[][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][]
A C E  C O M B A T  6
---======================--
- Fires of Liberation -
|:|_ Walkthrough by Vhayste®_
|:|_ Email: Vhayste@gmail.com
|:|_ Website: http://vhayste.blogspot.com/
|:|_ Gamertag: paul vhayste
||_VERSION HISTORY
[V1.0]
1:24 PM 12/2/2007 -------------------- Main Faq completed
[V1.1]
7:29 AM 12/26/2007 ------------------- Added Aircraft List
8:31 AM 12/26/2007 ------------------- Added SP Weapon List
9:04 AM 12/26/2007 ------------------- Added Aces List
9:52 AM 12/26/2007 ------------------- Added Medals List
10:56 AM 12/26/2007 ------------------ Added Achievements
11:29 AM 12/26/2007 ------------------ Added Q&A Section
11:34 AM 12/26/2007 ------------------ Complete Faq finished
[V1.2]
6:38 AM 2/10/2008 -------------------- Edited Q&A section
Added minor fact abt ESM
I.   COPYRIGHT
II.  AUTHOR'S NOTE
III. FLIGHT SCHOOL
CONTROLS ---------------------------------------- GSG001
HUD --------------------------------------------- GSG002
BASIC FLIGHT OPERATION -------------------------- GSG003
(Taking off, landing)
TACTICAL TRAINING ------------------------------- GSG004
(Plane Selection, Weapons System)
COMBAT MANUEVERS -------------------------------- GSG005
(Includes Defensive Manuevers)
ALLIED/ WINGMAN COMMANDS ------------------------ GSG006
ESM SUPPORT ------------------------------------- GSG007
MISCELLANEOUS ----------------------------------- GSG008
IV. WALKTHROUGH
01: INVASION OF GRACEMERIA ---------------------- WLK001
02: VITOZE AERIAL DEFENSE ----------------------- WLK002
03: SIPLI FIELD --------------------------------- WLK003
04: BARTOLOMEO FORTRESS ------------------------- WLK004
05: ANEA LANDING -------------------------------- WLK005
06: SIEGE ON SILVAT ----------------------------- WLK006
07: SELUMNA PEAK -------------------------------- WLK007
08: SAN LOMA ASSAULT ---------------------------- WLK008
09: HEAVY COMMAND CRUISER ----------------------- WLK009
10: RAGNO FORTRESS ------------------------------ WLK010
11: THE MOLOCH DESERT --------------------------- WLK011
12: WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION ----------------- WLK012
13: THE LIBERATION OF GRACEMERIA ---------------- WLK013
14: GRACEMERIA PATROL --------------------------- WLK014
15: CHANDELIER ---------------------------------- WLK015
V. AIRCRAFT LIST ---------------------------------------- ALC000
F-16c “Fighting Falcon” ------------------------- ALC001
Mirage 2000-S ----------------------------------- ALC002
A-10A “Thunderbolt II”--------------------------- ALC003
Tornado GR.4 ------------------------------------ ALC004
F/A-18F “SuperHornet” --------------------------- ALC005
F-2A “Viper Zero” ------------------------------- ALC006
F-14D “SuperTomcat” ----------------------------- ALC007
SU-33 “Flanker” --------------------------------- ALC008
F-15E “Strike Eagle” ---------------------------- ALC009
Rafale M “Squall” ------------------------------- ALC010
F-117 “Nighthawk” ------------------------------- ALC011
TYPHOON ----------------------------------------- ALC012
SU-47 “Berkut” ---------------------------------- ALC013
F-22A “Raptor” ---------------------------------- ALC014
CFA-44 “Nosferatu” ------------------------------ ALC015
VI. SP WEAPON LIST -------------------------------------- SPW000
ADMM –------------------------------------------- SPW001
BDSP -------------------------------------------- SPW002
ECMP -------------------------------------------- SPW003
EML --------------------------------------------- SPW004
FAEB -------------------------------------------- SPW005
GPB --------------------------------------------- SPW006
LASM -------------------------------------------- SPW007
QAAM -------------------------------------------- SPW008
RCL --------------------------------------------- SPW009
SAAM -------------------------------------------- SPW010
SFFS -------------------------------------------- SPW011
SOD --------------------------------------------- SPW012
UGB --------------------------------------------- SPW013
XAGM -------------------------------------------- SPW014
XLAA -------------------------------------------- SPW015
XMA4 -------------------------------------------- SPW016
XMA6 -------------------------------------------- SPW017
VII. ACES LIST ------------------------------------------ ACS000
MISSION 01: #13 PEGAS --------------------------- ACS001
MISSION 02: #14 EDINOROG ------------------------ ACS002
Mission 03: #15 DRAKON -------------------------- ACS003
Mission 04: #16 KENTAVR ------------------------- ACS004
Mission 05: #17 ORYOL --------------------------- ACS005
Mission 06: #18 VEGA ---------------------------- ACS006
Mission 07: #19 DZHOKER ------------------------- ACS007
