General/Tactical Communication Revision 1

SOURCE — Tactical Communications Guide

Covers: Airspace Control · TACADMIN · Check-In · Force Packaging · Air-to-Air Communication · Brevity

Based on ATP 3-52.4 / MCRP 3-20F.10 / NTTP 6-02.9 / AFTTP 3-2.8, October 2024. Adapted for DCS.

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01 / Airspace Control

Airspace control is the exercise of delegated authority over designated airspace and users through control procedures and coordination measures to maximize operational effectiveness.

There are two methods of airspace control:

Positive Control relies on positive identification, tracking, and direction of aircraft within an airspace, conducted with electronic means by an agency having the authority and responsibility therein. It requires sensors to locate and identify airspace users in real time and communications to maintain continuous contact.

Procedural Control relies on a combination of previously agreed upon and promulgated orders and procedures. Examples include air defense identification procedures, voice and digital communications between aircraft and airspace control elements, and airspace control measures such as coordinating altitudes and restricted operating zones.

Tactical Command and Control (TAC C2)

TAC C2 agencies use positive and/or procedural control methods to control airspace and manage air operations. Throughout this guide, Controller is used as a generic term for the individual providing tactical control, whether airborne or ground-based.

Primary TAC C2 responsibilities:

• Enable the flow of forces to and from an objective area
• Provide threat warning information and maintain situational awareness
• Maintain SA of supporting asset status, threat information, and target area information
• Maintain air asset deconfliction to and from a working area

Transmission Types

All radio transmissions are associated with a call sign. There are three transmission types:

Directive — the call sign of the entity being directed is used.

 HORNET 2, TARGET NORTH GROUP.

Interrogative — requests a response; format is [entity speaking to], [speaking entity].

 MIKE, EAGLE 11, DECLARE NORTH GROUP.

Informative — provides information without requiring a response; format is [speaking entity].

 EAGLE 11, FUEL YELLOW.

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02 / TACADMIN

Tactical Administration (TACADMIN) consists of all processes and procedures that occur in the TAC C2 area of operations. It covers interflight and intraflight procedures and airborne mission preparation that directly supports executing the tactical mission objective. Examples include weapon arming, sensor management, and tactical communication checks.

Fuel and Weapons Status

Aircraft are assumed GREEN unless otherwise reported.

Status	Meaning
GREEN	Sufficient for continued mission execution
YELLOW	Approaching a level insufficient to continue execution
RED	Insufficient to continue execution

Aircraft must relay YELLOW to the controller. The controller is responsible for coordinating on-station relief before an aircraft communicates RED.

 RAMBO 01, FUEL RED, WEAPONS GREEN.

BRAA and BULLSEYE CallS

Tactical control format: Bearing, Range, Altitude, Aspect relative to the specified friendly aircraft. Used by the controller when information pertains to one specific aircraft, or in response to BOGEY DOPE, BRAA, SNAPLOCK, and THREAT calls.

Format	Bearing	Range	Altitude	Aspect	Declaration
BRAA	320	30 nm	20,000 ft	Flanking	BOGEY

Flight Check / Frequency Change

Station	Phrase
Controller	{CS} Push Button _
Flight Lead (interflight)	{CS} Push Button _
Flight Lead (intraflight)	Push {UHF/VHF, Radio 1/2} Button _
All flight members switch
Flight Lead	{CS} Check
Wingman	2
Element Lead	3
Element Wingman	4

Authentication (DRYAD)

Verifies contact with an allied unit. A challenging station picks a letter from the leftmost column and a second from that row. The responding station replies with the letter directly below the second chosen letter. The DRYAD table is issued in the pre-mission briefing. Pilots are responsible for initiating authentication with the controlling station.

Station	Phrase
Pilot	{Controller-CS} {CS} Authenticate E-A
Controller	Come back G
Controller	Authenticate J-U
Pilot	Come back R
Controller	Good Authentication

03 / Check-In Procedures

The purpose of check-in is to establish contact between aircrew and TAC C2, allow the controller to establish accountability, and pass critical mission information before handoff to the final controller.

Check-in accomplishes the following before and after mission execution: positive friendly identification via IFF and/or data link, ALPHA CHECK from BULLSEYE, safety-of-flight information, WORDS verification, and weather update.

Note: BULLSEYE cannot be used for initial position calls — only valid after ALPHA CHECK.

Check In ON TACC2 NET (MNPOPCA Format)

Full check-in includes: Mission number, Number and type of aircraft, Position and altitude, Ordnance, Playtime, Capabilities, Abort code.

If a flight is as FRAGGED an abbreviated Check-in should be used

Station	Phrase
Flight Check, then Authentication
Flight Lead	{Controller-CS} {CS} Mission Nr {MSN} {Position} {Altitude} {Playtime} {AS FRAGGED / WITH EXCEPTIONS} Request Alpha Check from Bullseye
Controller	{CS}, Identified Alpha Check Bullseye {Position}
Flight Lead	Same {Alpha Check}

If a flight is as FRAGGED an abbreviated Check-in should be used

Station	Phrase
Flight Check, then Authentication
Flight Lead	{Controller-CS} {CS} as Fragged, Request Alpha Check from Bullseye
Controller	{CS}, Identified, {Control Type}, Alpha Check Bullseye {Position}
Flight Lead	Same {Alpha Check}

If deviations exist from the tasked plan, check in WITH EXCEPTIONS and state the deviation:

 EXXON 1, MISSION NUMBER 6-1-1-1, CHECKING IN WITH EXCEPTIONS. (State Exceptions in plain langue)

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04 / Force Packaging

Roll Call

Roll call is initiated by the controller or MC at a predetermined time to confirm force accountability. Each flight lead or team lead responds with call sign in sequence.

