Tactical Assault VR is, at its core, a sandbox experience. It has a wide variety of weapons, and a plethora of ways to play the game, and yet... lobbies all too often feel repetitive. Running the same modern tacticool loadouts, never taking off suppressors, and relying almost entirely on the laser for target acquisition.

However, I believe TAVR truly shines when limiting yourself and pushing yourself to get out of your comfort zone. Trying out weapons you've overlooked, limiting your gear to increase the stakes and tactical challenge of the missions, and potentially even encouraging more teamwork and coordination with other players.

I've had the most fun from these self-imposed "immersive" loadouts. Doubly so if you can persuade other players in your lobby to follow your lead. Not to mention, it looks sick AF having everyone run similar loadouts and camos!

So, I'll be outlining some "immersive" loadout and mission ideas that I highly recommend you try out. Starting with... context on the game's weapons.

This is a more information-heavy section focused on looking at the IRL context of the game's weapons and gear. What I'll be recommending in terms of weapon attachments is based roughly on what I've been able to find are the most commonly used combinations during the rough time-period where the weapon was at its highest usage.

So while yes, the M4A1 is still used to this day, and you can definitely build it as a contemporary weapons platform, I'll only be mentioning the attachments commonly paired with it during the late 90's and 2000's.

Do also note these are just suggestions. You're free to kit out your baby however you like - but if you're looking for a more real life-accurate and immersive loadout, do take a minute to go through the info below.

2018
US-SOF
The Upper Receiver Group-Improved (URG-I) is a recent weapons program aimed at further improving the M4A1 platform through new, upgraded weapon components.
Contemporary:

• Romeo Red Dot, Holosight EX, Holosight 1-3x, 1-6x LPVO
  
• None, RVG, VGM003, Hand Stop

2005
Navy SEAL's, other US-SOF
Part of the Close Quarter Battle Receiver (CQBR) package, and intended to decrease the weapon length of the M4A1 platform for better usage in CQB environments. The model in-game most closely resembles the MK18 Block II package.
Modern to contemporary:

• Comp M4, Holosight EX, Holosight 1-3x
  
• None, Vertical Grip, RVG

2013
US-JSOC, Ukraine Armed Forces, multiple other armed forces + special forces
Initially created at the request of US-JSOC's Delta Force as a middle ground between the MP5 and M4, the HK416 was widely adopted by many armed forces and SOF's worldwide (most notably the USMC and US-SOCOM). The in-game model resembles the upgraded HK416A5 variant, which is less widely used. For entertainment sake, however, the in-game model can also be used as the original HK416.
Modern to contemporary:

• Comp M4, Romeo Red Dot, Holosight EX, Holosight 1-3x, 1-6x LPVO
  
• None, Forward Grip, Angled Grip

1994
US Armed Forces
The modern workhorse of the United States Armed Forces, it has seen usage in all of the US's conflicts and involvements since the late 90's. The model in-game is the base M4A1, used primarily by the regular forces.
2000s:

• None, Comp M4, 4x ACOG
  
• None, Vertical Grip

1983
US Armed Forces
The M4A1's predecessor and the main rifle of the United States Armed Forces in the 80's and 90's, until its eventual replacement by the M4. Usage nowadays is uncommon, and the closest conflict where it saw widespread usage is the Gulf War. The in-game model resembles the M16A2, adopted in 1983.
N/A (has no attachments)

1965
US-SF in Afghanistan, Afghan National Police
A Hungarian-manufactured AKM variant which did not see widespread adoption (even in Hungary, where it was supplanted by the AK-63). There's even less information available out there about the in-game RAS handrail variant.
Modern to contemporary:

• Holosight EX, Holosight 1-3x
  
• None, Vertical Grip, Handbrake

1959
Very limited use
One of the most widely-produced (and copied) weapons throughout history. Served as the main rifle of the Soviet Army and other Warsaw Pact countries in the 60's and 70's. Nowadays it sees very limited use from organised armed forces.
N/A (has no attachments)

2001
Some armed forces
A short barrel, carbine version of the AK-74. The apparently modernised, RAS handrail variants has little to no information on it. It sees limited use outside Russia of it due to restricted exports.
Modern to contemporary:

• Holosight EX
  
• None, Handbrake

2018
US-SOCOM
One of three variants of the SIG MCX available in game, the Rattler is a short barreled variant of the MCX Virtus, resembling a PDW more than a carbine.
Contemporary:

• Romeo Red Dot, Holosight EX
  
• None, Hand Stop

2015
US-JSOC, SBU Alpha (Ukraine)
One of three variants of the SIG MCX available in game, the Low Visibility Assault Weapon (LVAW) is a short barrel, integrated suppressor variant of the SIG MCX.
Contemporary:

• Romeo Red Dot
  
• None, Hand Stop

2017
US-JSOC
One of three variants of the SIG MCX available in game, the Virtus is the second generation of the SIG MCX.
Contemporary:

• Romeo Red Dot, 1-6x LPVO
  
• None, Hand Stop

2009
US-SOCOM, Brazil Sao Paulo MP
The battle rifle sibling of the SCAR-L, and chambered in a more powerful cartridge, it is primarily used as a support DMR / sniper rifle. Unlike the SCAR-L, the SCAR-H sees usage in a more limited extent.
Modern:

