RC Plane Dogfights: Streamer Combat, IR Battles and How to Start
RC dogfighting comes in two main forms. In streamer combat, each plane tows a paper or plastic ribbon, and pilots score by cutting the opponent’s streamer with their propeller; the planes are cheap, tough foam wings or warbird-shaped combat models. In infrared (IR) battle, planes carry small IR transmitters and receivers, so “hits” are counted electronically and nothing touches. Real projectiles are never used. Both are popular club activities with clear safety rules.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20264 min read
Combat types
| Type | How hits count | Planes |
|---|---|---|
| Streamer combat | Prop cuts the other plane’s streamer | EPP/EPO combat wings, foam warbirds |
| Infrared battle | IR beam detected by opponent’s receiver | Foam warbirds with IR modules |
| Formal combat classes | Streamer cuts and airtime, per rules | Specified sizes and engines/motors |
How streamer combat works
Each plane tows a streamer of a set length on a string from the tail. When the round starts, pilots take off and try to fly through the opponent’s streamer, cutting it with their propeller; each cut scores, and points are also given for time in the air. Mid-air collisions happen, which is why combat planes are simple, cheap and made of EPP or EPO foam. Rounds are short and intense, with a referee and callers. Many clubs run their own simplified rules, while national bodies run formal combat classes with specific plane and engine limits.
IR battle systems
IR combat sets fit a small emitter in the nose and a sensor on the plane. When you “fire” while lined up behind an opponent, their sensor registers a hit and their system may reduce throttle or count down lives. It’s less destructive than streamer combat and works well for warbird scale models you don’t want to crash. Some ready-to-fly sets come with two planes and matched IR systems for beginners.
What planes to use
- Combat wings: flying wings of EPP foam with a pusher or puller motor; cheap and almost indestructible.
- Foam warbirds: look the part; use EPO or EPP models you’re happy to risk.
- Speed-matched planes: similar speeds make for closer, fairer fights.
EPP’s crash resistance is explained in EPP planes.
Safety rules
- Fly only at a club field or a site cleared for combat, with spectators behind the line.
- Use propellers suited to combat (flexible props) and never projectiles.
- Set failsafes to cut the throttle on signal loss.
- Have a referee and callers who watch the airspace.
- Agree a “knock it off” call to stop the round at once.
- Check insurance: club or national membership often covers combat events.
How to start
Begin with two cheap foam wings and a friend. Practise following each other in turns without streamers, then add short streamers and fly slow passes. Once you’re comfortable, join a club combat day. For IR, start with a matched set of two planes. Either way, choose planes you’re prepared to repair often, and bring spare props, glue and tape. If you like add-ons, bomb drops are another way to add game play; see RC bombers that drop bombs.
Dogfight kit
- Two or more cheap, tough foam planes.
- Streamers, string and tail attachment points.
- Spare props, glue, packing tape.
- Extra batteries and a timer.
- Callers and a referee.
Basic tactics
Most cuts happen when one plane is behind and slightly above the other. Stay above your opponent where you can, turn tight but without losing speed, and keep your eyes on both planes and streamers. Crossing paths head-on rarely gives a cut and often ends in a collision.
FAQ
How do RC planes dogfight?
By cutting each other’s streamers or scoring IR hits.
Can RC planes shoot each other?
Only with infrared systems; no projectiles are used.
What is the best combat plane?
A cheap EPP flying wing.
Is combat dangerous?
It’s safe with club rules, spectators behind the line and failsafes.
More on this topic: the complete RC Airplanes guide covers the basics behind this article.
About 20 years in RC. Mostly boats in the NAVIGA Mini Eco Expert class, with many self-made parts; also a King Motor Baja 5B, a home-built electric plane, home-built nitro planes he has flown, and an RC helicopter. More about SwellRC
