Difference between revisions of "Mistral"

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(→‎Vehicles equipped with this weapon: Added AH-129D and Tiger HAD Block 2)
(Completely rewrote the Mistral (heli) page, adding description, usage in battles, expanding pros and cons, reviewing effective damage.)
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[[File:WeaponImage Mistral.png|thumb|left|420px|The Mistral missile with fins folded and deployed (scale is approximate)]]
 
[[File:WeaponImage Mistral.png|thumb|left|420px|The Mistral missile with fins folded and deployed (scale is approximate)]]
 
{{Break}}
 
{{Break}}
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The '''{{PAGENAME}}''' is a French [[Air-to-air_missiles#Infrared_homing_.28heat-seeking.29_missiles|infrared homing air-to-air missile]], it was introduced in [[Update 1.87 "Locked On"]].
+
The '''{{PAGENAME}}''', developed by the French company Matra, is a French [[Air-to-air_missiles#Infrared_homing_.28heat-seeking.29_missiles|infrared homing air-to-air missile]] and represents a pinnacle in short-range air defense technology. This infrared homing surface-to-air missile is lauded for its precision and versatility. Compact and man-portable, it empowers a single soldier with formidable anti-air capabilities. With a range of 6 kilometers and an operational ceiling of 3,000 meters, the Mistral can effectively neutralize a variety of aerial threats, from fast jets to nimble helicopters.
 +
 
 +
At the heart of the Mistral's efficiency is its advanced infrared guidance system, enabling it to lock onto targets with high accuracy. This system significantly boosts its hit probability, making it a reliable tool in diverse combat environments. Armed with a potent high-explosive warhead, the Mistral is not only lethal but also adaptable, finding use in multiple military branches by being deployable on ground vehicles, ships, and as a stationary unit.
 +
 
 +
Internationally, the Mistral's prowess is recognized, with over 30 countries incorporating it into their arsenals. Its combat effectiveness has been proven in various global conflicts, cementing its status as a top-tier air defense solution. Continuous upgrades have kept the Mistral relevant, enhancing its countermeasure resistance and integrating it with modern digital battlefield systems. In essence, the Mistral missile is a compact yet powerful guardian of the skies, blending agility, power, and technological sophistication.
 +
 
 +
it was introduced in [[Update 1.87 "Locked On"]], and is a reliable Air to Air weapon that can be found on All High tier French helicopters along with the Italian [[A129CBT|A-129]] and [[AH-129D|AH-129]] helicopters, and the British [[Rooivalk Mk1F CSH|Rooivalk]].
  
 
=== Vehicles equipped with this weapon ===
 
=== Vehicles equipped with this weapon ===
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=== Effective damage ===
 
=== Effective damage ===
−
''Describe the type of damage produced by this type of missile (high explosive, splash damage, etc)''
+
The Mistral being a MANPADS type missile means that it is very light in nature (only 11.5kg without fuel), which does not allow for high explosive mass.
 +
 
 +
While this missile is usually really good at taking down helicopters in one shot, some planes like the SU-25 are often able to withstand one or even multiple hits from the Mistral before being crippled.
 +
 
 +
The Mistral however has higher explosive mass than it's competition, a higher fuze range of 1.5m, and has slightly better manoeuvrability, making it easier to hit an
  
 
=== Comparison with analogues ===
 
=== Comparison with analogues ===
−
''Give a comparative description of missiles that have firepower equal to this weapon.''
+
The mistral has 3 missiles which it can be compared with.
 +
 
 +
* [[ATAS (AIM-92)|AIM-92A ATAS]] - The ATAS features better range, lower Manoeuvrability and lacks a proximity fuze.
 +
* [[9M39 Igla]] - The Igla Is almost identical to the ATAS, but however features a 0.5m proximity fuze. It is overall less reliable than the Mistral, but can hit targets at slightly further ranges.
 +
 
 +
* [[TY-90]] - the TY-90 Is in another class. It is the heaviest of all Helicopter AAMs. It features longer range than the mistral, similar to the other MANPADS. It has 20G overloading making it almost impossible to dodge knetically. It also features a 4m Proximity fuze. This missile is purely superior to all other MANPADS, making it almost impossible to dodge under any circumstance.
 +
 
 +
The Mistral Has the worst seeker out of all the missiles, however due to its FoV+ Seeker shutoff IRCCM of the missile, this difference can not be felt and the missile will feel exactly like the other Heli AAMs.
 +
 
