DCS Reference: Air Defences

This resource is for players and mission designers to know the capabilities of and set up fully-featured and functional SAM groups using the many various units available under the “Air defence” vehicle category in the DCS mission editor.

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.

Basic Concepts

• All SAM components must be in the same group in the Mission Editor in order to function.
• All radar-guided SAMs require a search radar (SR), a tracking radar (TR), and launching capabilities.
• In many systems, search and tracking are combined into Search-and-Track Radar (STR) units. Those systems can often add a separate SR to extend detection range, but that unit is never mandatory to make the system work.
• IR-guided systems obviously do not require SR or TR units, but can occasionally be supplemented by them to improve detection ranges and response time in exchange for losing the surprise factor of an IR launch.
• Some mobile systems, in particular, combined all three core components into one Transporter, Erector, Launcher and Radar (TELAR) vehicle that can operate completely independently.
• All SAMs have limited ammunition.
• Placement of an Ammunition truck (such as the Ural-375) of any kind nearby a launcher will allow it to reload.
• In DCS, most multi-unit SAMs are able to spread units as far as 25nm from each other, enabling dispersed configurations. This is not particularly realistic for many sites in their native time periods, which had the challenges of limited cable runs and electrical power distributions. However, more modern scenarios can believably distribute sites as far as 20nm with "datalink upgrade" related handwaves. Pilots should be aware of this and recognize that missile launches from such sites can approach from angles other than the tracking emitter (including, quite dangerously, from directly below).

Detection, alarm states, and command units

Many systems include some sort of optional commander or extended-range/early-warning unit. The functionality these units is, and always has been, quite vague, but will often offer some improvement in detection over the system's base units. For systems where the command unit is mandatory, or semi-optional, it often offloads some tasks from sensor and launch units to increase the speed at which targets can be engaged.

• A SAM must be in a “Red” alarm state in order to ready its weapons and fire.
• A group can be set explicitly to a “Green” or “Red” state through advanced waypoint options — the default is “Auto”, where the group transitions from one to the other depending on the presence of any detected enemies.
• Once enemies are within a unit's detection range, it will ready itself, which takes a different amount of time depending on the unit.
• For some systems (e.g. the SA-11), command units “buffer” target acquisitions, drastically reducing the time for a launcher to switch from one target to the next — a launcher unit can keep engaging its locked target while the search radar finds a new one and once the target is destroyed, the launcher can quickly transition to a fresh one without going through the full acquisition process.

Eastern systems

To fully understand what different systems do and what their purpose is, one has to dive into the murky world of GRAU indices — the Russian equivalent of the JETDS or AN-system. Three general groups and naming schemes are relevant to keep track of:

• The 2K series — the air defences that for one reason or another classify as artillery (the index number 2) for anti-air use (the ‘K’ category). Ostensibly, this signifies tactical air defence units that are deployed to protect a given (smaller) area.
• The 9K series — army missiles (index 9) for anti-air use (again ‘K’). The army categorisation implies that these are more mobile units that are deployed to protect various army detachment rather than specific points.
• The S- series — multi-part strategic (hence the ‘S’) defence system that, while they might have some mobility, are set up to defend large swaths of strategically important airspace. The number after the S signifies a nominal protection radius in kilometres. Individual pieces within this larger system will have their own GRAU indices, but that's of less relevance for the system name as a whole.

To add to the confusion, there is often a lot of overlap between these schemes as different components of each system will themselves have specific GRAU codes and of course, on top of this is the often more familiar NATO reporting names for each system. The NATO names have a logic of their own, commonly using “SA” to signify a Surface to Air system, and a number that essentially works as a chronological index — the SA-2 was made (or at least officially acknowledged) before the SA-3; SA-10 came out slightly before SA-11, and so on.

Picking an early-detection system

A look through the setups listed below will reveal that many systems have the option to use one of two different detection systems: the P-19 search radar or the Sborka reconnaissance/command centre/air defence radar. This includes a number of IR- and optically guided systems. The choice to use these two units is a bit of a compromise.

On the one hand, including them lets the group detect enemies early and have more time to change their level of readiness, letting them fire as soon as the target is in weapon range. On the other hand, this will give early warning to the target as well, which for some IR systems in particular might defeat the whole purpose of using a sneaky passive targeting system. On the third hand, since so many different systems use the same two detection units, it can be hard for the attacker to figure out the exact nature of what is about to shoot at them — if all you see is eight different “Dog Ear” cues on the RWR, you will not know if those are aiming SA-13 IR missiles, SA-15 radar missiles, or SA-19 optically guided missiles in your general direction (until it is too late). It also gives anti-radiation missiles more emitters to try to resolve or accidentally lock on to, wasting precious ordnance on something that does not actually reduce the threat for aircraft in the area.

From a mission-design standpoint, DCS' automated briefing screen will unfortunately give a lot of this away and ruin the surprise, as will the faked SA data loading that is integrated in aircraft such as the F-16, F/A-18, and Ka-50. Two mission editor options exist to “hide on planning screen” and “hide on MFD” that are supposed to suppress this free intel, but this functionality is unreliably and unevenly implemented in the different modules.

Radar-guided

2K12 Kub / SA-6 “Gainful”

The SA-6 is a Soviet Mobile Medium range SAM developed in 1958 intended to cover ground forces from aerial attack.

2K12 Kub / SA-6 “Gainful”

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range / Symbol
SAM SA-6 Kub STR 9S91	1	1S91 “Straight Flush” Search/Track Radar	—	Detection: 0.5–37.8nm / 1–70km Altitude: 65–45,900ft / 20–14,000m
SAM SA-6 Kub LN 2P25	4	Transporter Erector Launcher	3× 3M9M	Engagement: 2.2–13.5nm / 4–25km Altitude: 98–26,500ft / 30–8,000m Max speed: Mach 2.2
SAM SR P-19	(1)	P-19 Danube 1RL134 / “Flat Face B” Search Radar	—	Detection: 0.8–86.4nm / 1.5–160km Altitude: 82–98,400ft / 25–30,000m
(Armor) APC BTR-80	(1)	Site Survey Vehicle	—	—
(Unarmed) CP SKP-11 ATC Mobile Command Post	(1)	Radio Relay Van	—	—
(Unarmed) CP Ural-375 PBU	(1)	Radar Test/repair Station	—	—
(Unarmed) Transport GAZ-66	(1)	Transporter/transloader	—	—
(Unarmed) Transport KAMAZ-43101	(2)	Missile Transporter	∞	—
(Unarmed) Transport ZIL-131 KUNG	(1)	Repair/test/assembly Station	—	—
(Static Cargos) ISO container small	(8)	Missile reloads	—	—
Reload / rearm	5s to ready new missile; 600s per missile to reload; 1800s total rearm time per launcher from a depleted state.
Acquisition time	STR: 1s scan + 20s acquisition, can command 2 missiles at once. SR: 6s scan + 9s acquisition.
Acquisition limits	STR lock-on: 32.1nm / 59.5km. Notch: <10m/s (19kts, 36km/h) vrad. SR lock-on: 73nm / 136km. Notch: <15m/s (29kts, 54km/h) vrad.
Scan zone	STR: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical. SR: 360° horizontal × -15°–+45° vertical.
Time to ready	2s (all components)
Kill radius	12m
Notes
The optional components are mostly for decoration (especially the static cargo containers), although the many transport units will provide rearming functionality for the launchers. Adding an optional P-19 radar extends the search range but may tip off the target early and reduces the site's mobility. The system is mobile but relies in multiple components and cannot be directly driven using Combined Arms.
Available to
Tactics
This system was designed to be a mobile point defence system to protect ground forces from aerial attack, as such it can move with them and set up within 15 minutes. It is also employed as static point defence around important installations. Soviet doctrine places one SA-6 regiment (5 sites) per tank division. Missiles are initially guided by remote command, becoming SARH in the terminal phase. The "Straight Flush" is equipped with both a tracking radar and an optical sight, making it a real life possibility to launch and guide until the terminal phase, minimizing RWR warning time and SEAD vulnerability. The possibility of a DCS SA-6 AI of any skill level or scripted behaviour doing this is unconfirmed.

9K33 Osa / SA-8 “Gecko”

Developed in 1971, this short range low altitude SAM is highly mobile and makes for a dangerous escort for ground forces or complement to other defences.

