Rockets & Missiles
The iconic F-14 Tomcat made its mark in naval aviation for its cultural significance and popularity. However, the defining weapon that sets the Tomcat apart from its peers is the long-range AIM-54 Phoenix missile. This weapon, intended to strike Soviet bombers from a long distance before they could fire deadly anti-ship cruise missiles, allowed the F-14 to perform its "Fleet Defense" role. Thus we will dive into the development behind this fascinating missile, the improvements it had, and how it would not be America writing the tomes on the AIM-54's combat usage, but instead Iran.
The Fireflash is the first attempt the United Kingdom made at a guided air-to-air missile. Designed in 1949, it entered service in 1957 where it only remained for a year. Found on the British Swift F.7, it is the only beam-riding (SACLOS) AAM in-game, meaning it goes where your airplane's nose is pointing.
The AS-20 Nord is a French guided Air-to-Surface missile, roughly analogous to the U.S. AGM-12 Bullpup in that both are early MCLOS missiles that you use your Alt + WASD keys to control on PC. Used to give aircraft like the G.91 their long-ranged 'teeth' but also giving them their notoriety as well, let’s dive into the intricacies of Nords and how to use them effectively!
The Spike-LR II (Long Range 2) is an advanced anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) that is part of the Spike family. Found on many IFVs, it is capable of engaging both non-line-of-sight and beyond-line-of-sight targets. Additionally, it can function as a surface-to-air missile (SAM), being particularly effective against helicopters and low-flying aircraft.
The M551 Sheridan, described with a single expression, would in my opinion be 'the black sheep of the family'. Very much unlike its peers, the Sheridan stands out simply for the fact that it comes equipped with a powerful, large caliber gun. The 152mm Gun/Launcher allows the Sheridan to engage targets at all ranges, be they long or short, and it’s not particularly held back by its mobility either — it’s a staggering 8 tons lighter than the 23-ton M41 Bulldog! However, the Sheridan’s shortcomings are just as polarizing as its armament, with its armor being woefully inadequate at protecting the vehicle and the lack of a laser rangefinder leaving its sustained long-range performance fairly mediocre. While not the most intuitive vehicle to use, once familiarized the Sheridan can offer much for your lineup — let’s find out just how it performs, and if the black sheep of the family can find itself a home in your hangar!
Guided missiles are crucial to modern jet aviation, with different types designed to counter various enemy aircraft. Not long ago, we discussed the best infrared-guided air-to-air missiles, and today it's time to focus on radar-guided missiles — those that lock on a target with the assistance of the aircraft’s radar system.
The Shooting Range 428. In this episode:
Metal Beasts: Recon Master from Japan
Pages of History: The American Skyray
Round Study: Maverick Missile Family
Hotline: What's the role of the secondary inlets on the MiG-29 series in mid-air? What's the fastest plane in the game at the moment? Can satellite bombs be used to destroy bases in air realistic and simulator battles? What's the difference between Pzgr. and Pzgr.39 on tiger tank? What are the different bomb types best used for? What bomb type is best against ground vehicles?