 +
The Mistral however has the lowest seeker warm-up timer of only 2 seconds compared to the 4-5 seconds of it's competition, making it a slightly better choice at defending from enemy planes at close range.
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
−
''Describe situations when you would utilise this missile in-game (vehicle, pillbox, base, etc)''
+
The Air to Air Mistral can only be found on helicopters, making it only usable in a limited amount of modes.
 +
 
 +
In Ground Realistic battles, the Mistral should be used as an offensive weapon rather than defensive. If fired at unsuspecting planes that are not dogfighting or turning, it generally has a very high hit chance. However if the enemy plane knows about your existance, and sees the Mistral incoming, the Mistral will have a hard time hitting the enemy. The mistral should be fired from cover at around 4km maximum to ensure the best chance of hitting.
 +
 
 +
In Arcade Assault or Heli Arcade EC, the Mistral can only be fired against bots. It has a very easy time taking down enemy AI planes in both modes. One mistral should be fired at one Target. It is best to be fired from head on and from as long range as possible.
 +
 
 +
The Mistral is quite a reliable weapon if used in the right way.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
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'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* 12G tracking overload
+
* 16G Statcard Overload
−
* All-aspect tracking
+
* Very good seeker, able to lock from 6km in front aspect, and 11km in rear aspect.
−
* Highest explosive mass compared to other MANPADS-type missiles
+
* Highest explosive mass compared to other MANPADS-type missiles.
 +
* Very strong IRCCM, consisting of FoV gating and seeker shutoff, making it almost impossible to flare from in any situation.
 +
* Very low seeker warm-up time of only 2 seconds
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Lower lock-on range than its competitors
+
* Lowest kinetical energy compared to competitors, making it slightly worse than it's competition at longer ranges.
 +
* Can easly miss enemy manoeuvering planes.
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
−
''Examine the history of the creation and combat usage of the weapon in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the weapon and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Weapon-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>.''
+
The Mistral is a versatile and highly effective man-portable air-defense system (MANPADS) developed by the French company Matra, now part of MBDA. Its development and operational history span several decades, reflecting significant advancements in both technology and tactical deployment in modern warfare.
 +
 
 +
=== Development History ===
 +
The development of the Mistral missile began in the 1970s. France, recognizing the need for an effective short-range air defense system, initiated the project to replace older systems and to offer a more reliable and accurate solution against fast-moving aircraft and helicopters. The Mistral was designed with a very specific goal in mind: to provide a highly portable, easy-to-operate, and extremely accurate missile system for use by ground troops.
 +
 
 +
One of the key features of the Mistral is its infrared homing guidance system. Unlike older MANPADS that relied on simpler guidance mechanisms, the Mistral uses advanced infrared seekers to lock onto the heat signatures of targets. This allows for greater accuracy and reduces the chances of missing the target due to operator error or evasive maneuvers by the enemy aircraft.
 +
 
 +
=== Technical Specifications ===
 +
The Mistral missile is lightweight and can be operated by a single soldier. It has a range of approximately 6 kilometers and can reach altitudes of up to 3,000 meters. The missile is capable of engaging a wide range of targets, from fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters to UAVs and cruise missiles. Its high explosive warhead ensures the effectiveness against these targets.
 +
 
 +
=== Combat Usage ===
 +
The combat history of the Mistral is extensive. It has been used by various countries and in different conflicts around the world.
 +
 
 +
# '''Middle Eastern Conflicts''': The Mistral saw action in several Middle Eastern conflicts. Its ease of use and effectiveness made it a preferred choice for ground forces needing to counter enemy air threats.
 +
# '''African Conflicts''': In Africa, the Mistral was deployed in various conflicts, where its reliability in harsh environments proved invaluable.
 +
# '''European Deployments''': Several European nations adopted the Mistral for their armed forces, utilizing it in various NATO-led missions and exercises.
 +
 
 +
=== Export and Global Presence ===
 +
The Mistral's success led to its wide export, and it is now in service with over 30 countries worldwide. This widespread adoption is a testament to its effectiveness and reliability. The system has also been adapted for use on ships and vehicles, further extending its operational versatility.
 +
 
 +
=== Modern Upgrades and Future ===
 +
Over the years, the Mistral has undergone several upgrades to enhance its capabilities. These upgrades include improved guidance systems, better countermeasure resistance, and integration with modern digital battlefield systems. As technology advances, the Mistral continues to evolve, ensuring it remains relevant in a world where aerial threats are becoming more sophisticated.
 +
 
 +
In conclusion, the Mistral MANPADS is a prime example of a military technology that has adapted and evolved over time, maintaining its relevance in the ever-changing landscape of modern warfare. Its development, technical sophistication, and combat history underscore its significant role in global military strategy.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
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== See also ==
 
== See also ==
 
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 +
 
* ''reference to the article about the variant of the weapon;''
 
* ''reference to the article about the variant of the weapon;''
 
* ''references to approximate analogues by other nations and research trees.''
 
