Project CHECO Southeast Asia Report. COMBAT SNAP (AIM-9J Southeast Asia Introduction)
Abstract
Combat Snap is the code name used to identify (1) a development phase and (2) the introduction into Southeast Asia (SEA) of the AIM-9J tactical air intercept missile (AIM). From the start of the air superiority contest in early 1965 to its conclusion in January 1973, it was apparent to both commanders and fighter pilots that a reliable, close range, dogfight-environment air intercept missile was needed. AIMs in the USAF inventory had been designed for the Air Defense mission against a non-maneuvering target. In an attempt to resolve this deficiency, the Philco-Ford Corporation proposed, designed, and developed for Air Force acceptance the AIM-9J. The Air Force conducted preliminary testing of the AIM-9J under two programs: AIM-9J End Game II Development Program, August 1970, and Combat Snap (Phase 1), April-July 1972. The Chief of Staff, USAF (CSAF), authorized the introduction of the AIM-9J into SEA on 8 June 1972 under the code name COMBAT SNAP (Phase IIA). This report documents the need for, evolution of, and combat employment of the AIM-9J. Although this report is primarily concerned with the history of the AIMs' performance in SEA and the resulting attempts to improve the missiles, it must be recognized that the aircrew is a vital factor in the successful employment of missiles. Thus, the kill rate of the missiles is greatly influenced by the level of aircrew training in air-to-air employment of USAF fighter weapon systems against maneuvering MIG-sized targets. This training must include live missile firings against realistic targets.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 24, 1974
- Accession Number
- ADA486826
Entities
People
- John W. Siemann
Organizations
- Pacific Air Forces