 PACKAGE BRAVO WHISKEY, ROLL CALL.
 EAGLE. VIPER WITH EXCEPTIONS. BONES. GROWL. MOJO.
 VIPER, GO WITH EXCEPTIONS.
 VIPER MINUS 2.

Timing Changes

ROLEX — timeline adjustment in minutes, always referenced from the original preplanned mission execution time. PLUS is assumed. Not additive.

 PACKAGE WHISKEY ALPHA, ROLEX 10. (Original 1500Z → New 1510Z)

SLIP — time delay to an individual flight or element event. Not additive.

 HOSS 1, SLIP TOT 6 MINUTES. (Original 1500Z → New 1506Z)

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05 / Formations

Formation Splits

Station	Phrase
Flight Lead	{CS}, request split into {number} parts of {number} each
Controller	{CS}, report ready for {Right / Left Hand} {Split Type}

Vertical (Altitude)

Station	Phrase
Flight Lead	{CS}, ready
Controller	{CS 2}, descend {FL}
Flight Lead 2	{CS 2}, descending {FL}
Controller	{CS 2}, squawk {number}, identified
Repeat for each new flight

Lateral (Vector)

Station	Phrase
Flight Lead	{CS}, ready
Controller	{CS 2} for split turn {side} {degrees}
Flight Lead	{CS 2} for split turn {side} {degrees}
Controller	{CS 2} squawk {number}, identified
Repeat for each new flight

Join-Up

Station	Phrase
Flight Lead	{CS} requesting join-up with {CS 2}
Controller	{CS 2}, confirm join-up clearance for {CS}
Flight Lead 2	{CS 2}, {CS} is cleared to join up
Controller	{CS}, fly {heading} and climb/descend to {angels}
Controller	{CS}, report {CS 2} in sight
Flight Lead	{CS}, {CS 2} in sight, {position}
Controller	Visual join-up approved, report formation tight
Flight Lead 2	{CS 2}, formation tight
Controller	{CS 2} adopt callsign {new CS}

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06 / Air-to-Air Refuelling

AAR requires close coordination with the tanker around a pre-briefed Rendezvous (RV). SOURCE uses RV Alpha (Fixed Anchor) for all operations.

Tanker Orbit Stack

Level	Usage
ALPHA	Receivers departing · Emergency
BRAVO	Tanker base level
CHARLIE	Receiver evasive
DELTA	Receivers approaching

RV Alpha Procedure

Receiver: fly 2,000 ft below AAR altitude · follow controller heading · declare JUDY on radar contact · declare VISUAL when in sight · weapons safe and radar off · take ECHELON LEFT when authorized.

Station	Phrase
Controller	{CS} Proceed Tanker BRAA {BRAA}, RV Alpha, Tanker Freq {Freq} {Instructions}
Flight Lead	{CS} Roger, RV Alpha, Tanker Freq {Freq} {Readback}
Once flight has radar contact with tanker
Flight Lead	{Flight Name} Judy 1, Weapons Safe
All wingmen (in order)	2, 3, 4… Weapons Safe
Once tanker is in sight
Controller	{CS} Tanker {x} o'clock, report visual
Flight Lead	{CS} Nose Cold, visual with tanker
Controller	{CS} Roger, contact boom
Switch to DCS tanker frequency

Flight Lead must confirm Nose Cold with wingmen on intraflight before reporting to the controller.

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07 / Positive Identification (PID) and CDE

PID proves, to a defensible standard, that the contact is a legitimate target under the ROE. Proof may come from sensors, behavior, location, declarations, or higher authority.

Type	Description
Electronic PID	IFF interrogation, data link picture, NCTR, controller declaration. Most common form in BVR.
Visual PID	Confirm number, type, livery, armament, heading, speed. Requires merge or VID pass.
Ground Targets	Correlate with pre-briefed target. Controller issues Cleared to Engage before weapons release.

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08 / Air-to-Air Combat — Fundamentals

Air combat is primarily carried out by CAP aircraft. The two main mission types are DCA (Defensive Counter Air) and OCA (Offensive Counter Air).

Groups and Contacts

A GROUP is any number of air contacts within 3 nm in azimuth and range of each other. A CONTACT is an individual radar return within a GROUP. Single contact is the assumed strength for all GROUPs unless otherwise specified. A GROUP with three or more contacts is called HEAVY.

The PICTURE establishes a common tactical air image and describes the spatial relationship of GROUPs. It is always communicated in BULLSEYE format unless briefed otherwise.

Contact Declaration

Before a fighter can engage, a contact must be declared. Declaration is performed by the controller in response to a DECLARE request.

