Ctrl+F1 - On/Off one color of terrain Ctrl+F2 - On/Off shading of terrain Ctrl+F3 - On/Off towns on the terrain Ctrl+F4 - On/Off bitmaps on the terrain Ctrl+F5 - Switch between method of screen redrawing (for FULL-SCREEN) Ctrl+F6 - On/Off frame rate Ctrl+F7 - On/Off Engine noise sound effects Ctrl+F9 - Change color of HUD
Ctrl+ "-" - Decrease screen size for medium and high resolution Ctrl+ "+" - Increase screen size for medium and high resolution Ctrl+Alt+"+" - Restore maximum screen size
F9 - Virtual cockpit mode
The following are numeric keypad controls for the virtual cockpit: 1/End - Look to the left 3/PgUp - Look to the right 7/Home - Look up 9/PgUp - Look down
Note: The mouse may be used to control the pilot's view while in virtual cockpit mode. (Users may steer the plane with the joystick or keyboard while using the mouse to control the view in Virtual cockpit mode.)
The Story Scenarios: Extended Background
The historical background information that is detailed in this chapter is organized by region and is intended to serve as an overview to the Story Scenario missions. The appropriate missions are then explained following each historical background section. To find a particular mission, simply locate its geographic region in the list below.
The Former Soviet Union
Since the collapse of the central Soviet government in the early 1990's, what used to be the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) has since become: Russia, the Ukraine, the Baltic states and the far eastern satellites (the so-called "Stan" republics, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan). All these regions were once under the direct rule of Moscow, but times have changed.
Premier Mikhail Gorbachev who assumed control of the Soviet Union in 1985 has been credited with its dismantling. However, it is more accurate to say that he oversaw its decay. The exhausting arms race of the 1970's and the increased military spending of the Reagan era presented the Soviet Union with a dilemma. To maintain military superiority, they had to compete with the more affluent United States. The United States could afford to devote resources to military spending. The USSR could not.
Several factors contributed to this. Overly optimistic financial planning during the hard-line Brezhnev era had locked the Soviet economy into a system which simply didn't work. Productivity declined in the manufacturing sector and no profit was coming into the country from exports. The Soviet currency was kept at an inflated rate by the Soviet government and was difficult to negotiate. A policy against Western business interests also slowed down economic growth. The USSR simply could not afford to remain a "closed loop" in a world-market economy.
The USSR's 1979 invasion of Afghanistan also played a role in its dissolution. Considered by many as "Russia's Vietnam", the Soviet troops were not prepared for the Afghani terrain or the tribal-style warfare and tenacity of the rebels. The war exacted a heavy cost financially and in troop morale from the Soviet military.
A military withdrawal began in 1989, spurred by Premier Gorbachev's Glasnost (openness) policies. In addition to a cessation of militarism, he encouraged improved relations with the West and promised economic reforms which would "open up" the Soviet Union while promoting growth.
The "openness" encouraged dissent and control of the U.S.S.R. began to slip from under the thumb of Moscow. By the time the Berlin wall fell in 1990 it was obvious that the Soviet Union was collapsing, with separate states no longer being taken care of by Moscow.
Since the early 1990's, the situation in the former U.S.S.R. can appear as a free-for-all, with new governments replacing long-time Soviet rule and frequently grabbing at long disputed territorial claims. This is most evident in the former Yugoslavia, where Bosnian Muslims have been targeted for "ethnic cleansing" (a euphemism for relocation) from Serbian territory. Similar conflicts have erupted between Georgia and the state of Abkazia, as well as Azerbaijan and Armenia.
In the Ukraine, jurisdiction over the Crimea (awarded to the Ukraine by Stalin in 1954) has come into question. The economically troubled Ukraine is in need of any equity it possesses now that it is no longer subsidized by Moscow. Mission Descriptions
Afghan Border Patrol- Long after the Soviet troop withdrawal, smugglers are running through Afghanistan into the Soviet territory of Turkmenistan. They are smuggling arms to be sold to the Russian Mafia, with the Afghan government turning a blind eye. The Russians retaliate.
No-Fly in Georgia- The state of Abkazi is fighting for independence from the former Soviet state of Georgia. The Russians have instituted a no-fly zone over the disputed territories, but are having trouble maintaining it.
Missile Attack- Muslim extremists in Uzbekistan have taken the opportunity to strike back at Moscow for what they see as years of oppression. They have launched a hijacked Soviet cruise missile at St. Petersburg. The Russians try to shoot down the missile.
Missile Attack- Scenario Two- Zapatista rebels in Mexico have obtained a nuclear-tipped Russian cruise missile. Aided by Muslim extremists, they have launched it towards Washington as a protest against the NAFTA trade agreement. American planes attempt to shoot it down.
Assassination- Azeri mercenaries have been hired by the Irish Republican Army to shoot down a British diplomatic 747. This aircraft is carrying the Queen of England and the British Prime Minister, and is flying on a goodwill mission to Moscow. The Russians must try and stop the mercenaries.
Stealth Attack- A terrorist being held outside of Vladivistok in Russian custody has agreed to reveal his contacts and sources. He also may have information which would be damaging to the CIA. The CIA decides to covertly deploy a Stealth bomber to destroy the Dacha in which the terrorist is staying. The Russians are informed of this by their spies in the US, and engage the Stealth bomber.
Strike to the Crimea- Talks between the Ukraine and Russia over economic and geographic disbursement have broken down. Russian nationalists in Crimea attempt to seize control of Odessa to claim it for Russia. Ukrainian bombers are sent from Kiev to bomb them into submission. Russia sends planes to intercept these bombers.
No Fly in Yugoslavia- The Serbian shelling of the Bosnian city of Sarajevo has been going on for months. The UN has instituted a "no fly" zone over the city. When Serb jets are reported strafing parts of the city, the American contingent strikes back.
Biological Attack- It is 1997. The President of the United States has gone insane and is convinced that Russia is planning to declare war on America. He has attempted to set up a biological weapons plant in Turkey to develop weapons to attack the Russians. The Russians respond by intercepting the transport planes which are supplying the plant.
The Cold War
The events of the cold war affected the entire Western world. The frequently uneasy Warsaw Pact/NATO relations shaped foreign policy for an entire generation. For some, such open hostilities seem almost unimaginable since the recent Soviet breakdown. But for others the "undeclared war" is not easily forgotten.
The post WWII USSR under the direction of Joseph Stalin became a military superpower and controlled its republics with an iron fist. Trade with the western world was discouraged and done as little as possible. This can be attributed to Stalin's policy that the Soviet Union was the champion of world Communism and that any capitalist influences which would threaten this attitude were subversive and to be quashed. Distrust of the west was a fundamental tenet of Stalin's regime and was so ingrained in the Soviet character that its effects to this day are still felt.
The post WWII threat of further Soviet aggression in Europe and Asia led to the advent of the Cold War, with the United States and the USSR locked in a battle for power; the possession of nuclear weapons created a "cold war" mindset. Both sides kept the peace utilizing the Mutual Assured Destruction doctrine (MAD). The war was not a "hot" active war. It was a "cold" hypothetical conflict. As long as the sides were balanced militarily, the situation would not ignite.
This attitude thawed somewhat under Stalin's successor Nikita Kruschev, who seemed to welcome closer ties with the West, especially the United States. But the downing of an American spy plane (The U-2, in 1960) cooled relations and the Cuban missile crisis - when the USSR put nuclear missiles within easy striking distance of the USA - created the "hottest" moment of the "cold" war.
A spirit of change ran through the sixties and by 1976 US President Jimmy Carter's SALT II (Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty) talks promised real change and a reduction in Nuclear proliferation. But while the treaty was generally adhered to, it was never officially ratified. The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan ended this temporary thaw and the Reagan administration increased military spending to new heights. The early eighties were particularly tense; Reagan's "Star Wars" satellite missile defense system was feasible enough to worry the Soviets that the United States had an "edge" in the event of a conflict. Soviet advances towards Iran following the 1979 revolution along with an increased presence in eastern Europe concerned the Americans and their NATO allies. It was not until Premier Gorbachev that the cold war began to abate, more for financial reasons than military ones.
Mission Descriptions
World War III- First Scenario- Ronald Reagan's Star Wars satellite defense system is a success, bolstering US military confidence. When American troops enter East German territory, the Soviets decide to launch a limited first strike. Bombers are sent to American cities and the Americans respond in kind.
Recon into Germany- The Reagan administration's build up of the US arsenal has alarmed the Soviets, who bolster their arsenal accordingly. Both countries fortify their positions in Germany; the Americans in the West, the Soviets in the East. Fearing that the Americans might be preparing for a first strike, the East Germans decide to fly covert recon missions into West Germany.
Recon into East Germany- The 1979 Iranian revolution has made Iran an unstable country which is vulnerable to Soviet aggression. Soviet troops mass at the Iranian border and there is a heavy Soviet military build-up in East Germany. Fearing a strike on both fronts, the Americans fly covert recon missions into East Germany to determine troop strength.
Sneak Attack- Soviet jets and arms have been deployed in Cuba, violating the American edict against any Soviet missiles on Cuban soil. Diplomatic talks break down and soon Soviet jets are flying over the Florida coast. American planes are sent to engage.
Recon into Russia- NATO sources have revealed that all Soviet weapons operations have been diverted to one factory near the Chinese border. It is later revealed that the Soviets have developed a manned orbital armed shuttle (MOAS) which could overwhelm US defenses. The Americans decide to fly a recon mission to gather more information.
World War III- Second Scenario- Disarmament talks between the Soviets and the US break down when it is revealed that Russian scientists have developed an effective neutron bomb. Sources reveal that the Russians are testing this weapon in a combat situation, using it against rebel uprisings in Uzbekistan. The Americans decide to launch a limited first strike against select Soviet cities and the Soviets respond in kind.
The Middle East
The balance of power in the Middle East has always been jealously contested by all of the countries in the region. It is rife with "hot spots" and has been a source of unrest throughout most of the twentieth century.