9K33 Osa / SA-8 “Gecko”

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range / Symbol
SAM SA-8 Osa 9A33	4	Transporter Erector Launcher And Radar	6× 9M33	Detection: 0.8–16.2nm / 1.5–30km Detection alt.: 32–16,400ft / 10–5,000m Low alt. engagement: 0.8–4.6nm / 1.5–8.5km High alt. engagement: 0.8–5.5nm / 1.5–10.3km Engagement alt.: 32–16,400ft / 10–5,000m Max speed: Mach 2.1
CP 9S80M1 Sborka	(0-1)	PPRU-M1 / “Dog Ear” command unit	—	Detection: 0.1–18.9nm / 0.1–35km Altitude: 50–32,800ft / 15–10,000m
(Unarmed) CP Ural-375 PBU	(1)	TELAR Calibration and simulation	—	—
(Unarmed) Fuel Truck ATZ-10	(1)	Tanker	—	—
(Unarmed) Transport KAMAZ-43101	(1)	Loading Crane	∞	—
(Unarmed) Transport Ural-375	(1)	Transporter/transloader	∞	—
(Unarmed) Transport ZIL-131 KUNG	(1)	Repair/test/assembly Station	—	—
Reload / rearm	4s to ready new missile; 300s reload per missile; 1800s total ream time from a depleted state.
Acquisition time	TELAR: 1s scan + 18s acquisition, can command 2 missiles at once. CP: 1s scan + 12s acquisition.
Acquisition limits	TELAR lock-on: 13.8nm / 25.5km. Notch: <10m/s (19kts, 36km/h) vrad. CP lock-on: 16nm / 30km. Notch: <15m/s (29kts, 54km/h) vrad.
Scan zone	TELAR radar: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical. TELAR “Karat” optics: 360° horizontal × -3°–+27° vertical. CP: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical.
Time to ready	2s
Kill radius	5m
Notes
The addition of an optional “Dog Ear” radar can extend detection range, though it may be undesirable due to the lack of emissions control and will tip off the target early. Soviet doctrine is to place a regiment of SA-8 (5 sites) within a motor-rifle division. The system is mobile and can be directly driven using Combined Arms.
Available to
Tactics
Each TELAR has both a radar and optical sight intended for searching, ranging, and tracking targets as well as for missile guidance, but the unit as represented in DCS is only ever radar-operated since ECM is not sufficient to render the radar useless. Can lock incoming missiles but only has limited self-defence anti-missile capability in this manner. Human controllers and scripters might consider to instead just turn off the radar and scoot out of the way in event of a perceived SEAD attack. It can track while on the move, but must stop in order to fire. Shoot and scoot tactics can make this unit a very elusive target for SEAD aircraft: units adopting this tactic would be better engaged by a maverick or high altitude laser guided bomb.

9K37 Buk M1 / SA-11 “Gadfly”

The 1980's successor to the SA-6, this medium range SAM can be extremely hard to kill.

9K37 Buk M1 / SA-11 “Gadfly”

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range / Symbol
SAM SA-11 Buk CC 9S470M1	1	Self Propelled Command Centre	—	Detection: 1.1–54nm / 2–100km Altitude: 49–82,000ft / 15–25,000m
SAM SA-11 Buk SR 9S18M1	1	“Snow Drift” Acquisition Radar (search)	—	Detection: 1.1–54nm / 2–100km Altitude: 82–82,000ft / 25–25,000m
SAM SA-11 Buk LN 9A310M1	4-6	“Fire Dome” Transporter Erector Launcher And Radar	4× 9M38M1	Detection: 1.6–27nm / 3–50km Detection alt.: 65–72,100ft / 20–22,000m Low alt. engagement: 1.8–13.8nm / 3.3–25.5km High alt. engagement: 1.8–18.9nm / 3.3–35km Engagement alt.: 49–72,100ft / 15–22,000m Max speed: Mach 3.4
(Unarmed) GPU APA-5D on Ural-4320	(1)	PES-100T Mobile Power Generator	—	—
(Unarmed) Transport KAMAZ-43101	(2)	Missile Reload Transporter	∞	—
(Unarmed) Transport Ural-375	(1)	9T31M1 Self Propelled Crane	∞	—
(Unarmed) Transport Ural-4320-31 Armored	(1)	9V881M1 Equipment Repair/Test Station	∞	—
(Unarmed) Transport Ural-4320-31 Armored	(1)	9V883M1 Equipment Repair Station	∞	—
(Unarmed) Transport ZIL-131 KUNG	(1)	9V95M1 Mobile Automatic Test Station	—	—
(Static Cargos) ISO container small	(2)	Missile releoads	—	—
Reload / rearm	5s to ready new missile; 195s reload per missile; 780s total ream time from a depleted state.
Acquisition time	CC: 0.1s SR: 1s scan + 14s acquisition. TELAR: 1s scan + 20s acquisition; 4s for targets designated by the CP. Can track and engage 2 targets at once, not including targets designated by the CC.
Acquisition limits	SR lock-on: 45.9nm / 85km. Notch: <15m/s (29kts, 54km/h) vrad. TELAR lock-on: 19.4nm / 36km. Notch: <10m/s (19kts, 36km/h) vrad.
Scan zone	SR: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical. TELAR radar: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical. TELAR “Karat” optics: 360° horizontal × -3°–+27° vertical.
Time to ready:	CC: 20s SR: 60s TELAR: 15s
Kill radius	13m
Notes
Has self-defence anti-missile capability. The launch unit depicted is the TELAR model with its own tracking radar, and it can operate independently in a very limited capacity if the CC and SR units have been destroyed but requires both to actually fire in any coordinated fashion. A single TELAR can be deployed and function without CC and SR units, but will rely on optical search to find its targets, and can take severla minutes to complete a full sweep of its detection area. The same holds true if the CC and SR units are destroyed before they can be readied and have not yet provided a target for the TELAR to track. The system is mobile but consists of multiple interdependent components and cannot be directly driven using Combined Arms.
Available to
Tactics
Like the SA-6, this mobile system is designed to move with and cover other ground forces from air attack. As such, many of its upgrades are in the form of the ability to fire on missiles. SEAD aircraft should be aware that each launcher has its own redundant tracking radar, and will take a ton of ARMs to bring down targeting tracking emitters. Instead, it is better to fire a salvo at the search emitter, as the loss of the search emitter or the command post will largely render the site inoperative unless you fly in very close proximity to the remaining TELARs. Per Soviet Doctrine, 1 SA-11 brigade (12 sites) is deployed within an army.

9K331 Tor / SA-15 “Gauntlet”

Introduced in 1986 as a successor to the SA-8, this unit is even more of an annoying ankle biter than its predecessor.

9K331 Tor / SA-15 “Gauntlet”

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range / Symbol
SAM SA-15 Tor 9A331	4	Transporter Erector Launcher And Radar	8× 9M331	Detection: 0.3–13.5nm / 0.5–25km Detection alt.: 65–26,200ft / 20–8,000m Engagement: 0.8–6.5nm / 1.5–12km Engagement alt.: 32–19,700ft / 10–6,000m Max speed: Mach 3.0
CP 9S80M1 Sborka	(0-1)	PPRU-M1 / “Dog Ear” command unit	—	Detection: 0.1–18.9nm / 0.1–35km Altitude: 50–32,800ft / 15–10,000m
(Unarmed) Transport Ural-4320-31 Armored	(1)	Missile Transporter/transloader	∞	—
(Unarmed) Transport Ural-4320-31 Armored	(1)	Test/repair/assembly station	∞	—
Reload / rearm	4s to ready new missile; 540s reload per batch of 4 missiles; 1080s total ream time from a depleted state.
Acquisition time	TELAR: 1s scan + 6s acquisition, can command 2 missiles at once. CP: 1s scan + 12s acquisition.
Acquisition limits	TELAR lock-on: 11.5nm / 21.3km. Notch: <10m/s (19kts, 36km/h) vrad. CP lock-on: 16nm / 30km. Notch: <15m/s (29kts, 54km/h) vrad.
Scan zone	TELAR radar: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical. TELAR optics: 360° horizontal × -3°–+70° vertical. CP: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical.
Time to ready	TELAR: 10s CP: 2s
Kill radius	7m
Notes
Has self-defence anti-missile capability. The addition of an optional “Dog Ear” radar can extend detection range, though it may be undesirable due to the lack of emissions control and will tip off the target early. The system is mobile and can be directly driven using Combined Arms.
Available to
Tactics
Each TELAR has both a radar and optical sight intended for searching, ranging, and tracking targets as well as for missile guidance, but the unit as represented in DCS is only ever radar-operated since ECM is not sufficient to render the radar useless. Improved ability to engage incoming missiles, enabling the possibility of covering units from air attack and SEAD, or playing with the sorts of annoying shoot and scoot tactics the SA-8 can accomplish. The one Achilles heel it retains is that it needs to stop to shoot. In terms of soviet doctrine, a regiment of SA-15 (4 sites) replaces SA-6 or SA-8s within Tanks or Motor-Rifle divisions.