• 1-6x LPVO, 12x Scope
  
• None, RVG

1990
SAS (very limited)
A very limited production (~30 built) carbine conversion of the HK G3, the MC-51 saw incredibly limited usage in real life. It was trialed for use by the British Armed Forces, and its usage with UK-SOF was later replaced by the HK53 in 1993. Its RAS variant seen in-game is completely anachronistic.
N/A (I treat the MC-51 as a de facto "classic" weapon, and none of the attachments available in-game would fit the real-life MC-51)

1978
French Armed Forces, GIGN
The main rifle of the French Armed Forces, and one of three bullpup rifles available in TAVR. A strong contender for one of the ugliest most beautiful weapons designed (fight me). The in-game model is based on the earlier F1 variant.
Modern:

• None, Comp M4, Holosight, 4x ACOG
  
• None, Forward Grip

2007
British Armed Forces
The main rifle of the British Armed Forces, and one of three bullpup rifles available. It is uniquely capable of instilling existential dread and fear in anyone who has dealt with it in real life. The in-game model is based on the L85A2.
Modern:

• 4x ACOG
  
• Forward Grip

1997
Bundesheer, other armed forces, various police tactical units
The main rifle of the Austrian Armed Forces, and one of three bullpup rifles available. The in-game variant is based on the latest A3 variant, featuring RAS rails.
Modern:

• Comp M4, 4x ACOG
  
• N/A (integrated grip)

2001
SAS, Bundeswehr, various police tactical units
The "Compact" variant of the famous G36, it saw more limited use (compared to the standard G36) due to its more specialised role. A quintessential "good guy" weapon.
Modern:

• Comp M4, Holosight EX, 4x ACOG, 4x ACOG RMR
  
• Forward Grip

2000
Various law enforcement
The "Universal Machine Pistol", designed as a successor to the world-famous MP5. The .45 ACP variant seen in-game is the least used in real life, surpassed by the 9mm and .40 SW variants - though for the sake of entertainment, that can be overlooked.
Modern:

• Comp M4, Holosight
  
• Forward Grip

1966
Various law enforcement + police tactical units, various special forces (UK-SOF, US-SOCOM)
One of the most widely adopted and used SMG's, and the quintessential "good guy" weapon. Its iconic status was set in stone during the 1980 Iranian Embassy Siege, used by the SAS.
Modern to contemporary:

• Comp M4, Romeo Red Dot, Holosight
  
• None, Forward Grip

1993
Various law enforcement + police tactical units
Developed to fit NATO's early 90's specifications for a new class of weapons - personal defense weapons (PDW's). It was the MP7's main rival at the time, though German interference led to neither weapon being standardised. It uses a unique cartridge (5.7x28mm) which resembles a rifle round despite its small size. The in-game RAS rail variant is based on the P90 TR.
Modern to contemporary:

• Comp M4, Holosight
  
• N/A (unable to equip)

2001
Various law enforcement + police tactical units, Bundeswehr
Developed to fit NATO's early 90's specifications for a new class of weapons - personal defense weapons (PDW's). It was the P90's main rival at the time, though German interference led to neither weapon being standardised.
Modern to contemporary:

• Romeo Red Dot, Holosight, Holosight EX
  
• N/A (integrated grip)

2004
Various law enforcement + police tactical units, SBU Alpha (Ukraine), limited use by some armed forces
The sucessor to the Steyr TMP, it generally sees more limited usage compared to other SMG's.
Modern to contemporary:

• Comp M4, Romeo Red Dot, Holosight
  
• N/A (integrated grip)

2008
N/A
Unlike what you may assume by the name, the in-game model is actually the PP19-01 Vityaz, built from the more commonly known PP-19.
Modern:

• OKP7, Holosight
  
• None, Forward Grip

Snipers in TAVR cannot equip any kind for foregrip.

2001
USMC
The official sniper rifle of the US Marine Corps for half a century, the in-game model is (likely) based on the newer M40A3 model.

• 1-6x LPVO, 12x Scope

2002
USMC, US Army Rangers, Navy SEALs
Designed specifically as an intermediate rifle between an M4 carbine and an SR-25 DMR, the MK12 became the de facto marksman rifle for all US-SOCOM branches, with different Mod variants being used by each branch. The in-game model most closely resembles the MK18 Mod 1.

• 1-6x LPVO, 12x Scope

2008
US Army, USMC, SBU (Ukraine)
Sharing many similarities with the Mk11 Mod 0, the M110 served as the primary sniper platform for the United States Army, with the Marines later adopting it as well.

• 1-6x LPVO, 12x Scope

1963
Ukraine, various other armed forces (mainly former Warsaw Pact members)
The Soviet Union's and most Warsaw Pact members' designated support marksman rifle. Despite their surface similarities, the SVD's internals have very little in common with the AK platform family.
N/A (has integrated scope)

LMG's in TAVR cannot equip any attachments, except for an LMG-specific sight.

