Gaijin Entertainment has officially launched the Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) event in War Thunder, introducing a specialized asymmetrical combat scenario for players across PC, PlayStation, and Xbox platforms. The event, which went live on October 16th, 2026, challenges participants to engage in tactical aerial warfare with specific vehicle restrictions and gameplay rules designed to test coordination and situational awareness.

Event Schedule and Participation Requirements

The event is currently active and will remain available for players until October 19th, 2026. To participate, players must ensure they have at least one Rank V aircraft or higher in their hangar. This requirement ensures that all participants have access to the necessary performance tiers required for the event's specific combat dynamics. Unlike standard modes, this event removes map markers, forcing players to rely on visual identification and communication to locate and engage targets effectively.

Combat Mechanics and Vehicle Loadouts

The core of the SEAD event revolves around an asymmetrical team structure where attackers and defenders utilize distinct hardware. Notably, the event excludes the use of anti-radiation missiles, shifting the focus toward conventional dogfighting and ground-attack tactics. Each player is limited to three respawns per match, making every engagement critical to the team's success. Players should also be aware that spawn costs are incurred in Silver Lions, though these are partially refundable depending on the final condition of the aircraft upon landing or destruction.

The vehicle distribution for the event is as follows:

  • Attacking Team: F-4E Phantom II and AH-1F helicopters.
  • Defending Team: MiG-21bis.
  • Respawn Limit: 3 per match.
  • Event Duration: October 16th to October 19th, 2026.
  • Entry Requirement: Rank V aircraft or higher.

Beyond the tactical challenge, the event provides a venue for players to earn research points and Silver Lions. Because the mode lacks traditional map markers, success depends heavily on the player's ability to manage their limited respawns while maximizing the utility of their assigned aircraft. Whether flying the F-4E Phantom II or defending with the MiG-21bis, participants must adapt to the specific constraints of this limited-time engagement to secure rewards before the event concludes on October 19th.