9S80M1 Sborka-M1 (PPRU-M1) / “Dog Ear”

The PPRU-1 mobile reconnaissance and air defence control point was introduced in the late 1970s as a unified way to coordinate mobile tactical air defence batteries such as the Shilka, Strela-1, Strela-10, Tor and Tunguska.

9S80M1 Sborka-M1 (PPRU-M1) / “Dog Ear”

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range / Symbol
CP 9S80M1 Sborka	1	9S80M1 Sborka / “Dog Ear” command unit	—	Detection: 0.1–18.9nm / 0.1–35km Altitude: 50–32,800ft / 15–10,000m
Acquisition time	1s scan + 12s acquisition.
Acquisition limits	Radar: 16nm / 30km. Notch: <15m/s (29kts, 54km/h) vrad.
Scan zone	Radar: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical.
Time to ready	2s
Notes
The system has no offensive (or defensive) capabilities but is solely intended to augment AI unit early-warning detection capabilities. It cannot be driven using Combined Arms.
Available to
Tactics
Since this is entirely a support unit — it presents no threat and cannot really protect against anything, the Sborka may seem like a completely harmless thing. It still creates issues, however. For one, when attached to any of the units it is supposed to support, it lets enemy units detect the player earlier and lets them be ready sooner. In some cases, this may seem like a disadvantage since IR-based systems like the Strelas or Iglas would otherwise not show up on the player's RWR. But on the other hand, given the breadth of units that it is supposedly attached to, this creates a problem: you have no idea what is hiding behind that RWR blip. It may just be some low-level AAA, but it might also suddenly flip over into showing an SA-15 site, or it might show nothing and out of nowhere you are yet another Tunguska victim. It also creates problem for SEAD/DEAD aircraft since it creates another emitter that the ARM:s might go after and which needs to be resolved, filtered out, and separated from more worth-while targets.

S-75M1 Divina / SA-2 “Guideline”

Typical Layout of an SA 2 (minus static or non-functional objects). Includes Shilkas and an Igla team to cover against low approaches.

The SA-2 is a Soviet Radar guided medium range high altitude SAM system developed in 1957, but continues to see use to this day. The missiles are given remote commands from a ground operator, effectively making them Semi-Active Radar Homing.

S-75M1 Divina / SA-2 “Guideline”

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range / Symbol
SAM SR P-19	1	P-19 Danube 1RL134 / “Flat Face B” Search Radar	—	Detection: 0.8–86.4nm / 1.5–160km Altitude: 82–98,400ft / 25–30,000m
SAM SA-2 TR SNR-75 Fan Song	1	“Fan Song” Tracking Radar	—	Detection: 0.8–54nm / 1.5–100km Altitude: 82–82,000ft / 25–25,000m
SAM SA-2 LN SM-90	6	Single-rail Launcher	1× 13DAM (V-755)	Low alt. engagement: 3.8–21.6nm / 7–40km High alt. engagement: 3.8–16.2nm / 7–30km Altitude: 328–65,600ft / 100–20,000m Max speed: Mach 3.0
(Unarmed) CP SKP-11 ATC Mobile Command Post	(1)	Radio Relay Van	—	—
(Unarmed) CP Ural-375 PBU	(1)	SNR-75 Radar Operation Van	—	—
(Unarmed) CP Ural-375 PBU	(1)	SNR-75 Radar Electronics Van	—	—
(Unarmed) GPU APA-80 on ZiL-131	(1)	ESP-90 Power generator	—	—
(Unarmed) Transport Ural-375	(1-6)	Transporter/transloader	∞	—
(Static Cargos) Fuel Tank	(2)	5L22A Fuel Tank	—	—
(Static Cargos) Oiltank	(2)	5L62A Oxidiser Tank	—	—
(Unavailable) Rapier FSA Blindfire Tracker	(1)	RV-10 Konus Heightfinding Radars	—	Detection 0.3–16.2nm / 0.5–30km Altitude: 164–13,100ft / 50–4,000m
Reload / rearm	2700s per missile to reload.
Acquisition time	SR: 6s scan + 9s acquisition. TR: 1s scan + 20s acquisition. HFR: 1s scan + 6s acquisition.
Acquisition limits	SR lock-on: 73nm / 136km. Notch: <15m/s (29kts, 54km/h) vrad. TR lock-on: 41.3nm / 76.5km. Notch: <10m/s (19kts, 36km/h) vrad. HFR lock-on: 11.5nm / 21.3km. Notch: <10m/s (19kts, 36km/h) vrad.
Scan zone	SR: 360° horizontal × -15°–+45° vertical. TR: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical. HFR radar: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical. HFR optics: 360° horizontal × -3°–+70° vertical.
Time to ready	2s (all components)
Kill radius	20m
Notes
The optional components are mostly for decoration (especially the static cargo containers), although the many transport units will provide rearming functionality for the launchers. The Rapier Blindfire Tracker is a good visual representation of the height-finding radar, but is commonly unavailable to countries that possess the SA-2 and would probably interfere with detection mechanics if mixed in — a better solution is to add it as a Static Ground Vehicle object. The system is static and cannot be driven using Combined Arms.
Available to
Tactics
Soviet doctrinal placements of units are in a flower pattern, with sensors/logistics units at the center and launchers arranged an a circle around them spaced no more than a few hundred feet apart. However, this is a very easy arrangement to spot from the air, so guerrilla forces throughout history have been known to use other arrangements for the sake of concealment. Since reuse of sites is a common practice, these rules are frequently applied to newer SAM batteries, as well. One of the easier systems to evade, the tracking radar is easily fooled via notching and chaff bursts of at minimum 4 per second. Chaff on its own is 3× more likely than normal to spoof the V-755. Missiles have no guidance of their own: defeat the track radar to defeat the missile. Missiles guidance is fairly stupid, and can be dragged into the ground. It is also completely unable to track targets at sub 300 ft altitudes, leaving it vulnerable to low runs. As a result, sites should also include short range anti-air able to engage at low altitudes, such as AAA guns and MANPADS. But more than that, Eagle Dynamics have in their infinite wisdom decided that the weapon system that forced an entire new air war doctrine and mission tasking, with specialised aircraft, weapon systems, defensive systems, and specialist schools to be developed to combat it, is pretty much just a pop gun. Due to the SA-2 in DCS only using pure pursuit rather than any kind of proportional or otherwise predictive navigation, it can be defeated by flying straight and level at above 300kts, making it a threat to A-10s, a few helicopters, and not much else and those can generally quite easily fly below its engagement altitude. Any kind of fighter aircraft or jet bomber or even most transports are completely untouchable by this weapon system.

S-125 Neva/Pechora / SA-3 “Goa”

The SA-3 is a Soviet Radar guided Short Range SAM system developed in 1961 as a complement to the SA-2. Missiles are guided by remote command, but DCS treats them as SARHs.

S-125 Neva/Pechora / SA-3 “Goa”

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range / Symbol
SAM SR P-19	1	P-19 Danube 1RL134 / “Flat Face B” Search Radar	—	Detection: 0.8–86.4nm / 1.5–160km Altitude: 82–98,400ft / 25–30,000m
SAM SA-3 S-125 TR SNR	1	SNR-125 UNV “Low Blow” Tracking Radar	—	Detection: 0.8–54nm / 1.5–100km Altitude: 82–65,600ft / 25–20,000m
SAM SA-3 S-125 LN 5P73	4	5P73 4-rail Launcher	4× 5V27	Low alt. engagement: 1.9–5.9nm / 3.5–11km High alt. engagement: 1.9–9.7nm / 3.5–18km Altitude: 65–59,000ft / 20–18,000m Max speed: Mach 2.2
(Unarmed) CP SKP-11 ATC Mobile Command Post	(1)	Radio Relay Van	—	—
(Unarmed) CP Ural-375 PBU	(1-4)	SNR-125 UNK Radar Operation Van	—	—
(Unarmed) GPU APA-80 on ZiL-131	(1)	5E96 Cabin Power Generator Van	—	—
(Unarmed) Transport Ural-375	(1)	Transporter/transloader	∞	—
(Static Cargos) ISO container small	(1)	Missile reloads	—	—
(Unavailable) Rapier FSA Blindfire Tracker	(1)	RV-10 Konus Heightfinding Radars	—	Detection 0.3–16.2nm / 0.5–30km Altitude: 164–13,100ft / 50–4,000m
Reload / rearm	10s to ready new missile; 300s reload per batch of 2 missiles; 600s total rearm time from a depleted state.
Acquisition time	SR: 6s scan + 9s acquisition. TR: 1s scan + 10s acquisition. HFR: 1s scan + 6s acquisition.
Acquisition limits	SR lock-on: 73nm / 136km. Notch: <15m/s (29kts, 54km/h) vrad. TR lock-on: 41.3nm / 76.5km. Notch: <10m/s (19kts, 36km/h) vrad. HFR lock-on: 11.5nm / 21.3km. Notch: <10m/s (19kts, 36km/h) vrad.
Scan zone	SR: 360° horizontal × -15°–+45° vertical. TR: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical. HFR radar: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical. HFR optics: 360° horizontal × -3°–+70° vertical.
Time to ready	2s (all components)
Kill radius	14m
Notes
The optional components are mostly for decoration (especially the static cargo containers), although the many transport units will provide rearming functionality for the launchers. Launchers should be placed within 70m of the central guidance area The transporters, containers, and radio relay van should be positioned 100m away from the central guidance area (but no farther away than 200m from any launcher so as to provide reloads); the other units should be part of the central guidance area. The Rapier Blindfire Tracker is a good visual representation of the height-finding radar, but is commonly unavailable to countries that possess the SA-3 and would probably interfere with detection mechanics if mixed in — a better solution is to add it as a Static Ground Vehicle object. The system is static and cannot be directly driven using Combined Arms.
Available to
Tactics
Despite its short range, the missiles are rather manoeuvrable, and harder to shake off with fancy piloting, especially since it actually predicts the target's movement unlike the SA-2. The system is also somewhat more resistant to ECM than its predecessors, but is still rendered toothless once the track radar is defeated. It can also track at lower altitudes than its predecessors.

