"In escorting bombers it is a good idea to range out on the sides, front and rear and hit enemy fighters before they can get to the bomber formation, but do not run off on a wild-goose chase and leave the bombers unprotected."

Remote escort flies a few minutes ahead of the main strike force to clear the target skies and surprise the enemy in the attack. This could also be coordinated with an independent fighter sweep from a different angle to confuse the enemy about the direction of the strikes. The Remote escort can also take up CAP stations on hostile sides of the target and be a decoy for fighters to engage and loose energy before the main force arrives. Their foremost function is to clear the skies before the bombers enter the target area.

Detached escort is in position to intercept any incoming threats to the bomber box. By positioning two-plane sections all around the box, any threat can be engaged before getting within gun range. These sections should probably be higher than the bombers and be weaving back and forth to maintain their speed and energy. The rear escorts are stepped with a higher altitude so they can dive and join the main in short order. The rear escorts often could be escorted themselves by a rear guard or "top cover" so the rear escorts aren't caught in a "Tail-End Charlie" situation. (last person has no cover.) This rear guard can fly higher than the rest and be filled with reserves to fill the detached escort positions if needed.

The detached escort needs to be very disciplined in engaging the enemy only if there is a direct threat, and to not go on wild goose chases. The enemy will attempt to draw off fighters. Any hostile intent should be engaged, but once turned away, the escort should return to escort position.

The close escort can be hidden in a sense by the bomber cover, and can be used to back up the detached escort if needed and is the bomber's final defense other than their own guns. The close escort would be directed by the contact calls of the detached escort to hostile targets. The detached escorts act as an alarm system. The close escort may be at a disadvantage with the slower speed and tighter quarters of the bomber box to achieve separation and maneuverability in the event of a hostile threat. Usually, at that range, the hostile would already be attacking the bombers at the point of detection.

On the way home, the bombers and escorts may be shot up and hurting badly. The reception escort would rendezvous and escort them home along their egress. Often this escort is the difference between living and dying during the mission.

1. Remote Escorts and Independent Fighter Sweeps.

2. Detached Escorts.

3. Close Escorts.

4. Reception Escorts.