Performance reduction is for the AIM-120 if you drag it down to low altitude?

[CAG001]

Does anyone know what the performance reduction is for the AIM-120 if you drag it down to low altitude? I would think DCS uses a set of tables for performance per 1000 ft of altitude (at least that is how I would do it)... Does anyone know, or have an approximation of this? Would be helpful when planning missions for AI fighters and what altitudes to place them for best or worse performance of their missile...

[Py]

I would think it's just due to the higher air density at lower altitude (more drag).

Density is a simple function of temperature and altitude, it can easily be calculated directly.

The motor only burns for a few seconds, after that it's all drag slowing the missile down, which is much higher in denser air.

Nothing specific to the AIM-120 either, it's the same effect for all missiles.

[NineLine]

No changes have been made recently and performance is correct for thick, low air.

[Exorcet]

Missile performance not only depends on the launch aircraft altitude and speed, but also the target's. Higher is better for missile range, but there are still reasons why you might want to be low.

 

 

I've done a bunch of missile tests and I get good results at 30000-40000 ft with 20-30 mile range kills on the AI. Getting to about Mach 1.5 also gives missiles a really good boost in performance.

 

 

I think the longest I can get AIM-120's to go now is about 50 miles against a head on bomber when launching at Mach 2 at something like 60000 ft.

[CAG001]

Thanks for the info guys... I appreciate it!