I would like to suggest an overhaul/update to how Infrared Countermeasures (IRCM) and Missile Approach Warning Systems (MAWS) work on the A-10 Thunderbolt II (specifically the A-10C and late A-10A models) to better reflect their real-life capabilities.
do you have any documents to support this claim?
or would you like to state what is even wrong about the current implementation?
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Gaijin has already implemented basic MAWS for helicopters and some top-tier jets. It is only logical to standardize this across all platforms that carried such equipment historically. It creates a more consistent and professional simulation environment.
Without a functional MAWS/IRCM, surviving a heat-seeker often comes down to pure luck or constant, paranoid looking around. Implementing these systems shifts the skill ceiling toward system management—knowing when to set your countermeasures to “Auto,” “Semi-Auto,” or “Manual” based on the threat environment.
I’m so confused. A-10 already has maws? Like what else are you asking for? As far as IRCM, it didn’t have that irl.
The A-10A (Late) and A-10C were equipped with the AN/ALQ-144 IR Countermeasures Set (the ‘Disco Ball’). Furthermore, the A-10C utilizes the AN/AAR-47 Missile Approach Warning System (MAWS). This system is designed specifically to detect the thermal/UV signature of incoming missile plumes (including IR-guided missiles) and trigger defensive measures. Saying it doesn’t exist is ignoring decades of aviation documentation.
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It already has this in-game, and is modeled. Why point this out?
Do you have proof that they mounted this ALQ-144?
This is what it looks like presumably:
Can you show me where this is found on the A-10C?
Gaijin has not modeled the 3D asset or its functionality on the A-10’s spine in-game yet, doesn’t mean the aircraft didn’t carry it IRL. My suggestion is exactly about fixing this missing historical feature. Gaijin has modeled the ALQ-144 on several helicopters (like the Apache and Mi-24). There is no technical reason why the A-10, which carried the exact same ‘Disco Ball’ and advanced MAWS sensors, should be left with an oversimplified, manual-only system.
Can you find it in pictures? I have never seen an A10C with this red ball sticking out in photos.
Its really hard to find but here is the the „E” is the position where it should be.
Yeah there’s nothing there at the E spot. Can you find a real life photo of this IRCM mounted on the A-10C’s spine and not use diagrams which do not even mention IRCM?
Hear me out,
- A-10C doesn’t actually have this IRCM
- A-10C already has countermeasure fusion along with MAWS.
So there’s really nothing else to be said.
The reason you claim ‘you can’t see it’ is exactly because of the system’s scale compared to the massive airframe of the A-10. We are talking about a 17-meter long aircraft; a 10-12 inch (25-30 cm) tall device like the AN/ALQ-144 on the spine isn’t going to look like a massive fuel tank. It’s a compact, high-tech jammer, not an external cargo pod.
How does this MAWS function differently to the MAWS the A-10C already has in-game?
Ah so it’s so small we can’t realistically see it in photos. Come on, stop it. I can’t even find any documentation mentioning this IRCM. Further, this E part looks to be a communication antenna, not an IRCM
MAWS and IRCM are not ‘either/or’ systems; they are parts of a single integrated defensive suite.
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MAWS (AN/AAR-47) is the Missile Approach Warning System. Its job is to detect the missile. It provides the ‘eyes.’
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IRCM (AN/ALQ-144 or Flare Dispenser) is the Infrared Countermeasure. Its job is to defeat the missile. It provides the ‘response.’
When I say ‘A-10C should have IRCM,’ I am talking about the automated response logic that links the MAWS to the ALE-47 dispensers (flares) and the inclusion of the ALQ-144 ‘Disco Ball’ jammer. In real life, the A-10C doesn’t just ‘have MAWS’ to beep at the pilot.
This is modeled in-game, MAWS will automatically deploy CMs, unless disabled. There is a setting under Air battles (IIRC) to disable MAWS on spawn, there is a keybind to toggle it in battle.
I use MAWS automatic CM release to great effect in the the Tornado GR4
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MAWS already have ejection countermeasure slaving in game?
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The reason you might find it ‘difficult’ to find high-resolution photos of the AN/ALQ-144 in every single random gallery is that it’s a mission-specific piece of electronic warfare gear, not a permanent structural wing. In many ferry flights or airshows, it is removed to save on maintenance.