Mission 08: #20 RUSALKA ------------------------- ACS008
Mission 09: #21 FENIKS -------------------------- ACS009
Mission 10: #22 OBLAKO -------------------------- ACS010
Mission 11: #23 RYTSARY ------------------------- ACS011
Mission 12: #24 FLYUGER ------------------------- ACS012
Mission 13: #25 VALET --------------------------- ACS013
Mission 14: #26 DAMA ---------------------------- ACS014
Mission 15: #27 KOBOL --------------------------- ACS015
VIII. MEDALS LIST --------------------------------------- MDL000
SERVICE MEDALS ----------------------------------- MDL01A
BRONZE ACE --------------------------------------- MDL001
SILVER ACE --------------------------------------- MDL002
GOLD ACE ----------------------------------------- MDL003
BRONZE MARKSMAN ---------------------------------- MDL004
SILVER MARKSMAN ---------------------------------- MDL005
GOLD MARKSMAN ------------------------------------ MDL006
NEEDLE’S EYE ------------------------------------- MDL007
NIGHT OWL ---------------------------------------- MDL008
RAGING FALCON ------------------------------------ MDL009
BLAZING GRIFFIN ---------------------------------- MDL010
GUARDIAN ----------------------------------------- MDL011
QUICKSILVER -------------------------------------- MDL012
SHARPSHOOTER ------------------------------------- MDL013
LEGENDARY ACE ------------------------------------ MDL014
BRONZE STAR -------------------------------------- MDL015
SILVER STAR -------------------------------------- MDL016
GOLD STAR ---------------------------------------- MDL017
PLATINUM STAR ------------------------------------ MDL018
IX. ACHIEVEMENTS ---------------------------------------- ACHVMT
X. Q&A SECTION ------------------------------------------ Q&A000
XI. CREDITS --------------------------------------------- CRD000
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
|                          C O P Y R I G H T                     |
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
This document is copyrighted to me, Vhayste®. It is intended for
~PRIVATE~ use only. It cannot be used in ANY form of printed or
electronic media involved in a commercial business, in part or in
whole, in any way, shape, or form. It cannot be used for profitable
or promotional purposes, regardless of the situation. Breaking any of
these rules is in direct violation of copyright law.
This document is protected by copyright law and international treaties.
Unauthorized reproduction and distribution of this document, or any
portion of it, may result in severe civil and criminal penalties, and
will be prosecuted to the maximum extent possible under the law. Any
characters, names, places, or miscellaneous objects are copyright of
their respective companies.
Images shown in this document are originally produced by the author by
taking his own screenshots and editing them via an image editing
software; hence these images can’t be used/ reproduced in any form
unless the author said so. Unauthorized distribution of any resources
found in this document, a part of the document or as a whole is
considered violation of the copyright law.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
|                     A U T H O R' S  N O T E                    |
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
This will be my first guide for the Xbox 360 and I am glad that I was
given the chance to cover a great game. If you have read my works,
you should know that I am a fan of the Ace Combat series. I played all
the versions out except for the Playstation titles.
Any feedback from you guys is very much appreciated. If you have
corrections or suggestions tell me so; remember that I am doing this
for FREE and I am investing my time and effort to make this guide as
helpful as possible. I will try to cover everything that needs to be
covered but I can’t guarantee you that this will be perfect.
That’s all and I hope you will find this guide useful. An exclusive
PDF version of this guide is available under IGN as well. The guide
features actual screenshots of the gameplay and helpful tips.
Both versions (TXT and PDF) will be updated at the same time, though
you will just find the PDF version in IGN only. This text guide will
be posted on other gaming sites.
Link to PDF Guide =
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
|                   FLIGHT SCHOOL (GETTING STARTED)              |
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
NOTE: If you are an Ace Combat pilot before and already familiar with
the game basics, you may skip this tutorial.
CONTROLS
|--------|
GSG001
The button configuration is generally the same as the previous
versions of the game. But there are some additions as well, including
the all new “Allied” command/orders. This will be discussed in detail
later on.