1958
British Armed Forces, multiple other armed forces
Taking elements from both the M1918 BAR and the MG-42, the FN MAG can be considered the first "modern" machine gun, having been designed only 5 years after the end of WWII. Designed to fit a variety of combat needs (hence its classification as a GPMG), the FN MAG saw widespread adoption in many armed forces around the world, usually with modifications and upgrades suited to each military's needs. The in-game model appears to be the original FN MAG (the more famous M240 family, used by the US Armed Forces, includes a heat shield not seen on the in-game model).
N/A

1980
Multiple armed forces
Short for "mini-mitrailleuse" (lit. "mini machine gun"), the FN Minimi marked the beginning of the second generation of "modern" light machine guns, also known as Squad Automatic Weapons (SAW's). It was widely adopted by armed forces, similarly to its predecessor. The in-game model is a mix between the original FN Minimi and the Canadian C9A1 variant (the more famous M249, used by the US Armed Forces, includes different components not seen on the in-game model).
N/A

1969
Ukraine, multiple other Asian and African armed forces
The Soviet Union's primary medium machine gun (MMG), it saw extensive production and adoption by many armed forces. It is still in active production, despite being almost 50 years old.
N/A

Most shotguns in TAVR cannot equip a foregrip.

1987
US Armed Forces
Sold to the US Armed Forces in limited numbers, the Mossberg 590 "Mariner" was developed from the civilian-available Mossberg 500 (initially designed in 1961). The 590 was later replaced with its updated model, the 590A1.
N/A (not commonly seen using sights)

1990
US Armed Forces
Adopted by the US Armed Forces as their primary shotgun, the Mossberg 590A1 saw wide usage as a defensive weapon during the Gulf War, and was relegated to door breaching in future conflicts.
N/A (cannot equip sights)

1999
US Armed Forces, British Armed Forces, various US law enforcement + SWAT
Also known under its US military designation M1014, the M4 marked the first widespread adoption of a semi-automatic combat shotgun.
Modern to contemporary:

• None, Romeo Red Dot, Holosight, Holosight EX

2003
Very limited use by tactical police units
Designed as a competitor to the Saiga-12 despite both weapons being produced by the same company. It features design elements from both the original AK47 and the RPK light machine gun.
Modern:

• OKP7, Holosight

1979
SWAT, various other tactical police units
The famous SPAS-12, featuring a unique dual-mode operation system, allowing for both semi-automatic and pump-action operation. It became widely known (and vilified) during the 1994 Federal Assault Weapons Ban, though it later earned its reputation as the de facto "SWAT shotgun".
N/A (not commonly seen using sights)

1986
Austrian Armed Forces, select tactical police units
The elusive select-fire variant of the world-famous Glock 17, it was initially developed at the request of the elite Austrian counter-terrorism unit EKO Cobra. The Glock 18 (and 18c) have seen very limited usage outside Austria. For entertainment sake, however, TAVR's 18c could also be used as a Glock 17 (provided you only use it in semi-auto), which has seen much more widespread adoption by armed forces and law enforcement units.
None (usually), RMR (select US law enforcement)

1985
USMC Force Recon
The M45 MEUSOC ("Marine expeditionary unit - special operations capable") is a variant of the famous M1911 pistol, used exclusively by the Force Reconnaissance element of the USMC.
N/A (sights not typically used)

1985
Navy SEALs, British Armed Forces, various other special forces, various tactical police units
The main rival of the Beretta 92F (M9) during the late 80's Joint Service Small Arms Program to replace the US Armed Forces' M1911. Despite losing the contract to the 92F, the SIG P226 was adopted by the Navy SEALs as the MK25.
N/A (sights not typically used)

2006
US Armed Forces
An update to the M9, which has served as the official sidearm of the United States Armed Forces since 1985. It has been replaced by the M17 since 2017.
N/A (sights not typically used)

2005
Bundeswehr
An upgrade of the Heckler & ♥♥♥♥ USP45, and submitted during the US's program to replace the M9. The .45 ACP variants saw little adoption outside the Bundeswehr, though other calibre variants have seen much wider adoption (inc. various law enforcements, and Ukraine's SBU Alpha).
N/A (sights not typically used)

2000
Various tactical police units
Developed as a companion sidearm to the FN P90, it was initially heavily restricted for civilian use due to its unique rifle-like 5.7x28mm cartridge (shared with the P90).
None, RMR

1967
The model in-game is the M67 fragmentation grenade.

1995
The model in-game is the M84 stun grenade.

Possibly early 1990's
It's difficult to pinpoint exactly what model the breaching charge used in TAVR is, though it resembles a generic C4-based charge. Pinpointing when exactly Explosive Method of Entry (EMoE) started to be used is even harder, though literature points to the late 1980's - early 1990's.

Possibly early 2000's
There is no official date for when 9-bangers were introduced, though footage exists of them being used during the War in Afghanistan. Used by armed forces as well as tactical police units.

Early 2000's
While telescopic equipment was used before the 21st century, digital snake cameras like the one in TAVR started to be used beginning in the early 2000's. Typically used by tactical police units, and very rarely see usage by armed forces.

Possibly 1980's
Sledgehammers entered usage among tactical police units almost immediately after they began to be developed in the 1980's. Sledgehammers are not typically used by armed forces, which rely more on other breaching methods (explosive charges, breaching shotguns).

Early 1980's
Started to be used by tactical police units in the 1980's. While technically also employed by armed forces, this is typically rare, and only done so in hostage or urban combat scenarios.

2000's
The shotgun closely resembles a Mossberg 590 no stock variant.

2000's
The shotgun closely resembles a Mossberg 590 no stock variant.

Possibly 1980's
Door rammers are used by tactical police units, as well as armed forces in specific scenarios.

