A new fighter appears.

Red Opponents are numerous, but with faults. Rivals solve those shortcomings.

Essentially designed

to be a better Red Opponent, the Red Rival is almost objectively a more threatening aircraft. It's faster, better-armored carries more missiles, and while it does turn a little slower, it bears a fast roll rate to ensure it's still a slippery opponent to deal with. Let's also not overlook those gatling guns, which pack a slightly heavier punch than those on the Red Opponent C.

However, its advantages aren't all talk. As of right now, it scores a higher K/D ratio than any other Scourge Jet, and has so far proven the most successful Tier 1 aircraft, even surpassing the higher-ranking Red Eliminators. The Red Rival has also given the SCOURGE their first aces, two by the name "Dapper" and "Tux."

Rivals are also much more potent in the field of BVR. While their missiles may still have some issues that need to be tweaked, the Rival itself comes with a powerful radar in the nose and tail, making it capable of seeing, tracking, and attacking targets even across long distances. Of the Red Rivals lost in combat so far, none of them have been shot down by missiles. Even some of the best missiles in our inventory fail at some point against these guys. Truly, the Red Rival isn't just a mighty opponent; it's an omen of the SCOURGE's ever improving aircraft.