The following layout that will be covered in this section is Type A
which is the game’s default. You can change the control type from the
game options.
++------------++
||Acceleration||
++------------++
Press the RIGHT TRIGGER to accelerate. Press the RIGHT BUMPER to yaw
right.
Hold RT to activate afterburners and gain a speed boost. Note that
the turning angle is wide when traveling at high speeds.
++------------++
||Deceleration||
++------------++
Press LEFT TRIGGER to accelerate. Press the LEFT BUMPER to yaw to the
left.
Hold LT to activate air brakes. Air braking for too long may cause
your aircraft to stall. Air braking is necessary to make sharp turns
in maneuvers.
++--------------++
||Flight Control||
++--------------++
Hold the Left Analog button down to point the plane’s nose up and
vice versa. Hold it to the left or the right to roll the plane left
or right.
Press the left analog button to lower the landing gear during
mid-battle landings.
++--------------++
||Camera Control||
++--------------++
Use the right analog stick to control the camera angle freely.
Press it to change into different views.
++-----------------------++
||Wingman/ Allied Command||
++-----------------------++
Press the UP D-PAD (directional pad) to order your wingman to attack
the target (s) in front of you. Press the DOWN D-PAD to order your
wingman to cover you.
When the AS (Allied Support Gauge) fills up, press and hold the UP
button to request a coordinated attack against the targets in front
of you. Request a coordinated allied cover by pressing the DOWN
D-Pad
Press the LEFT or RIGHT D-pad to highlight enemy forces for each
operation.
++-----------------++
||Pause/Menu/Cancel||
++-----------------++
Press the start button to pause the game and open the menu during the
mission. Here, you can view your main objective and the objectives
for each operation.
The start button is also used for cancelling landing and take off
sequences.
++------------------------++
||Toggle SP weapon/Missile||
++------------------------++
Use the select button to toggle between missiles and SP weapons.
++-----------------++
||Fire Machine Gun ||
++-----------------++
Use the A button to fire your plane’s machine gun.
++------------------------++
|| Fire missile/ SP weapon||
++------------------------++
Press the B button to fire missiles or SP weapons, depending on which
one is active. Press and hold to track down the missile or SP weapon
as it hits the target.
++---------------++
|| Change Targets||
++---------------++
Press the Y Button to change targets.
++----------------++
||Toggle Map modes||
++----------------++
Press the X Button to toggle map views.
HUD
|--------|
GSG002
Knowing the meaning of every information showed in the screen is
vital for every pilot. The HUD displays various details about your
plane and your surroundings. It also displays all you need to know
during missions.
Here is the basic rundown of the information that you will see when
playing.
For the labeled screenshot of the hud, you can check out this link:
[http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/2791/hudce2.jpg]
1.     Active Target – This nifty little screen displays the actual unit/
target you are currently locked on. It is real-time, as you can
see if the target is destroyed, gunned down or even while firing.
The enemy’s health will be displayed here as well.
2.  Destroyed Targets – Displays are recently destroyed targets and
their corresponding points.
3.  Map – Displays all main targets, enemy units, allied units, etc.
Allied and Enemy ESM range will be shown here as well.
4.  Operation – toggle in between operations to highlight all targets.
This is a good way to filter and prioritize targets since just
viewing all targets in all operations is really messy and
confusing.
5.  Wingman/ Allied Command – Order your wingman or allies to attack/
cover you. Note that the Allied Support (AS) gauge should be
filled first before you can request assistance from your allied
units. Fill it by successfully completing an operation and
destroying enemies. Wingman commands can be issued indefinitely.
6.  AS Gauge – Call in allied support once your AS gauge reach a
certain level.
7.  Radio Chatter – This where you can read all transmissions from
allied, enemy or neutral forces. AWACS (Ghost Eye) messages are
also displayed here.
8.  Score – The total score you have acquired so far.
9.  Speed – Your aircraft’s speed. Stalling speed for your aircraft
can be monitored here.
10. Timer – The time remaining to complete the mission/ objective
11. Altitude – Displays the altitude of the plane. An automatic
warning system will inform you if you are flying dangerously low.
12. Multi-function display:
ESM  : Current ESM level. The higher level, the more effective your
missiles will be.
GUN  : The remaining ammo of your machine gun
MSSL : The remaining missiles you have in stock.
[SP] : The remaining SP weapon you have in stock.
