A Methodology for Establishing Maximum Aircraft Combat Turn Rates

The Air Force relies on the Status of Reports and Training System (SORTS) as an indicator of unit readiness. Unit Capability Levels (C-Levels) reported in SORTS are determined through measurements of on-hand resources and computer estimates of unit capabilities. Aircraft maximum turn rate, defined as the maximum number of sorties an aircraft can fly in a 24-hour period, is an input parameter to the assessment model. The methods used today produce maximum turn rates with unverifiable accuracy. Unit capabilities required to generate aircraft sorties are documented and their relationship to maximum turn rate established in this study. A unit capabilities based methodology for determining maximum turn rates is then proposed in this study. Results of the assessment model utilizing current maximum turn rates are compared to model results utilizing maximum turn rates calculated through the proposed methodology.