I agree that SA is the single most important aspect of air combat. Indeed, ACM and air marksmanship are clearly subservient to situational awareness. Last night I spent two hours flying at A5. Let me describe my method of obtaining and retaining SA during an ongoing engagement.
Upon arriving in the tower, I study the map, taking time to not only determine enemy aircraft numbers and location, but direction and speed as well. At this point I make several decisions. 1) What aircraft will I fly. 2) How will I arm and fuel that aircraft. 3) What direction of takeoff provides me with the greatest advantage and/or minimal risk.
If there are enemy aircraft in the immediate area, I use the arrow keys to travel onto the tower walkway. I look up and in all directions to ascertain exactly where the enemy is, his altitude and study their movement. When I'm satisfied that I can safely take off, I spawn the aircraft on the selected runway.
While I wait for the engine to start, I continue to scan the sky around me. You can always abort by clicking on "Tower", should the situation suddenly deteriorate. Let me add a point about take off. I always engage WEP as soon as the wheels are in their wells, sometimes even at the beginning of the takeoff roll. Why? Because, I can maximize my speed and climb rate at the time when I am most vulnerable. There's no reason not to do this, especially if enemy aircraft are within 10 miles of your airfield. I disengage WEP when the temperature needle reaches the yellow zone.
Once you begin the takeoff run, do not get fixated on the other end of the runway. Keep scanning the sky for any developing threat. Using auto-takeoff allows you to "get out of the cockpit", so use it and don't let anyone tell its "dweeby". It's an advantage, and you should use every advantage.
If you are taking bombs, rockets or drop tanks, select them before you take off, and be prepared to pickle (drop) them instantly if the enemy should prove to be an immediate threat.
I constantly refer to the map to update my awareness of enemy movement and numbers. You are flying in a constantly changing environment. Always remain up-to-date on the changing dynamics in your area. Keep your head on a swivel.
Make a point to observe the behavior of friendly aircraft. You can gain clues as to enemy movement by watching what friendly aircraft are doing.
Be aware of the message buffer. It should be second nature to scan it frequently. I cannot over-emphasize the use of voice radio communication. Idle chatter has no place on the radio. However, everyone should use the radio to report enemy aircraft position and movement. Teamwork depends upon good communication.
I’ve had pilots ask me to tell them if I saw anything below them. I suggest that you actually look, by periodically rolling your aircraft 90 degrees, then scan for any enemies below you. Whenever possible fly with a wingman, or at least fly in the immediate area of friendly aircraft. Wandering around by one’s self is a sure-fire way to find yourself out-numbered and boxed in. If you elect to fly alone, fly high and select a fast aircraft. Don’t be embarrassed to turn away from a situation where you will be at a big disadvantage. Last night, I chased a 190D for 15 miles. As I closed down to 1,000 yards, I spotted 5 or 6 enemy aircraft ahead. I simply turned around and went on my merry way. The demarcation between brave and foolish is frequently very narrow.
Remember this: Situational awareness is not limited to enemies in the air. Be aware of those on the ground or sea.
Always assume that black dots in the distance are enemy.
Keep your head on a swivel.
Do not depend on someone else to inform you of an enemy aircraft. Look for yourself.
Keep your head on a swivel.
Do not expect to get “check 6” calls. Look for yourself.
Keep your head on a swivel.
Etc, and so on.
If you are flying a bomber, use the external view (F3) to scan for enemies.
ACM: Learn the limits of your aircraft’s performance. Then, learn yours too. The first cannot be improved upon, the second always can. Fly everything. You do this not only to master each type, but to learn its limitations so that you can exploit those limitations when fighting against that type. Study tactics and practice them.
Marksmanship: Practice, practice and practice some more. Learn the art of deflection shooting. I get more of my kills from off-angle shots than I do from shooting from directly behind. In fact, I prefer deflection shooting. Why? Because, it offers me far more opportunities to kill the enemy. It’s also required when using energy tactics, as you will rarely get a straight-up shot from the 6 O’clock position.
If you need help with learning SA, ACM and marksmanship, contact an Aces High trainer. Or, join a squadron that trains together on a regular basis.
No one is so good that they can’t improve.
My regards,
Widewing
