E-mail:info@virtualvf103.com
31 July, 2024

AAR – 30 July 2024 – Training

MISSION

    • (PRIMARY) Improve squadron ability to provide strike support in small AO via use of Key Template
    • (SECONDARY) Proper employment of unguided munitions
    • (TERTIARY) use of appropriate communications discipline

EXECUTION:

    • Depart CVN-71, check in button 5
    • Proceed direct to TEXACO1-1 (button 11, TCN 118Y)
    • Check-in Closeout button 5
    • Check-in WIDOW for tasking on button 16
    • Recover CVN-71 CASE I expected

SUPPORT/TANKERS:

    • Texaco 1-1 – 32.100 (button 11) 118Y

JTAC

    • Callsign; WIDOW

FLIGHTS

    • VICTORY 1
      • Gompass
      • Tiger (flying between flights)
    • VICTORY 2
      • Vesper
    • VICTORY 3
      • Burble
    • VICTORY 4
      • Dog Car

 AREA OF OPERATIONS

RESTRICTED OPERATIONS ZONE

 

SUMMARY

All Victory flights were given authority to operate in the AO as independent units and work individually with on scene JTAC.

After departing CVN-71, all units were directed straight to TEXACO 1-1 to top off prior to the commencement of operations. After each flight completed tanking operations, they were directed to check in with Closeout for pass-off to the JTAC.

JTAC assigned each flight a cardinal coordinates off the Echo point. Victory 3 was on Alpha, Victory 4 was on Bravo, Victory 1 on Charlie and Victory 2 on Delta.

Once called in by the JTAC, each flight was instructed to descend to an altitude of 500 ft. At 8 nm from the ECHO point, the pilot was to pull a 30° offset to the right or left and simultaneously pull a 30° nose up ascent in either mil power or with afterburners. At 4 miles from the target the pilot was to execute a wingover (130° AOB) turn to line their bomb fall line with their selected targets. When pipper was over the target each flight was to release their munitions and proceed off safe to the left of their target. In each pass, the pilots were instructed not to violate (move beyond) the ECHO point (for the purpose of deconfliction)

Each flight was given 5 attempts on targets. Overall, BDA was good with most targets hit. Victory 1 had two attempts with no munitions dropped due to issues with set up on those passes. Pilot and RIO have debriefed to determine cause and prepare for next training cycle.

All units safely returned to CVN-71 via CASE I procedures.

26 July, 2024

Welcome Aboard

NAVAL AIR STATION OCEANA, Va – – Fighting Suadron 103, the “Jolly Rogers” welcomed newest pilot MIDN AJ “Dog Car” Jenks on 25 July.

Jenks comes to the squadron after completing Primary Flight qualifications at Naval Air Station Whiting Field in Pensacola and Intermediate and Advanced Training at Naval Air Station Meridian in Meridian Tennessee.

MIDN Jenks reports directly to the squadron and will assume his final training requirements via the squadron’s Air Indoctrination Course. He will be flying an F-14B and takes control of the 157 ship.

We hope you will all join us in welcoming “Dog Car” to this storied squadron.

 

26 July, 2024

CMQ – Air-to-Ground

COMBAT MISSION QUALIFICATIONS (CMQ) – Air-to-Ground

The Combat Mission Qualification (CMQ) for Naval Aviators is a key phase in the training of our pilots. It’s designed to ensure that pilots are fully prepared to operate their aircraft in combat situations. This portion of VF-103 training is specific to the Air-to-Ground portion of the curriculum and is the last phase of a pilot or RIO’s training.

LANTIRN (RIO) / (PLT)

Unguided bombs

LGBs

      • GBU-10, 12, 16 and 24 Heatblur F-14 manual.
      • Setup (pilot and RIO)
      • Proper usage (pilot and RIO)
      • Radio call outs (pilot and RIO)
      • Hud/TID/Lantirn symbology (pilot and RIO)

TALDs

      • TALD Heatblur F-14 manual.
      • Setup (pilot and RIO)
      • Proper usage (pilot and RIO)
      • Radio call outs (pilot and RIO)
      • Hud/TID/Lantirn symbology(pilot and RIO)

Rockets

      • Zuni RocketHeatblur F-14 manual.
      • Setup (pilot and RIO)
      • Proper usage (pilot and RIO)
      • Radio call outs (pilot and RIO)
      • Hud/TID/Lantirn symbology (pilot and RIO)