Real name: NWU Type 2 - AOR1
Usage date: 2010 - present
Used by: Navy Special Operations

Real name: ATACS FG
Usage date: 2010 - unknown
Used by: Peruvian Marines

Real name: Same
Usage date: 1997 - present
Used by: Canadian Armed Forces

Real name: Camouflage Central-Europe
Usage date: 1993 - present
Used by: French Armed Forces

Real name: DBDU
Usage date: 1981 - 1995
Used by: US Armed Forces

Real name: Desert Night Camouflage
Usage date: 1990 - 1991 (Gulf War, night-only)
Used by: UK-SOF, US armed forces, US-SOF

Real name: Same
Usage date: 1990
Used by: Bundeswehr

Real name: Unknown
Usage date: Possibly late 2010's - unknown
Used by: N/A, private company (Pencott) camo
Alternative: Could be used as a substitution for the NWU Type III - AOR-2, used by the United States Navy (2016 - present)

Real name: NFP
Usage date: 2019 - present
Used by: Netherlands Armed Forces

Real name: Same
Usage date: Late 90's - present
Used by: Swedish Armed Forces

Real name: Same
Usage date: 2014 - present
Used by: Ukraine Armed Forces

Real name: Same / OCP
Usage date: 2004 - present
Used by: US Armed Forces, many other armed forces

Real name: Same
Usage date: Possibly 2020
Used by: Bundeswehr

Real name: Same
Usage date: 2004 - unknown
Used by: Rare usage by law enforcement

Real name: Kreuzotter
Usage date: 2022
Used by: N/A (airsoft camo)

Real name: Tiger Stripe
Usage date: 1962 - present
Used by: US-SOF (Vietnam), Philippine-SOF

Real name: Unknown
Usage date: Unknown
Used by: Very rarely used

Real name: U.S. Woodland
Usage date: 1981 - 2012
Used by: US Armed Forces

Real name: ERDL Lowland
Usage date: 1948 - 1980's
Used by: US Armed Forces

Real name: N/A (possibly 5.11 Tactical or fictional MARPAT variation)
Usage date: N/A
Used by: N/A
NOTE: Do not use, the camo is heavily pixelated and looks awful

Real name: EMR
Usage date: 2008 - present
Used by: Russian Armed Forces

Real name: N/A (digital MultiCam pattern, possibly Unicam II)
Usage date: N/A
Used by: N/A

Real name: MTP
Usage date: 2010 - present
Used by: British Armed Forces

Real name: AMCU
Usage date: 2014 - present
Used by: Australian Defence Force

Below you'll find some of my own personal recommendations to improve your TAVR experience (and hopefully enjoyment), with accompanying details. While the playstyles below can serve as a solid personal challenge, they tend to work best if you can also persuade your teammates to follow your example - gentlemen's agreement style.

In my humble opinion, suppressors ruin a large portion of TAVR's fun and challenge by completely negating unpredictability in missions, as well as nullifying the AI's flanking tactics. For a game that strives for realism such as TAVR, suppressors in-game are unfortunately modeled like many other shooters, making your gun absurdly and unrealistically quiet.

Forcing yourself to not rely on the Suppressor Crutch will enhance the fluidity and unpredictability of your missions, requiring you and your teammates to work together much more closely, and pushing you to approach missions in a much more tactical manner.

Using suppressors during night ops, however, is a more grey area. I leave that up to your personal preference.

Laser sights are another crutch that's very easy to fall on in TAVR, especially during CQB. Using the laser massively decreases the inherent challenge and tension associated with breaching and clearing rooms. Removing your usage of the laser sight will place much more emphasis on your room clearing and rapid target acquisition skills, and provide a much more hectic experience.

However, laser sights still have an important role in highlighting points of interest and enemy positions. Thus, I heavily encourage limiting your (and hopefully your teammates') laser usage for only indicative purposes, and turning it off when engaging in prolonged firefights.

Nights ops are again another grey area. IR lasers are an important tool during night ops, especially if using a magnified optic - which if using night vision DoF (which you absolutely should be doing) renders the optic unusable. I would recommend intermittent usage: keeping it off during downtimes, but turning it on when engaging enemies or clearing rooms.

This also closely mimics real-life night tactics, where a constantly-on IR laser is a massive "I'M HERE, SHOOT ME" sign for enemies also using NVG's. Unfortunately, enemies in TAVR don't use NVG's (hopefully in a future update?), so laser usage here is more nuanced and context-dependent, and aimed more at realism and immersion.

I know, I know. This is such a core concept of TAVR gameplay it's hard to envision it. But the ability of any weapon to break down a door in a single hit almost completely nullifies all specialised door breaching tools. Why use a breaching shotgun / sledgehammer / rammer / breaching charge, when the butt of your weapon can do the job?

This is also likely the hardest point to convince others to adhere to - but if you stick with it, it opens up the possibility of designated roles in a team. If your breaching is limited to the equipment the game provides you, it means you'll need dedicated breachers in your team whose main job is to open doors. I don't think I need to mention all the teamwork and coordination that would come with that.

This isn't so much for immersion as it is just pure fun. I recommend you try out this gameplay style sometime - it makes night ops much more challenging and tense when you can only see 30 feet in front of you!

