Q&A ยท 2:50:15-2:54:16

Two Tomcats against a formation of Zeros

A Tomcat-versus-Zero hypothetical turns on undetected missile attacks and a finite missile supply.

Question

What would happen if a formation of A6M Zeros encountered two F-14 Tomcats?

Short answer

The Tomcats are expected to destroy many Zeros with missiles before the older fighters can identify the threat, then use shorter-range weapons against survivors.

Notes

The hypothetical engagement gives the Tomcats the first shots against opponents with no radar-warning equipment. Many Zeros are expected to be hit before their pilots know the attackers are present. A later ammunition calculation assumes six Phoenix missiles per Tomcat, followed by short-range missiles and cannon fire. The prediction depends on the proposed missile loads and on the older fighters' inability to detect the initial attack.