* ''references to approximate analogues by other nations and research trees.''
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== External links ==
 
== External links ==
 
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 +
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''other literature.''
 
* ''other literature.''

Revision as of 15:44, 22 December 2023

Introducing Wiki 3.0

Description

The Mistral missile with fins folded and deployed (scale is approximate)


The Mistral, developed by the French company Matra, is a French infrared homing air-to-air missile and represents a pinnacle in short-range air defense technology. This infrared homing surface-to-air missile is lauded for its precision and versatility. Compact and man-portable, it empowers a single soldier with formidable anti-air capabilities. With a range of 6 kilometers and an operational ceiling of 3,000 meters, the Mistral can effectively neutralize a variety of aerial threats, from fast jets to nimble helicopters.

At the heart of the Mistral's efficiency is its advanced infrared guidance system, enabling it to lock onto targets with high accuracy. This system significantly boosts its hit probability, making it a reliable tool in diverse combat environments. Armed with a potent high-explosive warhead, the Mistral is not only lethal but also adaptable, finding use in multiple military branches by being deployable on ground vehicles, ships, and as a stationary unit.

Internationally, the Mistral's prowess is recognized, with over 30 countries incorporating it into their arsenals. Its combat effectiveness has been proven in various global conflicts, cementing its status as a top-tier air defense solution. Continuous upgrades have kept the Mistral relevant, enhancing its countermeasure resistance and integrating it with modern digital battlefield systems. In essence, the Mistral missile is a compact yet powerful guardian of the skies, blending agility, power, and technological sophistication.

it was introduced in Update 1.87 "Locked On", and is a reliable Air to Air weapon that can be found on All High tier French helicopters along with the Italian A-129 and AH-129 helicopters, and the British Rooivalk.

Vehicles equipped with this weapon

General info

Missile characteristics
Mass 18 kg
Guidance IR
Aspect All-Aspects
ECCM Yes
Lock range in all-aspect 6 km
Launch range 6.5 km
Maximum speed 2.5 M
Maximum overload 12 G
Missile guidance time 20 secs
Explosive mass 1.78 kg TNTeq

Effective damage

The Mistral being a MANPADS type missile means that it is very light in nature (only 11.5kg without fuel), which does not allow for high explosive mass.

While this missile is usually really good at taking down helicopters in one shot, some planes like the SU-25 are often able to withstand one or even multiple hits from the Mistral before being crippled.

The Mistral however has higher explosive mass than it's competition, a higher fuze range of 1.5m, and has slightly better manoeuvrability, making it easier to hit an

Comparison with analogues

The mistral has 3 missiles which it can be compared with.

  • AIM-92A ATAS - The ATAS features better range, lower Manoeuvrability and lacks a proximity fuze.
  • 9M39 Igla - The Igla Is almost identical to the ATAS, but however features a 0.5m proximity fuze. It is overall less reliable than the Mistral, but can hit targets at slightly further ranges.
  • TY-90 - the TY-90 Is in another class. It is the heaviest of all Helicopter AAMs. It features longer range than the mistral, similar to the other MANPADS. It has 20G overloading making it almost impossible to dodge knetically. It also features a 4m Proximity fuze. This missile is purely superior to all other MANPADS, making it almost impossible to dodge under any circumstance.

The Mistral Has the worst seeker out of all the missiles, however due to its FoV+ Seeker shutoff IRCCM of the missile, this difference can not be felt and the missile will feel exactly like the other Heli AAMs.

The Mistral however has the lowest seeker warm-up timer of only 2 seconds compared to the 4-5 seconds of it's competition, making it a slightly better choice at defending from enemy planes at close range.

Usage in battles

The Air to Air Mistral can only be found on helicopters, making it only usable in a limited amount of modes.