The disputed territories of the middle east were under the rule of the Ottoman (Turkish) Empire until the early 20th century. The Empire had allowed Jewish immigration for many years, despite objections from some Arab groups. When the Empire supported the Germans during WWI, the British secretly offered a deal to the Arab population; if they supported Britain's war effort, they would be granted independent homelands in Iraq, Syria, the Transjordan (later renamed Jordan) and Palestine. The British made similar offers to the Jewish settlers. They also formed a secret treaty with France, dividing the post-war Middle East into British and French zones, the British keeping Haifa and Acre, the French controlling Baghdad and Basra, and Palestine to be ruled under an international jurisdiction.
Between 1923-28, conflicts flared between Arabs and Jewish settlers. By the mid 1930's, with Jewish immigration flooding in from Nazi dominated Eastern Europe, tensions increased further. A national strike paralysed the area and rioting made it impossible to keep the peace. By 1937, the British abandoned their original mandate and decided to divide Palestine into separate Arab and Jewish states with an international religious area in Jerusalem and Bethlehem.
Following WWII, the fledgling United Nations devised their own partition scheme, which also created separate Arab and Jewish homelands. Arab members withdrew from the UN in protest and later on did not adhere to the mandate because it was not ratified by the UN's own security council. The British abandoned the region in May of 1948 and the UN borders (including the new state of Israel) were established. Israel was then attacked by its neighbouring Arab states.
Fighting continued for 9 months. The Arab aggression only managed to secure Old Jerusalem (by Jordan) and parts of Israel which had not yet been occupied by Jewish settlers. A US sponsored Armistice took effect in 1949 and was broken in 1967 by the Six Day War, in which Israel was attacked by Jordan, Syria, Iraq, Lebanon and Egypt. Israel destroyed the Egyptian air force and seized control of Old Jerusalem and the Gaza strip. The 1972 Yom Kippur war reasserted Israel's military superiority in the region. The peace accord with the PLO in 1993 offers new hope for peace in the region.
The history of Lebanon is similarly long and complicated. Lebanon was ruled by the Ottoman empire until 1920, when it was annexed by the French. It was declared a Republic in 1926. The French mandate expired in 1943 and Lebanon became independent. That same year, the "National Pact" system of government was formed, promising equitable religious representation of the country's three predominant religions; Maronite Christian, Shiite and Sunnite Muslims.
Following constitutional precedent, the head of the national assembly would be Shiite, the premier would be Sunnite and the president would be Maronite Christian. This system was challenged after Muslim factions, citing Egyptian President Abdel Nasser's call for Arab unity, began to challenge the Christian dominated government. An armed insurrection was begun in May of 1958 and lasted six months until US military intervention put a halt to hostilities.
During the 1960's, the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) was becoming a force to be reckoned with. Thousands of Palestinians who were displaced by the creation of the state of Israel had taken refuge in special camps set up in Jordan, Syria and Lebanon. The mandate of the PLO was that the state of Israel was stolen land and therefore should not exist. The PLO, supported by Syria, first operated out of camps in Jordan until the Jordanian government felt that they had become too powerful. Fighting between the Jordanian army and the PLO resulted in the PLO being expelled from Jordan into Lebanon.
The PLO presence in and relentless attacks from South Lebanon angered the Israelis, who began running occasional raids on PLO camps. By 1975, the animosity between Lebanese Muslims and Christians had degraded to a state of civil war. To appease the Muslims, the Christian government offered to dissolve their majority in the Chamber of Deputies. This was rejected by the Muslim parties, because the Christians did not relinquish their hold on the Presidency.
During the war, Syria became concerned with the amount of support that the PLO was gaining. In 1976 the Syrians became involved in Lebanon, generally supporting the Christian government and taking the opportunity to bomb PLO positions in Lebanon. In October of that same year, a peace plan brokered by Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and the PLO took effect. The agreement was that an Arab Defense Force (ADF) of approx. 30,000 men would patrol Lebanon to keep the peace, and that the PLO would not interfere with Lebanon's government. But when militant Christians tried to prevent the PLO from returning to their South Lebanon bases, Syria shifted their support to the Lebanese Muslims.
The Syrian concern was that if a civil war partitioned the country, the Christians would appeal to Israel for support and Israel would gain more territory if victorious. When the PLO began shelling Israeli territory from Lebanon on a regular basis in 1978, Israel invaded and threw their support behind the Christians. The Israelis cut a six mile "security belt" into Lebanon to prevent the PLO from setting up missile bases close to Israeli territory. The invasion was withdrawn several months later, condemned by the UN security council.
During this time, the more radical Christian factions objected to the Maronite offer of power sharing with the Muslims and opposing factions began armed combat against one another.
A US brokered cease-fire in 1981 was broken by the Israelis in 1982. Their concern was that the PLO were preparing for a major push against Israel and had to be stopped. Israeli air support began pounding PLO strongholds in Beirut. Fighting continued until Aug. 20th of that year, when a multinational peacekeeping force (US, Italian, French) arrived to keep the peace. On Sept. 1st, 14,440 PLO/Syrian troops were removed from Beirut. Later that year, Israeli troops entered West Beirut.
After a suicide bombing of an American military barracks in Oct. 23, 1983 and the endless battles over West Beirut by rival Muslim factions in 1984, it became obvious that the Lebanese army had become too fractionalized to remain effective. The international peacekeeping forces began to withdraw. President Gemayal formed a new government in March of 1985, carefully balancing his cabinet with disparate religious and geographical representatives. However, the factional fighting continued. Israeli troops facing Shiite attacks in the south withdrew in 1985, after setting up a border security zone manned by the Christian militia.
President Gemayal was unable to regain the presidency in the election of 1988 and rival governments were formed. By September of that year, Christian groups accepted the Arab League cease-fire, which remains in place to this day. Syrian troops left the country and a new government, equally representing Muslims and Christians, was formed.
The war between Iran and Iraq drained the resources of both countries for over eight years. The reasons for the war were not immediately evident to Western observers. Iran, in 1979, had just overthrown its US supported government and had replaced it with an Islamic fundamentalist party led by the Ayatollah Khomeni. It is possible that the predominantly Sunnite Muslim government of Iraq felt threatened by the intensity of the Iranian revolution and feared that the Iranian activism may spread to their own Shiite population and undermine the government. The resulting chaos made Iran ripe for invasion. Iran was also a wealthier country at the time, with better developed oil fields. Whether the concerns were religious or financial, Iraqi troops advanced across the Iraq/Iran border at Khuzestan in 1981, commencing a war that would last for over eight years and claim thousands of lives from both sides. The war also caused Iraq to amass billions of dollars of loans from Kuwait, which was one of the factors which led to the Gulf War of 1991.
The Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in late 1990 led to the first military action of what US President George Bush referred to as The New World Order. The invasion was spurred largely by financial reasons. Kuwait was owed money by Iraq, which was exhausted financially and militarily by the long Iran/Iraq war. The oil-rich Kuwait was small, and not well defended, and fell quickly to Iraqi troops.
The invasion was immediately condemned by the United Nations and was protested by several Arab states. A resolution was passed that if Iraqi troops did not withdraw by Feb. 15th, 1991, a state of war would exist between UN forces and Iraq. Iraqi President Saddam Hussein defied the UN ordinance and tried to garner support from his Arab neighbours, claiming that the war would be a "holy war" against US imperialism. The UN formed Coalition was led by United States and British forces included over 14 countries, including Saudi Arabia.
Merciless air attacks by coalition forces and support by neighbouring Arab countries brought the war to a quick end, with low casualties for the Coalition forces and almost complete destruction of the Iraqi army. Since then however, Iraq has been slow in meeting its obligations under the UN surrender plan, and tensions in the region remain high.
Mission Descriptions
Syria- It is 1978 and Syrian troops have entered Lebanon in an effort to quell the civil war which would threaten peace in the entire region. Israeli forces have cut a 6 mile "protection belt" into Lebanon to protect themselves from missile attacks. The Syrians increase their air support in the region to make sure the Israelis advance no further.
The Bekka Valley- Scenario One- It is 1984 and the PLO have dug themselves into Southern Lebanon in the Bekka valley. They have been staging missile attacks on Israeli territory, which spurs the Israelis into responding with air attacks. The Syrians engage any Israeli aircraft which fly over the valley.
The Bekka Valley- Scenario Two- The Syrians have not loosened their hold on the Bekka valley and you must defend Israel's interests in the region. You will engage Syrian pilots in an Israeli F-15.
Strike over Kuwait- Scenario One- The last days of the Gulf War have spurred Iraqi troops into fortifying their positions in occupied Kuwait city. Coalition forces attempt to stage an amphibious assault. The Iraqis attack the approaching troop carriers and their air escort.
Strike over Kuwait- Scenario Two- Coalition jets, escorting a contingent of troop transports, are attacked by Iraqi air forces off the coast of Kuwait city. The Coalition forces engage Iraqi bombers.
Iranian Border Patrol- The tensions before the Iran/Iraq war have resulted in both countries massing troops at each other's borders. The Iranians deploy an aircraft to fly a reconnaissance mission into Iraqi airspace to observe troop movements.
Nerve Gas- After their defeat in the Gulf War, the Iraqis begin to set up a chemical warfare plant over the Syria/Iraq border in Syrian territory. The Syrians do not respond to a US request to search the area. The Americans decide to fly over the area and shoot down any aircraft which appears to be flying supplies to the chemical plant.
Patrol over Libya- Two years after the American bombing of Libya, terrorist activities from that country begin to reoccur. When Libyan jets encroach upon Egyptian airspace, the Egyptian government requests help. The US intervenes and engages the Libyan fighters.
The Asian Theatre
The balance of power in Asia has long been dominated by military giants (China, North Korea) and economic powerhouses (Japan, South Korea). While Communism is waning in the West, the Eastern style of Communism still flourishes and is still a force to be reckoned with in the region.