FINALLY, we've reached the main point of the guide. That was quite the preamble.

The missions in TAVR aren't based on any specific real-life operations to the extent of my knowledge (Hammer Fire notwithstanding), so I've tried to guesstimate what the real-life context of the missions could potentially be, based on their geography and mission objectives. I've also included recommendations for immersive mission loadouts based on force elements that would likely undergo these missions in real life. Check out the last section of this guide for more details on specific force-accurate loadouts.

I am disregarding any geographical or contextual information provided by the game's lore. I am taking these missions completely at face-value. Suggested loadouts are also based on available weapons in TAVR.

A small town with a mix of concrete-based single and multiple story buildings. Climate is likely semi-arid or arid, as the town is surrounded by a relatively flat desert landscape. Based on this, the level can be geographically pinpointed as occurring somewhere in a Middle East or North African region. Rainfall can still occur in these areas, though much rarer outside the winter months.
The stated objective is intel extraction via a hard drive, suggesting the players are likely part of an organised armed force. Combined with the geographical context, Incoming Storm can reliably take place during the Gulf War or Iraq War.

Although, due to the level's more generic geography and objective, any major armed force or special force that was involved in a Middle Eastern / North African conflict would also be immersive for this particular mission.

• Gulf War (1990 - 1991): US / British / French Armed Forces, US-SOF (Green Berets, Delta Force, Navy SEALs), UK-SOF (SAS)
  
• Iraq War (2003 - 2011): US / British Armed Forces, US-SOF, UK-SOF
  
• Generic SF operation

An oil refinery located in a hilly, sparsely forested region. Due to the (likely) cool-temperate climate, and the presence of oil deposits, there are few potential locations to choose from. The only two likely (major) candidates are Russia and Canada.
The objective consists of planting a bomb to blow up the oil refinery. This is very unlikely to be a counter-terrorism operation (what country would bomb their own oil reserve?). Much more likely is that this is an operation as part of an active military conflict. With the geographical context available, this narrows it down to the Russo-Ukrainian War.

Alternatively, if we stretch our imagination into a more fantastical direction, it could also serve as a "black op" aimed at sabotaging Russia's oil reserves.

• Russo-Ukrainian War (2022 - present): Ukrainian Armed Forces, SBU Alpha
  
• "Black operation": CIA-SAD, UK-SAS

Arguably the least geographically identifiable mission. It merely features a generic, high-density metropolitan city.
Objective is to defuse bombs planted in a bank. This points irrefutably at a counter-terrorism operation. Any major law enforcement elements or special forces would realistically fit this mission. Immersion-wise, it probably allows the highest flexibility for loadout choice.

• Police first responders
  
• Tactical police / counter-terrorism units
  
• Special forces units

A medium-sized and dense town consisting of mostly multiple-story buildings. The climate is likely arid, and the town is surrounded by hilly terrain. Based on these these criteria, the map is likely located in south-west Central Asia - possibly Iran or Afghanistan.
The objective consists of locating and eliminating an HVT. Due to the nature of the assignment, it's likely the operation takes place during the War in Afghanistan.

Alternatively, it could be also treated as another "black op", this time taking place in Iran.

• Afghanistan Invasion (2001): US / British / French / Canadian / German Armed Forces, US-SOF (Green Berets, Navy SEALs, Delta Force, AFSOC), UK-SOF (SAS), DE-SOF (KSK)
  
• War in Afghanistan (2001 - 2021): US / British Armed Forces, US-SOF (Green Berets, Navy SEALs, Delta Force, AFSOC), UK-SOF (SAS), DE-SOF (KSK)
  
• Black op: CIA-SAD, UK-SAS

There is little discernible geographical information, with the exception of it being a billionaire's private island. Despite claims online that the map is based on Jeffrey Epstein's island, the in-game level's geography and buildings do not resemble those found on Epstein's Island.
An HVT must be located, eliminated, and sensitive data from their USB stick must be uploaded. Due to the nature of the mission involving a de-facto assassination of a public figure, evidence points to it being a more covert "black op" assignment.

However, it's not out of the realm of possibility that the HVT could be officially categorised as a terrorist, meaning a specialised counter-terrorism operation is also relatively plausible.

• Covert operation: CIA-SAD, JSOC-ISA, UK-SAS
  
• Counter-terrorism units

A 1:1 recreation of Osama Bin Laden's compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan. There really isn't much more to say here. The map also includes a small village adjacent to the compound.
The mission is almost completely parallel to Operation Nepture Spear, the US-conducted operation to assassinate Bin Laden. Players must locate and neutralise the HVT (being careful not to shoot the HVT's suicide vest - which must also be disarmed afterwards), and blow up a crashed helicopter.

• Operation Neptune Spear (2 May 2011): Navy SEALs, SEAL Team Six

A mediums-sized island (by the game's standards), marked by steep hills and sparse tropical flora. It features no notable architecture save for the enemy-built barracks - thus potentially denoting it as a lesser known, secluded island. High altitude islands can be found in the Pacific and Indian Oceans, typically around South-east Asia (Sulu Archipelago, Southern Indonesia and Thailand, etc.) - though pinpointing a more exact location for this mission is very unlikely.
Three objectives must be completed - secure intel from a crashed UAV (which is an MQ-9 Reaper drone); rescue hostages; blow up an enemy ammunition depot. The in-game objectives points towards a major counter-terrorism operation against a well-funded group (at least, with enough resources to afford an air defense system capable of shooting down an MQ-9 Reaper). Though I've been unable to find any exact real-life parallels, it's very likely such an operation would be conducted by amphibious SF of the US or British Armed Forces, which actively operate MQ-9 Reapers.

