If you are using labels/icons to identify aircraft you're missing out. Turn that sh*t off.
I asked AI to describe the differences between the RWR in the A4 and the F16. Maybe this will help clarify it:
Early A‑4 Skyhawk (A‑4B / A‑4C)
Radar: None or very basic ranging radar for guns.
RWR: Not fitted.
You get no electronic warning of radar locks or missile launches.
You must rely entirely on visual spotting.
Against radar‑guided missiles, you’re essentially blind.
🔹 Late A‑4 Skyhawk (A‑4E / A‑4F / A‑4M)
Radar: Some later models have simple air‑to‑ground or ranging radar.
RWR: Primitive systems added in later upgrades.
Can give a basic lock warning tone.
Usually non‑directional or semi‑directional — you know you’re being painted, but not exactly from where.
You may hear a tone when locked, but you don’t get bearing or radar type.
Still very limited situational awareness compared to modern jets.
You can react defensively, but you don’t know which direction the threat is coming from.
🔹 F‑16 Fighting Falcon
Radar: Advanced pulse‑Doppler radar with multiple modes (search, track, ACM).
RWR: Modern AN/ALR‑69 or equivalent.
Provides bearing, radar type, and threat level.
Distinguishes between search radar, lock, and missile guidance.
Can identify specific radar sources (fighter vs SAM).
You get a directional display showing where the radar is coming from.
You can tell if it’s a search ping, a lock, or a missile guidance signal.
You can prioritize threats and react intelligently (e.g., notch against fighter radar, dive against SAM).
✅ Bottom Line in SB
Early A‑4: No RWR → completely blind to radar threats.
Late A‑4: Primitive RWR → basic lock tone, but no direction or radar type.
F‑16: Advanced RWR → full situational awareness, bearing, radar type, and threat classification.
👉 In Simulator Battles, the difference is night and day:
The A‑4 is either blind or nearly blind to radar threats.
The F‑16 has one of the most capable electronic warfare suites in the game, giving you detailed threat awareness.
