Terrain masking against the user's radar is modelled. Detection and lock-on range does not vary with altitude and air resistance, the way that missile range does. Results were measured using head-on engagements against targets of sufficient radar cross section to ensure that the rocket motor, and not the user or AI radar, was the limiting factor in range. An indication of this is given as the percent spread in parentheses. Note that although the Flanker 2.0 Encyclopaedia figures do not always agree with outside sources, they are highly consistent within the game.
Missiles behave exactly according to their descriptions.
Note that computer-controlled aircraft are conservative and never launch at maximum range. This may be the result of an attempt to make combat easier by giving the user first-shot opportunity, rather than spoiling the missile models. 34 Notes 1. This will force the missile to constantly recompute your trajectory as you throw your plane around the sky. By forcing it to steer while it is in unpowered flight, you can sometimes slow it down to the point where it cannot keep up with you.