Originally Posted by
VictorGolf
Fascinating range of "intercepters" on show in the pictures. Just as an interested observer what were the "rules of engagement" on these intercepts and were the Russians aware of them?
Many years ago I organised a lecture to our local aviation society by a couple of Lightning pilots from Leuchars. As far as I can recall, the only rule was don't hit the other guy.
Interestingly, the rear gunner on the Bear, who was usually wielding a camera, would invariably give a friendly wave and encourage a intercepting pilot to lift their visor, believed to be a strategy whereby, over time, the Russians could work out often the same pilots appeared on intercepts.