bsq -> RE: Release altitude Nimrod (1/13/2014 7:02:36 PM)
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We had 2 types of launcher. Fixed (single shot, pressurised) x2 and Rotary (six shot, single release - launcher then had to cycle to next sonobuoy, unpressurised). We would be at 5000' max to use the larger launchers. Knowing where the buoy really was, was very important, so even after 5000' drops we often 'on topped' the buoy using a DF system to determine where it really was. At higher altitude drops from the fixed launchers, the 'on topping' would be required pretty much ASAP in order to know the actual laydown of the pattern. BTW I have only ever flown at 40000' during high altitude air tests and routinely spent most of the time at 5000' over the ocean for very good reasons. Fuel consumption was abated by shutting down one engine and having one at 'flight idle', thereby compensating for the higher (per engine) burn at lower levels. This enabled us to desend rapidly to lower levels for MAD runs and weapon drops. Personally I find the fact that all MPA's patrol automatically at higher altitudes so far off the mark as to question whether this is a blanket approach to all aircraft (flying at height)? Aeroengines and aeroplanes have something called height for weight, where the engines are most efficient, so should only be flying at these incredible heights when a lot of the fuel has been burnt off.
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