What holding speed is typically used by military aircraft?

Military aircraft typically use a holding speed of 230 KIAS (Knots Indicated Airspeed). This speed is established as a standard for holding patterns to ensure that military aircraft maintain sufficient airspeed while also allowing for effective maneuvering in a holding pattern.

Using 230 KIAS helps accommodate the performance characteristics of various military aircraft, which may be heavier or faster than civilian aircraft. It also ensures that these aircraft can safely manage the necessary altitude and navigate while in holding. This speed often strikes a balance between maintaining operational efficiency and adhering to safety requirements during prolonged periods of flight in holding patterns.

Other speeds listed are generally associated with different types of aircraft operations, making 230 KIAS the most appropriate standard for military aircraft in a holding situation.