DMG  : The amount of damage sustained. Your plane is destroyed when
it reaches 100%
BASIC FLIGHT OPERATIONS
|-----------------------|
GSG003
In this section we will discuss the basic flight operations you will
need to perform during missions. That includes taking off, landing,
mid-air refueling, mid-battle take-off/landing, and carrier take-off/
landing
++------------++
|| TAKING OFF ||
++------------++
As you are deployed on each mission, you will need to take off.
Commonly, you will need to take off from your home airbase. Taking
off is quite easy. Once you get the clearance to take off, accelerate
until you reach at least 150MPH then pull your plane’s nose up. Just
keep ascending until you get a message that the altitude restrictions
are cancelled. You are good to go after that.
++---------++
|| LANDING ||
++---------++
Landing in AC6 is a bit simpler compared to its predecessors. When
you are ready to land, you will just be a mile of the runway and
already in a straight path. You just need to ease up on the airbrakes,
and approach the runway while gently pointing your plane’s nose in a
smooth angle. Don’t brake too hard or you’ll stall. Just apply enough
pressure on the left trigger as you observe your plane slowly
descending.
Once your tires hit the runway, brake hard to give the plane a sudden
stop. Landing successful.
++-------------------++
|| FRONTLINE LANDING ||
++-------------------++
In some missions where some operations require you to defend or take
control of an airbase, successfully clearing it will allow you to use
the airport as your resupply/repair station during the course of
battle. Landing with enemies around you is very risky and you are
very vulnerable while attempting to land. If you really need to land
for repairs and resupplying, make sure you order your allies to
provide you with cover or have them attack all enemies first.
To perform a mid-battle landing, approach the runway. Once you get
into appropriate distance, the control tower will notify you that you
are cleared the land. Lower your landing gear by clicking the Left
Analog button. You can abort the landing anytime by raising your
landing gear (click the analog button again) or just fly by the
airbase.
++--------------------++
|| FRONTLINE TAKE-OFF ||
++--------------------++
Taking off in the heat of the battle is not that hard. Apply the same
take off procedures but make it fast. Remember that you still
vulnerable during take off so get off the ground as soon as
possible.
++-----------------++
|| CARRIER LANDING ||
++-----------------++
Carrier landing is a bit easier in AC6. Approach the flight deck
while slowly descending. Just don’t hit the brakes too hard or you’ll
stall. Once you felt your tires touch the deck, hit hard on the
brakes.
++------------------++
|| CARRIER TAKE-OFF ||
++------------------++
Taking off from a carrier is fairly easy. Once you are cleared to
take off, hit the afterburners and the deck catapult will launch the
aircraft from 0-200 mph. Once your tires leave the runway (which
usually happens in less than a second), raise your plane’s nose and
head to the skies.
++------------------++
|| AERIAL REFUELING ||
++------------------++
Aerial Refueling can be a bit tricky in case you drift off course.
Fortunately, there is only one instance in the game that you will
need to perform a mid-air refueling and you will start directly at
the optimum path towards the tanker.
As you start the sequence, approach the tanker slowly, throttle up
gently. Avoid touching your flight stick to avoid changing directions.
In case you have changed directions, try getting the diamond marker
aligned with your marker.
Once you reached the tanker, hold your position a bit and refueling
will initiate automatically.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
|               T A C T I C A L   T R A I N I N G                |
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
- GSG004 -
Now, we will run through the layout of basic combat operations. This
includes mission briefing, plane selection, weapons systems, combat
maneuvers, allied/ wingman commands, ESM support and battlefield
assessment.
++------------------++
|| MISSION BRIEFING ||
++------------------++
Some players may find this part of the game boring and may just skip
to the battle at once, only to discover they don’t know what to do
later on. It’s a cardinal sin and a part of stupidity for pilots.
These pre-mission orientations are really important. You will know
all the separate operations to be conducted simultaneously and the
allied detachments that will participate in battle. As you have known,
most missions have several operations taking place and you have the
choice to provide support to any of them. Since you are only required
to meet the quota out of the deployed operations, you can finish the
mission even if you were not able to meet the other teams.
For example, the mission has three operations and you have a quota of
two. That means that you just need to finish two out of the three
active operations for that mission.
Furthermore, the briefing’s most important use is to provide much
needed intel about the enemy forces, the terrain and the background of
the mission. You will now the type of enemies you may encounter
including your main objective, which will also help you to decide
which plane and weapons to bring.
++------------------++
|| PLANE SELECTION  ||
++------------------++
Selecting the proper plane for the mission is self-explanatory. Each
plane has their own strengths and weaknesses, including their SP
weapon set and payload. You wouldn’t be bringing an A-10A attacker
(unless you are seeking challenge) to mission where heavy aerial
battle and dogfighting is expected.