Declaration	Meaning	Engagement Authority
BOGEY	Identity unknown	Not cleared to engage
OUTLAW	Originates from known or suspected hostile area	Not cleared to engage; escalation criteria apply
SPADES	No valid IFF response on interrogation	Not cleared to engage; escalation criteria apply
BANDIT	Positively identified as enemy IAW theater ID criteria	Not cleared to engage; does not imply authority to fire
HOSTILE	Confirmed enemy; clearance to fire authorized IAW ROE	Cleared to engage
NEUTRAL	Positively identified as neutral	Not cleared to engage
FRIENDLY	Positively identified as friendly	Not cleared to engage
FURBALL	Friendly and non-friendly aircraft within 5 nm	Employment not authorized until resolved

A BOGEY, OUTLAW, or SPADES classification does not authorize engagement. HOSTILE is the only declaration that authorizes weapons employment IAW ROE.

Communication Cadence by Intercept Phase

Communication priority shifts between the controller and fighters depending on the phase of the intercept.

Phase	Priority Communicators
Pre-COMMIT / Marshal	1. Controller · 2. Fighters
Post-COMMIT / Push	1. Controller · 2. Fighter
Targeting / Weapons Employment	1. Fighters · 2. Controller
Merge	1. Engaged Fighter · 2. Supporting Fighters · 3. Controller
Post-Merge	1. Fighter Clearing Merge · 2. Supporting Fighters · 3. Controller

The Engagement Loop

The engagement loop is the core sequence executed by all fighter flights once committed and targeting is established. It repeats until the GROUP is splashed, leaves the area, or the flight resets. The tactic determines which steps are executed — the loop defines what is available.

TAC Range

Called at 60 nm (default) by the first asset to recognize the separation. Signals all players to prepare for targeting. Pre-commit SA building continues until this point.

Station	Phrase
Controller or Fighter	{CS} {Group Label} TAC RANGE

MELD

The flight lead directs all flight members to shift their radars from wide sanitization to focused SA on the assigned GROUP. This transition narrows the radar from maximum azimuth and altitude coverage to a tighter volume centered on the target. Sanitization of the surrounding airspace ceases until DROPPING is called.

Station	Phrase
Flight Lead	{Controller-CS} {CS} MELD
All flight members shift radar from sanitization to the assigned GROUP

SORT

The flight lead assigns individual contacts within the GROUP to specific flight members. Each member acknowledges with SORTED when they have confirmed their assigned contact on radar and are prepared to engage it. If a member cannot confirm their assigned contact, SORTED is withheld until resolution.

Station	Phrase
Flight Lead	(intraflight) FLIGHT SORT {Criteria}
#2	(intraflight) #2 SORTED
#3	(intraflight) #3 SORTED
#4	(intraflight) #4 SORTED

JUDY

Called by the flight lead when the flight no longer requires controller guidance to prosecute the intercept. From this point, the controller minimizes transmissions and provides situational awareness information only. JUDY is not always called — in some tactic profiles the flight may go directly from SORT to ENGAGE without releasing the controller.

Station	Phrase
Flight Lead	{Controller-CS} {CS} JUDY
Controller	Minimizes transmissions. Provides SA and THREAT calls only.

ENGAGE

Directive call from the flight lead to a specific wingman to employ weapons. Said on intraflight. The flight lead may also direct simultaneous employment by multiple members.

Station	Phrase
Flight Lead	(intraflight) {Wingman CS} ENGAGE
Wingman	(intraflight) {CS}

Weapon Employment

The firing aircraft calls the shot on interflight immediately after employment. The call includes shot type, GROUP label, contact description, BULLSEYE position, and altitude. The controller acknowledges with COPY SHOT.

If a fighter determines a GROUP HOSTILE and ROE has been met, the fighter may employ autonomously and include HOSTILE in the shot transmission.

Station	Phrase
Firing Aircraft	{Controller-CS} {CS} FOX THREE {Group Label} {Contact Description} BULLSEYE {Bearing/Range} {Altitude}
Controller	COPY SHOT
Autonomous HOSTILE employment
Firing Aircraft	{Controller-CS} {CS} FOX THREE {Group Label} BULLSEYE {Bearing/Range} {Altitude} HOSTILE
Controller	COPY SHOT

Multiple shots in one transmission are acceptable:

 SHADOW12 FOX THREE NORTH GROUP LEAD CONTACT BULLSEYE 2-7-0/20 TWENTY THOUSAND; SHADOW11 FOX THREE NORTH GROUP TRAIL CONTACT.

OUT / DEFENDING

Following weapon employment the flight turns away from the threat. OUT is a planned maneuver executed at a prebriefed range. DEFENDING indicates a reactive maneuver against an incoming weapon and is called with the cardinal direction of the defensive turn.

Station	Phrase
Flight Lead	{Controller-CS} {CS} OUT {Direction}
or, if reacting to an incoming weapon
Aircraft	{CS} DEFENDING {Direction}

DROPPING

Called in conjunction with OUT. Signals the controller that the flight has ceased monitoring the GROUP and is returning to sanitization radar settings. Monitoring responsibility transfers back to the controller. The GROUP becomes UNTARGETED if no fighter subsequently targets it.

Targeting responsibility is also implicitly cancelled when a fighter communicates BLOWING THROUGH, SPITTER, or executes an OUT.

Station	Phrase
Flight Lead	{Controller-CS} {CS} OUT {Direction} DROPPING {Group Label}
Controller resumes monitoring of the dropped GROUP
Controller	Resumes monitoring. May call UNTARGETED if GROUP remains a factor.

