Getting the AIM9 to lock on

[essemm]

Hi all. I've just bought tWOV, and am trying a Rolling Thunder campaign. I'm flying a F4. My problem is that I cannot get a Sidewinder to lock on. I've visually selected a target, I've got Aim9 selected in my air-to-air mode, but I just cannot get a lock, despite being dead on a guys six at .3nm away!!! At that range, staring down the tailpipe of a Mig17, that 'winder should be growling like crazy! I *do* notice a slight change in growl pitch when I go from "no look" to a "good look" for the seeker, but if I try and fire, the Aim9 wizzes off into the distance.

 

Any help?

[+streakeagle]

The slight change in growl tone is the indication you are looking for. When it gets louder, it has a target. Early AIM-9Bs are notoriously ineffective. They will generally track and hit a target only if the target is in afterburner and flying in a straight line or a very gentle turn. If you fly in later years in Navy aircraft, you get much better versions: AIM-9D, AIM-9G, and AIM-9H. While not all-aspect, these versions are more maneuverable and track much better. The improved USAF versions (E and J) are hardly any better than the B in comparison to the USN versions. While the AIM-9 is a close-in weapon, don't get too close to the target, give it enough room to maneuver after coming off the launch rail.

[New Guy]

When I fly for USAF, at the later date, I seldom uses the AIM-9B. I'd take the AIM-9E-2 as it is more agile (even better than J version in my opinion), but then it's still no match for the Navy's version. My other preference (and odd one) for B version is substituting HVAR's in strike mission

[HrntFixr]

one thing I suggest is to look at the sound mods available... they are better than the stock sounds... more realistic.