There are three major groups of planes. Each of them is classified
according to their performance, ordinance and the types of missions
they are best suited. Choosing what plane to bring for a mission will
determine your survival when deployed.
ATTACKERS
These aircrafts are bombing specialist and ground target killers.
They excel in flying at subsonic speeds while “hugging the deck” or
flying low. They have heavy armors that make them sturdy enough to
withstand enemy fire. Their weakness however, is their stiff
maneuverability. It will be hard to avoid enemy missiles just by
evading it. Attackers are also capable of engaging enemy ships.
Normally referred to as “bombers”, they carry enough ordinances to
destroy large groups of ground units. Newer bombers are faster, more
agile and more maneuverable.
FIGHTERS
Aircrafts built for engaging enemy fighters and air targets. They are
agile, quick and deadly. They are also deployed to escort transports
and bombers, defend bases and even protect the fleet. They are
capable of turning sharply at very high speeds as well.
The weaknesses of fighters include lesser armor to make the plane
lighter but making it more vulnerable against enemy fire and their
sensitivity when attacking the ground can make the plane wobbly and
crash.
MULTIROLE
These aircrafts are the hybrid or the cross between fighters and
attackers. Their main strength lies in their all-around attributes
and capability of being deployed on any mission. They have the
strength, speed and agility of fighters and the toughness and
stability of attackers.
Multiroles are even better the weaknesses of the other two fighter
types are covered by the other.
Another minor plane type is the Jammers. They carry electronic
equipment that interferes with the enemy communications, radar and
ETS. They are playable in the game, but some planes have ECMP as
a SP weapon instead.
++----------------++
|| WEAPONS SYSTEM ||
++----------------++
This section will provide you the basics of using/deploying/selecting
different weapons you have equipped in your plane. Obviously, each
plane has different sets of special weapons and their payload
determines the amount of missiles and SP weapons they can carry.
You also need to bring the SP weapon appropriate for the mission. You
wouldn’t want to bring bombs if you are expecting enemy air units in
majority.
++----------------++
|| FIRING MISSILES||
++----------------++
Your missiles are your basic, multi-purpose weapons. They can hit
ground, air, and naval targets. They are faster compared to some A-A
SP weapons and have average damage. Most of the time, one to two
missiles are enough to destroy enemy targets.
You will need to lock-on a target first. You should also be within
firing range before achieving a lock-on. Once you get a lock-on, don’t
fire immediately. It doesn’t mean that your missile will hit the
target immediately.
Take note of the angle, speed and turn you and your target are
currently doing. The optimum firing range is at least within 5000 ft.
At this distance, missiles can hit their target with little chance of
evasion. (Unless the target is a really agile plane such as Strigon
Team’s SU-33s).
For higher probabilities of hitting the target, pay close attention
to your hud. Once the word SHOOT appears, release your missiles. The
hit rate of firing missiles during this time can be as high as 95%
in most but not all cases.
++-------------++
|| FIRING GUNS ||
++-------------++
Machine guns can be equally destructive as missiles within its
effective range or even more at point blank. However, tracking or
targeting fast moving targets can be challenging since you also need
to control the speed and angle of your aircraft to keep the target in
sight (manual targeting). There are some tricks in properly executing
a machine gun attack and I will try to discuss it here.
The machine gun rounds are lethal up close and are sure to chew the
enemy armor away. First, you’ll need to be close enough for the
bullets to hit your target. You will know this if your targeting
reticule appears.
For targeting large, slow enemies such as transports, enemy AWACs,
tankers etc, just approach them slowly, get into firing range, align
your reticule and fire. Same thing can be applied for large ground
targets such as facilities, fortifications and enemy ships. For
faster targets like enemy fighters, you will need to anticipate the
enemy’s flight path. Refer to the diagram below:
The green circle is your reticule, the black line is the projected
flight path of the target and the red plane is the target.
Note that the reticule is way beyond the target. The truth is, in
high speed maneuvers, bullets don’t travel straight right to the
target.
With a bit of physics and other factors, bullets tend to “swerve”
away from the direction it is fired. In this diagram, firing bullets
at this position will allow the bullets to “fly” directly to the
target. Same thing applies for vertical approaches.
++-------------------++
|| FIRING SP WEAPONS ||
++-------------------++
SP weapons come in many shapes and sizes. Anti-air SP weapons are
normally missiles with multi-lock on capability, farther range,
enhanced tracking and greater damage. Anti-ground weapons are
composed of “dumb” (normal) bombs, precision bombs and air to ground
missiles. There is also an SP weapon that jams the enemy targeting
capability, thus reducing the effectiveness of missiles.
