Tiger Check

Main Themes and Topics

Tiger Check by Steven A. Fino delves into the evolving nature of air combat as influenced by technological changes. This book focuses on how American fighter pilots adapted to the challenges of increasing automation in warfare from the Korean War to the 1980s. Fino explores the dynamic between human skill and machine assistance, highlighting the shift from relying primarily on physical prowess to depending on advanced technology, transforming the essence of the fighter pilot's role. The book centers on three significant aircraft in U.S. Air Force history: the F-86E Sabre, the F-4C Phantom II, and the F-15A Eagle. Through these, he examines pilots' approaches to grappling with new technologies that, while enhancing their combat efficacy, also threatened to alter the fundamental experience of being a fighter pilot.

Writing Style and Tone

Steven A. Fino employs a detailed and analytical writing style, suitable for readers interested in technological advancements and military history. His tone is scholarly and authoritative, reflecting his background as an experienced F-15C fighter pilot. Fino successfully interweaves personal insights with historical analysis, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of air-to-air combat's historical context and technological evolution. The book is accessible to both scholars and aviation enthusiasts, with a balanced approach that avoids overly technical jargon while still conveying the complexities of the subject matter.

Brief Summary

Tiger Check examines the transformation of the fighter pilot profession amidst the backdrop of technological advancements in air combat. From the era of visual dogfighting with enemy MiGs to the sophistication of guided missiles and electronic warfare, Fino chronicles how pilots have had to adapt their skills and attitudes. The book sheds light on the interplay between human capabilities and machine systems, offering insights into how pilots managed the transition from manual to automated combat environments. By focusing on specific aircraft and their fire control systems, Fino paints a vivid picture of the shifting demands placed on fighter pilots across several decades.