S-300PS / SA-10 “Grumble”

Developed in 1979, this system is one of the most dangerous SAMs in the game (and real life).

S-300PS / SA-10 “Grumble”

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range / Symbol
SAM SA-10 S-300PS CP 54K6	1	Command Post	—	Detection: 1.1–86.4nm / 2–160km Altitude: 16–88,600ft / 5–27,000m
SAM SA-10 S-300PS SR 5N66M	1	“Clam Shell” Low-altitude Search Radar	—	Detection: 1.1–32.4nm / 2–60km Altitude: 16–9,800ft / 5–3,000m
SAM SA-10 S-300PS SR 64H6E	1	“Big Bird” Regiment Search Radar (can also locate missiles)	—	Detection: 1.1–86.4nm / 2–160km Altitude: 320–88,600ft / 100–27,000m
SAM SA-10 S-300PS TR 30N6	1	“Flap Lid A” Tracking Radar	—	Detection: 1.1–86.4nm / 2–160km Altitude: 82–86,600ft / 25–27,000m
SAM SA-10 S-300PS LN 5P85C	4	Master TEL Launch vehicle	4× 5V55P	Low alt. engagement: 2.7–40–21.6nm / 5–40km High alt. engagement: 2.7–64.8nm / 5–120km Altitude: 82–88,600ft / 25–27,000m Max speed: Mach 5.0
SAM SA-10 S-300PS LN 5P85D	12	Slave TEL Launch vehicle
(Approximation: SAM SA-10 S-300PS CP 54K6)	(?)	MAZ-543M MOBD accomodation vehicle	—	—
(Unarmed) Transport KAMAZ-43101	(12)	Transport and Loading	∞	—
(Unarmed) Transport Ural-375	(8)	Ural 375 towing tractor	∞	—
(Unarmed) Transport Ural-4320T	(4)	Ural 4320 component tractor	∞	—
(Static Cargos) ISO container	(8)	Missile container	—	—
(Static Structures) GeneratorF	(4)	5I57 Mobile Diesel Power Generator	—	—
Reload / rearm	1800s reload per missile; 7200s total ream time from a depleted state.
Acquisition time	CC: 0.1s Low SR: 1s scan + 3s acquisition. High SR: 1s scan + 6s acquisition. TR: 1s scan + 6s acquisition. Can track and engage 2 targets at once.
Acquisition limits	Low SR lock-on: 119.3nm / 221km. Notch: <15m/s (29kts, 54km/h) vrad. High SR lock-on: 91.8nm / 170km. Notch: <15m/s (29kts, 54km/h) vrad. TR lock-on: 119.3nm / 221km. Notch: <10m/s (19kts, 36km/h) vrad.
Scan zone	Low SR: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical. High SR: radar: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical. TR: radar: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical.
Time to ready:	2s (all components)
Kill radius	20m
Notes
Has self-defence anti-missile capability. Can track 24 targets at once, and engage 2 simultaneously per available tracking radar. Firing units and decorations should be divided among 4 firing emplacements evenly (i.e. 1x Master TEL, 3x Slave TEL, 3x KAMAZ-43101, 2 Ural-375, 1 Ural 4320, 2 ISO containers) The system is static and cannot be driven using Combined Arms.
Available to
Tactics
This is a very expensive and strategically significant air defence system, and absolutely should be backed up with shorter range systems and AAA. This system is very flexible in terms of realistic placement: it is known to inhabit old SA-2 sites (inheriting the "flower" layout), or components can believably placed as far as 21nm from the central command post. The SA-10 is not a system to be taken lightly: it can track you and more than twenty other friends from near 0 AGL to high altitude, engage four different targets at once, shoot down HARMS and other missiles, and chew up dozens of aircraft in just a minute. Keeping terrain between yourself and the missile site is about the only real evasion technique. This system can realistically distribute its launchers as far as 21 nm from the command post. If a launch is detected, you may find that the fully active radar missile is approaching from a direction other than the tracking emitter. Since the missiles are fully active, defeating the track radar is not enough to save you: you have to defeat both it and the missile. Smaller ARMs, such as the LD-10, are too small for this system to fire upon.

ZSU-23-4 Shilka

Produced through the 60's and 80's, this gun is not terribly threatening by modern standards. Despite this, it's cheap and many exist, and so can be found in many arsenals of small nations. Its quad 2A14 23mm autocannons are still able to shred just about anything it hits, out to fairly decent ranges, and the only issue is hitting to begin with.

ZSU-23-4 Shilka

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range / Symbol
SPAAA ZSU-23-4 Shilka	4	Radar-ranging, self-propelled AAA	4×500× 23mm HE+AP	Detection: 0–2.7nm / 0–5km Detection alt.: 0–8,200ft / 0–2,500m Engagement: 0–1.3nm (8,200ft) / 0–2.5km Engagement alt.:0–6,500ft / 0–2,000m
Reload / rearm	RoF: 3600 rpm; 1224s total ream time from a depleted state.
Acquisition time	1s scan + 6s acquisition.
Acquisition limits	Radar lock-on: 3.4nm / 6.4km. Notch: 0m/s vrad.
Scan zone	Radar: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical. Visual: 360° horizontal × -5°–+70° vertical.
Time to ready	4s
Kill radius	N/A
Notes
Has a radar for ranging, and tracking targets, but offers no search scope in Combined Arms. Has no special unit integration or setup and is normally integrated into armoured and mechanised columns alongside 9K31 Strela-1 / SA-9 SAMs. Largely obsolete, its more modern replacement is the 2K22 Tunguska / SA-19.
Available to
Tactics
By itself, it's rather pathetic. Instead, it tends to be deployed as close cover for larger SAM sites. Goon mission designers also like to stick these over objective sites to catch out people who pull out of a divebomb too low. Just fly high and it won't hurt you. If that's not an option, you can still reasonably evade its fire by flying fast. The radar is too imprecise for most ARMs to lock onto, so if you really want to assert your dominance over this thing, a simple bomb drop will do. It should be noted that most eastern RWRs don't even bother alerting you to its radar. On the flip-side of the coin, if driven in Combined Arms, it can actually be used to devastating effect against ground units since its ammunition is ever so slightly armour-piercing in the DCS damage model, and its round count and sheer rate of fire will chew through any amount of hit points in very short order. Soviet doctrine is that one either one air defence battalion (6 Tunguska, 6 SA-13, 18 MANPADs) or one air defence battery (4 Shilkas, 4 SA-9/13) accompanies each motor/rifle or tank regiment.

IR-guided

Infrared missiles do not alert pilots on the RWR (though Missile Approach Warning System aircraft like the A-10 and JF-17 may still be warned of an inbound missile). While modern militaries are more than happy to proliferate and sling cheap shots with these, it is recognized that they are a big "Fuck You" to inattentive pilots, and can render a mission unfun if not used judiciously. Many goon missions limit the use IR missiles to catch out pilots who strayed from the briefed course, or as an occasional threat to catch unaware pilots.

Note that IR lock-on distances can wildly exceed or fail to meet the nominal detection ranges of their respective systems since they operate on the basis of an IR signature size that may shrink or bloom depending on aspect, throttle position, and similar factors. For AI units, this rarely makes any difference since they are bound by the sensor detection mechanics, but a player-controlled unit can conceivably be very lucky and lock up a target much sooner than expected (but it is unlikely that the missile itself will actually fly that far).

9K31 Strela-1 / SA-9 “Gaskin”

Designed in 1968, this highly mobile rear-aspect SAM is still used in the middle east to present day.