Attack Techniques

      • Wing over attack
      • Oblique pop up attack
      • Wing level attack

All requirements for training can be found in the kneeboards and corresponding SOP document

How to install kneeboards: Copy the PNG/JPG files to your Saved Games folder under DCS>Kneeboards>F-14B

 

26 July, 2024

CMQ – Air-to-Air

COMBAT MISSION QUALIFICATIONS (CMQ) – Air-to-Air

The Combat Mission Qualification (CMQ) for Naval Aviators is a key phase in the training of our pilots. It’s designed to ensure that pilots are fully prepared to operate their aircraft in combat situations. This portion of VF-103 training is specific to the Air-to-Air portion of the curriculum.

Demonstrate proper interpretation of datalink

      • How to setup and use datalink can be found in the Heatblur F-14 manual. Link 4A & C Data Link (pilot and RIO)
      • Specific symbology displayed by data link can also be found in the Heatblur F-14 manual. TID Symbology (pilot and RIO)

Demonstrate proper radar/INS employment AN/AWG-9 Weapon Control System (WCS)

      • Range, Aspect, Altitude (pilot and RIO)
      • IFF usage (pilot and RIO)
      • Symbology (pilot and RIO)
      • Waypoint Attributes (SPD/HDG) (pilot and RIO)
      • TCS (IFF) VID (pilot and RIO)
      • TCS VID based IFF: TCS Setup & WEFT VID

Aim-54

    • AIM-54 Phoenix Heatblur F-14 manual (pilot and RIO)
      • Aim-54 Phoenix (pilot and RIO)
      • Proper usage (pilot and RIO)
      • Radio call outs (pilot and RIO)
      • Pros and cons of missile type (pilot and RIO)
      • Explain HUD/TID/VDI symbology (pilot and RIO)

Aim-7

      • AIM-7 Sparrow Heatblur F-14 manual (pilot and RIO)
      • Proper usage (pilot and RIO)
      • Radio call outs (pilot and RIO)
      • Pros and cons of missile type (pilot and RIO)
      • Explain HUD/TID/VDI symbology (pilot and RIO)

Aim-9

      • AIM-9 Sidewinder Heatblur F-14 manual (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge)
      • Proper usage (pilot and RIO)
      • Radio call outs (pilot and RIO)
      • Pros and cons of missile type (pilot and RIO)
      • Explain HUD/TID/VDI symbology (pilot and RIO)

A2A Techniques

      • Explain/demonstrate lead pursuit (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge)
      • Explain/demonstrate pure pursuit (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge)
      • Explain/demonstrate lag pursuit (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge)
      • Explain/demonstrate notching (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge)
      • BVR Timeline /A-F pole/Crank (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge)
      • Airborne Intercept Control Comunications (pilot and RIO)
      • Grinder Technique (pilot and RIO)

All requirements for training can be found in the kneeboards and corresponding SOP document.

How to install kneeboards: Copy the PNG/JPG files to your Saved Games folder under DCS>Kneeboards>F-14B

24 July, 2024

Mission Capable Qualification (MCQ)

Mission Capable Qualification or MCQ is designed to build upon the foundational elements of IQT. The pilot and RIO in training will be assessed on the following:

Perform AAR  .

    • Proper procedure day (pilot and Rio)
    • Radio call outs (pilot and Rio)
    • Proper procedure night (pilot and Rio)

Tacform

    • Check turn –  Perform tacform maneuvers (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge)
    • Tac turn (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge)
    • In place turn (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge)
    • Demonstrate combat spread (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge)

Fence In/Out checks – Check kneeboards

    • Radio call outs / CHECKLIST (pilot and Rio)

Electronic warfare Suite

Case I

    • Marshal stack (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge)
    • Proper pattern (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge)
    • Radio call outs (pilot and Rio)
    • Case I CQ Complete (pilot and Rio)

F-14 Case I reference

CASE III

    • Marshal stack (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge)
    • Proper pattern (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge)
    • Radio call outs (pilot and Rio)
    • Case I CQ Complete (pilot and Rio)

CASE III pattern

All requirements for training can be found in the kneeboards and corresponding SOP document

How to install kneeboards: Copy the PNG/JPG files to your Saved Games folder under DCS>Kneeboards>F-14B

 

 

