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Double Attack
Marine Fighting Squadron 251

The double attack is executed by the section leader and wingman attacking the target in sequence, generally from an altitude advantage. The target is chosen by whichever aircraft is leading the attack.

1) The lead plane positions himself over the target and rolls in, while the wingman drops back to a trail position approximately 700 yards behind the leader and follows the him into his attack.

2) Upon completion of his attack run the leader pulls up to regain altitude. If successful, the wingman follows him back into position.

3) If the bandit evades the leader's attack, the wingman follows through with his own attack. If the bandit turns back onto the leader's six, the wingman is ideally positioned to pick him off.

4) If the wingman's attack also fails to destroy the bandit, the leader should be in a position to begin his second pass immediately. The process continues until the bandit is destroyed.

Ultimately, the idea of the double-attack is to force the target down and drain it of energy by forcing it to continuously evade incoming attacks. This pins the bandit down so it is unable to escape or neutralize position. The important thing is for both the leader and wingman not to attempt to follow the bandit if he evades their attack. If you don't have the shot pull out immediately to reset and let your wingman take his.

Do not allow too much separation between each plane and attack, as it can allow the bandit time to reset his position and regain energy. Additionally, do not attempt to make your attacks too close together, as it will not fully take advantage of the previous attack. In the initial attack both planes should enter together with sufficient separation for the wingman to react to the bandit's initial break. Do not attempt to commit to follow the bandit into a turning engagement. Regain your altitude while your wingman makes his attack.