9K31 Strela-1 / SA-9 “Gaskin”

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range
SAM SA-9 Strela-1 9P31	1	IR-guided, self-propelled SAM	4× 9M31	Detecton: 0–2.7nm / 0–5km Detection alt.: 0–16,400ft / 0–5,000m Engagement: 0.4–2.3nm / 0.8–4.2km Engagement alt.: 98–11,500ft / 30–3,500m Max speed: Mach 1.3
Reload / rearm	1s to ready new missile; 300s reload per missile; 1200s total ream time from a depleted state.
Acquisition time	2s acquisition.
Acquisition limits	IR lock-on: 5.4nm / 10km for a normalised heat source.
Scan zone	IR: 360° horizontal × -3°–+70° vertical.
Time to ready	5s
Kill radius	2.5m
Notes
Optical acquisition rear-aspect IR homing. Has no special unit integration or special setup and is normally integrated into armoured and mechanised columns alongside ZSU-23-4 Shilka SPAAGs.
Available to
Tactics
This unit acquires targets optically, and its guidance system is limited to rear-aspect homing. Since the missiles only have a maximum speed of Mach 1.3, and still have a need to accelerate to that speed after launching, it is conceivable that the missile could be defeated simply by flying fast enough. It is largely obsolete, but still widely in use for nations that cannot afford the upgrade — its more modern replacement is the 9K35 Strela-10M3 / SA-13. Soviet doctrine is that one either one air defence battalion (6 Tunguska, 6 SA-13, 18 MANPADs) or one air defence battery (4 Shilkas, 4 SA-9/13) accompanies each motor/rifle or tank regiment.

9K35 Strela-10M3 / SA-13 “Gopher”

Entering service in 1976, the SA-13 is the successor to the SA-9, improving upon it with all-aspect seekers and a radar to augment its targeting capabilities.

9K35 Strela-10M3 / SA-13 “Gopher”

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range / Symbol
SAM SA-13 Strela-10M 9A35M3	4	Transporter Erector Launcher And Radar	2× 4× 9M37 10× 100× 7.62mm	Detection: 0–4.3nm / 0–8km Detection alt.: 32–11,400ft / 10–3,500m Engagement: 0.5–4.3nm / 0.8–5km Engagement alt.: 32–11,400ft / 10–3,500m Max speed: Mach 2.0
CP 9S80M1 Sborka	(0-1)	PPRU-M1 / “Dog Ear” command unit	—	Detection: 0.1–18.9nm / 0.1–35km Altitude: 50–32,800ft / 15–10,000m
(Armor) APC BTR-80	(1)	Mobile Command Post	—	—
(Unarmed) CP Ural-375 PBU	(1)	Training Simulator	—	—
(Unarmed) Transport GAZ-3308	(2)	Missile Repair/test Station	—	—
(Unarmed) Transport Ural-4320T	(1)	Transporter/transloader	∞	—
(Unarmed) Transport ZIP-131 KUNG	(1)	Radar Repair/test Station	—	—
Reload / rearm	1s to ready new missile; 120s reload per missile; 960s total ream time from a depleted state. RoF: 750 rpm; 15s reload per box of 100× 7.62mm 150s total rearm time from a depleted state.
Acquisition time	TELAR: 2s acquisition CP: 1s scan + 12s acquisition.
Acquisition limits	TELAR IR lock-on: 8nm / 15km for a normalised heat source. TELAR MG lock-on: 0.5nm / 1km CP lock-on: 16nm / 30km. Notch: <15m/s (29kts, 54km/h) vrad.
Scan zone	TELAR IR: 360° horizontal × -3°–+70° vertical. TELAR MG: ±50° horizontal × -3°–+45° vertical. CP: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical.
Time to ready	5s
Kill radius	3m	Countermeasure resistance factor		×2
Notes
Optical acquisition all-aspect IR homing, with a nominal range-finding radar. Most RWR systems will not show any indication of this radar. The addition of an optional large “Dog Ear” radar component offers search capabilities at longer range but will alert the target and sacrifice the ambush capabilities of the launcher. The system is mobile and can be directly driven using Combined Arms. Despite having a radar, it offers no search scope in Combined Arms. When controlled by a player, expect loading and rearming times to increase by ~10%.
Available to
Tactics
This system improves upon its predecessor in every way: it retains extreme mobility and adds an all aspect IR seeker to its bag of tricks. It has a radar for acquisition purposes, but is perfectly capable of firing upon targets without it. The use of ECM and chaff may disrupt and delay an early acquisition but has no effect the actual launch or on missile tracking. Soviet doctrine is that one either one air defence battalion (6 Tunguska, 6 SA-13, 18 MANPADs) or one air defence battery (4 Shilkas, 4 SA-9/13) accompanies each motor/rifle or tank regiment.

9K38 Igla / SA-18 “Grouse” and 9K338 Igla-S / SA-24 “Grinch”

The SA-18 is a Soviet Infrared guided mobile short range SAM system.

9K38 Igla, 9K338 Igla-S / SA-18 “Grouse”, SA-24 “Grinch”

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range
SAM SA-18 Igla	1	IR-guided MANPADS	3× 9K38	Detection: 0–2.7nm / 0–5km Detection alt.: 0–16,400ft / 0–5,000m Engagement: 0.3–2.4nm / 0.5–4.5km Engagement alt.: 32–11,400ft / 10–3,500m Max speed: Mach 2.2
SAM SA-18 Igla-S			3× 9K338
SAM SA-18 Igla comm	(1)	Command unit	—	Detection: 0–2.7nm / 0–5km Detection alt.: 0–16,400ft / 0–5,000m
SAM SA-18 Igla-S comm
CP 9S80M1 Sborka	(0-1)	PPRU-M1 / “Dog Ear” command unit	—	Detection: 0.1–18.9nm / 0.1–35km Altitude: 50–32,800ft / 15–10,000m
Reload / rearm	1s to ready new missile; 40s reload per missile; 120s total ream time from a depleted state.
Acquisition time	2s acquisition CP: 1s scan + 12s acquisition.
Acquisition limits	IR lock-on: 5.4nm / 10km for a normalised heat source. CP lock-on: 16nm / 30km. Notch: <15m/s (29kts, 54km/h) vrad.
Scan zone	IR: 360° horizontal × -3°–+70° vertical. CP: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical.
Time to ready	2s
Kill radius	1m	Countermeasure resistance factor		×2
Notes
The commander is a static unit and cannot be driven using Combined Arms. The commander offers no clear numbers or mechanical advantage except maybe offering a second scan zone that can detect enemies in a direction the launcher unit is not currently looking. There is no mechanical difference between the two versions other than which is available to what nation and what skins are applied to the models, but doctrinally, the Igla-S can be linked to Sborka command vehicles for early detection and coordination.
9K38 Igla / SA-18 “Grouse” Available to
9K338 Igla-S / SA-24 “Grinch” Available to
Tactics
Can be found anywhere two guys with a tube can reasonably hide, and the Soviets deployed them liberally with their ground forces. As such, these all-aspect guided units are particularly dangerous. Best avoided by staying out of range (4-5 miles, 15,000 ft). If you must cross into its engagement circle, your chances are improved by flying fast and dropping flares at a rate of about 1 per second, but be ready to evade just the same. Most frequently integrated into infantry columns or as a supplement to any fixed installations. These days, the more modern Igla-S / SA-24 version is available to Russia and a few allies, and the SA-18 is relegated more to various older customers and insurgents. Soviet doctrine dictates: 3 MANPADS for most HQs 3 MANPADS in the technical batteries in SAM units 3 MANPADS per firing battery in all SAM units 6 MANPDAS per artillery/MRL battery (so on average one MANPADS for every artillery piece!) 9 MANPADS per motor rifle battalion Within one air defence battalion (6 Tunguska, 6 SA-13, 18 MANPADs) or one air defence battery (4 Shilkas, 4 SA-9/13), which accompanies each motor/rifle or tank regiment.

Optically guided

2A13 / ZU-23-2

The direct predecessor to the ZSU-23-4 Shilka and to some extent the 57-2, this weapon continues to see use to present day. Since it's heyday in the 60's, it use has transitioned from AAA to ground fire support, and can be found rigged on the backs of many a pickup truck in third world countries.

