MARINE CORPS HELICOPTER AIR COMBAT DEVELOPMENT THE FIRST TEN YEARS

Beginning in 1978 Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1) was tasked to train experienced Marine Corps aviators in the most effective tactical employment of their current aircraft and weapons. As part of this tasking, a helicopter air to air combat syllabus was developed to counter threat aircraft. Iterive tactical lessons were compiled in September 1982 into the MAWTS-1 Helicopter Evasive Maneuvering Guide. Today, MAWTS-1 continues to develop tactics, train and certify instructors in all types of USMC helicopters and fixed wing aircraft. Equal emphasis is placed on aerial combat against fixed wing and helicopter adversaries. All USMC AH-1 helicopters have been modified to employ the AIM-9 "Sidewinder" air to air missile. The AIM-9 airframe change also allows detailed re-creation of air to air engagements on the Tactical Aircrew Combat Training System (TACTS) range. Efforts continue in the development of an air to air missile and TACTS capability for all USMC helicopters.