4 ms·

Surely, by definition, an approaching supersonic jet would be completely silent until shortly after it's passed the observer?

• comboy 8y ago
  I think it depends on the trajectory. You could hear it if it's not flying directly towards you. But if I'm reasoning correctly, as long as it's following a straight line path then even if it's not going directly at you, you could only hear it after it passes the point that is closest to you. So it would probably had to be turning.
• toomanybeersies 8y ago
  Yes, but usually jets aren't flying supersonic, especially for ground attack missions (if they're even capable). It uses a lot of fuel, you can't maneuver easily, and you fly over your target too fast.
  • dmix 8y ago
    But how long does it take for the munitions to detonate over the ground to when the aircraft is the target? Particularly the modern-era "dumb" bombs used over syria. I'd imagine that takes a bit of time to hit the ground, unless it's rocket propelled. So you will probably hear the jet just as it's about to detonate, no?