23 July, 2024

AAR 23 July 2024 – Training

MISSION:
(PRIMARY) – Improve use of AIC as part of squadron Air-to-Air engagements
(SECONDARY) – Deploy AIM-54 in optimal conditions for engagement

EXECUTION:
Depart CVN-71, check in button 5
VIC-1 proceed to WP1
VIC-2 proceed to WP2

A/A ROE weapons RED/TIGHT

      • Weapons employment per CLOSEOUT tasking
      • Known Air Threat – Mig-21, Mig-23, F-4, F-14
      • Known Sam Threat – SA-6, SA-2, SHORAD

RECOVER CVN-71 – Case I expected

COMS LADDER: 1, 3, 5, X (FAD A/FAD B), 3, 1

WHEN FEET WET MINALT 26,000

SUPPORT/TANKERS:

      • Texaco 1 – 322.100 118Y
      • Texaco 2- 322.200 119Y

BULLSEYE

      • Callsign: Frisco
      • Marked as DP

FLIGHTS:

      • Victory 1
        • 1-1 – Mando
        • 1-2 Vesper/Seppo
        • 1-3 Gringo
      • Victory 2
        • 2-1 Gompass
        • 2-2 Tiger

AREA OF OPERATIONS:

Area of operations

Summary:

Victory flights departed CVN-71 and were granted direct route to CAP stations. Both flights stood CAP until directed into engagement by CLOSEOUT.

VIC 2 flight first engagement were three single groups. A MiG-21 and 2 MiG 29s. At 80 miles from engagement, VIC 2-1 took lead position with VIC-2-2 setting up a grinder with a 10+ mile trail. At approximately 55 miles from the MiG-21 VIC 2-1 engaged with a FOX 3 shot. VIC 2-2 also engaged with a FOX 3 shot when they were within range. The MiG-21 was able to defeat the missile and VIC 2-1 re-engaged this time with a FOX 1 shot at a distance of 13 nm. The MiG 21 was defeated. With 2-1 engaged with the MiG-21, VIC 2-2 engaged both MiG-29s with a FOX 3 shots. West group was defeated. The East group was not but suffered some sort of damage in the escaping the shot that they were seen parachuting from their jet. We did not get confirmation that the missile hit the target.

VIC 1 flight established their CAP at  VEGAS via CV Rendezvous. VIC 1 was called in on 3 single groups in VIC grouping. Lead and -2 led the engagement with -3 setting up a grinder of 10+ miles. Lead started the engaged the first contact at optimal WEZ with a FOX 3 shot and cranked left. -2 skated right at direction of lead. Lead’s AIM-54 forced the hostile MiG-25 to go defensive and crash into a hillside. -3 followed up the engagement with a FOX 3 shot at the western trail group – a MiG-29A. Unfortunately the hostile defeated the missile. – 3 then also skated out with Lead once more engaging this time with 3 FOX 3 shots that trashed the remaining targets in this engagement.

VIC 2 was enroute to re-establish its CAP when CLOSEOUT recommended a commit on two Iranian F-14s.  Without the necessary time to set up a proper grinder, -2 set up a combat spread but slightly trailing behind (~3-5nm). Both lead and -2 went with a FOX 3 shot with -2 TWS their target and lead on STT. Both Iranian F-14s got off their own FOX 3 shots. -2 was hit but not before his own shot struck and splashed his opponent. Lead’s target managed to evade the AIM-54 but was splashed with a FOX-1 shot from 10 miles when Lead went bonzai on the target. The second Iranian F-14 FOX 3s never hit their intended target.

VIC 1 re-established their CAP and were called in on their own pair of Iranian Tomcats. Each of the Hostiles Got off 2 FOX 3 shots before VIC 2 flight had managed to engage. Lead and -2 took lead and -3 took up a position in trail. -2 got 2 FOX 3 shots off. Unfortunately both shots were trashed. Lead went bonzai on the western most hostile and was able to get off a FOX 1 shot that defeated his target but was also hit by a follow up FOX 1 from the hostile. -3 came in and managed to get off 2 FOX 3 shots of his own but was hit by a follow up FOX 3 from the eastern hostile.

All remaining units returned to CVN-71 and conducted a CASE I landing.

