In movies and video games, fighter jets and other similar vehicles need to chase their opponent and have them in target long enough to get a lock on, but why can’t they just be in range if radar works in all directions? Do they need to chase opponents like this in real life?
In: Technology
Aircraft missiles have different ranges that affect how well they can track and hit a target.
Some are guided by radar, and depending on the type, can hit targets beyond visual range. However, because of the distance, the target aircraft has more time to counter the weapon, using chaff, jamming, or maneuvering.
As the aircraft get closer, the pilot will switch to IR (infrared) heat seekers missiles, which have less range than radar guided, but can be countered with flares and maneuvers.
Once they converge into a hairball, they will switch to guns, which as the previous two weapon systems, has an even shorter range.
So ideally, you want to be on the target’s six (behind them), which is the blind spot for most aircraft.
Bigger heat signatures, less target reaction to threats, and better flight management for the weapons.
However,
Radar will warn the target – and it shows the enemy where you are at.
IR is pretty good, but you need to get relatively close to ensure a kill.
Guns are last to use, knife fight close.
Newer gen aircraft can defend from all these attacks, and have sensors to help fight the aircraft.
Most modern dog fights are a combo of radar first, at range, then as they converge, switch to IR. Rare to see one use guns.
Latest Answers