During air to ground attack missions, fly as low as possible starting at least 20 miles from the target. This will make it difficult for SAM sites to detect you. When a SAM gets on your tail, wait for it to get about a mile away, then make an extremely hard turn into its path while releasing flares. Alternately, when the SAM is farther away, hug the terrain and it will likely hit the ground or a mountain peak.
Aircraft and loadout selections
Do not always use the default aircraft and Loadout selection. Make sure they make sense before selecting them. For example, the CPU often suggests the F-14 for a ground-strike mission when the F-18 would be the better choice. Mavericks are recommended at taking out ground targets from a relatively safe distance. Take extras along if possible.
Cheat mode
All the cheats for the game can be found under the "Cheat" menu under the toolbar when playing a game. Press [Alt] or [Esc] to access it.
Game Help
Your missiles particularly air to ground types such as the Maverick tend to behave erratically on many occasions. Try not to fire when you're near any type of terrain obstruction, and when all else fails use the Unlimited Ammo cheat to thwart frustration.
Don't blindly use the default aircraft and Loadout selection for the missions. Watch these carefully, as they do not always make sense. Many times you'll find that the computer gives you the F-14 for a ground-strike mission when the F-18 would be the better choice. Mavericks are awesome at taking out ground targets from a relatively safe distance, so take extras long if you can.
On air to ground attack missions, make sure to fly as low as possible, starting at 20 miles or more from the target. This will make it harder for SAM sites to detect you. When a SAM gets on your tail, wait for it to get a mile or so away and then make an extremely hard turn into its path while releasing flares. Or, when the SAM is farther away, hug the terrain and it will likely hit the ground or a mountain peak instead of your tailpipe.
Have your wingman attack the target first that way he gets most of the enemy's attention and may manage to take out a target or two, making your job easier.
Missiles
Your missiles, particularly air to ground types such as the Maverick, tend to behave erratically. Do not fire when you are near any type of terrain obstruction. When all else fails, enable the "Unlimited Ammo" cheat to avoid frustration.
Wingmen
Have your wingman attack the target first. By doing this he will get most of the enemy's attention and may manage to take out a target or two, making your job easier.\