2A13 / ZU-23-2

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range / Symbol
AAA ZU-23 Closed	?-6	Revetted static AAA gun	5× 2×50× 23mm	Detection: 0–2.7nm / 0–5km Detection alt.: 0–16,400ft / 0–5,000m Engagement: 0–1.3nm (8,200ft) / 0–2.5km Engagement alt.:0–6,500ft / 0–2,000m
AAA ZU-23 Emplacement	?-6	Employed static AAA gun
AAA ZU-23 on Ural-375	?-6	Mobile AAA gun
AAA ZU-23 Insurgent	?-6	Revetted static AAA gun with insurgent crew
AAA ZU-23 Insurgent Closed	?-6	Employed static AAA gun with insurgent crew
AAA ZU-23 Insurgent on Ural-375	?-6	Mobile AAA gun with insurgent crew
CP 9S80M1 Sborka	(0-1)	PPRU-M1 / “Dog Ear” command unit	—	Detection: 0.1–18.9nm / 0.1–35km Altitude: 50–32,800ft / 15–10,000m
Reload / rearm	RoF: 1800 rpm; 10s reload time; 10s rearm per batch of 100 (50 per barrel); 50s total ream time from a depleted state.
Acquisition time	3s acquisition.
Acquisition limits	Visual: 1.3nm / 2.5km.
Scan zone	Visual: 360° horizontal × -15°–+90° vertical.
Time to ready	10s
Kill radius	N/A
Notes
All firing units have the same offensive capabilities. The difference is mostly cosmetic, other than that the Ural-375 variants can be driven around, whereas the rest are static emplacements. All can be directly controlled using Combined Arms. Has no special setup and is integrated into infantry or light mechanised columns, or used as static defences for fixed installations. If combined with a Sborka command vehicle, each vehicle coordinates 6 sections of ZU-23:s.
Available to
Tactics
As with the Shilka, just don't get too low while you clown on it and you'll be fine.

2K22 Tunguska / SA-19 “Grison”

This combination AAA and missile system was designed in the 70's to replace the Shilka and counter new threats like the A-10. Since it's first deployment in 1982, it has been used to provide all-weather day and night protection to infantry and tank regiments against CAS threats and cruise missiles.

2K22 Tunguska / SA-19 “Grison”

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range / Symbol
SAM SA-19 Tunguska 2S6	6	Self-propelled AAA and SACLOS-guided Missile	8× 9M311 2×968× 30mm HE/AP	Detection: 0.1–9.7nm / 0.2–18km Detection alt.: 0–11,400ft / 0–3,500m Engagement 1.1–4.3nm / 2–8km (9M311) Engagement alt.:47–11,400ft / 14.5–3,500m Max speed: Mach 2.82 Engagement: 0–1.9nm / 0–3.5km (30mm) Engagement alt: 0–9,800ft / 0–3,000m<
CP 9S80M1 Sborka	(0-1)	PPRU-M1 / “Dog Ear” command unit	—	Detection: 0.1–18.9nm / 0.1–35km Altitude: 50–32,800ft / 15–10,000m
(Unarmed) Transport GAZ-3308	(1)	Repair/test Station	—	—
(Unarmed) Transport KAMAZ-43101	(3)	Transporter/transloader	∞	—
(Unarmed) Transport Ural-4320-31 Armored	(3)	Repair/test/assembly Station	∞	—
(Unarmed) Transport ZIL-131 KUNG	(1)	Mobile Workshop	—	—
Reload / rearm	1s to ready new missile; 120s reload per missile; 960s total missile ream time from a depleted state. RoF: 4500 rpm; 1536s total gun rearm time from a depleted state.
Acquisition time	9M311: 1s scan + 5s acquisition 30mm: 3s CP: 1s scan + 12s acquisition.
Acquisition limits	Radar “lock-on”: 8.2nm / 15.3km. Notch: <10m/s (19kts, 36km/h) vrad.. Visual: 2.7nm / 5km. CP lock-on: 16nm / 30km. Notch: <15m/s (29kts, 54km/h) vrad.
Scan zone	Radar: 360° horizontal × -5°–+60° vertical.<br/Visual: 360° horizontal × -15°–+80° vertical. CP: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical.
Time to ready	2s
Kill radius	5m	Countermeasure resistance factor		Not affected by countermeasures
Notes
The radar “lock-on” stat is effectively just a range decrease and firing delay for the missiles for AI units — there is no traditional lock that can be jammed, chaffed, or otherwise broken, nor will it generate any kind of lock-on or launch warning. The system is mobile and can be directly driven using Combined Arms.
Available to
Tactics
This unit has pretty decent range and can be a dire threat against CAS aircraft, such as the A-10 and Harrier. It's mobility and ability to forgo the radar makes it difficult to target with a SEAD strike, scripters and human drivers might take advantage of this with a shoot and scoot strategy. Best targeted with high-altitude laser guided weaponry. Note that missiles are optically guided and cannot be defeated by countermeasures: you must manoeuvre to lose them. Soviet doctrine is that one either one air defence battalion (6 Tunguska, 6 SA-13, 18 MANPADs) or one air defence battery (4 Shilkas, 4 SA-9/13) accompanies each motor/rifle or tank regiment.

ZSU-57-2

A post-WWII self-propelled anti-aircraf gun (SPAAG), this two-barrelled, 57mm piece can be a pretty nasty surprise since it is essentially the post-war reincarnation of the anti-bomber flak cannon, and can reach surprisingly high altitudes — upwards of 13,000ft, and giving off no warning until the sky starts exploding. It is still optically guided so accuracy will not be stellar no matter what, but it can and will catch anyone who lazily flies straight and level within its operational range.

ZSU-57-2

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range / Symbol
AAA ZSU-57-2	1	Optically guided, self-propelled AAA	15× 2×4× 57mm HE-T 7× 2×4× 57mm APCBC-HE-T	Detection: 0–5.4nm / 0–10km Detection alt.: 0–16,400ft / 0–5,000m Engagement: 0–3.7nm / 0–7km Engagement alt.: 0–13,100ft / 0–4,000m
Reload / rearm	RoF: 240 rpm; 4s reload time; 4s rearm per batch of 8 (4 per barrel); 60 + 28s total ream time from a depleted state.
Acquisition time	3s acquisition.
Acquisition limits	Visual: 3.7nm / 7km.
Scan zone	Visual: 360° horizontal × -15°–+90° vertical.
Time to ready	2s
Kill radius	N/A
Notes
Has no special unit integration or setup and is normally integrated into armoured and mechanised columns,
Available to
}

Early-warning / GCI systems

These units can be turned into ground-based GCI radars by assigning the advanced waypoint actions:

• Start Enroute Task > EWR
• Perform Command > Set Callsign
• Perform Command > Set Frequency

They are all static units and cannot be driven using Combined Arms, but offer detection capabilities that tie into the more realistic simulation modes of LotATC 4 DCS. The editor detection ring displays an artificial limit of how far detection scripting will report a target; actual ranges for the EWR task should be much longer, but have been bugged for years.

1L13-3 Nebo-SV “Box Spring”

The GRAU index would imply that this is a 1 = radio and electonics equipment, L = IFF system.

1L13-3 Nebo-SV “Box Spring”

Units	Function	Stores	Range / Symbol
EWR 1L13	Early-Warning Radar	—	Detection: 0–64.8nm / 0–120km Altitude: 0–98,400ft / 0–30,000m
Acquisition time	1s scan + 12s acquisition.
Acquisition limits	Radar: 55nm / 102km. Notch: <50m/s (97kts, 180km/h) vrad.
Scan zone	Radar: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical.
Time to ready	2s
Notes
Has no offensive or defensive capabilities beyond what air assets it can guide towards a threat, and should be paired with layered AA and ground assets for protection. Is supposed to have a 162nm / 300km detection range for the purpose of providing GCI, but is seemingly limited to the 120km set by the sensor definition.
Available to

55ZH6 Nebo “Tall Rack”

The GRAU index would imply that this is an in-atmosphere interception air-defence system (index 55).

55ZH6 Nebo “Tall Rack”

Units	Function	Stores	Range / Symbol
EWR 55G6	Early-Warning Radar	—	Detection: 0–64.8nm / 0–120km Altitude: 0–98,400ft / 0–30,000m
Acquisition time	1s scan + 12s acquisition.
Acquisition limits	Radar: 55nm / 102km. Notch: <50m/s (97kts, 180km/h) vrad.
Scan zone	Radar: 360° horizontal × -15°–+60° vertical.
Time to ready	2s
Notes
Has no offensive or defensive capabilities beyond what air assets it can guide towards a threat, and should be paired with layered AA and ground assets for protection. Is supposed to have a 215nm / 400km detection range for the purpose of providing GCI, but is seemingly limited to the 120km set by the sensor definition.
Available to

Western systems

Radar-guided

Flakpanzer Gepard

From the 1970's until 2010, this unit was the cornerstone of the air defence of the German Army.

