I would agree that in modern air combat, no one would want to
get drawn into dogfights. Most engagements will happen at stand off
ranges. The US set up Top Gun to re-train their pilots cos they
were getting too used to missiles, and could not fight without it.
But back then, their best BVR missile was the AIM-7 Sparrow, which
is crap since about 30% actually hit their mark. And it required
the radar to be locked on to the aircraft until time of
impact.
But today, with missiles such as amraams, amraamskis, etc, after
the missile goes autonomous, the firing aircraft can now turn away
and run, and then set up another shot. Finally, even if it gets
down to short range combat, missiles such as the python 4 or archer
can fire off boresight, eliminating the need to turn their nose
onto the target.
But i'm sure most airforces will still train in combat maneuvers
for knife fights. Just in case. =)
