air-to-air

[ air-too-air, -tuh- ]

adjective

1. operating between airborne objects, especially aircraft:

   air-to-air missiles; air-to-air communication.

adverb

1. from one aircraft, missile, or the like, to another while in flight:

   They refueled air-to-air.

air-to-air

adjective

1. operating between aircraft in flight

Word History and Origins

Origin of air-to-air¹

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

So, the AI dogfighter’s frugal heritage includes air-to-air combat tactics downloaded from Wikipedia, leaving classified information well out of the picture and contributing to the pace of the project.

From BBC

But the programs are learning so quickly from each engagement that some AI versions getting tested on Vista are already beating human pilots in air-to-air combat.

From Seattle Times

The plane was taking part in an air-to-air refuelling mission.

From BBC

These multi-role aircraft provide a stronger air-to-air and air-to-ground capability, thereby potentially improving Ukrainian air defences.

From BBC

The Air Force fighters can be used as air-to-air fighters, as bombers, and for what the Pentagon described as “deep interdiction.”

From Salon