Assessment

After OUT, the flight assesses weapon effects from sensor data or controller reports. Three outcomes are possible:

Outcome	Action
GROUP splashed	Call SPLASH and proceed to RESET
GROUP remains a factor, follow-up shot required	Turn IN, re-establish TARGETED, return to MELD
GROUP has left the area or is no longer a factor	Proceed to RESET

IN (Follow-up Engagement)

If the GROUP remains a factor and the tactic permits a follow-up shot, the flight turns back toward the GROUP. The IN call re-establishes targeting responsibility and triggers a new MELD cycle.

Station	Phrase
Flight Lead	{Controller-CS} {CS} IN {Direction} TARGETED {Group Label}
Flight Lead	{Controller-CS} {CS} MELD
Re-sort as required, then return to ENGAGE

SPLASH

Called when weapon effects confirm the GROUP or contact is destroyed.

Station	Phrase
Firing Aircraft or Controller	{CS} SPLASH {Group Label or Contact Description}

RESET

Directs the flight to return to its prebriefed position or area of operations. RESET implies DROPPING and returns all targeting responsibility to the controller.

Station	Phrase
Flight Lead	{Controller-CS} {CS} RESET
Flight returns to prebriefed CAP position. Controller resumes full picture responsibility.

Common Calls

DECLARE

Inquiry as to the identity of a specified GROUP. Full positional data in BULLSEYE format must accompany all responses.

 MIKE, EAGLE 11, DECLARE NORTH GROUP.
 EAGLE 11, NORTH GROUP BULLSEYE 2-7-3/27, TWENTY-TWO THOUSAND, TRACK EAST, BOGEY SPADES.

BOGEY DOPE

Request for BRAA information on the indicated GROUP or the closest GROUP if not specified. Does not imply fighter targeting.

 MIKE, EAGLE 11, BOGEY DOPE NORTH GROUP.
 EAGLE 11, NORTH GROUP BRAA 2-1-0/28, THIRTY-EIGHT THOUSAND, HOT, HOSTILE.

NAILS

Fighter's radar warning receiver is detecting an airborne interceptor radar in search mode. Called with bearing or cardinal direction.

 EAGLE 1, NAILS 2-7-0.

SPIKED

Fighter is being actively tracked by an airborne radar. Called with bearing or cardinal direction. Controller correlates to a GROUP within ±30 degrees and responds with range, altitude, aspect, declaration, and GROUP name.

 EAGLE 1, SPIKED 2-7-0.
 EAGLE 1, SPIKE RANGE 17, THIRTY THOUSAND, HOSTILE EAST GROUP, TWO CONTACTS.

STROBE

Fighter is detecting an airborne emitter by direction finding. Response format identical to SPIKED.

SNAPLOCK

Fighter has gained sensor contact to a GROUP inside THREAT range with BEAM or hotter aspect. Requires immediate response. BRAA and aspect are implied by the short timeline.

 FREEDOM 31, SNAPLOCK 1-2-5/10, EIGHT THOUSAND.
 FREEDOM 31, THREAT GROUP BRAA 1-2-5/10, EIGHT THOUSAND, HOT, HOSTILE, TWO CONTACTS.

LEAKER

An airborne threat has passed through a defensive layer. May be called by fighters or the controller.

 VIPER 1, LEAKER BULLSEYE 3-0-5/65, FIVE THOUSAND, TRACK SOUTH, HOSTILE, TWO CONTACTS.

FADED and VANISHED

FADED — a previously tracked GROUP not updated by sensors for 30 seconds. The controller reports the GROUP as FADED with last known BULLSEYE position. Fighters maintain MONITOR responsibility if they can maintain correlation. FADED is not used for friendly aircraft — controllers use NEGATIVE CONTACT for friendlies not held on sensors.

VANISHED — a special case of FADED used when the GROUP is not in a known blind zone and is correlated to a friendly shot that meets parameters for successful termination. VANISHED implies the contact is assessed as killed.

COLD Operations and RANGE BACK

Fighters communicate COLD operations with FLOW COLD or FLOW with a cold heading:

 EAGLE, FLOW COLD.  or  EAGLE, FLOW 0-9-0.

During COLD operations the controller voices RANGE BACK — the distance from the closest friendly aircraft to the closest GROUP measured parallel to the fight axis:

 DICE 4, FOCUS, RANGE BACK THIRTY-FIVE ADDITIONAL GROUP.

Unexpected Contacts

Three distinct call types exist for contacts not part of the established picture:

Call	Criteria	Format
ADDITIONAL GROUP	Newly detected outside targeting range, or does not fit traditional label	BULLSEYE
POP-UP GROUP	Previously undetected; appears inside targeting range but outside THREAT range	BULLSEYE
THREAT GROUP	Undetected or unreported GROUP meeting briefed THREAT criteria	BRAA to the closest aircraft

 DARKSTAR, FIRST POP-UP GROUP BULLSEYE 2-7-0/15, FIVE THOUSAND, TRACK WEST, BOGEY SPADES.
 RAMBO 2, THREAT GROUP BRAA 2-7-0/13, ONE THOUSAND, HOT, HOSTILE.

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09 / Defensive Counter Air (DCA)

DCA is the use of fighter aircraft to defend a ground asset or airspace against hostile air threats. It is characterized by prebriefed lanes, defined range lines, and a structured flow of authority from the controller to the flight.