ANTI-AIR SP WEAPONS
XMA4, XMA6 and XLAAs are all multi-targeting SP weapons which can
fire four missiles at medium and long range. Though they have
enhanced tracking, range and damage, that doesn’t mean that they
will always hit the target. Enemies can still evade them by making
sharp turns and barrel rolls. QAAMs are a bit more reliable when
tracking faster more agile targets because of its maneuverability.
For best results, approach the targets either on their 12 or 6, and
then fire after getting a lock on. Getting in closer may increase the
probability of the missiles hitting the target but may also cause the
targets to break formation and engage you instead.
Further information about individual SP weapons will be discussed in
a separate section dedicated for that topic.
ANTI-GROUND SP WEAPONS
For precision air to ground weapons such as GPBs, XAGMs, LASM, and
SFFS, you just need into range and release the weapons once you get a
lock-on. You will always hit the targets unless they are in some kind
of cover.
For unguided bombs such as the UGBL and FAEB, you will need to
carefully aim them before releasing or they’ll land off target.
Upon selecting an unguided bomb, a different targeting crosshair
will appear. This is where the bomb will hit. You won’t know the
blast radius until impact. Usually, UGBs have decent blast radii but
compared to the FAEB (which I consider the strongest ground weapon in
the game), the destruction and range is not even close.
Use UGBs against closely packed targets such as enemy fortifications
and bunkers.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
|                   C O M B A T   M A N E U V E R S              |
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
- GSG005 -
Here you will learn the basic combat maneuvers. It is given that
enemies won’t just be up there waiting to be shot down. Thus, expect
a struggle for the optimal position either when targeting enemies or
evading enemy fire.
++------------++
|| TAIL-CHASE ||
++------------++
How to perform:
This is basically the easiest firing position to acquire. Just get to
your target’s six and hit your afterburners, get into firing range.
Release the missiles once you get a clean lock-on. (The word SHOOT
appears in the middle of your HUD)
Though this maneuver is simple and effective against steady targets
such as transports, you won’t be able to use this move much against
more agile and faster targets since you’ll need to keep up with them,
especially in tight dogfights.
++--------++
|| AIRCUT ||
++--------++
This is another tricky but effective move. You may use this often
against those pesky enemies that loves to dodge your missiles and
keeps on hanging on their tails.
How to perform:
When targeting an enemy, avoid flying too closely. Wait until he is
about it turn, then quickly turn to the direction he’ll be turning.
Immediately boost your way to that direction and you will be able to
stick close to his tail, enough for the missiles to hit him without
any chance of evading. The logic of this move is to cut through a
“shortcut” directly intercept his turn.
If you have played racing games, you should have used this move
several times already.
++---------------------++
|| ARROW HEAD APPROACH ||
++---------------------++
This is a bit risky since there’s always a chance that the enemy will
hit you as well. But the odds of destroying the target is higher,
almost perfectly if timed correctly.
How to perform:
Once you see incoming bogeys on radar, approach them from their direct
12 o’clock. Hit your afterburners to approach them faster, and once
you get a lock, fire your missiles and immediately get out of the
way. It doesn’t matter which direction, as long as you can get out of
your enemy’s line of fire.
Release it too soon and the enemy will be able to evade it. Release
it too late will either let you missiles pass through the enemy or
you’ll eat his missiles.
++-------------------++
|| BARREL ROLL (AIR) ||
++-------------------++
This is one of the basic maneuvers in reversing an enemy that is
targeting you. This move can be executed by an agile and fast plane.
You can still perform this rarely using attackers such as A-10As and
F-117s; that is if you are facing a slower plane.
How to perform:
Once the system turns red (enemy radar tracking), check out your map.
If there is bogey on your tail, hit your afterburners for a good 2-3
seconds then immediately hit the airbrakes while tilting your plane
up. This will make the plane flip over and the bogey will past by
you. Try not to hit the brakes for too long or too hard or your plane
will stall, ruining the opportunity. After flipping 90-180 degrees,
quickly hit your afterburners to recover and attack the target from
behind.
This can be done also when recovering from a dive-bomb move so that
you can start another dive-bombing run.
Barrel Rolls can be considered as defensive or counterattack moves.
++----------------------++
|| BARREL ROLL (GROUND) ||
++----------------------++
When tracked by an enemy ground unit (SAM), you can use this maneuver
to either break their lock on or evade a missile already released.
