This is a suggestion to introduce optional AI wingmen for players in air battles, particularly useful in PvE missions, solo grinding, or immersive gameplay. These wingmen would be customizable, limited in number, and controllable via basic commands.
Why AI Wingmen?
- Many players enjoy flying solo but often feel outnumbered in PvE or realistic missions.
- AI wingmen would give players a sense of formation flying and tactical support.
- It adds immersion for people who enjoy a DCS-like or Ace Combat-style experience.
- Useful for training, missions, and support without needing a full squad.
Key Features: - Player can bring 1–2 AI wingmen into battle (configurable from loadout or lineup screen).
- AI planes could be weaker versions of real tech tree vehicles (to keep balance).
- Basic control commands:
- Cover Me
- Attack My Target
- Hold Position / Form Up
- RTB (Return to Base)
- Would follow player closely unless instructed.
- No kill-stealing, no objective capturing – purely supportive role.
Balancing Ideas: - AI wingman takes up a slot (like a backup aircraft).
- Limited ammo/fuel.
- Reduced combat ability (lower awareness, simplified behavior).
- Only available in PvE, Solo Missions, or custom Air RB scenarios.
Inspirations: - DCS World, Ace Combat, ARMA 3 – all offer tactical AI wingmen.
- War Thunder already has AI aircraft in PvE and EC – this just gives control over them.
Final Thoughts:
This feature would boost immersion, help solo players, and make the game feel more tactical and alive — without breaking balance. A small AI companion, even with basic function, would be a huge quality-of-life improvement for many players.
Core Concept: - Players activate the AI via a code (e.g. “WINGMAN-GPT-01”) in the game settings or companion app.
- This would simulate an onboard AI assistant capable of tactical communication, basic command response, and immersive feedback.
- The AI would not control the plane — it would act as a verbal and informational copilot, similar to voice assistants or training copilots in military sims.
What the AI Copilot Could Do:
Cover me"
What’s my current heading?"
Do I have a missile warning?"
Radar locked, suggest evasive"
Give me fuel status"
Respond with immersive pilot chatter:
Copy, Lead. Holding formation."
Bandit approaching 5 o’clock low."
You’re bingo on fuel, better RTB."
Tactical suggestions based on your loadout and enemy position.
Optional personality: calm, tactical, or Top Gun-style chatter.
How it could work: - External plugin/app or built-in overlay connects to a ChatGPT-based assistant.
- Activated with a code from in-game or profile settings.
- Only provides info/immersion, does not play the game for the player.
Balance and Safety:
Purely for immersion and QOL — no unfair advantages.
AI cannot fly, shoot, or track for you.
Chat log fully visible and recorded.
Can be disabled at any time.
Why it’s awesome: - Gives solo players the feeling of not flying alone.
- Encourages tactical awareness and realistic play.
- Enhances immersion and creates cinematic moments.
- Fits perfectly with modern 4th–5th gen aircraft cockpits.