Boom and Run aerial combat style

The expression "Boom and Run" (also known as BnR) describes an aerial fighting style that is similar to Boom and Zoom in that the pilot engages at high speed and attempts energy-conservative maneuvers, however, instead of initiating a zoom-climb after striking at an enemy; a BnR-oriented pilot will simply attempt to maintain high speed after engaging. This is very common in Jet Combat.

The main advantage of BnR over Boom 'n Zoom is the ability to disengage an ensuing dogfight immediately. A Zoom climb will leave the attacker open for attacks from other hostiles, as his speed drops. Especially in continued BnZ engagements the tracers and maneuvers will attract attention. Also if the target of opportunity is within a `furball´ (swarm of enemies), then a high speed attack followed by running away will result in the highest chance of survival.

In Arcade another advantage becomes clear: Due the common meta of turnfighting (especially at low tiers) a fast fighter can plough through the combat zone without fearing to be intercepted, preferably a few minutes into the match. In TF2 terms this would be a Scout running through the capture point, shooting everything he sees and then keep running back to base/sentry/Heavy+Medic. TnB would therefore be a Scout running in circles around the Heavy and BnZ the scout running in and out of cover.

Mastering Manual Engine Controls is recommended for this strategy.

Order

Everything from the setup to the attack follows the guidelines of Boom and Zoom. The distinguish starts after the initial contact:

1. Hit maximum level top speed (for this altitude)
2. Level out (->"fly towards the horizon")
3. Gain separation by flying away from your target at top speed
   1. But do not fly in a straight line either, if the enemy is able to shoot you!
   2. AB/RB: Make sure to be at least 750m/350m away, before doing any other maneuvers.
   3. If your aircraft can climb well, a 5 - 10° climb will help too.
4. Check your surrounding.
5. Set up next attack
   1. Zoom climb
   2. High speed climb (350 - 450 km/h)
   3. Attack target of opportunity at the same altitude.

Countering

Situational Awareness is key. Maneuvering into the attacker followed by a corkscrew will suffice. Smart BnR pilots will try to avoid head-ons as avoiding them requires maneuvers which again loose energy/speed. Alternatively turn away from the attacker and gain speed, if the assaulter is close enough, try to engage in scissors or corkscrew. Due to the defender's lower speed the attacke will overshoot and present a striking chance.

Aircraft that do well with Boom and Run

Important is a very high topspeed at the target's altitude. Further each aircraft should have enough firepower to take out the enemy in one blow.

• Typhoon and its successor Tempest
• Most jet aircraft (see Jet Combat)
• Sea Fury FB 11
• Yak-9P
• P-51 Mustangs