The Official F-15 Strike Eagle Handbook

by Richard Sheffield

The Break Turn

Minimum Speed: 100 knots above stall speed

Minimum Altitude: None

(Watch your energy level—you may have to increase power to maintain this turn for more than a second or two.)

A break turn is used to change direction as quickly as possible. Often used to avoid missiles or to outmaneuver enemy aircraft.

• Flying straight and level, apply full left or right stick (1).

• Hold the stick until the horizon appears vertical. Now pull back on the stick. You're now in a maximum performance turn at 90 degrees (2).

To maintain a Break Turn for more than a moment, you'll have to increase power. If you're already at 100-percent thrust, hit the afterburners.

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