China has been a Communist country since 1949 when the Communist leader Mao Tse-Tung took power and declared the country to be The Peoples Republic of China. A rift with Stalinist Russia occurred in 1957 when Mao challenged Stalin's ideology, disagreeing with the Stalinist theory that "The Socialist camp must have a leader, and that leader is the Soviet Union." Russia withdrew all its support from China in 1960 and cancelled any financial aid or technological contracts.
Two years before, Mao began "The Great Leap", an ambitious program of agricultural and economic reform that was supposed to convert the country into a new land, devoid of any Soviet influence. However, many of the projects were implemented too quickly to work properly and much of the economic damage was not rectified until 1962.
In 1966, the Cultural Revolution began, based on a theory of Mao's which stated that a true revolution cannot be ordained by the government, it must come instead from the people. This revolution, overseen by a peoples army called the Red Guard, began a campaign of denouncement and paranoia on a Stalinist scale that would last until the early 1970's. All foreign diplomats were harassed or expelled. Relations with the Soviets worsened with Soviet and Chinese forces clashing at the Ussuri river at the border of Manchuria and Siberia.
But hostilities with the Soviets eventually led to improved relations with much of the Western world. Assuming that any enemy of the Soviet Union would be a friend of China, Western contact was encouraged, led by US President Nixon's historic trips to China in the early 1970's. Still, China remains very much a closed country, especially after the Western sanctions that were imposed after the Tenninman Square massacre in 1989, where students protesting for democratic reforms were fired upon by Chinese troops.
The Communist state of North Korea, supported by China, has been a volatile area since its foundation. After its liberation from Japanese occupation during WWII, the occupying armies of the USA, Britain, USSR and China agreed that the country of Korea should be divided. Japanese troops north of the 38th parallel would surrender to the Soviet army and those to the South would surrender to US troops.
In 1948, both states elect rival governments with the North electing Kim Il Sung in a Soviet style election. The USSR was anticipating that the South would become a valuable Asian Communist satellite. On June 25th, 1950, North Korean troops moved over the border to attempt to reunify the country (under Communist rule) by force. The newly formed UN sent armed forces from over 20 countries to defend South Korea and condemned the North Korean aggression. The war lasted until 1953, with South Korea signing a protection treaty with the United States and North Korea signing a similar treaty with the USSR and The Peoples Republic of China.
Further attempts at reunification were not attempted until the early 1970's and have met with only sporadic support between the countries. The hard line Stalinist rule of Kim Il Sung continued until his death in 1994.
The state of Kashmir, lodged between India and Pakistan, has been a point of dispute between the two countries since its accession to India in 1947. Pakistan does not recognize the Indian mandate and claims that Kashmir should be ruled under a Pakistani government. The Muslim/Hindu tensions between Pakistan and India are frequently evoked while arguing over the possession of Kashmir. The predominantly Muslim Kashmiri population is governed from New Delhi by a Hindu administration, which causes some dissent. Although the Kashmiri Muslim majority accepts the Indian government, there are factions within the country which want to embrace Pakistani rule.
Mission Description
North Korean Bomb- The North Korean army has developed a nuclear bomb. Western forces learn that the bomb is being flown to Chongjin and decide it must be destroyed quietly and quickly. A stealth fighter is deployed to shoot down the Korean transport plane.
Korean Surprise Raid- Following the death of North Korean leader Kim Il Sung, South Korea has decided to launch an attack on a North Korean Nuclear facility, to curtail their burgeoning arms program. The North Koreans respond to the attack.
War in Asia- A pro-democracy movement in North Korea has threatened to topple the government. China intervenes, massing troops on North Korean soil. The South Koreans appeal to the Japanese for assistance. The Japanese respond and engage Chinese air forces in battle.
Battle on the Korean Peninsula- South Korea has been massing troops at the North Korean border, preparing to help the North Korean people in an uprising against their Communist leaders. China, not wanting a war on its borders, launches an attack on South Korean forces.
Kashmir- Enlisting the help of Kashmiri Muslims and Sikhs, the Pakistani government has managed to gather enough information to stage an attack on Kashmir. This will hopefully overpower the Indian military rule over the area. When the Indians attack a Pakistani airbase near the border, the Pakistanis respond by engaging the Indian forces.
Aircraft
The aircraft museum gives you a detailed look at the aircraft of the game. To the far right of the screen is a scroll bar of either American and Russian aircraft, target planes or missiles. When you decide on an aircraft, move the cursor over to it and either depress the left mouse button or press return.
The aircraft will be displayed in a 3-D image on the screen. You can rotate the aircraft in space by moving the cursor over the arrow control under the screen or by using the arrow buttons. The aircraft's specifications and history are displayed in a text window to the right of the rotation control.
The wide assortment of aircraft in Fighter Wing includes present day fighters and older classic fighters. All of the aircraft mentioned are still in active service all over the world. Any aircraft that are not available for the player to fly but are encountered in the various missions are listed under "Non-Player" aircraft.
Here is a list of the aircraft available in Fighter Wing. The names in quotations marks are their NATO designated titles. Each airplane is described fully in the following pages. American Planes: Russian Planes:
The F-4 "Phantom" The MiG-21bis "Fishbed"
The F-15C "Eagle" The MiG-23MF "Flogger"
The F-16C "Falcon" The MiG-29 "Fulcrum"
The F-18A "Hornet" The MiG-31 "Foxhound"
The F-117A "Stealth" The Su-27 "Flanker"
There are other aircraft in the game which you, as the player, don't get to fly. However, you will encounter them from mission to mission. These are called Non-Player Aircraft and are as follows:
Russian Planes: American Planes:
The Tu-160 "Blackjack" The C-132 "Provider"
The An-26 "Curl" The B-52 "Stratofortress"
The Boeing 747 "Jumbo Jet"
During the early training missions, you will encounter other aircraft. These are:
The F-5E "Tiger" The Boeing E-3A "Sentry"
The Dassault "Mirage" F-1 The Dassault "Mirage" 2000
The Boeing/Sikorsky RAH-66 "Comanche"
F-4F "Phantom"
The F-4 "Phantom" first began development in 1953 as designed by the McDonnell Aircraft Company. It was first flown in May of 1958. By 1960 the F-4 was put into service by the US Navy air Force and Marine Corps. The plane was used to great effect during the Vietnam war and was in production until 1981.
The F-4 was, at its advent, perilously close to never being developed. The McDonnell Aircraft Company had lost a development contract with the US Navy after planning a supersonic carrier-based fighter. Instead of abandoning the project, they continued to develop the craft in spite of the contract loss. Once it was established that this fighter would be a single seat, all weather, missile capable plane, McDonnell revised their proposal and the US Navy realized that it was being offered an outstanding fighter aircraft. This time, McDonnell won the contract. The rest is history and resulted in one of the most reliable US created combat fighters. During the F-4's engagement in Vietnam a cannon was added and has been available in all later models. It served well in Vietnam and has also been used to a great extent by the Israeli Air Force. The craft is still in use with the German, Israeli, Saudi Arabian and British air forces. In the 1960's and early 1970's it dominated most performance records.
Flight Specifics
Top Speed- 2,413 km/h (1,508 mph)
Combat flight distance- 4,184 km (2,600 miles)
Length of aircraft, nose to tail: 19.2 m (63 ft)
Wing span: 11.7 m (38.4 ft)
Height of aircraft: 4.96 m (16.2 ft)
Weight (empty): 8,120 kg (3,690 lb)
F-15C "Eagle"
The F-15 "Eagle" was developed by the McDonnell Aircraft Company. The first prototype flew in July of 1972 with further developments occurring in 1979, 1985 and 1989, after which production was halted temporarily. Production was started again during 1991.
The F-15 "Eagle" excels at both air-to-ground and air-to-air combat missions. Its outstanding manoeuvrability and exceptional aptitude for carrying heavy arms makes it an invaluable addition to the US arsenal. The F-15C "Eagle" variation, first introduced in 1979, is particularly well-suited to dogfight combat and can accommodate up to four "Sidewinder" and "Sparrow" AAM's, along with a 20mm six-barrel gun with 940 rounds of ammunition and up to 10,705 kg (23,600 pounds) of bombs. It is considered one of the world's top dogfighting jets. It is also one of the most expensive to produce. It has been used particularly well by the Israeli Air Force.
Flight Specifics
Top speed- 2,655 km/h (1,659 mph)
Combat flight distance- 4,818 km (2,994 miles)
Length of aircraft, nose to tail: 19.43 m (63.7 ft)
Wing span: 13.05 m (42.8 ft)
Height of aircraft: 5.63 m (18.5 ft)
Weight (empty): 12,970 kg (28,534 lb)
F-16C "Falcon"
The F-16 began its development in 1972. It stemmed from the YF-16 prototype as produced by General Dynamics (which was later purchased by Lockheed). The first flight took place in February of 1974 with full-scale development of an improved design beginning in 1976.
The F-16 was first developed to be a lightweight efficient dogfighter, which could be produced with low cost in mind. Since its inception it has become an exceptionally proficient multi-role fighter, excelling in both air-to-air combat and ground attacks. It was the first US craft to utilize "Fly-by-wire" technology (flight controlled by electrical signals, rather than mechanical means). The F-16C "Falcon" features all-weather performance and wing pylons that have been improved from earlier models. This makes the craft less vulnerable to G-force limitations during combat. It also features a 20mm Gatling gun. It has become the benchmark for fighter manoeuvrability.
Flight Specifics
Top Speed- 2,123 km/h (1,327 mph)
Combat flight distance- 1,371 km (852 miles)
Length of aircraft, nose to tail: 15.03 m (49.3 ft)
Wing span: 9.45 m (31 ft)
Height of aircraft: 5.09 m (16.7 ft)
Weight (empty): 8,273 kg (18,238 lb)
F-18A "Hornet"
The F-18 began its development in 1974 as commissioned by the US Navy. It was designed by the McDonnell Douglas company with the Northrop development company as an associate producer. The first "Hornet" took flight in November 1978, with 11 aircraft flying by March of 1980. The US Navy took delivery of the first completed models in May of 1980.
