Circle orbitThe circle orbit is one available method of holding over a specific point. A circle orbit isn’t just a leader and a straggler; if you’re not on opposite sides of the circle you don’t have mutual support. The circle orbit has the lowest pilot workload as it allows the use of altitude hold autopilot, but it also offers potentially reduced mutual support. The circle orbit is not recommended where a hostile air threat exists.
In DCS world there are parts with mountainous terrain. Using a racetrack over there, will mask targets (and you will loss EOT Eyes On Target (or marking of the targets)), due to high ridgelines.
The circle orbit can be offset or overhead the target area. So far for the theory. But putting this into practice is far from easy (compared to racetrack attacks).
Entering the circle is relatively easy. Lead calls “circle” and turns hard into the wingman for about 135 degrees. The wingman waits until the lead’s nose passes him and then begins an easy turn into lead. Once the wingie starts his turn, the lead reverses back into the wingie, and the circle is formed. The turn in the circle is with 25-50 degree of bank.
Another way is; take spacing and enter an orbit over the target/IP/keyhole point, by going to trail formation. Use a weave to adjust spacing.Set your airspeed to allow spacing control. Altitude control to remain level with everyone else. To maintain a constant radius around a fixed point on the ground your bank angle will need to constantly change as a result of the constant change in your ground speed.
The keyhole CAS template with offset circle orbitThe keyhole is a quick and effective template that can be placed over the target.
The direction from the target may be given as magnetic headings or codeword axes (like A, B, C or D) from the target. The keyhole technique works as well for CSAR as it does for CAS. The threat generally determines the distance the CAS are required to hold from the target.
Or:
Circle around the designated target. Ideal for non-linear battlefields with “pockets” of enemy activity.
Overhead circle orbit1. Fly your A10 at 250 knots and Angels 12.
2. Place the target approx 2,5nm off your right wing. Use your TAD MFD (see MFD pic below) in 5 nM scale to achieve this (inner circle equals 2,5nm).
3. Roll your aircraft into a 25-50 degree right turn (see HUD pic below) and immediately engage ALT autopilot [LALT + 2]. Adjust bank when needed.
4. Set engine RPM to 90% to maintain airspeed (heavy jet).
Attacks are done individually with the flight lead clearing the person in. Everyone else remain in orbit. When cleared to attack, each pilot then maneuver to set his orbit roll in to meet dive parameters and FAC attack restrictions. In the pull off, the pilot regain visual on the person in front of him and climb back up into the orbit .
Base airspeed 240kt, MK82 45HA1, airspeed on delivery 350kt, DTOF 10.8. Track time is about 5 seconds.
ACD of 1.6 nM, aim off distance 0.3 nM