Group
Used when anti-air threats are possible. The aircraft approaches, fires ordnance (typically rockets), then immediately turns away before crossing over the target. The distance of the break depends on enemy threat range, reducing exposure to return fire.
Used when enemy anti-air threats are minimal or absent. The aircraft flies directly at the target, fires forward-facing weapons like rockets or cannons, and exits by flying over or near the target. Other ordnance such as bombs may be dropped using this method.
Dive attacks improve accuracy for rockets, bombs, and cannon fire by tightening the impact pattern and reducing timing errors.
Two primary dive attack profiles are used:
Steeper dives increase accuracy but reduce reaction time. Balance dive angle, speed, and weapon type for safe, effective strikes. Laser-guided bombs benefit from altitude; cannon fire spreads more at longer ranges.