What should the wingman do if rejoin cannot be accomplished?

If rejoin cannot be accomplished, the wingman's best course of action is to request to depart the orbit. This is crucial as remaining within the formation or orbit can lead to safety concerns, especially if the wingman is unable to maintain visual contact or position with their lead. By requesting to depart the orbit, the wingman can safely disengage from the tight formation and re-establish their situational awareness, ensuring their safety and the safety of other aircraft in the area.

Remaining in orbit indefinitely could increase the risk of mid-air collision or other challenges, especially if the wingman is struggling to maintain position. Similarly, descending immediately or calling in for an emergency landing are extreme actions that may not be warranted unless there's an immediate safety concern. Departing the orbit allows for a controlled and safe approach to reassessing the flight situation without compromising the integrity of the formation.