What condition prompts an ABM to call for a SPIKE?

A Spike call is initiated by an Airborne Mission Commander (ABM) to convey that visual contact with a target has been confirmed. This indicates a critical moment in the engagement cycle, as it represents the transition from detecting a potential threat to having positively identified and tracked a target visually. By confirming visual contact, the ABM ensures that all relevant parties are aware of the situation for coordinated action.

Understanding the significance of this call helps maintain situational awareness among pilots and ground controllers, leading to a more synchronized response to threats. In contrast, while high threat levels, increased fuel, or changes in engagement status are important factors in mission management and tactics, they do not necessitate an immediate and specific communication like a visual confirmation does. This is why confirming visual contact is essential in engaging with the identified target.