Rockets are the peak of raid escalation. When C4 and satchels stop being fast or cost-effective solutions, rocket launchers and splash damage come into play. Rockets are used not only to break through walls directly, but also to pressure defenders, destroy turrets, clear rooftops, and damage multiple base elements at once.
This rocket guide is suitable both for players who are just starting to learn Rust and for experienced raiders who want to clearly understand rocket damage, avoid wasting sulfur, and plan raids properly.
Types of rockets
There are several types of rockets in the game, but not all of them are used the same way. The most common mistake beginners make is treating rockets as an expensive version of C4 and not using their real strengths.
Standard rockets
The standard rocket is the main and most important type. This is the rocket used for base raiding.
Key features:
-
high damage to structures
-
strong splash damage
-
ability to hit multiple objects with a single explosion
Standard rockets are ideal for breaking walls and doors, as well as destroying turrets and tool cupboards through splash damage. They are the primary raiding tool in the late stages of a wipe.
High-velocity rockets
High-velocity rockets travel much faster than standard ones and have a straighter trajectory.
They are mainly used for:
-
PvP
-
destroying vehicles
-
shooting moving targets
High-velocity rockets are poorly suited for raiding walls. They are chosen for speed and accuracy rather than raw damage. In classic base raids, they are usually used to eliminate defenders. On the other hand, if you are defending your base, these rockets can be very effective.
Incendiary rockets
Incendiary rockets deal fire damage and create a burning area after impact.
They are used for:
-
forcing players off rooftops
-
applying pressure during online raids
-
setting fire to positions and choke points
Their direct damage to structures is much lower than standard rockets, so they are not used to break into bases. Their role is area control and PvP.
Other rocket systems
It is important to understand that the following rockets are not fired from a rocket launcher.
SAM launcher missile
A fast anti-air missile that uses radar guidance from its launcher. It is used exclusively against airborne targets and is not suitable for raiding structures.
MLRS rocket
An MLRS rocket is a strategic weapon of mass destruction. It can deal massive damage to bases and players, but it is effectively countered by SAM sites. Three SAMs are enough to stop a full salvo aimed at a base.
How to craft rockets
Rocket crafting is only possible at a Tier 3 workbench, which automatically makes rockets a late-wipe item.
To craft a standard rocket, you need:
-
gunpowder
-
metal fragments
-
explosives
-
metal pipes
Most of the sulfur cost goes not into the rocket body, but into explosives and gunpowder. That is why rockets are almost never used without calculating damage in advance.
High-velocity and incendiary rockets require additional components and even more resources, which makes them a niche choice.
Rocket damage - how many rockets are needed for a raid
|
Object |
Number of rockets |
|---|---|
|
Wooden wall |
2 |
|
Wooden door |
1 |
|
Stone wall |
4 |
|
Sheet metal door |
2 |
|
Sheet metal wall |
8 |
|
Armored wall |
15 |
|
Armored door |
8 |
Splash damage is extremely important. If structures are placed close together, a single rocket can partially damage multiple objects, significantly reducing the total resource cost.
Rocket raid tactics
One of the most effective tactics is raiding through corners. By blowing up a base corner, you deal damage to two to four walls at once.
Another key tactic is roof clearing. Rockets are excellent for destroying turrets and forcing defenders off rooftops. Even if you do not get a kill, splash damage forces enemies to retreat and lose positional control.
Rockets are also often used to destroy tool cupboards through splash damage. In some cases, it is more efficient to break a TC and gain control of the base rather than fully destroying a wall.
How to defend against a rocket raid
It is impossible to fully protect a base from rockets, but you can significantly increase their cost for raiders.
First - spread out key elements. Turrets, tool cupboards, and important doors should not be placed directly against walls. Splash damage is the main enemy of defense.
Second - build in layers. A combination of stone, sheet metal, and armored walls forces raiders to spend rockets scouting and making difficult decisions.
Third - roof protection. The roof is almost always the first target, so it must be reinforced and protected from direct line-of-sight attacks.
Finally - online defense. Rocket launchers have long reload times, and well-timed pressure on the shooter can completely disrupt a raid.
Conclusion
Rockets are a powerful but expensive tool. They allow you to break into bases quickly, control rooftops, and damage multiple structures at once. Without proper planning, however, rocket damage turns into wasted sulfur.
If you want to use rockets effectively, plan your raids in advance, account for splash damage, combine rockets with other types of explosives, and always think about defending against counterattacks.
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