9.8
Battle Damage (BD) Check.
9.8. Battle Damage (BD) Check.
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9.8.1. Objective. Using mutual support, members of a formation inspect all aircraft in the formation.
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9.8.2. Description. Aircraft within a formation maneuver to inspect each other for damage, leaks, missing panels, or irregularities. Generally performed after aggressive maneuvering (i.e., Extended Trail, fluid maneuvering, or tactical) or combat ops.
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9.8.3. Procedure. Number 1 initiates the BD check using a radio call or the “check mark” visual signal either from route or fingertip. If in fingertip, make a slight check turn away from lead and climb only as necessary to visually inspect the top of the near side (e.g., just high enough to see the opposite wingtip) of the aircraft. Continue the inspection by dropping down to inspect the lower side of the aircraft; perform a cross under and inspect the lower and upper side of the opposite side of the aircraft. Number 2 must maintain nose-tail separation while inspecting number 1. Number 2 looks for any damage, leaks, missing panels, or irregularities. Upon completion, remain on that side and assume the proper formation position.
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9.8.3.1. If there are no discrepancies on number 1’s aircraft, number 2 passes a thumbs-up to number 1, indicating a “clean” BD check. If number 1 is not clean, number 2 will use the radio to describe any discrepancies. Number 1 then initiates a lead change and number 2 assumes navigational (Nav) lead while clearing for the flight. Number 1 then inspects number 2. Procedures for accomplishing lead changes, to include Nav lead changes, are described in paragraph 9.18.
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9.8.3.2. Single Pass BD check. If time or fuel is critical and the number 1 aircraft contains two pilots, the option exists to conduct a single pass BD check without a Nav lead change. In this case, the PNF in the number 1 aircraft inspects number 2 as number 2 maneuvers to inspect number 1, and the PF in the number 1 aircraft clears the flight path for the formation. This option should be briefed or directed before employed.
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