• Amphibious special forces: Navy SEALs, Royal Marines, SBS
  

The following sections below will focus on period-and-force-specific loadouts, which can be used in their appropriate mission context. The loadouts are split into separate sections for ease of navigation, separated by country and purpose. This section covers US-based loadouts.

Loadouts are ordered chronologically. Weapons/camos followed by brackets denote lightly anachronistic or replacement weapons/camos, but that you can still reasonably use - for entertainment sake. Brackets include the weapon/camo used in real life.

NOTE: I am not including "generic" equipment here like the stimshots or smoke grenades. You're free to use those anytime - and taking stimshots is always highly recommended anyway.

US NOTE: There is no 2000's DCU camo available in-game for the 2000's US loadouts, so CHIP is still used.

PHOTOS NOTE: LIV recordings in TAVR tend to desaturate the colours and decrease the brightness compared to how it looks in-game. The camo and colours will likely look better in-game. It's best you try them out yourself - take the photos at surface value.

CHIP / DNC (night-only) + Olive Drab

• M16 Classic, M40 (M40A1), FN MAG (M240), Minimi (M249), Mariner, 590A1
  
• M9A1 (M9), M45

• Grenade
  
• Door Knocker

Incoming Storm

CHIP / WOODLAND / DNC (night-only) + Olive Drab

• M16 Classic, M40 (M40A1), 590A1
  
• M9A1 (M9), P226

• Grenade, Breaching Charge
  
• Door Knocker

Incoming Storm

CHIP (DCU) + Olive Drab / Coyote Brown

• M4A1 Classic, M40, FN MAG (M240), Minimi (M249), 590A1, M4 Entry
  
• M9A1 (M9), M45

• Grenade, Flashbang, Breaching Charge
  
• Breaching Shotgun, Door Knocker

Incoming Storm, Sever Snake

CHIP (DCU) / WOODLAND + Olive Drab / Coyote Brown

• M4A1 Classic, M40, M4 Entry
  
• M9A1 (M9), P226

• Grenade, Flashbang, Breaching Charge
  
• Breaching Shotgun, Door Knocker

Incoming Storm, Sever Snake

MULTICAM + Brown / Light Brown

• M4A1 Classic, M40, MK12, M110, FN MAG (M240), Minimi (M249), M4 Entry
  
• M9A1, M45

• Grenade, Flashbang, Breaching Charge, 9-Banger
  
• Shield, Breaching Shotgun, Door Knocker

Incoming Storm, Sever Snake

MULTICAM / WOODLAND + Brown / Light Brown

• MK18, M4A1 Classic, AMD-65, SCAR-H, MK12, Minimi (M249), M4 Entry
  
• M9A1, P226

• Grenade, Flashbang, Breaching Charge, 9-Banger
  
• Breaching Shotgun, Door Knocker

Incoming Storm, Sever Snake

AOR + Coyote Brown

• 416 (model in-game is the 416A5)
  
• P226

• Flashbang, Breaching Charge, 9-Banger
  
• Breaching Shotgun, Door Knocker

Hammer Fire

Pic camo not accurate
MULTICAM + Light Brown

• M4URGI, Rattler, LVAW, Virtus, SCAR-H, Minimi (M249), M4 Entry
  
• M9A1

• Grenade, Flashbang, Breaching Charge, 9-Banger
  
• Breaching Shotgun, Door Knocker

Incoming Storm

Pic camo not accurate
MULTICAM / GREEN ZONE + Light Brown / Olive Drab

• M4URGI, Rattler, SCAR-H, M4 Entry
  
• P226

• Grenade, Flashbang, Breaching Charge, 9-Banger
  
• Breaching Shotgun, Door Knocker

Incoming Storm, Breaking Whisper

This section is focuses on UK period-and-force-specific loadouts, which can be used in the appropriate mission context.

Loadouts are ordered chronologically. Weapons/camos followed by brackets denote lightly anachronistic or replacement weapons/camos, but that you can still reasonably use - for entertainment sake. Brackets include the weapon/camo used in real life.

NOTE: I am not including "generic" equipment here like the stimshots or smoke grenades. You're free to use those anytime - and taking stimshots is always highly recommended anyway.

UK NOTE: There is a lack of British camos before 2010's, so US alternatives (like CHIP) are used instead.

PHOTOS NOTE: LIV recordings in TAVR tend to desaturate the colours and decrease the brightness compared to how it looks in-game. The camo and colours will likely look better in-game. It's best you try them out yourself - take the photos at surface value.

