The Importance of Dogfighting in Modern Warfare

The Role of Dogfighting in Beyond Visual Range (BVR) Fights

In a BVR fight, pilots must master the art of dogfighting by alternating between "committing" towards the enemy to deliver a missile and "defending" by diving to burn off missile energy. This high-speed, high-G maneuvering is crucial for maintaining an advantage in Basic Fighter Maneuvers (BFM) engagements.

Turns in and out of the fight are typically sustained, high transonic, and high-G, making for a formidable BFM fighter. Rate fighters like the F-16 and F-35 are particularly well-suited for dogfighting, especially when equipped with high off boresight short-range IR missiles.

Contrary to negative headlines, the F-35 has been evaluated to be superior to most 4.5 generation fighters even in simple BFM scenarios. Its advanced capabilities and technology allow it to sidestep traditional dogfighting tactics while still maintaining an edge in aerial combat.

The Versatility of Dogfighting in Non-Combat Situations

Dogfighting skills are not limited to combat scenarios alone. In non-combat situations, pilots may encounter the need to maneuver close to a non-cooperative aircraft, such as an aircraft with a broken radio or an unauthorized entry into restricted airspace. In such cases, dogfighting techniques become essential for safe and effective engagement.

Furthermore, dogfighting can prove valuable in shooting down less demanding targets, such as drones or cruise missiles, without relying on expensive missile systems. This ability to engage and neutralize threats efficiently adds an additional layer of versatility to dogfighting tactics.

The Role of Dogfighting in a Changing Battlefield

While modern warfare has become highly automated, minimizing human involvement, dogfighting remains a crucial skill for pilots. The ability to maneuver and engage in close-quarters combat is essential for situations where missiles cannot be used effectively. This may occur when facing more targets than available missiles or when confronting adversaries with superior stealth, electronic countermeasures, or cyber capabilities.

The importance of maneuverability cannot be understated, as it allows pilots to quickly turn around and point sensors towards opponents. By affecting the engagement envelopes of missiles, pilots can gain a tactical advantage in aerial combat scenarios.

The Persistence of Dogfighting Training

Despite claims that dogfighting is becoming obsolete, the training of pilots in dogfighting techniques continues to persist. Historical precedent and the idea of being prepared for every eventuality drive the need to train pilots in this skill. Operating expensive military hardware requires pilots to be prepared for any situation that may arise.

Furthermore, aerial dogfights still occur between air forces of comparable ability and close geographic proximity. The confrontations between India and P***stan in 2019 serve as a reminder that dogfighting remains relevant in certain scenarios.

Dogfighting plays a crucial role in modern warfare. Its importance extends beyond combat situations, providing pilots with the skills necessary to engage non-cooperative aircraft and neutralize less demanding targets. While automation has transformed warfare, the need for maneuverability and close-quarters combat skills persists. Dogfighting training ensures that pilots are prepared for every eventuality, even in an era of advanced technology and automation.