Different models of aeroplanes have a different position for their mitrailleuses. The attacking pilot always tries to find out from where he can make his attack without being riddled by his opponent. The proper position being obtained, the Nieuport is quickly turned toward its prey and at fifty yards the machine gun begins its staccato bark. To simplify the pilot’s task the guns are always mounted in a fixed position and aimed dead ahead. Thus the pilot has only to think about pointing his own machine at the enemy. If he had to fly one way and shoot another he would be placed in a most disadvantageous position. Combatants pass each other at terrific speed. There is time only for a few shots. If a hit is not scored during the first encounter, the attacking pilot goes through the same manoeuvre a second time. In the meanwhile the German airman is also doing his best to catch his opponent unawares. If the enemy succeeds in getting the Nieuport into a trap, then is the moment when he can put himself "en vrille" and escape. Such is the course of training imposed upon every airman in France. It is the system which has been perfected under war conditions from the lessons learned during two years of the most desperate air conflicts.