CHIP (DPM Desert) + Light Brown / Coyote Brown

• L85 (in-game model is L85A2, not L85), FN MAG
  
• P226

• Grenade
  
• Door Knocker

Incoming Storm

CHIP (DPM Desert) / DNC (night-only) + Olive Drab

• M16 Classic, L85 (in-game model is L85A2, not L85), MC51 (not adopted)
  
• P226

• Grenade, Breaching Charge
  
• Door Knocker

Incoming Storm

CHIP (DPM Desert) + Light Brown / Coyote Brown

• L85 (in-game model is L85A2, not L85), FN MAG, M4 Entry
  
• P226

• Grenade, Flashbang
  
• Door Knocker

Incoming Storm, Sever Snake

CHIP (DPM Desert) + Olive Drab / Black

• M4A1 Classic (Colt C8), M4 Entry
  
• P226

• Grenade, Flashbang, Breaching Charge
  
• Door Knocker

Incoming Storm, Sever Snake

CAMO 4 + Light Brown / Coyote Brown

• L85, MK12 (MARS-H), FN MAG, Minimi, M4 Entry
  
• P226

• Grenade, Flashbang, Breaching Charge, 9-Banger
  
• Shield, Breaching Shotgun, Door Knocker

Incoming Storm, Sever Snake

CAMO 4 + Light Brown / Coyote Brown

• MK18 (UCIW), G36C, AKM Classic, MK12 (MARS-H), Minimi, M4 Entry
  
• P226

• Grenade, Flashbang, Breaching Charge, 9-Banger
  
• Breaching Shotgun, Door Knocker

Incoming Storm, Sever Snake

CAMO 4 + Light Brown / Coyote Brown

• M4A1 Classic (Colt C8A1/A2), MK18 (UCIW), FN MAG, M4 Entry
  
• G18C (G17)

• Grenade, Flashbang, Breaching Charge, 9-Banger
  
• Breaching Shotgun, Door Knocker

Incoming Storm

CAMO 4 + Light Brown / Coyote Brown

• M4URGI (KS1), M4A1 Classic (Colt C8A1/A2), Viruts, L85, SCAR-H, M4 Entry
  
• G18C (G17)

• Grenade, Flashbang, Breaching Charge, 9-Banger
  
• Breaching Shotgun, Door Knocker

Incoming Storm, Breaking Whisper

This section is focuses on other period-and-force-specific loadouts, which can be used in the appropriate mission context.

Loadouts are ordered chronologically. Weapons/camos followed by brackets denote lightly anachronistic or replacement weapons/camos, but that you can still reasonably use - for entertainment sake. Brackets include the weapon/camo used in real life.

NOTE: I am not including "generic" equipment here like the stimshots or smoke grenades. You're free to use those anytime - and taking stimshots is always highly recommended anyway.

CAMO NOTE: There are a lack of non-US desert camos before 2010's, so other alternatives (like CHIP or AOR) are used instead.

UKRAINE NOTE: Ukraine has received a large variety of weapons as part of military aid packages - I've decided to include as many as possible, despite some likely being used much more rarely than others.

PHOTOS NOTE: LIV recordings in TAVR tend to desaturate the colours and decrease the brightness compared to how it looks in-game. The camo and colours will likely look better in-game. It's best you try them out yourself - take the photos at surface value.

OLIVE DRAB + Light Brown / Coyote Brown

• FAMAS, FN MAG (AA52)
  
• M9A1 (MAB PA-15)

• Grenade
  
• Door Knocker

Incoming Storm

CENT EURO / CHIP (Daguet) + Olive Drab / Light Brown

• FAMAS, FN MAG (AA52)
  
• M9A1 (PAMAS G1)

• Grenade, Flashbang
  
• Breaching Shotgun, Door Knocker

Sever Snake

CADPAT / AOR (CADPAT AR) + Olive Drab / Coyote Brown

• M16 Classic (C7A1/A2), M4A1 Classic (C7A1/A2 - included due to lack of attachments for M16), Minimi
  
• M45 (Browning Hi-Power)

• Grenade, Flashbang
  
• Breaching Shotgun, Door Knocker

Sever Snake

BROWN (Wustentarn) + Olive Drab / Light Brown / Brown

• G36C (G36),
  
• HK45 (P8)

• Grenade, Flashbang
  
• Breaching Shotgun, Door Knocker

Sever Snake

BROWN (Wustentarn) + Olive Drab / Light Brown / Brown

• G36C (G36), MK18, 416
  
• P226 (P30)

• Grenade
  
• Door Knocker

Sever Snake

OLIVE DRAB / BROWN / MM14 / MULTICAM + Olive Drab / Brown

• 416, M4A1 Classic (M4-WAC-47 / Colt C8), AMD-65 (various AK platforms), Virtus (UAR-15), FAMAS, AUG, M40 (M24), SVD, FN MAG, Minimi, PKM, Mariner (Mossberg 500), VEPR-12 (Saiga-12)
  
• P226 (SFP9), M9A1 (M9)

• Grenade, Flashbang, Breaching Charge
  
• Sledgehammer, Breaching Shotgun, Door Knocker

Hidden Forest

MM14 / MULTICAM + Olive Drab / Brown

• 416 (SIG516), M4A1 Classic, AMD-65 (various AK platforms), AK-105 (captured AK-12's), SCAR-H, M110
  
• G18C (G17), HK45

• Grenade, Flashbang, Breaching Charge, 9-Banger
  
• Breaching Shotgun, Door Knocker

Hidden Forest

This section is focuses on law enforcement and police tactical unit-specific loadouts, which can be used in the appropriate mission context.

Loadouts are ordered by categories. Weapons/camos followed by brackets denote lightly anachronistic or replacement weapons/camos, but that you can still reasonably use - for entertainment sake. Brackets include the weapon/camo used in real life.

