Scrambling and ATC Comms

[TheBoat]

I picked up DCS a few weeks ago and have been really enjoying learning on the F-5. Lately I've been practicing my quick start-ups, interceptions, and gunnery on the built-in Airbase Defense mission. One question I've had as I play through it though is, from an accuracy/real-life perspective, if I'm told to scramble and get airborne ASAP, does the procedure still require that I contact the ATC and ask for permission to start-up, taxi, and take-off? Obviously since it's a game I know that I could just go for it, but what is the etiquette for comms in real-life or in multiplayer, where there potentially other aircraft in the area? Do I need to wait for permission, or is it assumed that all incoming and/or non-scrambling military/civilian aircraft will be rerouted out of the way and I would have clearance to get wheels up as fast as possible?

I appreciate any help or clarity anyone could provide.

[Tom Kazansky]

Welcome to DCS World.

I find your expectations and hopes about the ATC very refreshing.

But let me say ATC in DCS is not realistic yet. (Supercarrier is a different story and also WIP).

But to be fair: ED is working on a huge overhaul of ATC with no ETA.

I for one use ATC only to simulate immersion. Even though ATC ignores almost everything I do right and wrong.

So don't take it too seriously until the big update that most of us are looking very much forward to.

[Quati]

I think IRL it should always have 2-way comms with the Tower (except if the tower/comms itself got destroyed/jammed) even when Scrambling.

It wouldn't be helpful to lose the precious alert-ready aircraft on ground collisions, or during takeoff, when they are most needed.

 

Don't even know where to look for actual doctrine for this, but found this for now.

 

9-2-7. INTERCEPTOR OPERATIONS

Provide maximum assistance to expedite the movement of interceptor aircraft on active air defense (scrambles) missions until the unknown aircraft is identified in accordance with the policies and procedures published in FAA Order JO 7610.4, Special Operations.

NOTE-

The FAA and the military have mutually agreed to the implementation of policies and procedures for control of air defense interceptor operations. Effective coordination and cooperation between FAA and the military at all levels are essential if policy objectives are to be met.

1. The ADCF initiating the SCRAMBLE must identify the mission as an active air defense mission.
2. ATC services must be used for active air defense missions insofar as the circumstances and situation permits.
3. Upon request, the ATC facility must expedite transfer of the control jurisdiction of the interceptors to the requesting ADCF.

[Bucic]

@TheBoat Could you share the mission, please?