The history of the F-18 is somewhat controversial. The project suffered from cost overruns and debates about its need and its efficiency. Originally, the F-18 was in competition with the F-16 for an Air Force contract. The F-16 was chosen. A short time later, the Navy and the Marines decided that the F-18 perfectly suited their needs. The F-18 is bigger than the F-16 and can carry more ordnance, making it a good plane for strike duties. The F-18 has established itself as an outstanding multi-role fighter aircraft. It has actually managed to surpass its original expectations in its performance except when it comes to its flight range, where it has not met its original goal. The F-18A "Hornet" is a fly-by-wire aircraft (utilizing electrical signals rather than mechanical means to control the craft), featuring an advanced radar system. Being such an effective all-weather fighter, it is popular with foreign buyers such as Australia, Canada and Spain.
Flight Specifics
Top Speed- 2,125 km/h (1,328 mph)
Combat flight distance- 722 km (449 miles)
Length of aircraft, nose to tail: 17.07 m (56 ft)
Wing span: 11.43 m (37.5 ft)
Height of aircraft: 4.66 m (15.3 ft)
Weight (empty): 10,455 kg (23,048 lb)
F-117A "Stealth"
The highly secret development of this aircraft began in 1976 under the direction of the Lockheed Advanced Development Company associated with the US Flight Dynamics Laboratory. The first prototype crashed in May 1978, the second in 1980. Three prototypes were developed and flown between 1982 and 1990 and the first operational deployment was during the US invasion of Panama in December of 1990.
The F-117A "Stealth" fighter is the legendary "invisible" US fighter. The "Stealth" technology enables the plane to be nearly undetectable to radar. Special slats at the engine outlets disperse heat, making the craft difficult to spot for infra-red guided missiles and other IR sensors. Twin engines are mounted above its fuselage. It is black, unusually flat for an airplane and resembles the early "flying-wing" type aircraft. The fuselage consists of aluminum with nickel alloy jetpipes and some thermoplastic graphite composites used in the rudder design. It is primarily a bomber aircraft but is capable of engaging other aircraft in dogfight situations due to its low detectability.
Flight Specifics
Top Speed- 1,127 km/h (704 mph)
Combat flight distance- 1,112 km (691 miles)
Length of aircraft, nose to tail: 20.08 m (65.8 ft)
Wing span: 13.2 m (43.3 ft)
Height of aircraft: 3.78 m (12.4 ft)
Weight (empty): 13,600 kg (29,920 lb)
The MiG-21bis "Fishbed" N:
First planning of the MiG-21 aircraft began in 1953, designed and manufactured by the Mikoyan Design Bureau. It was developed under the direction of Colonel-General Artem Ivanovich Mikoyan and Mikhail Iosifovich Guryevich. In-flight testing began in 1957, with production beginning in 1958.
The MiG-21 is a standard well designed workhouse aircraft, whose reliability has been proven time and time again since its advent in 1958. Initially, performance was substandard; the first MiG-21's had a low fuel capacity (500km fighting range) which would be further reduced with combat flying. Improvements resulted in a manoeuvrable and adaptable plane which could out manoeuvre the more technologically advanced American planes of its time. The MiG-21bis "Fishbed" N has been produced since 1980 and features a "swift rod" antennae, seven internal self-sealing fuel tanks and can carry two AA-2 "Atoll" and four AA-8 "Aphid" missiles, outboard and inboard respectively. Improvements have made this a heavier aircraft than earlier model MiG fighters, so it lacks the agility of smaller MiG variations. Over 10,000 have been produced and sold to over 20 countries worldwide. The MiG-21's are expected to be flying well into the next century.
Flight Specifications
Top speed- 2,150 km/h (1,344 mph)
Combat flight distance- 1,150 km (715 miles)
Length of aircraft, nose to tail: 13.46 m (44.2 ft)
Wing span: 7.15 m (23.5 ft)
Height of aircraft: 4.1 m (13.4 ft)
Weight (empty): 5,750 kg (12,650 lb)
The MiG-23MF "Flogger" G
The first plans for the MiG-23 were devised in 1964 as a product of the Mikoyan Design Bureau. A prototype appeared in July of 1967 at the Domodyedovo Airport in Moscow as part of the Soviet Aviation Day flypast. The Soviet Air Forces took delivery of a test model in 1970 and completed models in 1973. Soviet production ended during the mid-1980's. MiG-23 variations continue to this day to be manufactured in India.
The MiG-23 was an important tactical warplane when it was introduced into the Soviet arsenal. It was the first Soviet tactical fighter which could match the performance and payload of such American-designed craft as the F-4. It was also the first Soviet aircraft to feature "swing-wing" technology. The MiG-23 "Flogger" G was produced from 1976-81. It is especially effective in combat when utilizing the AA-7 "Apex" missile but is not especially well suited for dogfighting because of its "swing-wing" capability and vulnerability to battle damage.
Flight Specifics
Top speed- 2,500 km/h (1,563 mph)
Combat flight distance- 1,300 km (805 miles)
Length of aircraft, nose to tail: 16.71 m (54.8 ft)
Wing span: 14 m (45.92 ft)
Height of aircraft: 4.82 m (15.9 ft)
Weight (empty): 10,800 kg (23,760 lb)
MiG-29 "Fulcrum" A
The planning for the MiG-29 began in 1972 by the Mikoyan Design Bureau. Development was under the direction of Rostislav A. Belyakov. Detailed design began in 1974 and US satellites photographed the first prototype flying in 1977 at the Ramenskoye flight test centre in the USSR. Actual production began in 1982 with the aircraft becoming operational in 1985.
The MiG-29 was designed by the Soviet air force to compensate for the leaps in technology made by the US air force in their F-16 and F-18 aircraft. The Soviet planes were simply too slow or awkward to deal with such new threats. It soon became evident that the MiG-29 "Fulcrum" A was equal to the F-16 and F-18's in its performance. A large wing area provides high lift and gives it impressive manoeuvrability. In addition, its cockpit offers superior visibility to other Soviet-originated fighters. It is a versatile aircraft and is even able to safely take off and land on dirt roads in lieu of a proper runway.
Flight Specifics
Top speed- 2,440 km/h (1,525 mph)
Combat flight Distance- 1,500 km (932 miles)
Length of aircraft, nose to tail: 17.32 m (56.8 ft)
Wing span: 11.36 m (37.3 ft)
Height of aircraft: 4.73 m (15.5 ft)
Weight of aircraft- 10,900 kg (23,980 lb)
MiG-31 "Foxhound" A
The MiG-31 prototype was tested for the first time in September 1975 as a product of the Mikoyan Design Bureau. Full-scale production began in 1979 with the Soviet air force taking delivery in 1983 to replace MiG-23's and Su-15's. This craft is still being produced at the Nizhny Novgorod plant.
The West's first information about the craft which would become the MiG-31 occurred in 1975 when a Soviet MiG-25 "Foxbat" landed in Japan. The pilot was Lt. Viktor Belyenko, a Soviet defector. During his debriefing he revealed that the Soviets were testing a two-seated variation of the same craft with improved armament and manoeuvrability. These tests culminated in the MiG-31 "Foxhound" A, an improved version of the MiG-25 "Foxbat" aircraft. Improvements include a more precise radar system (similar to the McDonnell Douglas F-14) and an improved power plant. It has been hypothesized that the Soviets bought an F-14 from Iranian contacts and dismantled it, utilizing some of that technology in the MiG-31. The MiG-31 has a powerful multi-targeting radar and the ability to carry the AA-9 "Amos" self-homing missile.
Multi Targeting System - This system allows your aircraft to "lock" onto more than one target at a time. This allows the firing aircraft to deploy more than one radar homing missile at a time, allowing it to engage multiple enemy planes (this is available only on the MiG-31).
Flight Specifics
Top Speed- 3,000 km/h (1,875 mph)
Combat flight distance- 720 km (447 miles)
Length of aircraft, nose to tail: (including nose probe) 22.7 m (74.5 ft)
Wing span: 13.46 m (44.1 ft)
Height of aircraft: 6.15 m (20.2 ft)
Weight (empty): 21,800 kg (47,960 lb)
Sukhoi Su-27 "Flanker" A
The Sukhoi Su-27 began its development in 1969 under the direction of Pavel Sukhoi. The first prototype, the T-10-1, was built under the supervision of Mikhail Seemonov and first flown in May of 1977. Actual production began in 1980 and the craft was put into service in 1984. A version suited for ground attack was reported in 1991.
The Sukhoi Su-27 was first devised as a response to the combat power of the US F-15 Eagle. The plane suffered a difficult development period and two pilots were killed during test flights. After these incidents, major design changes were made. The "Flanker" A is particularly efficient at shooting down low flying aircraft and cruise missiles. It can carry up to eight AA-2 "Atoll", AA-8 "Aphid" or AA-10 "Alamo" medium range AAM's (air to air missiles), making it a formidable opponent. It is capable of flying manoeuvres which no US built aircraft can emulate. It is also the first Russian plane to utilize a "fly-by-wire" system (the plane is controlled and adjusted by electronic signals rather than by mechanical means).
Flight Specifics
Top speed- 2,500 km/h (1,562 mph)
Combat flight distance- 1,450 km (901 miles)
Length of aircraft, nose to tail: 21.9 m (71.8 ft)
Wing span: 14.7 m (48.2 ft)
Height of aircraft: 5.9 m (19.4 ft)
Weight (empty): 13,600 kg (29,920 lb)
Tupolev Tu-160 "Blackjack"
The Tu-160 was designed for the Soviet Air Force under the direction of V.I. Bilznuk. A prototype was first sighted at the Ramenskoye flight test centre on Nov. 25th 1981 and the first working model first flew on Dec. 19th 1981. Production began in May of 1987.
The "Blackjack" is a bomber intended for high altitude engagement. It is notable for being a bomber with long distance capability, superior in range and speed to its closest equivalent, the USAF B-1B. It is noted for being a very manoeuvrable aircraft due to its swing-wing design. It is a fly by wire aircraft (utilizing electric motors, rather than manual adjustment, for aircraft control). Other features include a sophisticated ECM system and a terrain-following radar to be utilized during low altitude flying.