In Ground Realistic battles, the Mistral should be used as an offensive weapon rather than defensive. If fired at unsuspecting planes that are not dogfighting or turning, it generally has a very high hit chance. However if the enemy plane knows about your existance, and sees the Mistral incoming, the Mistral will have a hard time hitting the enemy. The mistral should be fired from cover at around 4km maximum to ensure the best chance of hitting.

In Arcade Assault or Heli Arcade EC, the Mistral can only be fired against bots. It has a very easy time taking down enemy AI planes in both modes. One mistral should be fired at one Target. It is best to be fired from head on and from as long range as possible.

The Mistral is quite a reliable weapon if used in the right way.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • 16G Statcard Overload
  • Very good seeker, able to lock from 6km in front aspect, and 11km in rear aspect.
  • Highest explosive mass compared to other MANPADS-type missiles.
  • Very strong IRCCM, consisting of FoV gating and seeker shutoff, making it almost impossible to flare from in any situation.
  • Very low seeker warm-up time of only 2 seconds

Cons:

  • Lowest kinetical energy compared to competitors, making it slightly worse than it's competition at longer ranges.
  • Can easly miss enemy manoeuvering planes.

History

The Mistral is a versatile and highly effective man-portable air-defense system (MANPADS) developed by the French company Matra, now part of MBDA. Its development and operational history span several decades, reflecting significant advancements in both technology and tactical deployment in modern warfare.

Development History

The development of the Mistral missile began in the 1970s. France, recognizing the need for an effective short-range air defense system, initiated the project to replace older systems and to offer a more reliable and accurate solution against fast-moving aircraft and helicopters. The Mistral was designed with a very specific goal in mind: to provide a highly portable, easy-to-operate, and extremely accurate missile system for use by ground troops.

One of the key features of the Mistral is its infrared homing guidance system. Unlike older MANPADS that relied on simpler guidance mechanisms, the Mistral uses advanced infrared seekers to lock onto the heat signatures of targets. This allows for greater accuracy and reduces the chances of missing the target due to operator error or evasive maneuvers by the enemy aircraft.

Technical Specifications

The Mistral missile is lightweight and can be operated by a single soldier. It has a range of approximately 6 kilometers and can reach altitudes of up to 3,000 meters. The missile is capable of engaging a wide range of targets, from fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters to UAVs and cruise missiles. Its high explosive warhead ensures the effectiveness against these targets.

Combat Usage

The combat history of the Mistral is extensive. It has been used by various countries and in different conflicts around the world.

  1. Middle Eastern Conflicts: The Mistral saw action in several Middle Eastern conflicts. Its ease of use and effectiveness made it a preferred choice for ground forces needing to counter enemy air threats.
  2. African Conflicts: In Africa, the Mistral was deployed in various conflicts, where its reliability in harsh environments proved invaluable.
  3. European Deployments: Several European nations adopted the Mistral for their armed forces, utilizing it in various NATO-led missions and exercises.

Export and Global Presence

The Mistral's success led to its wide export, and it is now in service with over 30 countries worldwide. This widespread adoption is a testament to its effectiveness and reliability. The system has also been adapted for use on ships and vehicles, further extending its operational versatility.

Modern Upgrades and Future

Over the years, the Mistral has undergone several upgrades to enhance its capabilities. These upgrades include improved guidance systems, better countermeasure resistance, and integration with modern digital battlefield systems. As technology advances, the Mistral continues to evolve, ensuring it remains relevant in a world where aerial threats are becoming more sophisticated.

In conclusion, the Mistral MANPADS is a prime example of a military technology that has adapted and evolved over time, maintaining its relevance in the ever-changing landscape of modern warfare. Its development, technical sophistication, and combat history underscore its significant role in global military strategy.

Media

Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.

See also

Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:

  • reference to the article about the variant of the weapon;
  • references to approximate analogues by other nations and research trees.

External links

Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:

  • topic on the official game forum;
  • other literature.


