Joker Flight commands
Ace Combat 8 Wingman Orders — Attack, Cover, Scatter & Specials
You command three wingmen in real time: Attack a selected target, Cover you, Scatter to engage freely, and order them to fire equipped special weapons. Good timing multiplies your firepower; ignoring orders wastes Joker Flight.
Systems Intent guide
Why wingman orders matter in Ace Combat 8
Squadron command returns as a first-class system. Your flight is four aircraft including you — composition and orders are separate decisions from your personal stick skills.
Order types explained
| Order | What it does | When to use |
|---|---|---|
| Attack | Focus wingmen on your selected target | Priority aces, bombers, mission-critical units |
| Cover | Wingmen protect you | You are pressed, lining a special, or low on health |
| Scatter | Break formation and engage freely | Swarm cleanup across a wide fight |
| Special weapon | Wingmen switch to SPW and attack | When their loadout matches the target class |
Squad composition tips
- Build complementary roles for the briefing (fighter cover + attacker strike).
- Equip wingmen specials that solve the mission’s hardest target class.
- You should fly the role that needs the most precision; wingmen amplify or cover secondary pressure.
Common mistakes
- Leaving wingmen on default while you duel an entire squadron alone.
- Calling specials when wingmen have the wrong SPW equipped.
- Forgetting Cover during superweapon phases when you need a clean attack window.
People also ask
How many wingmen does Ace Combat 8 have?
Three wingmen plus you — a four-ship flight.
Can wingmen use special weapons?
Yes — you can order them to fire equipped specials.
Attack or Cover — which is better?
Attack for focus fire; Cover when you need survival space.
Further reading
Related guides
Beginner Guide · Briefings & Loadouts · Controls
Primary: Ace Combat 8 wingman orders. Also covers: Joker Flight, squadron commands, Attack Cover Scatter, wingmen specials. Independent fan guide.