Wingman Tactics

 The benefits of flying with a wingman are innumerable. The ability for two or four fighter pilots to work in tandem allows for greater combat efficiency. However, poorly flown wing tactics can get you killed quickly. Some players don't like flying as a 'second element'. With online flying its tough to react or stay with your element leader while keeping track of other threats. Other players think that by flying in a support role, their opportunity to get kills is diminished. Flown correctly, this is not always the case.

 The "Rotte" is our basic 2 man-fighting unit. Comprising a leader (Rottenführer) and wingman (Rottenflieger). During cruise the two aircraft flew almost in line abreast about 200yd - 400yd apart, each pilot concentrating his search inwards so that he covered the others blind areas. In combat it was the wingman's duty to guard his leader's tail, while the latter did the fighting. This way the pair can break together, attack, or turn into each other for mutual defense.

 Two Rotte made up a Schwarm, with the leading Rotte flying to one side and slightly ahead of the other (finger four). The Rotte and Schwarm are both TACTICAL formations. Werner Molders developed the crossover turn. The turn begins with (see image below) "red" turning behind the formation, then green, then blue, then purple. Then reform the formation at 90 degrees from the original heading.

 He also staggered the Schwarm of each Staffel in altitude, which both improved the ability of the formations pilots to sight the enemy and made the formation itself less conspicuous in the glare of the sun. The formation leader was able to control his widely spaced unit by means of radio.

 Maintaining discipline in an online environment with high concentrations of enemies flying a variety of different planes types is tough. By reducing our fighting formations to pairs it increases our survival. However, each pair should always be aware of the other and offer support and cover as needed. Communication among pairs is important.

 As a squad we will form up in our Rotte, then Schwarm, then Staffel and head into battle together. When possible we will keep at least 1 pair high as cover and as a reserve. Most of the time this will be the senior Rotte. Not only can they provide cover but can control the Staffel. Regardless of who is on top, the person on top makes the call when to disengage. Each member of the squad must trust and follow his decision to disengage. The guy on top has a greater level of 'SA' and is in a position to recognize when its time to leave.