optimum speed for engaging threats

[sjpateys]

When flying into a hostile area towards a group of mixed targets, is it best to approach at a very slow speed or is it best to be at a fairly high speed say 120-140 kmh?

[Puddlemonkey]

Good question.

 

I have found about 80 to be a good speed. I tend to go in faster to start, to get to the point where I can launch. Then once launched, I slow down to 60 - 80. If you get too slow, you're a sitting duck.

 

Once I've hit the target, I put the autopilot into director mode, let off some flares and turn 180 degrees whilst also dropping close to the ground. Fly back out of range and repeat.

 

I'm not saying that's the right way - just a way that works.

[Wichid]

Good question.

 

I have found about 80 to be a good speed. I tend to go in faster to start, to get to the point where I can launch. Then once launched, I slow down to 60 - 80. If you get too slow, you're a sitting duck.

 

Once I've hit the target, I put the autopilot into director mode, let off some flares and turn 180 degrees whilst also dropping close to the ground. Fly back out of range and repeat.

 

I'm not saying that's the right way - just a way that works.

 

I do this but no need to for Flight Director mode. I'd never use that...

[sjpateys]

Good question.

 

I have found about 80 to be a good speed. I tend to go in faster to start, to get to the point where I can launch. Then once launched, I slow down to 60 - 80. If you get too slow, you're a sitting duck.

 

Once I've hit the target, I put the autopilot into director mode, let off some flares and turn 180 degrees whilst also dropping close to the ground. Fly back out of range and repeat.

 

I'm not saying that's the right way - just a way that works.

 

You're using almost exactly the same approach as me! I like to use FD when going evasive as well. Also my approach speeds are similar to yours as well, i.e. fast initially the slow down to around 50km/h when at the FEBA.

 

I must be doing something right then.

[sjpateys]

I do this but no need to for Flight Director mode. I'd never use that...

 

You're quite right that there's no need to use FD at all. In fact its essential really for using auto turn/ingress modes etc. But I and many other like the responsiveness of the heli when FD is enabled. I switch back n forth between the two out of pure preference really. Also it can get kinda boring with autopilots on all the time. Sometimes its fun to go in manually!

[Dejjvid]

Instead of switching on and off the FD you can just click and hold the trim button and release it when you're done maneuvering.

[sjpateys]

Instead of switching on and off the FD you can just click and hold the trim button and release it when you're done maneuvering.

 

yes I know you can but you get the pitching up and down when hard manoeuvring, which I can't get away with at all. I think the autopilots are brilliant 95% of the time i.e. when not manoeuvring hard/targeting etc. but I prefer fd for that.

 

Incidently I have tried holding down the trim but its a bit akward for me, but in any case that is the same as fd isn't it?

[Rusty_M]

It depends on the threats and topography of the area.

 

1 narrow valley with air defense units, no room to move and plenty fuel: my speed would be zero. I'll hover and use stand off attacks until I can move in safely.

 

Once I'm moving my speeds are similar to the above, although last night I got an IAS warning whilst in the middle of a rocket run. Still hit the target :D

 

It's probably best not to copy me, though. I'm not very good.

[sjpateys]

It depends on the threats and topography of the area.

 

1 narrow valley with air defense units, no room to move and plenty fuel: my speed would be zero. I'll hover and use stand off attacks until I can move in safely.

 

Once I'm moving my speeds are similar to the above, although last night I got an IAS warning whilst in the middle of a rocket run. Still hit the target :D

 

It's probably best not to copy me, though. I'm not very good.

 

Yes I love fast rocket runs! I think they're more accurate when you're flyin fast

[Devrim]

Instead of switching on and off the FD you can just click and hold the trim button and release it when you're done maneuvering.

 

Isn't holding a button more laboring than just pressing a button (FD-On)?

 

At the middle of missile attack (from SAMs) personally I have two choices. (1) Hitting FD-On and start escape maneuver (I don't want to limit my right-hand skills by tyring to hold a button), or (2) hitting Emergency AP-Off button and start escape maneuver.

[sjpateys]

Isn't holding a button more laboring than just pressing a button (FD-On)?

 

At the middle of missile attack (from SAMs) personally I have two choices. (1) Hitting FD-On and start escape maneuver (I don't want to limit my right-hand skills by tyring to hold a button), or (2) hitting Emergency AP-Off button and start escape maneuver.

 

I think you've hit the nail on the head with that one. I have the trim button on my x52pro HOTAS, and its definitely more awkward doing it that way than pressing/depressing the FD button!

[Devrim]

I think you've hit the nail on the head with that one.

:lol::D