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 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 Ballistic Computer is a system found on some modern aircraft and helicopters used to aid the player in the delivery of unguided air-to-ground munitions. There are two key functions of the ballistic computer: Constantly Computed Impact Point (CCIP) and Constantly Computed Release Point (CCRP). CCIP continually calculates where munitions will land and gives the pilot an accurate impact point to aim with. CCRP allows the player to specify an impact point, the ballistic computer will then continually calculate at which point along the player’s flight path munitions will need to be released in order to hit the player’s designated impact point, and will only allow munitions to be released when that point is reached.
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!
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 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 Republic of China was one of the many nations to use surplus F-86 Sabre jet-fighters. The aircraft would engage in air combat with Chinese MiGs during the Taiwan Strait Crisis of 1958. Additionally, ROCAF Sabres were among the first aircraft to be equipped with AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, which allowed them to compete against the superior performance of the Chinese MiG-17s. However, while the AIM-9's deployment was a considerable setback for the PLAAF, the situation changed when a Chinese MiG-17 returned to base with an unexploded AIM-9B lodged in its airframe. The missile was given to Soviet technicians, and subsequently reverse-engineered into the R-3 series of missiles.
There are various techniques you can use to avoid the different types of air-to-air missiles. As a general rule though, situational awareness is absolutely key, you should be looking out to see if any aircraft around you could have air-to-air missiles and judging what type they are likely to have. If an enemy is on your tail keep looking to see if a missile is launched. You may not get a visual warning (depending on missile type) and even if you do it may be too late.