This can also be used to recover from a dive-bombing maneuver to
regain altitude and get into bombing position.
How to perform:
Same rules apply with some minor changes.
Approach the intended target. Once ready, release your ordinance and
perform the maneuver. Or, when targeted and you hear the warning
system beep (which means that a missile has been released and
currently targeted at you) brake hard while tilting your plane’s nose
up.  Once you have a good skyward incline, hit the after burners to
gain some elevation then turn sharply to return to your original
flight path.
Barrel Rolls can be considered as defensive or counterattack moves.
++--------------++
|| DIVE BOMBING ||
++--------------++
This move is essential for those ground targets that are well covered
by obstacles such as buildings, cliffs, valleys, fortifications, etc.
Normally they won’t be in your missile’s line of fire. This maneuver
will allow you to get in top of the target and get a clean shot
overhead.
How to perform:
Acquire your target. Ascend to a suitable height (which will depend
on the elevation of the target, normally +2000-3000ft above your
original position) then hit the airbrakes and turn the plan noseward
to the ground. Do not accelerate while on this position!
Once you get your target, release your missiles/bombs and gently
maneuver the plane back in a 90 º angle and fly away. (Or barrel
roll up if you want to do another bombing run.)
++-----------------++
|| TERRAIN MASKING ||
++-----------------++
In real life, terrain masking is used by high speed bombers
approaching their target or evading enemy interceptors. Flying close
to the ground uses “ground clutter”, which makes the plane hard to
see. It also helps a lot on evading enemy attacks since missiles
launched from above won’t hit a fast moving, lower altitude target.
Though it should be easy for attackers such as the A-10A, the F-117
and some multirole fighters, this is risky for faster, more agile
fighters. You can use this for escaping multiple pursuers, especially
if you are in need of repairs and re-arming.
How to perform:
Just lower your altitude at around below 1000-1500 depending on the
terrain you are in. Adjust your speed, depending on how your plane
behaves or how you can control it.
++--------------++
|| BANKING TURN ||
++--------------++
Banking is generally changing the direction of the plane, oftentimes
instantly. This is really essential if a missile is approaching you
head on or if an enemy target during the Arrowhead approach
(Discussed above) fires first. Banking can help you avoid getting
hit by a missile.
You can also bank for the last minute, after you release your missile
to the intended target but that requires proper timing. If timed
correctly, the missile will just fly harmless inches off you.
How to perform:
There is no setup needed here since you can just bank or turn
whenever you want. However, what’ll matter will be the mobility of
your aircraft. Some planes turn slower, others turn instantly when
you yank the flight stick.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
|           A L L I E D /  W I N G M A N  C O M M A N D S        |
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
- GSG006 -
One new feature in the game is the ability to call in allied support,
either in the form of offensive fire support or providing covering
fire as you attack main targets. In most missions, you’ll need to
complete an operation first before your allies can assist you.
Normally, the squadron/ group from successful operation(s) will
provide assistance when you needed them.
Your wingman (Shamrock/ Garuda 2) will be always by your side on every
mission. He is a very good pilot and can help you in tough situations.
++---------------++
|| WINGMAN COVER ||
++---------------++
At the start of the mission, this is the default command/ formation
that your wingman will follow. In this formation, your wingman will
attack anything that is trying to shoot you, when he can.
++----------------++
|| WINGMAN ATTACK ||
++----------------++
When ordered to attack, your wingman will shift into attack position.
Your wingman will attack the target you have selected. After it is
destroyed, he will choose his own targets automatically.
++--------------++
|| ALLIED COVER ||
++--------------++
This command is pretty useful when you find yourself drawing most of
the enemy fire. Once activated, your allies will attack all ground,
naval or air units currently targeting/ firing at you.
++---------------++
|| ALLIED ATTACK ||
++---------------++
Once you have your AS gauge filled up, you can order you allies to
attack any target in front of you. They will cease attacking once the
designated targets are destroyed or after a short time. Destroying
targets will also increase the AS gauge.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
|                          ESM SUPPORT                           |
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
- GSG007 -
ESM or Electronic Support Measures is an enhancement provided by an
allied unit; which could be a jumbo jet similar to an AWACS, a radar
station or a ship. Electronic support is essential for large scale
battles since it provides enhancements to all allied units within
range.
The most obvious effect you can observe if you are within an allied
ESM net is that your missiles have enhanced tracking (which almost
works like QAAMs if the ESM level is high) and that enemy targeting
is reduced as well, making it hard for them to get a lock on to
you.
