Some great posts. Lots to think about.
An interesting comment. When I was last in the fleet, mach of the A2A tactics conversations were about the AA-10 “long burn” missiles and how to counter them with AIM-120B…I seem to recall they were a bit more sanguine about the AIM-120C. A long way to say that the discussion here is much like real discussions in fleet ready rooms
While I primarily do SP, these comments have mad me think more about MP. I have not seen AI enemy fighters using tactics such as notching, that are pretty much standard for US fighter pilots. So if I really want a realistic challenge, the only lace to get it is MP. I might have to get a headset after all.
On a somewhat related subject…visibility…obviously if you enter a fight in low light levels with your Nav and Anti-smash lights on in MP, you have a higher probability of being seen, the limits of VR and monitor fidelity notwithstanding. What about SP? Can the AI see you easier / at longer range if you leave your lights on? I ask because in the DCS World guide it does state that lower vis environments reduce your chances of being detected.