Flakpanzer Gepard

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range / Symbol
SPAAA Gepard	?	Self-propelled AAA	660× 35mm HE	Detection: 8nm Engagement: 2nm
Reload / rearm	1940s rearm from a depleted state.
Acquisition time	4s
Notes
Has a radar for searching, ranging, and tracking targets. Note that most eastern RWRs do not display this threat. Has no special setup and is instead integrated into armoured or mechanised columns.
Available to
Tactics
Not particularly threatening unless you are flying low. Since the 1980's, it is standard procedure to accompany these with Stinger MANPADs, who would take advantage of the Flakpanzer's radar as an early warning system.

M163 Vulcan Air Defence Systems (VADS)

In service from 1969 to 1993, this AAA gun is comparable to the Shilka. Despite its designation as a AAA gun, in practice it tended to be used more as a ground support weapon, as its range was simply insufficient against air threats.

M163 Vulcan Air Defence Systems (VADS)

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range
AAA Vulcan M163	1	Radar-ranging, self-propelled AAA	1180× 20mm	Detection: 2.7nm Engagement: 1.4nm Altitude: 1,500m / 4,500'
Reload / rearm	1280s
Acquisition time	6s
Notes
Optical sight with radar ranging. Note that most eastern RWRs do not display this threat. Has no special setup and is instead intended to complement the M48 Chaparral, and be integrated into infantry/light mechanised columns.
Available to
Tactics
Designed as a complement to, and should be deployed alongside the M48 Chaparral. By itself, it is basically helpless to a competent bombing run.

MIM-23 Hawk PIP Phase I

First seen in the 1960's, this medium range SARH SAM system was designed to be a more mobile replacement of the MIM-14 Nike Hercules. It was superseded by the Patriot system in the 90's.

The Phase I hawk, as seen in game, is primarily deployed in the hands of both Saudi Arabia and Iran, the latter thanks to US policy misadventures in the 80's.

MIM-23 Hawk PIP Phase I

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range / Symbol
SAM Hawk PCP	1	Platoon Command Post	—	—
SAM Hawk SR AN/MPQ-50	1	Pulse Acquisition Radar (high-altitude search)	—	Detection: 48nm
SAM Hawk TR AN/MPQ-46	2	High Power Illumination doppler Radar (tracking)	—	Detection: 48nm
SAM Hawk CWAR AN/MPQ-55	1	Continuous Wave Acquisition Radar (low-altitude search)	—	Detection: 37nm
SAM Hawk LN M192	6	Launcher	3× MIM-23B	Engagement: 24nm Altitude: 200–65,000'
(Approximation: SAM Hawk PCP)	(1)	Assault Fire Command Console	—	—
(Approximation: SAM Hawk PCP)	(1)	Launcher Section Controls	—	—
(Unarmed) Transport M818	(3)	M501 Loading Tractor	∞	—
(Static Cargos) Container	(12)	M390 Missile Pallet	3× MIM-23B	—
(Static Structures) GeneratorF	(4)	Battery Control Central	—	—
(Static Structures) GeneratorF	(2)	Information Coordination Central	—	—
(Static Structures) GeneratorF	(2)	SEA 56kVA Generator	—	—
Reload / rearm	120s per launcher (3 missiles).
Acquisition time	12s
Notes
The optional components are mostly for decoration (especially the static cargo containers and generators), although the many transport units will provide rearming functionality for the launchers. There exists a Range Only Radar component that is a fall-back system to help with ranging in a high-ECM environment. It is not simulated or present in DCS. Similarly, the AFCC and LSC are distributed systems for redundancy should the command post be eliminated. The effect of these can be approximated by adding additional PCPs. The system is static cannot be driven using Combined Arms.
Available to
Tactics
The typical setup has redundant radars, requiring a few ARMs to take down. Being a SARH, defeating the tracking radar is enough to defeat the missile.

MIM-104 Patriot PAC-2

The PATRIOT, or, Phased Array Tracking Radar to Intercept on Target, for those keeping track of the DoDs contributions to the field of tortured acronyms, is the premiere American long range SAM system. Initially conceived as an anti-aircraft system, the PAC-2 variant depicted in DCS features optimizations which make it efficient at engaging cruise missiles.

MIM-104 Patriot PAC-2

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range / Symbol
SAM Patriot ICC	1	Information Coordination Central	—	—
SAM Patriot ECS AN/MSQ-104	4-6	Engagement Control Station	—	—
SAM Patriot AMG AN/MRC-137	4-6	Antenna Mast Group	—	—
SAM Patriot EPP-III	4-6	Diesel-Electric Power Plant	—	—
SAM Patriot STR AN/MPQ-53	4-6	PESA Radar (search and track)	—	Detection: 85nm
SAM Patrion LN M901	24-36	Launcher	4× MIM-104C	Engagement: 54nm Altitude: 200–80,000'
(Unarmed) HEMTT TFFT	(4-6)	Guided Missile Transporter	—	—
(Unarmed) HEMTT TFFT	(4-6)	Large Repair Parts Transporter HEMTT	—	—
(Unarmed) Transport M818	(1)	Maintenance Center	∞	—
(Unarmed) Transport M818	(8-12)	Small Repair Parts Transporter	∞	—
(Static Cargos) Container	(8-12)	Parts containers	—	—
Reload / rearm	1800s per missile; 7200s total rearm time per launcher.
Acquisition time	?
Notes
Has self-defence anti-missile capability. The system is static and cannot be driven using Combined Arms.
Available to
Tactics
The Patriot system is designed around a battalion echelon, made of up 4-6 platoons. The ICC and Maintenance center are part of the command platoon, which oversees 4-6 "line battery" platoons, each containing one of each radar type, six launchers, and other support units distributed among them. It is a strategically important and expensive system, and as such typically supported by MANPADs. The system is capable of shooting down missiles and aircraft alike with its fully active radar missiles. Considering the number of redundant sensors used within a properly configured battalion, this system would require a sustained barrage of ordinance to bring down.

Rapier

Entering service in the British Army in 1971 as a replacement for its dated AAA guns, this system would replace most of its other air defence options by 1977. This unique system uses manually guided camera equipped missiles to guide to target.

Rapier

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range / Symbol
Rapier FSA Blindfire Tracker	1	“Blindfire” Field Standard A radar guidance unit and generator.	—	Detection: 16nm
Rapier FSA Optical Tracker	1	SACLOS optical tracking unit	—	Detection: 10nm
Rapier FSA Launcher	1	Launcher, surveillance radar, IFF, and generator.	4× Rapier Mk1	Detection: 16nm Engagement: 4nm Altitude: 10,000'
(Unarmed) Land Rover 101 FC	(1)	Forward Controller	—	—
(Unarmed) Transport M818	(1)	Missile Supply Trailer	—	—
Reload / rearm	240s per missile; 760s total rearm time from a depleted state.
Acquisition time	?
Notes
The FC and MST can be added mainly for country-appropriate decoration but they also supply ammunition. The system should be capable of running pure SACLOS without the Blindfire radar, but will not fire if one is not provided. Nevertheless, there are inconsistent reports that if the Blindfire is destroyed, the remaining group will still be able to use optical guidance as a fallback. The system is static and cannot be driven using Combined Arms.
Available to
Tactics
Being optically guided, low flyers must be wary RWRs will not alert them to fired missiles, and neither flares nor chaff will do much to help you evade. The only indication you will receive is the tracking radar, especially at night. The system is capable of firing without the radar in real life, but this capability is not reflected in DCS at this time.

Roland 2

Developed jointly by the French and Germans in the 70's, this short range SAM was designed to protect mobile field formations and fixed, high-value targets such as airfields.

Roland 2

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range / Symbol
SAM Roland ADS	?	Marder-mounted Air Defence System	2× Roland + 8 reserve	Detection: 6nm Engagement: 4nm Altitude: 30–19,500'
SAM Roland EWR	1	TÜR Early-Warning Radar	—	Detection: 18nm
Reload / rearm	3s readying time after missile detonation; 6s reload; 31s rearm per missile; 310s total rearm time from a depleted state.
Acquisition time	10s
Notes
Has a radar for searching, ranging, and tracking targets as well as for missile guidance. In Combined Arms, reloading and rearming the ADS is very prone to breakdowns, and missiles very rarely track outside of minimum range. The EWR cannot be driven. While nominally supported, the Roland is for all intents and purpose not compatible with or suitable for CA direct control.
Available to
Tactics
While nominally a radar guided missile, it is capable of optical target acquisition and tracking. This mobile system is typically integrated into armoured or mechanised columns.

IR-guided

AN/TWQ-1 / M1097 Heavy HMMWV Avenger

Essentially a Humvee mounted platform to launch Stinger missiles from, this unit started replacing the M163 and M167 VADS in the 90's.

