A-8B Barugalon

! WARNING !
If you are prone to headaches, motion sickness, or similar symptoms, DO NOT ACTIVATE ACTION GROUP 5 (DIRCM).
DIRCM (Direct Infrared Countermeasure) generates a rapidly moving false target node that updates at 4 Hz.
This visual effect may cause discomfort, headaches, or nausea for some players.

[unidentified report]
As of [date], the A-8B, also known as the Advanced Attack Ability Barugalon, had a relatively high success rate compared to other COIN aircraft.

The Barugalon has been fitted with a 6 barrel 30mm laser cannon, 250kg general purpose bombs and a DIRCM (Direct InfraRed CounterMeasure) system, allowing it to be more MANPAD-proof than earlier versions. The plane excels at COIN (COunter INsurgency) ops and close air support, with it being able to decisively alter battles several times. Its anti armour role is also quite effective, similarly to the A-10.

However, the A-8B is currently not capable of SEAD/DEAD (Suppression/Destruction of Enemy Air Defences) or air combat against BVR (Beyond Visual Range) fighters. Although the aircraft has high survivability, the loss of a A-8B against a 9K317M radar guided missile fired from a BUK-M3 shows the need for EW systems. Currently the only way to let it operate without fear of radar SAMs is having a E/A-18 growler or J-16D fly near SAM sites and jam them, which is less efficient then slapping EW systems into the aircraft. Another persisting issue is the RCS (Radar Cross Section, which is relatively big and another reason to give it EW capabilities.

The only thing that’s hindering our engineers from installing EW systems is the lack of extra internal space for the systems themselves. These systems take up significant volume and require a strong enough electrical power source, which the engines are currently not capable of generating.