A naval aviator trained to assist carrier landings by visually monitoring approaching aircraft and providing corrections to the pilot. The LSO’s primary job is to ensure safe recoveries on the short, moving deck of an aircraft carrier — one of the most demanding tasks in aviation.
Key functions of the LSO:
- Visual monitoring: Observes the glidepath, lineup, and angle of attack of incoming aircraft.
- Voice guidance: Provides real-time corrections over the radio (e.g., “Power,” “Come left,” “Wave-off”).
- Grading: After landing, LSOs evaluate the pilot’s approach and landing quality, giving feedback for training.
- Safety authority: Can call for a wave-off if the approach is unsafe, overriding the pilot’s attempt to land.
LSOs traditionally use tools like optical landing systems (Fresnel Lens/“meatball”), radio comms, and hand signals to help guide pilots safely aboard.
Application in DCS World
- On DCS carriers (e.g., for the F/A-18C), the Fresnel Lens Optical Landing System (“meatball”) and basic LSO voice calls are simulated, guiding the pilot’s final approach.
- DCS LSO interaction is scripted and limited — no dynamic grading system, no nuanced feedback, and limited radio calls. Multiplayer squadrons often use human LSOs via voice comms to add realism.
Cadets should practice “flying the ball” (keeping the meatball aligned with the datum lights) while maintaining proper lineup and angle of attack. For more realism, multiplayer training with a human LSO can simulate real-world carrier recovery procedures.