DCA Range Structure

All ranges are prebriefed per sortie. The following are the standard range lines used in DCA:

Range Line	Definition
Mission Fail Line	The line the enemy must not cross for the mission to succeed. Defines the maximum depth of the defensive problem.
Commit Line (CL)	The line at which a bogey is declared HOSTILE IAW theater ROE and the flight is authorized to commit. Prebriefed for all DCA sorties.
Targeting Range	The prebriefed distance at which all contacts must be intercepted. A GROUP inside this range with no assigned fighter is UNTARGETED. Prebriefed per sortie.
TAC Range	Default 60 nm from the closest fighter to the closest GROUP. Signals all players to prepare for targeting.
Threat Range	The prebriefed range at which an untargeted GROUP meeting THREAT criteria triggers a THREAT call. Prebriefed per sortie.

COMMIT Authority

COMMIT authority is derived from the combatant commander and delegated through the chain of command. Any of the following may hold or recommend COMMIT authority depending on what is delegated:

Role	Abbreviation	Authority
Mission Commander	MC	May hold or delegate COMMIT authority
Team Lead	TL	May hold COMMIT authority if delegated
Flight Lead	FL	May hold COMMIT authority if delegated
Controller	—	May direct COMMIT if delegated; otherwise recommends only

If only the MC, TL, or FL holds COMMIT authority, the controller may only recommend COMMIT. If the controller holds COMMIT authority, the MC and TL may only recommend.

DCA Flow

Lane Handover

When an outgoing flight is relieved on station by an incoming flight, a positive lane handover is required before the outgoing flight departs.

Station	Phrase
Off-going Lane Commander	{CS} MOVE FORWARD
On-coming Lane Commander	{CS}
On-coming aircraft may enter the lane. Lane commander authority has not yet transferred.
Off-going Lane Commander	{CS} YOU HAVE THE LANE
On-coming Lane Commander	{CS} HAS THE LANE

The off-going flight passes critical mission information to the controller before departing. The controller passes big-picture information to the on-coming flight before pushing them to the tactical frequency.

Pre-Commit

The flight arrives at its prebriefed CAP position with FENCE IN complete and radars in sanitization configuration. The controller holds picture responsibility.

Station	Phrase
Flight Lead	{Controller-CS} {CS} PICTURE
Controller	{CS} {Nr of Groups} {Group Label} BULLSEYE {Bearing/Range} {Altitude} TRACK {Direction} {Declaration} {Nr of Contacts}

The flight evaluates commit criteria continuously. Pictures are requested as needed to maintain SA.

Commit

Fighter, MC, TL, or FL-Initiated

Station	Phrase
Flight Lead	{Controller-CS} {CS} RECOMMEND COMMIT {Group Label}
Controller	{CS} COMMIT {Group Label} BULLSEYE {Bearing/Range} {Altitude} {Declaration} {Nr of Contacts}
Flight Lead	COMMIT {Group Label} {CS}

Controller-Initiated

Station	Phrase
Controller	{CS} COMMIT {Group Label} BULLSEYE {Bearing/Range} {Altitude} {Declaration} {Nr of Contacts}
Flight Lead	{CS} COMMIT

After COMMIT, fighters hold radio priority.

Targeting

The flight assigns GROUP responsibility and confirms classification. The tactical plan is announced on intraflight at the same time.

Station	Phrase
Flight Lead	{Controller-CS} {CS} DECLARE {Group Label or Bullseye Position}
Controller	{Group Label} DECLARED {HOSTILE / BOGEY / FRIENDLY / UNABLE / FURBALL}
Flight Lead	(intraflight) {CS} TARGET {Group Label} {Tactic}
Once group appears on radar
Flight Lead	{Controller-CS} {CS} TARGETED {Group Label} BULLSEYE {Bearing/Range}
Controller	No response if information correlates. Comparative response if correction is required.

If DECLARE returns UNABLE or FURBALL, weapons employment is not authorized until classification is resolved.

Engagement Loop

The flight executes the standard engagement loop as defined in section 08. The loop repeats until the GROUP is splashed, leaves the lane, or the flight resets.

Note: Targeting responsibility is cancelled when a fighter communicates BLOWING THROUGH, SPITTER, or executes an OUT. The GROUP becomes UNTARGETED if no fighter subsequently targets it.

THREAT Call

If a fighter will pierce THREAT range to an untargeted GROUP, the controller makes a THREAT call in BRAA format no later than THREAT range.

 HEAT 31, ADDITIONAL GROUP THREAT, BRAA 1-2-5/35, THIRTY-FIVE THOUSAND, HOT, HOSTILE.

If the THREAT is within 5 nm of friendly fighters:

 BOLT 1, THREAT NORTH THREE, TEN THOUSAND, TRACK SOUTH, HOSTILE.

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10 / Offensive Counter Air (OCA)

OCA is the use of fighter aircraft to suppress, destroy, or neutralize enemy air assets before they can threaten friendly forces. Unlike DCA, OCA is not lane-based and does not require a commit line. The flight pushes into the threat environment rather than waiting for the threat to approach.

OCA Range Structure

The same range lines apply as in DCA — Threat Range, Targeting Range, and TAC Range — but all are prebriefed based on the specific mission geometry and threat environment. There is no commit line or mission fail line in OCA.

