Air Refueling Receiver Execution
Module 2: Air Refueling (Receiver) - Flight
OBJECTIVE
Execute T-38C simulated air refueling as receiver including approach, contact, and breakaway procedures while maintaining position stability, proper communications, and demonstrating breakaway proficiency.
CONTENT
Maneuvers
- • Approach: 350 KCAS, 45° bank max, 10-20 kts closure.
- • Observation: Stabilize at 500 ft, 30° bearing.
- • Pre-contact: Transition to staging position.
- • Contact: Timed holds in stable position (simulated transfer).
- • Breakaway: Disconnect, descend clear, await rejoin.
Receiver Sequence
RECEIVER REFUELING SEQUENCE
- Join: Approach tanker at 350 KCAS
- Observation: Stabilize 500 ft, 30° bearing
- Request: "[C/S], request pre-contact"
- Pre-contact: Move to staging on clearance
- Contact: Move to contact on clearance
- Transfer: Maintain stable position (timed)
- Disconnect: Smooth separation on call
Position Stability Techniques
- • Small inputs: Avoid large corrections - overcontrol leads to oscillation.
- • Power first: Adjust power before attitude for position changes.
- • Reference points: Use tanker structure for alignment cues.
- • Relax: Death grip on stick causes overcontrol.
STABILITY KEYS
SMALL INPUTS
Avoid overcontrol
POWER FIRST
Then attitude
REFERENCES
Use tanker cues
RELAX
Light grip
Procedures
- • MFD usage: Navigation and fuel state monitoring.
- • SA maintenance: Visual signals, tanker communications.
- • Communications: UHF coordination with tanker.
- • AGSM: Awareness during maneuvering phases.
- • Breakaway: Immediate response to tanker call.
RECEIVER RADIO CALLS
"[C/S], request join"
Request to approach
"[C/S], stabilized"
In position, ready
"[C/S], complete"
Transfer complete
"[C/S], off right/left"
Departing tanker
COMPLETION STANDARDS
Trainees will demonstrate proficiency in receiver operations. Must:
- • Maintain headings ±10° during all phases
- • Maintain altitudes ±100 feet
- • Maintain airspeeds ±10 knots
- • Demonstrate stable contact position
- • Execute proper breakaway procedures
- • Execute proper receiver communications
Completion: Instructor confirmation of receiver proficiency per AETC standards
NOTES
- • Emphasis on position stability - no actual boom, focus on formation flying skill.
- • Scenarios include malfunction responses and turbulence adaptation.
- • Integrate with tactical formation skills from Module 1.
- • Practice multiple contacts to build confidence and stability.