What does Cleared Hot mean?

What does Cleared Hot mean?

• A. Weapons Release Authorization for Type 1 or 2
• B. Weapons Release for Type 3
• C. Continue Present Maneuver
• D. Mandatory Call from AC Indicating Completion of Ordnance Release

Answer: (A)

Cleared hot means the controller has given the aircraft authorization to release weapons on the target. It’s the moment the attack is approved, after the target has been positively identified and the engagement has been deconflicted. In practice, this clearance covers Type 1 or Type 2 targets, which are engagements requiring a precise or near-precise target identification and guidance. Once the controller says this, the pilot proceeds with the weapons release on that target. This is different from continuing the present maneuver or waiting for a completion call—the clearance to release is the specific permission to engage.

Cleared hot means the controller has given the aircraft authorization to release weapons on the target. It’s the moment the attack is approved, after the target has been positively identified and the engagement has been deconflicted. In practice, this clearance covers Type 1 or Type 2 targets, which are engagements requiring a precise or near-precise target identification and guidance. Once the controller says this, the pilot proceeds with the weapons release on that target. This is different from continuing the present maneuver or waiting for a completion call—the clearance to release is the specific permission to engage.