OCA Flow

OCA does not have a lane handover or a commit phase. The flight checks in, receives the picture, establishes targeting, and executes the engagement loop.

Pre-Targeting

Station	Phrase
Flight Lead	{Controller-CS} {CS} PICTURE
Controller	{CS} {Nr of Groups} {Group Label} BULLSEYE {Bearing/Range} {Altitude} TRACK {Direction} {Declaration} {Nr of Contacts}

Targeting

Identical to DCA targeting. The flight assigns GROUP responsibility, declares, announces the tactical plan on intraflight, and calls TARGETED once the GROUP is on radar.

Engagement Loop

The flight executes the standard engagement loop as defined in section 08.

The primary difference from DCA: in OCA there is no prebriefed position to RESET to in the same sense. RESET in OCA returns the flight to the prebriefed holding or egress point as defined in the mission brief.

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11 / Intercept (VID)

A Visual Identification (VID) intercept is conducted when a contact cannot be declared HOSTILE or FRIENDLY by electronic means alone, and visual confirmation of aircraft type, markings, or behavior is required before engagement authority can be granted or withheld.

VID intercepts follow a structured sequence: the controller guides the fighter to a position from which a visual identification pass can be made, then the fighter reports the result and awaits further direction.

Intercept Flow

Commit

The controller or flight lead initiates the intercept against the unidentified contact.

Station	Phrase
Controller	{CS} COMMIT {Group Label} BULLSEYE {Bearing/Range} {Altitude} {Declaration} {Nr of Contacts}
Flight Lead	{CS} COMMIT

Guidance

The controller provides vectors to position the fighter for a VID pass. This is the only phase where the controller takes positive close control of the intercept geometry. BRAA format is used throughout.

Station	Phrase
Controller	{CS} BRAA {Bearing/Range} {Altitude} {Aspect} {Declaration}
Flight Lead	{CS}
Controller continues to provide updated vectors until fighter calls JUDY

JUDY

The fighter calls JUDY when radar contact is established and no further controller guidance is required. The controller minimizes transmissions from this point.

Station	Phrase
Flight Lead	{Controller-CS} {CS} JUDY
Controller	Minimizes transmissions. Continues to provide SA information only.

Tally

The fighter calls TALLY when visual contact is established with the target.

Station	Phrase
Flight Lead	{CS} TALLY {Position}

Identification

The fighter conducts the VID pass and reports the result to the controller. The report includes aircraft type, markings, and behavior observed.

Station	Phrase
Flight Lead	{Controller-CS} {CS} IDENTIFIED {Aircraft Type} {Markings / Behavior}
Controller	{CS} {Further Instructions / Declaration Update}

If the contact is identified as HOSTILE following the VID pass, the controller issues the updated declaration and the flight may proceed to engagement IAW ROE. If the contact is FRIENDLY or NEUTRAL, the flight disengages and returns to its prebriefed position.

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12 / Merge

A merge occurs when friendly and target aircraft arrive in the visual arena, within 3–5 nm of each other. At the merge, radar resolution becomes limiting and the engagement transitions from BVR to Within Visual Range (WVR).

Communication Priority at the Merge

The engaged fighter holds radio priority. The supporting fighter and controller subordinate their transmissions accordingly.

Role	Responsibility
Engaged Fighter	Calls the merge, manages the engagement, and calls employment and results. Holds radio priority.
Supporting Fighter	Provides SA to the engaged fighter. Calls PRESS when directed and mutual support is maintained. Subordinates transmissions to the engaged fighter.
Controller	Minimizes transmissions. Provides THREAT calls, SA updates, and responds to fighter requests only.

Merge Flow

MERGED

The controller calls MERGED when radar tracks come together within 3–5 nm, or the engaged fighter calls it when visual contact is made.

Station	Phrase
Controller or Engaged Fighter	{CS} MERGED {Group Label}

IFF Calls

At the merge, positive visual identification of friend or foe is critical before employment. Standard IFF calls apply:

Term	Meaning
TALLY	Visual contact established on the target or bandit
NO JOY	No visual contact with the target or bandit
VISUAL	Visual contact established on a friendly aircraft
BLIND	No visual contact with a friendly aircraft

PRESS

The supporting fighter calls PRESS to indicate the requested action is approved and mutual support will be maintained. PRESS assumes VISUAL on the engaged fighter.

Station	Phrase
Engaged Fighter	(intraflight) {CS} PRESS
Supporting Fighter	(intraflight) PRESS

Employment

Station	Phrase
Engaged Fighter	{Controller-CS} {CS} FOX TWO {Target Description}
Controller	COPY SHOT

Gun employment is called as GUNS with target description.

SPLASH

Station	Phrase
Engaged Fighter	{Controller-CS} {CS} SPLASH {Group Label or Contact Description}
Controller	{CS} COPY SPLASH

Following SPLASH the flight disengages, calls RESET, and returns to its prebriefed position unless directed otherwise.

