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Buddy Lasing using the AN/ASQ-228 ATFLIR

In coordinated strike missions, buddy lasing allows one aircraft to guide a laser-guided bomb (LGB) onto a target for another. Using the AN/ASQ-228 ATFLIR targeting pod, the F/A-18C can either manually lase a target or track another aircraft’s laser via Laser Spot Tracker (LST) mode.

Whether you’re supporting a wingman, working with a JTAC, or performing multi-axis attacks, buddy lasing adds tactical flexibility to your mission planning.

🔍 Laser System Overview

Feature Description
Laser Type Coded infrared (invisible to human eye)
Designation Laser LTD/R (Laser Target Designator/Rangefinder)
Tracking Mode LST (Laser Spot Tracker)
Effective Range ~8–10 nautical miles (best under 6 nm)
Beam Width ~0.25° (~450 ft at 10 nm)
Laser Codes 4-digit NATO-standard codes (e.g., 1688)
Lasing Modes Manual (TRIG boxed) or Automatic (TRIG unboxed)

🔦 How to Manually Lase for a Buddy

If you're the one providing the laser designation, follow these steps:

1. Setup the ATFLIR Pod

  • Power on the pod and switch to A/G (air-to-ground) master mode.

  • Set TDC priority to the FLIR display to control the pod.

  • Slew the pod onto the target area and designate the target using TDC depress.

  • Use Auto Track or Area Track to maintain lock.

2. Enable Manual Lasing

  • Press the TRIG option on the FLIR page so it is boxed (this enables manual trigger lasing).

  • Ensure the display shows L ARM indicating the laser is armed.

  • Press and hold the gun trigger (second detent) to fire the laser. You’ll be manually designating as long as the trigger is held.

3. End Lasing

  • Release the trigger to stop firing.

  • Optionally, use the Undesignate (NWS) button to clear the target designation.

🔎 How to Track Someone Else's Laser (LST Mode)

If you're dropping the bomb and someone else is lasing, use LST mode to acquire their laser spot.

1. Enter LST Code

  • On the FLIR page, press the UFC option to bring up the laser code interface.

  • Select the LSTC (Laser Spot Track Code) option.

  • Enter the desired 4-digit code (e.g., 1688) using the keypad and press ENTER.

Make sure the bomb’s laser code (set in mission editor or rearming menu) matches this.

2. Enable LST Mode

  • On the FLIR page, select LST to begin spot search mode.

  • Slew the pod over the expected target area.

  • Press and hold TDC depress to begin the laser search.

  • Once the pod detects the correct coded laser, it will snap to the spot and begin tracking.

🔢 Common Laser Codes & Usage

Code Use Case
1688 Default JTAC and multiplayer buddy lasing code
1687 Often used by Hornet buddy-lasing pairs
1511–1788 NATO/US standard codes (safe for most LGBs)

Only one aircraft or JTAC should lase on a given code at a time to avoid “code fratricide” (two lasers on the same code causing confusion).

🧠 Tactical Tips

If You’re the Laser Provider:

  • Lase from <8 nm for reliable guidance.

  • Keep the target centered in the pod — do not let it drift or break lock.

  • Start lasing ~8–10 seconds before impact unless using AUTO mode.

  • Communicate clearly: e.g., “Laser on now,” or “Lasing in 5 seconds.”

If You’re the Bomb Dropper:

  • Ensure laser code matches between GBU and LST settings.

  • Wait for LST to lock before release if possible.

  • Use AUTO or CCIP release modes depending on target type and angle.

🧪 Troubleshooting Guide

Problem Fix
Bombs miss target Check for correct code match and lasing timing
LST not acquiring spot Fly closer, ensure proper pod slewing, verify laser is active
Laser won’t fire Make sure TRIG is boxed, laser is armed, and second detent used
Laser blocked Clouds, smoke, or terrain may interrupt — adjust position or altitude

🧾 Quick Buddy Lasing Checklist

Step Laser Provider Bomb Dropper
1. Power ATFLIR & switch to A/G Same
2. Designate target with TDC Slew to target area
3. Box TRIG Set correct LST code
4. Press and hold trigger to fire laser Engage LST and press TDC depress
5. Maintain track on target Release GBU when tracking is solid
6. Stop lasing after impact Confirm hit and break off
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