How to Beat Arsenal Bird II (Mission 13)

Master Mission 13 of Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve. Learn the best strategies, aircraft, and tactics to defeat the formidable Arsenal Bird II and secure victory for the Federation of Central Usea.

Stats / Weaknesses:

• The Arsenal Bird II is a massive aerial fortress with multiple weapon systems.
• Primary weak points are its engine nacelles and the central core.
• Vulnerable to high-explosive and anti-air missiles.

Phases:

1. Phase 1: Approach and Initial Assault
   Engage the Arsenal Bird II as it appears. Focus on destroying its external weapon emplacements and engine nacelles to reduce its offensive capabilities. Watch out for its missile barrages and drone swarms.
2. Phase 2: Core Engagement
   Once the external defenses are weakened, the central core will be exposed. Concentrate all firepower on the core. The Arsenal Bird II will deploy countermeasures and attempt to ram you.
3. Phase 3: Final Push
   With the core heavily damaged, the Arsenal Bird II will enter a berserk state. It will unleash its most powerful attacks. Maintain evasive maneuvers and deliver the final blows to destroy it.

Strategy:

• Equip aircraft with high-explosive missiles or special weapons effective against large targets.
• Maintain a high altitude to better evade ground-based anti-air fire and to gain a better firing angle on the Arsenal Bird II's weak points.
• Prioritize destroying the drones and missile launchers that support the Arsenal Bird II to reduce incoming damage.
• Use flares and chaff to counter missile lock-ons.
• Conserve special ammunition for the core engagement phase.
• If playing with wingmen, issue commands to focus fire on specific targets.