I1004 GROUND RECEIVER ~1.0 hours

Air Refueling Receiver Procedures

Module 2: Air Refueling (Receiver) - Ground Instruction

OBJECTIVE

Execute T-38C simulated refueling as receiver, adapting joins for approach, contacts, and emergencies while emphasizing position stability, communications, and breakaway procedures without actual boom hardware.

CONTENT

Receiver Approach Procedures

  • • Closure control: Manage overtake rate during approach.
  • • Override: Slight power addition if falling behind.
  • • Approach speed: 350 KCAS, 45° bank intercept max.
  • • Observation position: 500 ft, 30° bearing from tanker.

RECEIVER APPROACH PARAMETERS

Approach Speed: 350 KCAS
Max Bank: 45°
Obs Position: 500 ft/30°
Closure: 10-20 kts

Contact Procedures

  • • Normal contact: Smooth transition from pre-contact to contact position.
  • • Override contact: Aggressive join when time-critical.
  • • Pilot director lights: Follow tanker's PDL for position guidance.
  • • Stability: Small, smooth corrections - avoid overcontrolling.

PILOT DIRECTOR LIGHTS (PDL)

GREEN

On position

AMBER

Correction needed

RED

Breakaway

Disconnect Procedures

  • • Normal disconnect: Tanker initiates, receiver maintains position until clear.
  • • Receiver disconnect: Request via radio if needed.
  • • Post-disconnect: Smooth transition to observation or depart.

Contingencies

  • • Breakaway: Immediate separation on tanker call or safety concern.
  • • Boom instability: Excessive azimuth/elevation movements require disconnect.
  • • Turbulence: Moderate-severe may require spacing increase or abort.
  • • Lost comm: Follow visual signals, RTB if unable.

RECEIVER BREAKAWAY

  1. Tanker calls "Breakaway x3" and flashes lights
  2. Receiver: Throttle IDLE
  3. Receiver: Speed brakes OUT
  4. Receiver: Descend clear of tanker flight path
  5. Maintain visual, await rejoin clearance

Procedures

  • • Radio/visual signals: PDL interpretation, verbal backup.
  • • Turbulence awareness: Adjust technique for conditions.
  • • AGSM: Awareness during maneuvering phases.
  • • Deconfliction: Maintain safe separation during all phases.
  • • Track planning: Coordinate with tanker for refueling windows.

COMPLETION STANDARDS

Trainees will demonstrate understanding through oral quizzing. Must be able to:

  • • Explain receiver approach procedures and parameters
  • • Describe contact procedures including PDL interpretation
  • • Explain breakaway procedures and contingencies
  • • Describe simulation adaptations (stable formation = "contact")

Completion: Demonstrate understanding via oral quizzing per vTAC vAETC standards

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