Flight Specifics
Top speed- 2,000 km/h (1,250 mph) Combat flight distance- 12,000 km (7,457 miles)
Length of aircraft, nose to tail- 42.46 m (139.3 ft) Wing span- 23.3 m (76.4 ft)
Height of aircraft- 11.05 m (36.2 ft) Weight of aircraft- 50,000 kg (110,000 lb)
Antonov An-26 "Curl"
The Antonov 26 was first introduced at the Paris Air Show of 1969. It was produced by the Antonov Design Bureau under the direction of Oleg Konstantinovich Antonov. The An-26 was superseded by the An-32 in 1984, but Chinese built derivatives, models Y7-100 and 200, are still in production.
Although the "Curl" is a variation of the twin turboprop An-24 its fuselage design is completely different. It is notable for being able to adapt from being a cargo carrier, to being able to drop paratroops, to being able to serve as an air ambulance. It is a strong versatile aircraft which is a valuable tool among Russia's aircraft customers.
Flight Specifics
Top speed- 435 km/h (272 mph) Combat flight distance- 2,660 km (1,652 miles)
Length of aircraft, nose to tail- 23.8 m (78.1 ft) Wing span- 29.2 m (95.8 ft)
Height of aircraft- 8.58 m (28.1 ft) Weight of aircraft- (empty) 14,000 kg (30,800 lb)
Boeing B-52 "Stratofortress"
Work on the design of the B-52 began in 1945 contracted by the U.S. air force to the Boeing Aerospace Corp. A first prototype flew in April of 1952. In 1954 the first production models appeared. The aircraft has been in operation since 1957.
The beginning of the B-52 stemmed from a conflict. Boeing and Convair both competed for the USAF contract to develop a long-range bomber. Convair had already developed the B-36 and had proposed a new ship, the YB-60. This craft would have been more economical than Boeing's proposal, but did not match the performance of the planned B-52. Boeing won the contract.
Featuring eight jet engines and a long flight range, there is almost no destination that cannot be reached by the B-52. It is a large and very powerful aircraft regarded as the ultimate bomber workhorse of the USAF and was elemental in the US involvement in the Asian theatre during the Vietnam war. It is nearing 40 years of service and shows no sign of being retired.
Flight Specifics
Top speed- 957 km/h (598 mph) Combat flight distance- 16,093 km (10,000 miles)
Length of aircraft, nose to tail- 48.03 m (157.5 ft) Wing span- 56.38 m (184.9 ft)
Height of aircraft- 12.4 m (40.7 ft) Weight of aircraft- 150,000 kg (330,000 lb)
Boeing 747 "Jumbo Jet"
The Boeing 747 first began production in 1966. It first flew in February of 1969 and was certified for commercial use on Dec. 30th 1969. Its first commercial flight (for Pan-American airways) was on Jan. 21st 1970.
The beginnings of the 747 stem from a US Army contract which Boeing bid upon and lost. When Lockheed won an Army contract to develop a large carrier aircraft, Boeing began to re-evaluate their own design for possible use in the passenger air market. The largest passenger aircraft at that time was the Douglas DC-8, and Boeing aimed to create a larger plane by maximizing load capability in both cabin size and the freight hold. The 747 would be able to hold 3 times as many passengers as the previous largest airliner.
Although the venture was expensive (an entire new plant had to be built to accommodate production), Boeing undertook the project. An order for 25 such aircraft by Pan-American airlines boosted investor confidence and the plane has since become an industry mainstay.
Flight Specifics
Top speed- 910 km/h (565 mph) Maximum flight range- 10,200 km (6,338 miles)
Length of aircraft, nose to tail- 70 m (230 ft) Wing span- 59 m (194 ft)
Height of aircraft- 19 m (62.3 ft) Weight of aircraft- (empty) 166,471 kg (366,999 lb)
The Dassault "Mirage" F1
Various models of the "Mirage" had been in production since 1960. When the first F1 prototype appeared in 1969, it was the first "Mirage" developed without the delta wing feature which had been prominent in earlier models. The improved manoeuvrability of the F1 made it a reliable combat aircraft. By 1973 the craft was in service in such countries as Ecuador, Greece, Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, South Africa and Spain.
Top speed- 2,335 km/h (1,450 mph) Maximum flight range- 900 km (560 miles)
Length of aircraft- 15 m (49.2 ft) Wing span- 8.4 m (27.8 ft)
Height of aircraft- 4.5 m (14.9 ft) Weight of aircraft- (loaded) 14,900 kg (24,030 lb)
The Dassault "Mirage" 2000
The "Mirage" is a two seated French designed aircraft. The first prototype flew in March 1978 and the completed model began delivery in December 1983. It has been called one of the simplest and cleanest fighters ever built. It has been exported to several Middle-East countries including Egypt and Jordan.
Top speed- 2,214 km/h (1,320 mph) Maximum flight range- 1,800 km (1,118 miles)
Length of aircraft- 14.35 m (47.1 ft) Wing span- 9 m (29.6 ft)
Height of aircraft- 5.3 m (17.8 ft) Weight of aircraft- 7,400 kg (16,315 lb)
The Northrop F-5E "Tiger"
The first "Tiger" prototype flew in March 1969 and was in production by August 1972. During its production it was manufactured in the United States, the Netherlands, Canada and Spain. By the early 1980's, "Tigers" were flying in over 25 countries worldwide. It is a reliable single seat aircraft, cheap to produce and easy to handle.
Top speed- 1,489 km/h (925 mph) Maximum flight range- (max load) 366 km (215 miles)
Length of aircraft- 14.68 m (48.2 ft) Wing span- 8.53 m (28 ft)
Height of aircraft- 4.06 m (13.8 ft) Weight of aircraft- 4,392 kg (9,683 lb)
The Boeing E-3A "Sentry"
The "Sentry" began active service in 1977. Its function was to serve the newly formed AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) program of the US Air Force. It is a derivant of the commercial Boeing 707 and has been a particularly effective electronic reconnaissance aircraft.
Top speed- 886 km/h (550 mph) Maximum flight range- 12,000 km (7,475 miles)
Length of aircraft- 46.61 m (152.11 ft) Wing span- 44.2 m (145.8 ft)
Height of aircraft- 12.93 m (42.5 ft) Weight of aircraft- loaded 151,315 kg (333,600 lb)
The Boeing/Sikorsky RAH-66 "Comanche"
The "Comanche" was developed as a joint project of the Boeing and Sikorsky corporations. It was requested by the US Army in 1982 to replace the UH-1, AH-1, OH-58 and OH-6 attack models. It is a sleek, very effective air to ground helicopter. It is still under development and is expected to be in service by 1997.
Top Speed- 328km/h (204 mph) Maximum flight range- 2,335 km (1,451 miles)
Length of helicopter- 14.28 m (46.9 ft) Main rotor diameter- 11.90 m (39 ft)
Height over tailplane- 3.39 m (11.2 ft) Weight of helicopter- 3,515 kg (7,749 lb)
Fairchild C-132 "Provider"
Development of the "Provider" first began in 1949 by the Chase aircraft company, who were designing a transport glider. This later developed into a piston-engine variant and was first flown in 1953. The "Provider" is a strong, workhorse aircraft, very similar to the Russian An-26.
Top speed- 330 km/h (205 mph) Combat flight distance- 2,365 km (1,470 miles)
Length of aircraft, nose to tail- 23.08 m (75.8 ins) Wing span- 33.53 m (110 ft)
Height of aircraft- 10.38 m (34.2 ft) Weight of aircraft- (loaded) 27,000 kg (60,000 lb)
Obstacles
Balloons- The balloons in this game serve as pylons for pilots to steer around while flying. This allows them to test their skills and to determine the capabilities of their aircraft. They are standard unmanned hot-air balloons sponsored by the Gemsoft company.
MISSILES
Missile Guidance Systems
Both Russian and American missiles utilize the same types of tracking systems. Not all systems are useful in all situations. An All Aspect Missile can be launched from any angle towards its target. Most of the older IR missiles are Rear Aspect Missiles, which means they can only be fired from behind the target.
The various types of missile tracking systems are as follows:
Infra-Red (IR)- A missile with IR tracking will pick up on the infra-red radiation (heat) emitting from the hostile aircraft (usually from the turbine and tailpipe). An IR missile will track its target as long as the target is radiating heat. It does not normally depend on any radar-directed tracking, although newer IR missiles generally use Radar to get close to their target before switching over to IR mode. It is sometimes referred to as a "heat seeking" missile. This is usually a short range missile due to the fact that IR radiation dissipates quickly in the open air, leaving the missile unable to track over long distances. Some IR missiles are All Aspect, but early IR missiles are Rear Aspect only.
Radar Homing (RH)- A radar homing system utilizes the firing aircraft's own radar to guide the missile to the hostile aircraft. To understand this, it helps to think of the radar waves coming from the firing aircraft as beams of light shone from a flashlight, illuminating an object in a dark room. When the hostile aircraft has been "illuminated" and the radar has "locked" onto the hostile aircraft, the RH missile follows the firing aircraft's "lock" and is guided to the target. Since the missile is dependent on the firing craft's radar "lock", if that "lock" is lost, the missile loses its target. This is an All Aspect missile and is usually good for medium range targets only.
Active Homing (AH)- A missile utilizing an active homing system manages to establish a "lock" on the hostile aircraft utilizing the radar from the firing aircraft. However, after the missile gets within its active homing range, the missile establishes its own "lock" using its own radar system. Once it reaches its active homing distance it becomes independent of the firing aircraft, which can then fire another missile. This increases the firing aircraft's combat capabilities. Active Homing missiles are usually long range, All Aspect missiles.
Not all the missiles that are available in the game can be used with all the aircraft. The first restriction is that only American missiles can be used with American Fighters, and only Russian missiles can be used with Russian Fighters. Furthermore, since the fighter and the missiles are working co-operatively, a given missile can not work with an aircraft whose avionics are lacking range or power. Missiles that require a higher grade of avionics than a particular craft has will not be able to be used.
