Ten Rules for Air Fighting facts for kids
Adolph Gysbert Malan (born 24 March 1910 – died 17 September 1963), known to everyone as Sailor Malan, was a brave South African fighter pilot. He flew planes during World War II. Sailor Malan became famous for leading No. 74 Squadron of the Royal Air Force (RAF) when the Battle of Britain was at its most intense. This was a very important air battle where pilots fought to protect Britain from enemy planes.
Sailor Malan was not just a great pilot; he also thought a lot about how to be the best in air combat. He created a simple list of rules for other fighter pilots to follow. These rules were so good that they were used by pilots all over the RAF Fighter Command. They helped many pilots stay safe and win battles in the sky.
Sailor Malan's Air Fighting Rules
Sailor Malan's "Ten Rules for Air Fighting" taught pilots how to be effective and safe in the sky. Here are his famous rules:
- Wait until you are very close to the enemy plane before you shoot. Fire short bursts of 1 to 2 seconds only when you are sure your aim is perfect.
- When you are shooting, think about nothing else. Keep your body steady, hold the control stick with both hands, and focus on your aiming sight.
- Always keep looking around very carefully. Be alert!
- Being higher than your enemy gives you an advantage.
- Always turn and face the attack. Don't try to run away by flying straight.
- Make your decisions quickly. It's better to act fast, even if your plan isn't perfect.
- Never fly straight and level for more than 30 seconds when you are in a combat zone. Keep moving and changing direction.
- When you dive down to attack, always leave some of your team members flying above you. They can protect you from attacks from above.
- Being able to take charge (INITIATIVE), being bold (AGGRESSION), following rules (AIR DISCIPLINE), and working together as a team (TEAM WORK) are the most important things in air fighting.
- Go into the fight quickly, hit hard, and then get out fast!
