio.

UPWIND AIM POINT (UAP)

A point on the ground whose distance and direction from a target represents an adjusted aim point, usually for wind compensation in manual bombing.

VECTOR

Aircrew request / WC directive for a cutoff heading to the entity described.

VIC

Three groups/contacts/formations with the single closest in range and an element in trail.

VICTOR

VHF/AM radio.

VISUAL

Visual contact with friendly aircraft. Opposite of "BLIND".

WALL

Three or more groups/contacts/formations line abreast/side-side.

WEAPONS ENVELOPE

The area around a target aircraft from which the attacker can launch one of his weapons and expect a high probability of achieving a kill.

WEAVE

Continuous crossing of flight paths by members of a formation.

WEDGE

Tactical formation of two or more aircraft with the single in front and the other aircraft laterally displaced on either side behind the leader's wing line.

WEEDS

Indicates that aircraft are operating close to the surface.

() WELL

Described equipment is functioning properly.

WHAT LUCK

Request for results of mission/tasks.

WHAT STATE

Report amount of fuel and/or armament remaining as requested; for training, repeat ordnance as follows:
# Radar = number of radar missiles shots remaining.
# Heat = number of IR missiles shots remaining.
# Gun = Gun on-board and bullets remaining.
# Fuel = pounds of fuel or time remaining.

WILCO

Will comply with received instructions.

WINCHESTER

Term used to report expenditure of all ordnance of a particular type.

WORDS

Mission-pertinent information.

WORDS

Mission-pertinent information.

WORKING

Wild Weasel is gathering EOB on a designated emitter.

ZIPPER

Acknowledge radio transmissions with two clicks of the mike button.