The missiles utilized in the game are as follows:
AIM-9 Sidewinder
History:
The AIM-9 Sidewinder is one of the world's most successful missiles (over 200,000 units have been produced). It has been produced in more variants and has been in service longer than any other air to air missile. It is named after a desert snake that uses body heat to locate its victim. The Sidewinder is a short range infra red homing missile that finds its prey in much the same way.
The Sidewinder has been used in combat situations since the mid fifties. It has equipped everything from F-4 Phantoms during the Vietnam war to F-16's during the Gulf War where 11 enemy planes were shot down by Sidewinders. Wherever it has been used, it has proven to be an effective and lethal adversary.
The AIM-9 program was initiated in the early 1950's with the first test firing in September 1953. In 1956, a model known as the AIM-9B was the first to enter service. During the 1960's the US Navy and Air Force each produced their own versions of the Sidewinder.
AIM-9P - Specifications
The Sidewinder AIM-9P is the last in the US Air Force line. Future versions of the Sidewinder will be co-operative ventures between the Air Force and Navy.
Length - 2.87 m (9.4 ft) Diameter - 0.13 m (5.1 in)
Forward Span - 0.64 m (2.1 ft) Tail Span - 0.64 m (2.1 ft)
Weight - 87 kg (192 lb.) Max. Speed - Mach 3 or 3168 km/h (1,980 mph)
Range - 8 km (5 miles) Seeker Type - Infra Red rear aspect
Warhead - 11.4 kg (25 lb.) high explosive with preformed rods
AIM-9L - Specifications
In the 1970's both programs merged and the Navy and Air Force both now use the AIM-9L and AIM-9M. Production of the AIM-9L began in 1976. It had a more powerful motor than its predecessors, improved tracking and manoeuvrability, a more advanced optical fuse and an all aspect capability. All aspect capability allows the missile to lock on to a target plane even if it is viewing it from the front. It is the first Sidewinder to have this very useful capability.
Length - 2.87 m (9.4 ft) Diameter - 0.13 m (5.1 in)
Forward Span - 0.64 m (2.1 ft) Tail Span - 0.64 m (2.1 ft)
Weight - 87 kg (192 lb.) Max. Speed - Mach 3 or 3168 km/h (1,980 mph)
Range - 8 km (5 miles) Seeker Type - Infra Red all-aspect
Warhead - 11.4 kg (25 lb.) high explosive with preformed rods
AIM-9M - Specifications
The AIM-9M began production in 1982. This missile improves on the 9L by adding increased performance and increased resistance to countermeasures. With the possible exception of the Russian AA-11 Archer, this is the best short range infra red missile available.
Length - 2.87 m (9.4 ft) Diameter - 0.13 m (5.1 in)
Forward Span - 0.64 m (2.1 ft) Tail Span - 0.64 m (2.1 ft)
Weight - 87 kg (192 lb.) Max. Speed - Mach 3 or 3168 km/h (1,980 mph)
Range - 8 km (5 miles) Seeker Type - Infra Red all-aspect
Warhead - 11.4 kg (25 lb.) high explosive with preformed rods
Smokeless Engine
AIM-7 Sparrow III
History:
The AIM-7 Sparrow III entered service with US forces in August 1958. It is one of the most widely used US weapons. The earliest version was the AIM-7A Sparrow I which employed beam riding as the method of guidance. An active homing version called the AIM-7B Sparrow II was abandoned in the 1950's.
The current Sparrow family includes the AIM-7C, D, E, F and M models. The AIM-7E was widely used in the Vietnam war. The current models are the F and M though there are still a few E models in the US arsenal. Versions of the Sparrow have been converted into the surface to air Land Sparrow and the sea to air Sea Sparrow missile.
The Sparrow has been used in conflicts around the world since it was first put into production. It has equipped F-4 Phantoms during the Vietnam war and is still equipping the front line fighters of many nations. Sparrows accounted for 25 kills during the 1991 Gulf War.
AIM-7F - Specifications
The Sparrow AIM-7F is a medium range, all weather, all aspect, semi-active radar guided missile. As such, it is likely it would produce the majority of kills in an all out conflict. The plane firing the missile illuminates the target with its own radar. The Sparrow flies towards this illuminated target.
Length - 3.65 m (12 ft) Diameter - 0.20 m (8 in)
Forward Span - 1.0 m (3.3 ft) Tail Span - 1.0 m (3.3 ft)
Weight - 228 kg (500 lb.) Max. Speed - Mach 4 or 4224 km/h (2,640 mph)
Range - 45 km (28 miles) Seeker Type - Radar Homing
Warhead - 39 kg (86 lb.) high explosive with preformed rods
AIM-7M - Specifications
The latest model, the AIM-7M, includes a new digital signal processor, a new autopilot and a new fuse. The solid state signal processor is programmable to allow changes to be made to counter any new electronic counter measures advances. In the 1990's the Sparrow has began to be replaced by the AIM-120 AMRAAM (Advanced Medium Range Air to Air Missile).
Length - 3.65 m (12 ft) Diameter - 0.20 m (8 in)
Forward Span - 1.0 m (3.3 ft) Tail Span - 1.0 m (3.3 ft)
Weight - 228 kg (500 lb.) Max. Speed - Mach 4 or 4224 km/h (2,640 mph)
Range - 45 km (28 miles) Seeker Type - Radar Homing
Warhead - 39 kg (86 lb.) high explosive with preformed rods
AIM-54 Phoenix
History:
The AIM-54 Phoenix is a long range active homing radar missile. It was specifically designed for use with the US Navy's F-14 Tomcat interceptor. It allows the F-14 to engage up to 6 targets simultaneously at long distances
Development started in March 1968 as part of the F-111B interceptor program. When that program was abandoned, the F-14 inherited both that plane's radar and the Phoenix missile.
The Phoenix uses the F-14's radar until it gets within 14 miles of the target at which time its own active radar switches on. It has proved itself capable of intercepting planes at long ranges as well as planes and cruise missile at low altitude.
The F-14 is not included in this game. To balance the game somewhat, we have allowed the AIM-54 to be mounted on the F-15, although this is not an operational configuration so far as we can determine.
Specifications
Length - 4.26 m (13 ft) Diameter - 0.38 m (15 in)
Tail Span - 0.99 m (3.3 ft) Weight - 442 kg (975 lb.)
Max. Speed - Mach 3.8 or 4023 km/h (2,500 mph) Range - 200 km (125 miles)
Seeker Type - Active Radar Homing Active Homing Range - 22 km (14 miles)
Warhead - 60 kg (132 lb.) of high explosive
AIM-120 AMRAAM
History:
The AIM-120 AMRAAM (Advanced Medium Range Air to Air Missile) is the first of an new generation of missiles. The AMRAAM program was initiated by a Memorandum of Understanding between Germany, France, the UK and the USA dealing with the air to air family of missiles. It was signed in August 1980. Under this Memorandum of Understanding, the USA would develop the medium range missile in this family while Britain and Germany would develop the short range missile. All countries (with the possible exception of France) would then adopt the resulting missiles as their standard. This would pool resources and simplify NATO air to air missile re supply requirements. The AMRAAM was developed to meet a specification developed as part of this Memorandum of Understanding.
The AMRAAM is an all-weather, all-aspect, radar guided missile capable of engaging numerically superior enemy forces and of self homing soon after launch. Self homing requires that the missile be able to home in on the target without the firing plane having target lock on the target plane. The AMRAAM is the replacement for the AIM-7 Sparrow.
The winning design for the AMRAAM was chosen in December 1981. The winner of the competition was the Hughes Corporation. In 1984, British Aerospace was chosen as the European partner in production. The missile went into service in 1989 with US forces.
Specifications
Length - 3.57 m (11.7 ft) Diameter - 0.18 m (7 in)
Forward Span - 0.53 m (1.7 ft) Tail Span - 0.63 m (2.1 ft)
Weight - 150 kg (330 lb.) Max. Speed - Mach 4 or 4224 km/h (2,640 mph)
Range - 75 km (47 miles) Seeker Type - Active Radar Homing
Active Homing Range - 12 km (7.5 miles) Warhead - 22 kg high explosive
Smokeless engine
AA-2 Atoll
History:
The AA-2 Atoll missile is similar in size and appearance to the American AIM-9 Sidewinder. It may be based on captured examples of that missile. The AA-2 designation is the one used by NATO. The Russians refer to this missile as the K13A.
The Atoll is a short range semi-active radar guided missile. There are two versions, the infra red guided missile (AA-2D) and the radar guided missile (AA-2C). The Atoll is thought to have an interchangeable guidance head. The radar guidance head is about 60 cm (2 ft) longer than the infra red guided version.
Atoll missiles have been widely exported to foreign buyers of Russia aircraft. They are also made under license in India and China. It is still in service with the Russian Air Forces but is being replaced by the AA-8 Aphid.
The Atoll has seen combat in many conflicts around the world on MiG-21's and MiG-23's. It has been used extensively in the Middle East, Vietnam and the Indo-Pakistani wars. Its performance appears no better than that of early Sidewinder missiles.
AA-2C - Specifications
There were two versions of the Atoll, the original missile and a later "Advanced Atoll". The AA-2C is the Advanced Atoll, radar guided version.
Length - 2.9 m (9.3 ft) Diameter - 0.13 m (4.7 in)
Forward Span - .45 m (21 in) Tail Span - .65 m (21 in)
Weight - 70 kg (155 lb.) Max. Speed - Mach 2.5 or 2640 km/h (1,650 mph)
Range - 13 km (8 miles) Seeker Type - Radar Homing
Warhead - 11.3 kg (25 lb.) HE blast fragmentation
AA-2D - Specifications
The AA-2D is a short range, infra red guided missile. There is also a radar guided version (AA-2C). The infra red version is a rear aspect only missile. The AA-2D designation is the one used by NATO. The Russians refer to this missile as the K13M.
