3: Dynamic Launch Zone Basics

[Sharpe]

When utilising missiles (including A-G missiles and even some glide bombs) a Dynamic Launch Zone is often provided. They are not always the same, depending on the weapon type. When using an AMRAAM on the F16, the HUD and FCR provides the pilot with a lot of valuable information. For the purposes of AFJT it is not important to understand every item in detail. However, understanding how to interpret the Dynamic Launch Zone (DLZ) helpful and is thus covered during AFJT. In fact, in AFJT#2 the initial engagement is set up to provide Student Pilots with an opportunity to better understand what the DLZ is showing the pilot and the ‘so what’ factors. More detail is available in the knowledge base and much is covered during the 3(F) Sqn TOPGUN advanced training course.

The information here is derived from the DCS F16 manual and the 'F16A-B Block 20 MLU Pilots Guide’.

HUD Symbology: The Dynamic Launch Zone (DLZ)
Where do I find the Dynamic Launch Zone? When using an AMRAAM, the DLZ can be seen on the right side of the HUD, and also, on the right side of the FCR. See image below of the DLZ in the HUD:

DLZ HUD.png (167.11 KiB) Viewed 1076 times

The Dynamic Launch Zones provides ranging information relative to the selected missile and when interpreted correctly provides an idea of when a missile will be at its most optimal.
See below the DLZ present in Falcon BMS:

BMS DLZ.png (23.74 KiB) Viewed 1076 times

Interpreting the information on the DLZ:
A caret (pointing right) will ‘fall’ down the DLZ with (typically) a three/four-digit number next to it this is the Target Range Cue. The TRC shows the position of your locked target on the DLZ, and the closure speed between you and the locked target. Note at the top of the DLZ is a readout showing 5/10/20/40/80/160. This is the range your radar (and thus the DLZ) is using.

RAERO (Range Aerodynamic): Represents the max kinematic range of the missile, thus the longest-range shot having a chance to hit the target. This is assuming the target doesn't manoeuvre, the pilot performs optimal loft/steering and the missile will result in Nominal Termination Criteria.

ROPT (Range Optimal): Basically, the same as RAERO but with High Termination Criteria this time.

RPI (Range Probability of Intercept): Same as ROPT but without having to loft or make azimuth changes. We still assume the target is non-manoeuvring.

RTR (Range Turn and Run): Represents the max range shot, assuming the target turns away from your aircraft to tail aspect at launch, could also be loosely interpreted as ‘range of no escape’ although this is not an accurate description as the defending aircraft may still evade the incoming missile.

RMIN (Range Minimum): Speaks for itself.