09 / Brevity Words

Situational Awareness

Term	Definition
ALPHA CHECK	Verification of ownship position relative to BULLSEYE. Used at check-in to confirm navigation accuracy. ALPHA CHECK correlation is defined as within 3 nm.
ANGELS	Height of friendly aircraft in thousands of feet MSL (e.g., ANGELS TWENTY = 20,000 ft).
BOGEY DOPE	Request for BRAA information on the indicated or nearest GROUP. Does not imply targeting.
BRAA	Bearing, Range, Altitude, and Aspect relative to the specified friendly aircraft.
BULLSEYE	A pre-briefed reference point from which the position of an object is referred to by magnetic bearing and range in nm. Not to be truncated to "BULL."
CLEAN	1. No sensor information on a GROUP of interest. 2. No visible battle damage. 3. Aircraft not carrying external stores.
CLARA	Radar scope is clear of contacts.
CONTACT	Individual radar return within a GROUP.
FADED	A previously tracked GROUP not updated by sensors for 30 seconds. Last known position implied.
GROUP	Any number of air contacts within 3 nm in azimuth and range of each other.
HEAVY	A GROUP known to contain three or more contacts.
JUDY	Aircrew has taken control of the intercept and requires only situational awareness information. Controller minimizes transmissions.
MERGED	Friendlies and targets have arrived in the visual arena, within 3–5 nm.
MONITOR	Maintain sensor awareness on a specified GROUP or object. Implies tactically significant changes will be communicated.
NEGATIVE CONTACT	Used for friendly aircraft not held on sensors. FADED is not used for friendlies.
NO JOY	No visual contact with the target or bandit.
PICTURE	Request for a description of all GROUPs and their spatial relationships in BULLSEYE format.
PLAYTIME	Time aircraft can remain on station, given in hours plus minutes (e.g., ONE PLUS THIRTY).
TALLY	Visual sighting of a target or enemy aircraft.
VANISHED	A FADED GROUP correlated to a successful friendly shot. Assessed as killed.
VISUAL	Visual sighting of a friendly aircraft, ground unit, or ship.
WORDS	Directive or interrogative call regarding further information or directives pertinent to the mission or operating area.

Contact Status and Declaration

Term	Definition
BANDIT	Positively identified as enemy IAW theater ID criteria. Does not imply authority to engage.
BOGEY	Contact whose identity is unknown.
DECLARE	Inquiry as to the identity of a specified track or GROUP. Responses include: FRIENDLY, BOGEY, BANDIT, HOSTILE, NEUTRAL, UNABLE, CLEAN, or FURBALL. Full positional data (BULLSEYE) must accompany responses.
FRIENDLY	Positively identified friendly aircraft, ship, or ground position.
FURBALL	Non-friendly and friendly aircraft within 5 nm of each other. May be a response to a DECLARE request.
HIGH	Contact is above 40,000 ft MSL.
HOSTILE	Contact identified as enemy upon which clearance to fire is authorized IAW ROE.
LEAKER	An airborne threat that has passed through a defensive layer.
NEUTRAL	Positively identified aircraft whose characteristics indicate it is neither supporting nor opposing friendly forces.
OUTLAW	Contact originating from a known or suspected hostile airfield or area.
SPADES	Contact returns no or invalid IFF response on interrogation.
STRANGER	Unidentified traffic not a factor to the mission. Not included in the PICTURE.
FAST	Target speed 660–900 knots ground speed or Mach 1.1–1.5.
VERY FAST	Target speed above 900 knots or Mach 1.5.

Picture Labels

Term	Definition
AZIMUTH	Two GROUPs separated laterally at approximately the same range from the fighters. Named by cardinal directions (e.g., NORTH GROUP, SOUTH GROUP).
RANGE	Two GROUPs separated in depth along the threat axis. Named LEAD GROUP and TRAIL GROUP.
WALL	Three or more GROUPs separated in azimuth with depth ≤5 nm or closing. Outer GROUPs named by cardinal directions; inner GROUPs named MIDDLE GROUP.
CHAMPAGNE	Three GROUPs with two closest to fighters in azimuth and one in trail. LEAD GROUPs named with cardinal direction; TRAIL GROUP in range.
VIC	Three GROUPs with one closest to fighters and two in trail separated in azimuth. LEAD GROUP closest; TRAIL GROUPs named with cardinal direction.
BOX	Four GROUPs with two in azimuth closest to fighters and two in azimuth farthest. Named LEAD GROUP (cardinal) and TRAIL GROUP (cardinal).
LADDER	Three or more GROUPs separated in range. Named LEAD GROUP, MIDDLE GROUP (or SECOND, THIRD), TRAIL GROUP.
STACK	Two or more contacts in a GROUP with ≥10,000 ft altitude separation. Higher altitude stated first.
LEADING EDGE	The GROUPs the fighters expect to target in the upcoming intercept. Follow-on GROUPs are communicated as WAVES (SECOND WAVE, THIRD WAVE, etc.).
NEW PICTURE	Tactical picture has changed. Supersedes all previous calls and reestablishes the picture for all players.
ADDITIONAL GROUP	Newly detected GROUP outside targeting range that does not fit the current picture label.
POP-UP GROUP	Previously undetected GROUP appearing inside targeting range but outside THREAT range.
THREAT GROUP	Undetected or unreported GROUP meeting briefed THREAT criteria. Communicated in BRAA format to the closest aircraft.
OPENING	Distance between GROUPs is increasing.
CLOSING	Distance between GROUPs is decreasing.
WEIGHTED	Picture with three or more GROUPs where one or more GROUPs are offset from an equidistant arrangement. Accompanied by cardinal direction.
ECHELON	GROUPs in a traditional label that are not directly in azimuth or range with one another. Accompanied by cardinal direction.
PASSING	Two named GROUPs with a RANGE relationship maneuvering to opposite sides in a RANGE relationship.
CROSSING	Two GROUPs with an AZIMUTH relationship maneuvering to opposite sides in an AZIMUTH relationship.
JOINED	Two or more named GROUPs maneuver to meet and maintain GROUP criteria.
UNTARGETED	A GROUP inside targeting range with no assigned fighter. Used by the controller to flag priority GROUPs at risk.