LESSONS LEARNED:

    • Continual improvement of coordination with VF-103 and AIC still necessary.
    • Ensuring validity of target prior to taking shot – make sure you are firing with the opportunity for maximum success
    • Improve administrative work outside of engagement areas including interflight communications

 

23 July, 2024

Training

At our core we’re here to have fun but our approach to our squadron is based on a continuing training regimen that starts when a new pilot or RIO first joins the squadron.

Each pilot and RIO must complete all training and become FMQ’d before they are able to join Wing Wide events like our deployment. We have a comprehensive training program with support of dedicated Instructor Pilots to help everyone get through the training. By the end of it, not only will you be FMQ’d but you know the F-14B better then you did when you started the program.

VF-103 pathway to FMQ

There are a few requirements that have to be met as part of the training program and they are as follows:

      • Must complete IQT phase (with exception of FCLP) within 4 weeks of onboarding.
      • Entire training program must be completed with 16 weeks
      • Attendance for training especially during IQT phase must be at 50% of all training sessions.

Training will be conducted in a variety of environments. Majority of training for new aircrew will be conducted at the request of the individual student. Each qualification phase entails a group of skills referred
to as “GO/NO GO” criteria. Students will coordinate with qualified instructors for both lessons and practical applications of each skill.

In addition to training requested by the student, students are also encouraged to attend scheduled squadron training sessions which occur weekly throughout the work up cycle.
As a result of the varying levels of complexity in each phase, manners in which instruction is given can vary. Generally speaking, most training sessions will follow a certain flow:

      • Assigned material to review prior. I.E. vCSG-3 manuals and material, community created content, etc.
      • Further discussion relating to training topic.
      • Practical application of topic

Initial Qualification Training (IQT) covers the basics of flight to include:

      • Systems familiarization
      • Startup, taxi and airfield procedures
      • Flight planning & navigation
      • Communications
      • Field takeoff procedures
      • Administrative formations / Night Formations
      • FCLP

Mission Capable Qualification (MCQ) builds upon the skills learned in IQT and adds non-combat related flight skills such as:

      • Operational Navigation & Timing
      • Air-to-Air refueling
      • TACFORM
      • Basic strike mechanics
      • Section engaged maneuvering
      • Basic Fight Maneuvers
      • Carrier Qualifications

Combat Mission Qualification (CMQ) is the combat portion of training with focus on both Air-to-Air and Air-to-Surface training

      • Advanced strike mechanics
      • Air-to-Surface weapons employment tactics and techniques
      • Air-to-Air weapons employment tactics & techniques

After a pilot has completed training and joined the squadron as a line pilot after a period of 3 months they can choose additional pathways to continue their development. These pathways include:

      • Element Lead (can begin after 3 months of cockpit time)
      • Flight Lead (must have completed Element Lead qualifications)
      • Instructor Pilot (must have completed Flight Lead qualifications)
      • Landing Signal Officer

In the end, the goal is to provide you with as comprehensive a training program as you can get and enjoy it! We’re hear for the fun and appreciation of this fantastic aircraft. We want you to love it like we all do and we think this program will help you get there in the end.

23 July, 2024

Radar Intercept Officer (RIO)

A good F-14 Radar Intercept Officer (RIO) possesseS several key attributes and skills that ARE crucial for effectively fulfilling their role in the F-14

      1. Technical Proficiency: The F-14 RIO needs to have a deep understanding of the radar systems, avionics, and weapon systems onboard the aircraft. This includes being able to operate and interpret data from the AN/AWG-9 radar system effectively.
      2. Situation Awareness: Since the RIO wis responsible for monitoring the airspace and managing the tactical situation during combat, strong situational awareness is essential. This involves keeping track of friendly and hostile aircraft, identifying threats, and coordinating with the pilot.
      3. Communication Skills: Clear and concise communication is vital between the RIO and the pilot, especially in the various mission situations we find ourselves in. The RIO needs to relay information regarding radar contacts, threats, and mission objectives effectively.
      4. Decision Making: The ability to make quick and accurate decisions based on incoming data and changing circumstances is critical. This includes prioritizing targets, assessing threats, and determining the appropriate response.
      5. Teamwork and Coordination: The RIO and pilot operate as a team, so effective teamwork and coordination were essential. This involves mutual trust, understanding roles and responsibilities, and seamless cooperation during combat operations.
      6. Adaptability: Mission situations change rapidly, so the RIO needs to be adaptable and able to adjust tactics and strategies as necessary..
      7. Knowledge of Tactics and Strategy: Understanding of aerial combat tactics, mission objectives, and overall strategy is crucial for effective mission execution.

