Nothing. I knew nothing. Although my father was a pilot for years, knowing a "plane goes fast" and actually operating one are two completely different beasts! Even if you know how one works, how do you convey that information to your audience in an informative, non-expositionary setting? How do you make it compelling?
Well, let me tell you - hours of research. I watched countless videos on YouTube regarding the basics of flight before switching to aerial combat. I studied WWII pilots as well as read up on combat techniques utilized to this day. I watched live feeds from the cockpits of air force jets and at-sea carrier landings. I listened to how pilots spoke over the radio and how they sounded while in combat or even just flying. I also studied pilots' gear and what U.S. air force pilots and what each piece is for. |
Now, I'm by no means someone well-versed in aerial combat. I did my research, implemented the knowledge at the exact moment I needed it (e.g. the battle over Port Morseby, Papua New Guinea) and then promptly forgot everything.
Of course, piloting in space is something we just have to leave up to the writer's imagination! |
Although it is never actually described in detail, New Wings regalia consists of a pair of wings and a series of arrows wrapped in laurels. While the wings portion of the insignia is self-explanatory, the arrows are less so.
The top arrow which appears to be bearing down on the wings represents an outside force trying to deter forward movement. The abstract arrow opposite it signifies a unified force resisting that outside pressure. Laurels symbolize martial victory as they did in ancient Rome. |