strafing run

plural strafing runs

1. aeronauticsA low pass by an aircraft to attack (ground targets) with machine guns, rockets, or light bombs.

   For complete effectiveness the plane must fly extremely low thereby subjecting it to considerable hazard in flight. During these operations a strafing run was made over the area prior to the bombing run.

   1944, US Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Amphibious Operations: Invasion of the Marianas, Washington DC: US Fleet Headquarters of the Commander in Chief, Air Support - Napalm Bombs, page 25