The F-14 RIO needs to be highly skilled, knowledgeable, and capable of handling complex and demanding tasks in a dynamic operational environment. Their role is integral to the success of the aircraft and the mission.

22 July, 2024

Pilot

The role of an F-14B pilot in the VF103 and vCSG-3 is multifaceted and demanding (and a whole lotta fun). Here are the key aspects of our roles:

    1. Combat Operations: Our pilots primarily train for all relevant air combat missions. Their responsibilities include engaging enemy aircraft and protecting friendly forces from aerial threats.
    2. Interceptor Missions: One of the primary roles of the F-14B is to intercept and destroy enemy aircraft. Our pilots need to be proficient in quickly responding to airborne threats, coordinating with VAW-126 AIC, and executing intercept missions to maintain air superiority.
    3. Strike Coordination: In addition to air defense, VF-103 is actively involved in strike missions. This could include coordinating with ground forces or naval assets to deliver precision strikes on enemy targets, using the aircraft’s capabilities to deliver munitions accurately.
    4. Surveillance and Reconnaissance: While not its primary role, the F-14B performs limited reconnaissance and surveillance missions via the TARPS pod. Pilots are trained to gather intelligence and provide real-time situational awareness to commanders.
    5. Carrier Operations:The old saying goes, if you can’t get back on deck, you’re not a useful Naval Aviator. Landing on deck requires specific training for carrier takeoffs and landings, which is considered among the most challenging maneuvers in aviation. Our pilots are proficient in both CASE I and CASE III environments
    6. Training and Readiness: Our pilots undergo rigorous training to maintain our readiness. This includes simulated combat exercises, proficiency in handling various combat scenarios, and continuous education on new tactics and technologies. Trainings are every Tuesday and Thursday night at 2000 EST. Pilots are required to attend 50% of all trainings
    7. Teamwork and Leadership: VF-103 pilots often work in pairs or formations, requiring strong teamwork and communication skills. Our leadership, Instructor pilots as well as Flight Leads, and Element Leads are, responsible for mentoring junior pilots and ensuring overall operational effectiveness.

Overall, the role of an F-14B pilot demands exceptional skill, situational awareness, and the ability to perform under high-pressure combat situations while operating from naval carriers.

22 July, 2024

Initial Qualification Training (IQT)

The first phase of your training is the Initial Qualification Training – IQT. It is essentially a familiarization flight. There are many aspects of of the training you will be required to know. It is assumed that you have basic familiarization with all systems of the F-14B.

All requirements for training can be found in the kneeboards and corresponding SOP documents
How to install kneeboards: Copy the PNG/JPG files to your Saved Games folder under DCS>Kneeboards>F-14B

IQT Requirements

Welcome Aboard

Perform a Cold Start on Primary Aircraft

      • Use correct radio call outs (pilot and RIO)
      • All systems started/alignment/lighting (pilot an RIO)
      • Review cockpit instrumentation (pilot and RIO)

Perform taxi and takeoff

      • Use correct radio call outs (pilot and RIO)

Perform Rendezvous

      • Running Rendezvous (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge)
      • CV Rendezvous (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge) – what speed is a CV rendezvous performed at?

Demonstrate non-combat formations

      • 2-ship parade (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge)
      • 2-ship cruise (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge)
      • Fighter wing (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge)

Perform Instrument Navigation -Heatblur Manual: Navigation

      • Preload waypoints (pilot and RIO)
      • Waypoint entry (pilot and RIO) – Understand what waypoints are, and what data can be attributed to a waypoint
      • TACAN (pilot and RIO) – Understand what TACAN is, how to set up a TACAN yardstick, different modes and when to use it, and what data it provides

Perform Visual Navigation

      • Medium Alt. Talk on (3000-10,000 ft) (pilot and RIO) – Demonstrate Talk on, waypoint usage “Contact lake, Contact river, Contact, airport”
      • LAT (>/1,000FT) (pilot and RIO) – Understand map features, BRAA, coordinate forms

Perform touch and go at airfield or FCLP

      • TACAN Nav – Marshal – Decent (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge)
      • 10nm Initial- Touch down – Parking (pilot demonstrate/RIO knowledge)
      • Radio Call outs – (pilot and RIO)