AN/TWQ-1 / M1097 Heavy HMMWV Avenger

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range
SAM Avenger M1097	?	IR-guided, self-propelled SAM	8× FIM-92 + 8 reserve 200× 12.7mm	Detection: 2.75nm Engagement: 2.45nm Altitude: 3,000m / 10,000'
Reload / rearm	40s per missile; 640s total rearm time from depleted state. 30s to rearm depleted 12.7mm gun.
Acquisition time	2.5s
Notes
Optical acquisition all-aspect IR homing.
Available to
Tactics
Typically embedded among mobile infantry or HMMWV / Stryker-based columns, this system and its all-aspect IR missiles are extremely mobile and dangerous threat to low-flying air targets.

FIM-92 Stinger

Replacing the Redeye MANPAD in 1982, the stinger missile is a cheap and easy point defence option for a variety of situations.

FIM-92 Stinger

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range
Stinger MANPADS	1	IR-guided MANPADS	3× FIM-92	Detection: 2.7nm Engagement: 2.7nm Altitude: 3,000m / 10,000'
SAM Stinger comm	(1)	Command unit	—	—
Reload / rearm	15s reload per missile; ~180s rearm from a depleted state.
Acquisition time	6s
Notes
Optical acquisition all-aspect IR homing. The commander unit has no offensive capability and cannot be driven using Combined Arms.
Available to
Tactics
Able to be hidden anywhere one can reasonably find two guys and a tube, this can deliver an all-aspect infrared homing package of "Fuck You" to flow flying aircraft. Stinger teams can be found in almost any detachment, including infantry columns, supplementing point defence on fixed installations, even on the decks of warships. This is a very difficult target to spot, but its threat can be circumvented by generally flying high. Safety flares and speed during low attack runs can help mitigate the threat from this, but it's no guarantee.

M6 Linebacker

A version of everybody's troop transport that can't carry troops, reconnaissance vehicle that's too conspicuous to do reconnaissance, quasi-tank that has less armor than a snowblower but has enough ammo to take out half of DC: the Bradley. This version was built… with Stingers!

M6 Linebacker

Units	1	Function	Stores	Range
SAM Linebacker M6	1	IR-guided, self-propelled SAM and IFV	4× FIM-92 + 6 reserve 250× 25mm HE 71× 25mm AP 800× 7.62mm	Detection: 4.3nm Engagement: 2.45nm Altitude: 3,000m / 10,000'
Reload / rearm	0s reload per missile; 23s rearm per missile; 230s total rearm time from depleted state. 515s to rearm depleted 7.62mm gun; 1300s to rearm depleted 25mm AP; 830s to rearm depleted 25mm HE.
Acquisition time	2.5s
Notes
Optical acquisition all-aspect IR homing.
Available to
Tactics
Being yet another vehicle with Stingers strapped to it, one can expect the exact threat profile of a stinger missile. Opposition should continue assuming that every infantry column has a stinger in some manner in it somehow, and fly high.

MIM-72G / M48 Chaparral

In service from 1969-1998, this vehicle was designed as a ground launch platform for modified AIM-9Ds. It was designed as a complement to the M163 VADS.

MIM-72G / M48 Chaparral

Units	Qty	Function	Stores	Range
SAM Chaparral M48	1	IR-guided, self-propelled SAM	4× MIM-72G + 4 reserve	Detection: 5.4nm Engagement: 0.2–4.5nm Altitude: 25-4,000m / 82–13,000'
Reload / rearm	41s per missile; 335s total rearm time from a depleted state.
Acquisition time	2.5s
Notes
Optical acquisition all-aspect IR homing.
Available to
Tactics
While the original Chaparral was rear-aspect, the version depicted in DCS represents a later version that uses FIM-92 Stinger all-aspect seekers. This was designed to operate with, and should be paired with, an M163 VADS in a mechanized infantry column. Being a very similar platform to the stinger, similar tactics apply.

WWII Systems

With two exceptions (the Flak 18 and the Bofors 40mm), all these systems require the WWII Assets Pack. All are optically guided and do not create any kind of firing indication beyond flashes and (minimal) barrel smoke that has to be spotted visually. Since these systems come in a DRM:ed expansion, the data files are encrypted and cannot be mined to the same detail as the base game systems.

2cm Flak 30

2cm Flak 30

Units	Function	Stores	Range
AAA Flak 30	Fixed AAA	20mm	Engagement: 1.3nm / 2,200m
Available to

2cm Flakvierling 38

2cm Flakvierling 38

Units	Function	Stores	Range
AAA Flak-Vierling 38	Fixed AAA	4×20× 20mm	Engagement: 1.3nm / 2,200m
Available to

8.8cm Flak 18

8,8cm Flak 18

Units	Function	Stores	Range
AAA Flak 18	Fixed “Eighty-eight” Anti-air/anti-tank artillery	88mm Flak	Engagement: 8nm / 14,800m
AAA Kdo.G.40	Kommandogerät 40 optical rangefinder command unit	—	Detection: 16.2nm / 30km
Notes
The variant available in DCS only fires anti-air rounds. This WWII unit is available in the base DCS install and does not require the WWII Assets Pack.
Available to

8.8cm Flak 36

8,8cm Flak 36

Units	Function	Stores	Range
AAA 8,8cm Flak 36	Fixed AAA	200× 88mm Flak	Engagement: 8nm / 14,800m
AAA Kdo.G.40	Kommandogerät 40 optical rangefinder command unit	—	Detection: 16.2nm / 30km
Reload / rearm	3690s total rearm time from a depleted state.
Notes
Cannot be driven in Combined Arms.
Available to

8.8cm Flak 37

8,8cm Flak 37

Units	Function	Stores	Range
AAA Flak 37	Fixed AAA	88mm Flak	Engagement: 8nm / 14,800m
AAA Kdo.G.40	Kommandogerät 40 optical rangefinder command unit	—	Detection: 16.2nm / 30km
Available to

Bofors 40mm

Bofors 40mm

Units	Function	Stores	Range
AAA Bofors 40mm	Fixed AAA	200× 40mm	Engagement: 3.9nm / 7,160m
Reload / rearm	Has a nominal reload of 2 seconds but cannot be reloaded unless fully depleted; 1262s total rearm time from a depleted state. AI fires bursts of 9 rounds with a 9s rearming pause between bursts.
Notes
The variant available in DCS only fires high-explosive (not flak) anti-air rounds. This WWII unit is available in the base DCS install and does not require the WWII Assets Pack.
Available to

M1 37mm

M1 37mm

Units	Function	Stores	Range
AAA M1 37mm	Fixed AAA	100×8× 37×227mm Mixed	Engagement: 3.1nm / 5,700m
Reload / rearm	3s per tray; 315s total rearm time from a depleted state.
Available to

M45 Quadmount

M45 Quadmount

Units	Function	Stores	Range
AAA M45 Quadmount	Fixed AAA	5×800× 12.7mm	Engagement: 4,900ft (0.8nm) / 1,490m
Reload / rearm	13s per box; 65s total rearm time from a depleted state.
Available to

QF 3.7"

QF 3.7-inch AA gun

Units	Function	Stores	Range
AA gun QF 3,7"	Fixed AAA	80× 3.7" flak	Engagement: 4.9nm / 9,000m
Reload / rearm	1200s total rearm time from a depleted state.
Notes
Cannot be driven in Combined Arms.
Available to

A note on stats

Most numerical values have been taken directly from the DCS database Lua files, and where possible confirmed in the mission-editor and in-game. Even so a few caveats are necessary:

• Unit skill can affect to what extent these numbers can be matched by the AI, leading to a fair amount of variation and divergence.
• There are often state transition pauses that add extra delays, for instance between a launcher expending its last missile and subsequently starting its reload/rearm procedure.
• Testing suggests that player-controlled units also have a “skill level” of sorts attached that creates similar effects. Reloading times, for instance, will commonly be 10% longer if the unit is directly controlled by a player via Combined Arms.
• Some database file overload certain statistics, especially in regards to sensor capabilities, in ways that are not always easy to follow — the stats provided come from a relatively shallow reading of those files.
• Some stats, again especially related to sensors, are subject to more in-depth mechanics related to a target's relative detectability and the sensor's ability to pick on a standard normalised targets. In particular, IR lock-on ranges can not reliably be defined.

Scripts and Shenanigans

Skynet-IADS

This script adds your SAM groups to an Integrated Air defence System, which minimally consists of an Early Warning Radar (EWR) site (a lone long range radar or a long range SAM, ideally) and SAMs operating under its coverage. SAMs under EWR coverage will refrain from turning on their emitters until hostile aircraft reach a (configurable) range, reducing time for victims to react before being fired upon, as well as reducing vulnerability to SEAD. This system also enables a chance based HARM detection ability. SAMs that normally fire upon HARMs will, others will simply turn off their radars. All of these capabilities are configurable, allowing the script to be tuned to the author's taste.

Limitations:

• Each sam group must have a single SAM.
• The search radar must be the first unit in the group.

An IADS can be degraded by taking out its search radars, which generally remain online.