Missiles
USA 
AAM  AIM-54A Phoenix · AIM-54C Phoenix · ATAS (AIM-92) · AIM-120A · AIM-120B · Fakour-90 · Sedjeel
Sparrow  AIM-7C · AIM-7D · AIM-7E · AIM-7E-2 · AIM-7F · AIM-7M
Sidewinder  AIM-9B · AIM-9C · AIM-9D · AIM-9E · AIM-9G · AIM-9H · AIM-9J · AIM-9L · AIM-9M · AIM-9P
AGM  AGM-22 · APKWS II (M151) · APKWS II (M282) · BGM-71D TOW-2
Bullpup  AGM-12B Bullpup · AGM-12C Bullpup
Hellfire  AGM-114B Hellfire · AGM-114K Hellfire II
Maverick  AGM-65A · AGM-65B · AGM-65D · AGM-65E2 · AGM-65G · AGM-65L
ATGM  LOSAT/MGM-166A
TOW  BGM-71 · BGM-71A · BGM-71B · BGM-71C
SAM  FIM-92 Stinger · MIM-72 · MIM146
Naval SAM  RIM-24A
Germany 
AAM  AIM-9B FGW.2 Sidewinder · AIM-9L/I Sidewinder · Flz Lwf 63 · Flz Lwf 63/80
AGM  9M14M Malyutka · Flz Lwf LB 82 · HOT-1 · HOT-2 TOW · HOT-3 · PARS 3 LR
AShM  AS.34 Kormoran
ATGM  HOT-K3S · Spike-LR II
SAM  Roland
Naval SAM  Strela-2M
USSR 
AAM  9M39 Igla · R-3R · R-3S · R-13M1 · R-23R · R-23T · R-24R · R-24T · R-27ER(1) · R-27ET(1) · R-27R(1) · R-27T(1) · R-60 · R-60M · R-60MK · R-73(E) · R-77
AGM  9K127 Vikhr · 9M17M Falanga · 9M120 Ataka · 9M120-1 Ataka
  Kh-23M · Kh-25 · Kh-25ML · Kh-29L · Kh-29T · Kh-29TE · Kh-29TD · Kh-66 · S-25L · S-25LD
ATGM  3M7 · 9M14 · 9M113 Konkurs · 9M114 Shturm · 9M123 Khrizantema · 9M133 · 9M133FM3 · 9M133M-2
SAM  95Ya6 · 9M311 · 9M311-1M · 9M331 · 9M37M
Naval SAM  Volna-M
Britain 
AAM  Fireflash · Firestreak · Red Top · Skyflash · Skyflash SuperTEMP · SRAAM · R-Darter
AGM  AGM-65E · AS.12 · ZT-6 Mokopa
AShM  AJ.168
ATGM  BAe Swingfire · MILAN · MILAN 2 · ZT3
SAM  Starstreak
Japan 
AAM  AAM-3 · AAM-4
AGM  Ki-148 I-Go Model 1B
ATGM  Type 64 MAT · Type 79 Jyu-MAT
SAM  Type 81 SAM-1C · Type 91
China 
AAM  PL-2 · PL-5B · PL-5C · PL-5EII · PL-7 · PL-8 · PL-12 · SD-10(A) · TY-90
AGM  AKD-9 · AKD-10 · Fire Snake 90A · HJ-8A · HJ-8C · HJ-8E · HJ-8H
ATGM  302 · HJ-73 · HJ-73E · HJ-9 · QN201DD · QN502CDD
SAM  HN-6
Italy 
AAM  Aspide-1A · MAA-1 Piranha
AGM  AGM-65H · CIRIT · L-UMTAS · Spike ER
ATGM  Spike-LR II
Naval AShM  Nettuno
SAM  Mistral SATCP
France 
AAM  AA-20 Nord · Matra R511 · Matra R530 · Matra R530E · Matra Super 530D · Matra Super 530F · Matra R550 Magic 1 · Matra R550 Magic 2 · Mistral · MICA-EM
AGM  9M14-2 Malyutka-2 · AS-20 Nord · AS-30 Nord · AS-30L Nord · HOT-1 · HOT-2 TOW · HOT-3 · Spike ER
ATGM  HOT · SS.11
SAM  Roland · VT1
Sweden 
AAM  RB24 · RB24J · RB71 · RB 74 · RB 74(M) · RB 99
AGM  Rb05A · RB 53 Bantam · RB 55B Heli TOW · RB 55C Heli TOW · RB 75 · RB 75T
ATGM  Rbs 55 · Rbs 56
SAM  Rbs 70
Israel 
AAM  Shafrir · Shafrir 2 · Python 3 · Derby
ATGM  Spike-LR II
  AAM = Air-to-Air Missile   AGM = Air-to-Ground Missile   AShM = Anti-Ship Missile   ATGM = Anti-Tank Guided Missile (Ground mounts)   SAM = Surface-to-Air Missile

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