The SAM is a medium-range anti-air missile battery that can shoot down most Tech 1 aircraft. It's stronger and tougher than an equivalent cost in Thistles, while also boasting a bit more range.

Useful even against Tech 2 units thanks to its reasonable costs and quick build time.

SAMs excel at rapidly killing bombers, and represent a serious threat to gunships. Whereas Thistles are more for denying scout planes and picking off a bomber or two, these are reliable general-purpose AA for defending vs. moderate to heavy air attack.

They lack the range of Eradicators or Screamers, and the AoE of flak.