DCS Reference: Air Defences, Western

Each block describes the system as a whole, the ground units it consists of, the dependencies between these units, and some key performance figures (in most cases data-mined from the game files, but in some instances gathered from in-game tests or wiki-based). In addition, optional units and decorative static objects that would complement the system and make them closer to the real setup are listed, even if these units generally serve no added function. The only exception is ammunition-providing M818 and Ural trucks that effectively give nearby units (within 200m) infinite ammunition capacity. These units will have a black circle in the mission editor to signify the range within which they provide ammunition for nearby units.

Note that maximum altitudes can be a bit unreliable due to the interaction between maximum sensor elevation, sensor range, and missile flight capabilities. While the maximum altitude may seem sufficient on some systems, it is often a lot lower in practice because there is a rather narrow band between where the missile still has energy enough to climb, and where the (usually) radar is still able to track a target. For maximum skylord murderness, make sure the altitude capabilities are ridiculously above where the target is expected to fly.

Italicised units — ones with their number in parenthesis — are optional and not necessary for the functioning of the system. Beyond that, the numbers listed only indicate the doctrinal setups and all systems only require one of each mandatory unit to work if the mission designer wants to reduce the overall unit count. Units (mainly decorative) that can be found outside the Air Defence category have their category indicated in parentheses, as do decorations that only exist as static objects. In addition, in general, the main radar system is often required to be the first unit in any air defence group. For some of the more advanced systems, it is good practice to make the command post unit the first unit in the group.