Fighter Combat - Tactics and Maneuvering

FIGHTER MISSIONS 337
already been considered; this discussion focuses on other fighter-escort
concepts. In general, there are four types of escorts which have evolved and
been proven useful for the strike-escort mission. Here they are called
reception escort, remote escort, detached escort, and close escort. The
reception escort has the task of meeting the strike force as it returns from
the target and guarding its retreat from pursuing enemy fighters. The
remote escort may take the form of a fighter sweep ahead of, or along the
flanks of, the strike group, proceeding along with the main body, but
generally not within visual range. Remote escorts may also be stationed
over a fixed geographical point along a line between the strike group and
enemy airfields, or between the intended target and enemy bases, in the
more conventional CAP role. The detached escort is positioned closer to
the main body, normally within visual range. Its duty is to intercept and
engage hostile fighters at the most likely points of attack. The close escort,
as the name implies, is tied closely to the strike force for terminal defense,
analogous to the overhead CAP in point defense. Any or all these concepts
of escort, as well as independent fighter sweeps, may be employed, depending
on the available assets and the expected opposition.
Reception Escort
The reception escort is intended to provide defensive reinforcements at a
time when they are likely to be needed badly. Heavy opposition tends to
deplete and scatter escorting fighters, reducing their effectiveness. The
main body is also likely to be more spread out because of damaged aircraft
and stragglers, making it more difficult to defend. In addition, many of the
original escorts may be low on fuel or ammo, or they may be damaged
themselves, resulting in reduced effectiveness. A reception escort can also
furnish protection for penetration bombers on their withdrawal, often by
conducting a sweep of the egress corridors. Even though the strike mission
is essentially complete at this point, the enemy may still achieve his
objective if he can inflict severe enough casualties during this vulnerable
period to prevent further strikes. The reception escort provides a fresh
defense, added protection for damaged and straggling aircraft, and discouragement
for enemy intruders that may be shadowing the returning
strike force. This mission is often assigned to GAIs that have been retained
during the strike as part of the home-field defenses. The range and sophistication
of these aircraft can be considerably inferior to those of the primary
escort fighters.
We introduced "Fighter reception": fighter squadrons or wings were sometimes
sent right up to the English coast to meet the often broken-up and
battered formations on their return journey, to protect them from pursuing
enemy fighters.
Lt. General Adolph Galland, Luftwaffe
Remote Escort
The remote escort quite often begins as a fighter sweep that is timed to
proceed some distance in advance of the main body. Its route of flight
generally follows that of the strike group, but it may be diverted at some