Length - 2.9 m (9.3 ft) Diameter - 0.13 m (4.7 in)
Forward Span - .45 m (21 in) Tail Span - .65 m (21 in)
Weight - 90 kg (198 lb.) Max. Speed - Mach 2.5 or 2640 km/h (1,650 mph)
Range - 8 km (5 miles) Seeker Type - Infra Red Homing - rear aspect
Warhead - 11.3 kg (25 lb.) HE blast fragmentation
AA-7B Apex
History:
The AA-7 Apex first became known to the west in 1976 along with the AA-6 Acrid and the AA-8 Aphid. The Apex is comparable to the AIM-7 Sparrow. This missile is known as the R-23 in Russia.
The Apex is a medium range, all weather, all aspect, semi-active guided missile. The firing plane illuminates the target with its own radar. The Apex flies towards this illuminated target. It is claimed to have look down and shoot down capability.
An infra red version was expected but apparently never produced.
The Apex is part of the more advanced generation of Russian missiles that came out in the seventies. It filled the need for a medium range radar guided missile better than any previous Russian missile had but was still less capable than the American Sparrows of the time.
The Apex has replaced the radar version of the Atoll on Soviet MiG-21's and MiG-23's. It has also been exported to customers of Russian aircraft.
Specifications
Length - 4.5 m (14.8 ft) Diameter - 0.26 m (10.2 in)
Forward Span - 1.4 m (4.6 ft) Tail Span - 1.4 m (4.6 ft)
Weight - 244 kg (705 lb.) Max. Speed - Mach 3.0 or 3600 km/h (2,236 mph)
Range - 27 km (18 miles) Seeker Type - Radar Homing
Warhead - 35 kg (77 lb.) high explosive fragmentation
AA-8 Aphid
History:
The AA-8 Aphid is a small infra red guided missile for use in close dogfighting. It was specifically designed to be small and highly manoeuvrable, suitable for attacking evading targets at close range. It is known as the R-60 in Russia. Development began in the late 1960's with the missile entering production in 1973.
The Aphid is a short range, infra red guided missile designed to replace the infra red version of the AA-2 Atoll. It is one of the smallest modern missiles. Two can fit on a single weapon point on many Russian aircraft. This greatly increases the short range firepower of these planes. The small warhead can, however, reduce its lethality.
The Aphid is more advanced than previous Russian missiles and uses solid state technology to allow its small size.
Specifications
Length - 2.1 m (6.6 ft) Diameter - 0.13 m (4.7 in)
Forward Span - .52 m (19 in) Tail Span - .52 m (19 in)
Weight - 45 kg (143 lb.) Max. Speed - Mach 2.5 or 2970 km/h (1,845 mph)
Range - 7.2 km (4.5 miles) Seeker Type - Infra Red Homing - all aspect
Warhead - 3.5 kg (7.7 lb.) HE fragmentation with Uranium
AA-9 Amos
History:
The AA-9 Amos is a long range active homing radar missile designed for use with the MiG-31 Foxhound. It is similar in appearance and function to the American AIM-54 Phoenix missile. It is known as the R-33 in Russia.
The Amos is intended for long range interception missions of multiple targets. It is designed to be used with the MiG-31's multi-targeting radar. This will allow a plane to shoot down multiple enemies at long range before they can get into medium missile range. The Amos has an inertial guidance system with active radar terminal homing. The missile has its own built in radar which turns on 20 km from the target. It guides it to its target from this point. The missile has the ability to attack targets as low as 50 m above the ground. This and other advanced modern Russian missile designs make Russian built fighters dangerous opponents.
Specifications
Length - 4.0 m (13.1 ft) Diameter - 0.4 m (1.3 in)
Forward Span - 1.0 m (3.3 in) Tail Span - 1.0 m (3.3 in)
Weight - 490 kg (992 lb.) Max. Speed - Mach 3 or 3168 km/h (1,980 mph)
Range - 120 km (75 miles) Seeker Type - Active Radar Homing
Active Homing Range - 15 Warhead - 47 kg high explosive
AA-10 Alamo
History:
The AA-10 Alamo is a medium range missile designed for use with the new MiG-29 and Su-27 fighters. The first AA-10 missiles were photographed by the west in 1986. It is available in both semi-active radar versions and infra red guided versions. This series of missiles is known as the R-27 series in Russia.
AA-10A - Specifications
The AA-10A Alamo is the semi-active radar guided version of the Alamo. This will increase the punch of Russian fighters at medium ranges. It has become the standard Russian medium range missile.
Length - 4.0 m (13.1 ft) Diameter - 0.19 m (7.4 in)
Forward Span - .7 m (2.3 ft) Tail Span - .7 m (2.3 ft)
Weight - 235 kg (518 lb.) Max. Speed - Mach 3 or 3168 km/h (1,980 mph)
Range - 60 km (37 miles) Seeker Type - Radar Homing
Warhead - 39 kg high explosive
AA-10B - Specifications
The AA-10B is the infra red version of the Alamo and is roughly comparable to the latest all-aspect versions of the AIM-9 Sidewinder.
Length - 4.0 m (13.1 ft) Diameter - 0.19 m (7.4 in)
Forward Span - .7 m (2.3 ft) Tail Span - .7 m (2.3 ft)
Weight - 235 kg (518 lb.) Max. Speed - Mach 3 or 3168 km/h (1,980 mph)
Range - 40 km (22 miles) Seeker Type - Infra Red Homing - all aspect
Warhead - 39 kg high explosive
AA-10C - Specifications
The AA-10C is a longer range version of the radar homing version (Alamo A). The electronics are basically the same, but it has been fitted with a larger rocket motor. It is designated as the R-27ER in Russia.
Length - 4.8 m (15.7 ft) Diameter - 0.26 m (10.2 in)
Forward Span - .97 m (3.2 ft) Tail Span - .97 m (3.2 ft)
Weight - 350 kg (772 lb.) Max. Speed - Mach 3 or 3168 km/h (1,980 mph)
Range - 130 km (81 miles) Seeker Type - Radar Homing
Warhead - 39 kg high explosive
AA-11 Archer
History:
The AA-11 Archer is a short range infra red guided missile. It has been designed for use against agile enemy fighters. The Archer has complex control system designed to maximize manoeuvrability. It has an all-aspect engagement capability and is able to recognize flares. This missile is known as the R-73 in Russia.
The Archer represents a step forward in Russian missile technology and is currently thought to be superior to its western counterparts in many respects. Its high manoeuvrability allows it to be launched at targets at almost any angle. Future versions will allow the pilot to even launch the missile at targets behind the plane.
AA-11 Archer development was believed to have started in the late 1970's. The first examples are thought to have entered service in 1987.
Specifications
Length - 3.60 m (11.8 ft) Diameter - 0.21 m (8.3 in)
Forward Span - .48 m (18.9 in) Tail Span - .48 m (18.9 in)
Weight - 110 kg (243 lb.) Max. Speed - Mach 3 or 3168 km/h (1,980 mph)
Range - 30 km (19 miles) Seeker Type - Infra Red Homing
Warhead - 7.4 kg high explosive fragmentation
AA-12
History:
The AA-12 is a medium range active radar guided missile similar in appearance and function to the American AIM-120 AMRAAM. It has been named the "AMRAAMSKI" by some of the western press. The missile is thought to use technology from the AA-7 and AA-10 as well as from some Russian short range ballistic missiles. This missile is known as the R-77 in Russia.
The ballistic missile technology used in the AA-12 gives it higher manoeuvrability and a lower radar cross-section than is usual with missiles of this type. The AA-12 is pushing the boundaries of current missile technology.
The AA-12 project was probably started in the mid 1980's. The first example of this missile was seen in 1992 in Minsk. It is believed that the AA-12 entered service with the more modern Russian fighters in 1993.
Specifications
Length - 3.60 m (11.8 ft) Diameter - 0.21 m (8.3 in)
Forward Span - .48 m (18.9 in) Tail Span - .48 m (18.9 in)
Weight - 175 kg (386 lb.) Max. Speed - Mach 3 or 3168 km/h (1,980 mph)
Range - 90 km (56 miles) Seeker Type - Active Radar Homing
Active Homing Range - 10 km (6 miles) Warhead - 18 kg high explosive fragmentation Other Stores
Fighter aircraft can carry more than missiles. The other pods can hold guns, reconnaissance equipment, ECM (Electronic Counter Measures) devices or extra fuel. The additional ordnance is explained below:
Recon Pod
Description:
Reconnaissance pods are used by both Russian and American planes to gather intelligence information. The pods can be fitted to planes which have not been specifically designed for the reconnaissance role.
The pod will contain several cameras pointing at different angles. They may also contain other sensors such as infra red and radar as well as special sensors required for a particular mission.
Fuel Tank
Description:
Fuel tanks are an integral part of a modern fighter's arsenal. Most fighters do not have the fuel capacity to reach medium range objectives. Discardable fuel tanks are therefore used to increase the aircraft's range. Once their fuel is used up, they are usually jettisoned.
American planes can carry fuel loads of 800, 1200, 1700, 1900 or 2200 litres. Russian aircraft can carry 500, 600, 800 or 1200 litres.
ECM Pods (Electronic Counter Measures)
ECM pods are used by American planes to boost the ECM abilities of their older planes. This type of ECM pod gives a plane equivalent ECM capabilities to those of the F-15 Eagle.
ECM pods are used by Russian planes to boost the ECM abilities of their older planes. This type of ECM pod gives a plane the equivalent ECM capabilities to those of the MiG-29.
Gun Pods
These pods carry machine guns. They are used in both Russian and American planes. Russian aircraft can carry the Vulcan 23mm GSh pods, and American planes can carry the Vulcan 20mm pod. Adding these pods will allow a plane to fire twice as many rounds in a given time.
The Russian 23mm weapon is a more powerful weapon than the 20mm, but cannot fire as quickly or carry as much ammunition. The American "Vulcan" was first utilized in Vietnam-era "Phantom" jets in order to boost their firepower for dogfighting.