Targeting and Responsibility

Term	Definition
COMMIT	Directive to move to intercept or engage a specified GROUP.
TARGET	Assignment of targeting responsibility for a specific GROUP to a flight or section.
TARGETED	Fighter has acquired the assigned GROUP and assumed responsibility for it.
TARGETING	Informative call; fighter is in the process of acquiring the assigned GROUP.
UNTARGETED	GROUP inside targeting range with no fighter assigned.
DROP / DROPPING	Stop monitoring a specified GROUP or emitter and resume search responsibilities. Targeting responsibility returns to the controller.
RESET	Proceed to prebriefed position or area of operations. Implies DROPPING and return of targeting responsibility.
MELD	Shift radar responsibilities from airspace sanitization to gaining situational awareness on the assigned GROUP.
SORTED	Sort responsibility within a GROUP has been met by the calling fighter.
BLOW(ING) THROUGH	Directive or informative call that the fighter is continuing straight ahead at the merge and is dropping targeting responsibility.
ANCHORED	Turning engagement at the specified location. Fighter is engaged and not flowing.
SEPARATION	Request or information call stating the distance in nm between two GROUPs or WAVES.
RANGE BACK	Distance from the closest friendly aircraft to the closest GROUP measured parallel to the fight axis. Used during COLD operations.
LANE CROSSER	A GROUP that maneuvers into a different area of targeting responsibility.
LANE RIDER	A GROUP that maintains a track direction on or near the boundary between targeting areas.

Employment

Term	Definition
ENGAGE	Directive to fire on a designated target.
FOX ONE	Semi-active radar-guided missile fired.
FOX TWO	Infrared-guided missile fired.
FOX THREE	Active radar-guided missile fired.
SPLASH	Missile has impacted. Target is assessed as destroyed.
SNAPLOCK	Fighter has gained sensor contact to a GROUP inside THREAT range with BEAM or hotter aspect. BRAA and aspect implied.
SPIKED	Fighter is being painted by an airborne radar. Called with bearing or cardinal direction.
STROBE	Fighter is detecting an airborne emitter on direction finding. Called with bearing.
MUSIC	Fighter is experiencing radar electromagnetic deceptive jamming from a GROUP.
METALLICA	EA is preventing fighter employment on a specific GROUP.
PRESS	Requested action is approved and mutual support will be maintained. Assumes VISUAL.
BANZAI	Execute launch-and-decide tactics with intent to maneuver into the visual arena.
SKATE	Execute launch-and-leave tactics.
DEFEND(ING)	Fighter is maneuvering defensively against a threat. Called with cardinal direction of defensive turn.

Maneuver and Flow

Term	Definition
BREAK	(Direction) Immediate maximum-performance turn. Safety of flight or to defeat a weapons solution.
BUSTER	Fly at maximum continuous speed without afterburner (military power).
GATE	Fly as fast as possible; use afterburner.
FLOW COLD	Initiate a turn away from the anticipated threat; begin COLD operations.
IN	Informative call that the fighter is turning toward the threat or target.
OUT	Informative call that the fighter is turning away from the threat.
CRANK	Maneuver in the indicated direction while maintaining radar contact on the bandit at the radar gimbal limit. Reduces closure rate while sustaining illumination.
NOTCH	Maneuver to place a radar-guided threat on the beam to defeat its Doppler filter.
TRESPASS	Aircraft has entered a known or pop-up SAM MEZ. Directive call to snap 180 degrees away.
SNAP	Immediate turn to the specified heading.

Status and Administrative

Term	Definition
AS FRAGGED	Unit will perform exactly as briefed or scheduled per the ATO.
WITH EXCEPTIONS	Unit will perform as briefed with stated deviations.
AUTHENTICATE	Request to verify contact with an allied unit using the DRYAD table.
BLIND	No visual contact with a friendly aircraft.
CHATTERMARK	Directive to transition from primary to alternate tactical frequency.
FENCE IN / OUT	Perform the combat configuration checklist entering or exiting the hostile area.
LOWDOWN	Request for the current tactical electromagnetic support or ground/surface picture.
MARSHALL	Holding at a designated point prior to mission execution.
NET SWEET	All players have checked in on the new frequency following a CHATTERMARK.
ROLEX	Timeline adjustment in minutes from original planned execution time. PLUS assumed. Not additive.
SLIP	Time delay to an individual flight or element event. Not additive.
TIMBER SOUR	Data link is not functioning correctly or not providing accurate surveillance information.
UNABLE	Cannot comply as requested or directed.
WORDS	Directive or interrogative call regarding further information or directives pertinent to the mission. Generated by TAC C2 and outlined in SPINS.