User Guide

In the AH-64D, the active Fire Control Radar system on the mast above the rotors
reads enemy positions during these bob-ups and marks targets on the TSD
display. Up to 250 targets can be stored simultaneously and uploaded via a data
link to command posts or other friendly craft.
When a forward observer has designated such a target, or when the co-pilot/
gunner is ready to fire off a missile, the helicopter simply rises a dozen feet or so,
acquires a visual, fires off its weapons and descends. Then, the pilot may speed
toward another masking object and repeat the process.
The bob-up maneuver was not originated by the Apache. In fact, it was used
during the Vietnam war by Hueys seeking to limit their exposure to ground fire. In
some cases, the pilot can fire weapons without exposing himself at all. A primary
example is the Hellfire missile on the AH-64D Longbow Apache. A forward
observer (either on the ground or in the air) can identify a target with a laser beam
and transmit target information to a nearby attack helicopter. From hiding, the
Apache can launch a Hellfire, which will travel over the terrain and seek out its
preprogrammed target.
To activate the Bob-Up IHADSS mode, press s6. See Bob-Up IHADSS
Mode, p. 2.19.
Pop Sideways
Similar to the bob-up, the pop sideways maneuver allows the pilot to hide behind
cover, emerging only to acquire targets and fire. The main difference is that in this
maneuver, the movement into the open is sideways instead of vertical. This tactic
requires a nearly perfect touch on the cyclic control and crashes are a real danger
because of the lower altitude. However, less altitude translates into a better safety
margin for the helicopter by limiting the line of sight of the enemy.
Air-To-Air Tactics
Because the skies offer little protection, air-to-air battles require vastly different
tactics than air-to-ground battles. Your best strategy is to avoid air confrontation
completely, and failing that, to destroy the enemy before he has a chance to fire at
you. If you are unable to kill an enemy aircraft quickly, head for friendly airspace.
If you do find yourself under air attack, the following tactics may help you.
A helicopter’s best tactics in the air depend on what type of enemy it faces. In
fighter-helicopter battles, the helicopter operates in a strictly defensive role and
attacks only if the situation permits. Helicopter-to-helicopter battles, however, can
lead to drawn out contests in which the pilots fight for supremacy.
No matter what type of air-to-air combat he participates in, the helicopter pilot
must take advantage of the craft’s maneuverability and rely on proven flight
maneuvers.
LONGBOW 2
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