23mm GSh Gun Pod
This pod allows the addition of a Russian 23 mm GSh-23 cannon to one of the centre line weapons points of Russian fighters. It was originally intended to allow the addition of a cannon to jet planes that were designed without one.
The 23 mm cannon is the standard cannon fitted on Russian fighters. It has a lower rate of fire and carries less ammunition than the Vulcan 20 mm gun pod but is slightly more powerful.
Specifications
Length - 4.0 m (13.1 ft) Diameter - 0.52 m (20 in)
Weight - 500 kg (1100 lb.) Rate of fire - 3000 rounds per minute
Rounds carried - 200
Vulcan 20mm Gun Pod
This pod is designed to give more short range firepower to American fighters. Gun pods were used on Vietnam era Phantoms to give them the machine gun capability which the earlier Phantoms lacked. The Vulcan 20mm is same gun used on nearly all American fighters mounted in an external pod. This pod is mounted on an external weapons points located on the centre line of the plane.
Specifications
Length - 5.1 m (16.7 ft) Diameter - 0.56 m (22 in)
Weight - 785 kg (1730 lb.) Rate of fire - 6000 rounds per minute
Rounds carried - 120
Enemy Ratings Explained
Poor 0.40 Radar Range is divided by 2 to make enemies pilots seem less aggressive. Pilots use a direct approach algorithm, which allows only log g's and separates altitude and heading controls. Enemy aircraft can not evade guided missiles, drop decoys or use ECM. Missiles fired by enemy aircraft are twice as likely to lose lock. An easy opponent.
Average 0.70 Same as Poor except for missile avoidance know-how and operative ECM. Average enemies also have their real radar range. A more dangerous opponent but still no match for a good player.
Veteran 1.00 Same as Average pilot except for the added ability to deploy decoys. Fire missiles with real performance characteristics making them more difficult to escape. As well, Veteran enemies will use combat manoeuvres such as those described in the Dogfight chapter. A real challenge to any flight simulator jock.
Ace 2.00 The most dangerous opponent Fighter Wing can throw at you, ace enemies will deploy decoys twice as frequently as Veteran pilots and will use their entire g envelope when manoeuvring against you. A formidable opponent - this guy is hard to beat!
* Human players have a ranking of 1.0
Realism Ratings Explained
Full Aircraft perform like real aircraft do. Including stalling, real radar coverage (13-30 degrees depending on aircraft) and accurate g limits. Older IR missiles can only be fired from behind enemy aircraft (rear aspect missiles).
Medium Aircraft will not stall when air speed bottoms out - rather the aircraft continues to fly at it's minimum speed. When it reaches its operating ceiling, the aircraft continues to fly at that altitude. Still has realistic radar constrains, but no g limits.
Easy Aircraft will not stall. No g limits, and turns are allowed to exceed physical aircraft limits. Radar operates at a full 360 degrees (locking still takes place in a realistic sweep). The computer will automatically choose the best weapon for the player to fire. Computer will also dispense decoys and deploy ECM.
Designer's Notes
The main design goal of Fighter Wing was to create a game that was user-friendly. We wanted a game that someone who had never played a flight simulator before could sit and play within a few minutes. It was envisioned that Fighter Wing would often be played in offices, possibly during lunch, where not everybody had the time or inclination to learn all the intricacies of flying a jet fighter.
For this reason we omitted landings and takeoffs. We saw these as adding complexity without adding much play value. We also simplified the flight controls and the operation of the avionics.
That said, however, we also took great pains to make the rest of the game as realistic as possible. Extensive research was done on the characteristics and performance of the planes, missiles and avionics. In so far as we could manage to find out the planes carry their correct complement of missiles (with some small modifications for play balance). The range, speed and effectiveness of the missiles are based on the best information available in the summer of 1994. In the historical scenarios, the plane types and the missile types available are historically accurate. The cockpits have been designed from pictures of the insides of the actual planes.
The scenarios themselves are all hypothetical but are based on real world events. The sections in the scenario descriptions labelled as history are true historical events and were carefully researched. The sections labelled as Scenario are our own hypothesized events. Events move so quickly in our era that some of the scenarios partially came true during the development of the game. Others became less likely as hot spots cooled down. We hope you will consider the scenarios plausible and interesting.
One area where Fighter Wing breaks new ground (as well as in the leading edge graphics) is in its support of networks. With up to 16 people playing Fighter Wing at once, the possibility exists of some interesting and challenging dog fights going on in offices everywhere. We think that the network option can lead to some very challenging game play. No computer generated enemy can fly as intelligently as a real human.
Overall, we hope you have as much fun playing Fighter Wing as we did creating it.
Pedro Serrador
Credits
Producer/Director Mark Vange
Assistant Producer Anatoly Levin
Designer Pedro Serrador
3D Engine Alexander Efimov
Programmers Vladimir Lagutin Alexander Efimov Dmitry Mikhailov Michael Baranov Yuri Tsyganenko Anatoly Levin Boris Shirvinsky
3D Objects Michael Dorokhin Oleg Goncharook
Art Sergey Lozovoy Andrey Gorelov Vadim Dulenko Oleg Kovalenko
Music Stas Shalimov Mark Vange
Writer Michael Derbecker
Manual Michael Derbecker Mark Vange Roddy McGinnis Steve Zimmerman
Special Thanks to Roddy McGinnis Mickey Shaw Mike Petro Colleen Mogan JuJu
Wheeler, Barry C.- An Illustrated Guide to Aircraft Markings, London, Salamander Books Ltd. 1986
Glossary of Abbreviations
ADF- Arab Defence Force.
AAM- Anti Aircraft Missile.
AH- Active Homing.
AMRAAM- Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile.
AN- Antonov. (A Ukrainian aircraft manufacturer)
AWACS- Airborne Warning and Control System (US Air Force).
CIA- The Central Intelligence Agency.
DDS- Decoy Dispensers System.
ECM- Electronic Counter Measures.
EEC- European Economic Community.
HUD- Heads Up Display.
IFF- Identify Friend or Foe.
IR- Infra-red.
IRA- Irish Republican Army.
KGB- Komitet Gasudarstviney Bezapasnosti (The Committee for State Security, Russia's equivalent of the CIA).
MOAS- Manned Orbital Armed Shuttle.
NAFTA- North American Free Trade Agreement.
NATO- North Atlantic Treaty Organization.
PLO- Palestine Liberation Organization.
RH- Radar Homing.
RWR- Radar Warning Receiver.
SALT- Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty.
SAM- Surface-to-Air Missile.
SU- Sukhoi. (Russian aircraft manufacturer)
TU- Tupolev. (Russian aircraft manufacturer)
UN- United Nations.
US- United States.
USAF- United States Air Force.
USSR- Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.
HINT:
Finer adjustments may be made by using the [ (left) or ] (right) keys for rudder control. This will cause your plane to turn without banking.
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HINT:
The INSTRUCTOR TRAINING Mission is a quick way to pick up basic flight controls. demonstrate all the basic flight controls.
HINT:
The RECEIVE and SEND fields only appear if you have defined a network type in the SETUP program. You can send messages to other players by clicking in the SEND field and typing - Press ш to finish.
HINT:
As well as reducing THRUST
( - key) you can also deploy your AIR BREAKS (B key).
HINT:
If you have configured Fighter Wing for network play, you will first see a screen asking whether you want to play in a team. Simply click on NO or press N if you do not want to right now.
HINT:
You can press Q to lock select the nearest target in REGULAR mode, pressing the TAB key will cycle through the enemies. Shift-TAB will go through the list in reverse order.
HINT:
To escape a missile attack, it's best to be in 5 KM range, so you can have a good look at where the missile is coming from, and possibly evade it!
Chaff - consists of strips of tinfoil, carried on the aircraft in a special pod. The foil is released after a missile has established a "lock" on the escaping aircraft. When the approaching missile's radar hits the chaff, the signal bounces and masks the escaping aircraft or overwhelms the missile's tracking system.
Flares - Flares are carried in the same fashion and are released when a IR missile has been "locked" and launched. The flares generate enough heat to distract the missile, breaking the "lock."
HINT:
Firing a few short bursts will help you orient your cannon - and it saves ammo too!
HINT:
Don't forget that you can extend you flight times by adding external fuel tanks to your aircraft. Unfortunately, space taken up by Fuel Tanks is usually space taken away from missiles.
HINT:
Missiles appear as red dots on radar.
HINT:
When dogfighting it is often helpful to switch quickly into F3 (To Enemy) view as it helps you orient properly. If you are looking at your own thrusters, you are flying towards your opponent!
HINT:
Another place where you can get good information about your playing is the summary screen after a Network game. If you click on a player's name, you will see detailed statistics about that player's performance in the last game.
F1 Full Screen View This gives you a front view from the nose of plane. You cannot see the cockpit controls in this mode.
F2 Cockpit View This is the most important viewpoint. It allows you the maximum control over your aircraft. Your aircraft will respond to the controls while in other modes, but you will not be able to monitor such things as the radar, weapons and thrust if you are not in the cockpit mode.
F3 To Enemy This view allows you to see your plane from a vantage point which is looking towards the enemy. If you see your aircraft's tail, the enemy is in front of you. If you see the nose, the enemy is behind you.
F4 From Enemy This allows you to see who the aircraft you're locked onto is. It is especially useful during dogfighting. Your line of sight is from the target to you.
F5 To Friendly This shows your aircraft. If you are close to your wingmen, you can see them in formation with you. The camera is on a line of sight between you and your selected wingman. By tracing the line, you know where your wingman is relative to you. (Just like To Enemy mode). You can use TAB and Shift-TAB to cycle through friendly aircraft.
F6 From Friendly This shows your the selected friendly aircraft and the camera is on a line of sight from it to your aircraft.
F7 Rear View This allows you to see from directly behind your aircraft.
F8 Front View Using this vantage point allows you to see a front view of your craft.
F10 Action View This view is like a chase plane that is trying to keep up with any manoeuvres you pull
F11 Missile View Missile view positions the camera directly behind the missile you fired last. You can stay with the missile all the way to its impact point.