Enemy ESMs have the same effect to their allied units. If you are
within enemy ESM range, expect disadvantage when targeting enemy
units. ESM can be stacked if the units providing them have
overlapping ranges. So, it is possible to have a higher ESM level if
you are staying within the overlapping signals.
Speaking of overlapping signals, if in any case enemy and allied ESM
overlap each other, the effects won’t be negated but will still be
active. Same thing with jamming. Fortunately, jamming in AC6 doesn’t
disable your lock-on capabilities but your radar will be blocked
within effective range.
ordinary missiles have also faster reloading rate while your plane is
within the ESM field. This is observed only during ESM LV1.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
|                         MISCELLANEOUS                          |
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
- GSG008 -
ASSAULT RECORDS
---------------
These can be unlocked for both Estovakian and Emmerian Units.
To unlock the Estovakian units, shoot down the Strigon team members
during the missions (the final blow should be done by you) and other
various aces that will appear on Expert and Ace difficulty levels.
Emmerian Units in the other hand, can be unlocked by getting a rank S
in various operations. You can do this on free mission as well.
MEDALS
---------------
These are awarded after meeting certain requirements in the game. The
requirements range from those pretty easy to meet, such as destroying
XXX number of enemies to the most mundane like, finishing the campaign
using machine guns only or without taking any damage.
More details about this rewards will be discussed later.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
|                      W A L K T H R O U G H                     |
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Mission 01                                                [WLK001]
INVASION OF GRACEMERIA
-Through the heart of the nation-
Time Limit  : 30:00:00                           Area: Gracemeria
Quota:        None
OP Leader   : None
Mission Type: Anti Air
Main Objective : Destroy all enemy targets (TGT)
Starting Points: Aerial Defense
You will need to select your plane before starting the mission.
Since you still don’t have any other planes or SP weapons, select the
default load out and proceed with the mission.
This is mainly an aerial battle so feel the controls. Try to get
familiar with your plane since you will be using this for the next
few missions. The bombers are scattered across the map, marked with
the color red. Feel free to destroy enemy fighters and choppers as
you want.
If you have noticed, the missile and SP weapon capacity of your F-16C
is really large, considering the limited number of missiles planes
from previous AC versions can carry. This is actually helpful since
missions in AC6 are rather long and the targets are numerous as
well.
Old SP weapons make their comeback in this version of the game though
some of them are renamed or modified. The XMA4 is the XMAA for
previous versions. Another variant is the XMA6 which is basically an
XMAA that can lock-on up to 6 targets at once.
After destroying all targets, a cutscene occurs. This is where you
will encounter the only ace squadron in the game and one of their
superweapons.
The Nimbus cruise missiles are capable splitting into multiple
warheads that explodes in mid-air, damaging/destroying any aircraft
caught within the explosion. Several volleys of this destructive
weapon can be evaded but I suggest not winding your way through the
explosions with your current aircraft. Not to mention that a majority
of elite Strigon units are included in the mix as well.
Shortly after the perceived Emmerian victory, the turn of the battle
leaves you with a handful of survivors. You are then ordered to fly
west past the return line.
Enemy fighters will be chasing you so use Terrain Masking (see
Tactical Training section above) or flying low to avoid being
targeted. Once you cross the line, the mission in finished.
Rewards:
• ESM Tutorial
• Waypoint Resupply Tutorial
+===================================================================+
+===================================================================+
Mission 02                                                 [WLK002]
VITOZE AERIAL DEFENSE
-On the brink-
Time Limit  : 20:00:00                       Area: Brillante Heights
Quota       : None
OP Leader   : None
Mission Type: Anti Air
Main Objective: Destroy all enemy targets (TGT)
Starting Points: Bomber Intercept
Since you have no choice, you got to use the same setup for you and
your wingman.
This is another anti-air mission. Enemy bombers will appear with
escorts. You can take care of a few escorts before the bombers just
make sure none of them reaches the city.
Another good thing about this mission is the ESM radar towers. They
are scattered across the map and it is possible to utilize their
“overlapping effect” by engaging enemies in the coverage areas of the
radar towers.
On the sidenote, the airfield here can be used for frontline
resupplying if you need it. Consider this as your practice since the
skies here are not that hostile.
Once every bomber has been intercepted, the mission completes.
Rewards:
• Operation Tutorial
• Base Resupply
+===================================================================+
+===================================================================+
Mission 03                                                 [WLK003]
SIPLI FIELD
-Fortunes of War-