NOTE: I am not including "generic" equipment here like the stimshots or smoke grenades. You're free to use those anytime - and taking stimshots is always highly recommended anyway.

SAS NOTE: Information on specifically counter-terrorism gear for the SAS is very hard to find, so the loadout is much more limited compared to other forces.

• City Police: BLUE + Black
  
• Sheriff: OLIVE DRAB / BROWN + Olive Drab / Brown

• M4A1 Classic (M4 LE / AR-15), Mariner (M1 / 870), PISTOL ONLY
  
• Main pistol: G18C (G17)
  
• Alternate pistols: P226 (P320), M9A1 (92F), HK45 (USP9/45), Five-Seven

• Flashbang
  
• None, Beanbag Shotgun, Door Knocker

Void

• LAPD SWAT: BLACK + Black
  
• Generic SWAT: BLUE + Black
  
• Sheriff SWAT: MULTICAM / WOODLAND / BLACK + Brown / Light Brown / Olive Drab / Black
  
• FBI SWAT / ATF: OLIVE DRAB / BLACK + Olive Drab / Black

• 416, M4A1 Classic (AR-15 / CQBR), LVAW, Virtus (SIG MCX Gen I), UMP45, MP5, P90, MP7, M40 (M24), Mariner, 590A1, M4 Entry, SPAS-12
  
• G18C (G17), P226 (P320), M9A1 (92F), HK45 (USP9/45), Five-Seven

• Flashbang, 9-Banger
  
• Snake Camera, Shield, Breaching Shotgun, Beanbag Shotgun, Door Knocker

Void, Trident Lightning

BLACK / BLUE + Black

• MP5, Mariner (870)
  
• P226 (P320)

• Flashbang, 9-Banger
  
• Snake Camera, Shield, Breaching Shotgun, Beanbag Shotgun, Door Knocker

Void, Trident Lightning

BLACK / BLUE / OLIVE DARB + Black / Olive Darb

• 416, SCAR-H, AUG, G36C, MP5, MP7, Mariner (870)
  
• G18C (G17), HK45 (USP45)

• Flashbang, 9-Banger
  
• Snake Camera, Shield, Breaching Shotgun, Beanbag Shotgun, Door Knocker

Void, Trident Lightning

BLACK / BLUE / OLIVE DARB + Black / Olive Darb

• 416, Virtus (SIG MCX), FAMAS (rarely used), G36C (G36), MP5, MP7, P90, Mariner (870), M4 Entry, SPAS-12
  
• G18C (G17), P226 (SIG P228 / Pro), Five-Seven

• Flashbang, 9-Banger
  
• Snake Camera, Shield, Breaching Shotgun, Beanbag Shotgun, Door Knocker

Void, Trident Lightning

BLACK / OLIVE DARB + Black / Olive Darb

• AUG, MP5, MP7, MP9 (TMP), M40 (SSG 69), Mariner (870), SPAS-12
  
• G18C (G17)

• Flashbang, 9-Banger
  
• Snake Camera, Shield, Breaching Shotgun, Beanbag Shotgun, Door Knocker

Void, Trident Lightning

BLACK + Black

• M4A1 Classic, M16 Classic, MP5, P90, M40 (M24), Minimi, SPAS-12 (M3)
  
• M45 (IMBEL 9mm)

• Flashbang, 9-Banger
  
• Snake Camera, Shield, Breaching Shotgun, Beanbag Shotgun, Door Knocker

Void, Trident Lightning

This section is focuses on (more fictional) "black ops" loadouts. Obviously, there is little to no info on what equipment these units would use, so take the loadout recommendations in this section with a big grain of salt. Loadouts were built primarily from extrapolating what other special forces units use.

Loadouts are ordered chronologically.

NOTE: I am not including "generic" equipment here like the stimshots or smoke grenades. You're free to use those anytime - and taking stimshots is always highly recommended anyway.

PHOTOS NOTE: LIV recordings in TAVR tend to desaturate the colours and decrease the brightness compared to how it looks in-game. The camo and colours will likely look better in-game. It's best you try them out yourself - take the photos at surface value.

ATACS / MULTICAM / TIGER / WOODLAND + Olive Drab / Light Brown / Brown

• MK18, 416, M4A1 Classic, AMD-65, AKM Classic, SCAR-H, MK12, M110, M4 Entry
  
• G18C, M45, M9A1, P226

• Grenade, Flashbang, Breaching Charge, 9-Banger
  
• Snake Camera, Breaching Shotgun, Door Knocker

Incoming Storm, Hidden Forest, Sever Snake

ATACS / MULTICAM / TIGER / CAMO 4 + Olive Drab / Light Brown / Brown

• MK18, 416, M4A1 Classic, AKM Classic, SCAR-H, MC-51, MK12, M110, M4 Entry
  
• G18C, P226

• Grenade, Flashbang, Breaching Charge, 9-Banger
  
• Snake Camera, Breaching Shotgun, Door Knocker

Incoming Storm, Hidden Forest, Sever Snake

BLACK / MULTICAM / MULTICAM BLACK + Black / Brown / Light Brown

• M4URGI, Rattler, Virtus, M110, M4 Entry
  
• TRIDENT LIGHTNING: MP5, MP9
  
• G18C, M45, M9A1

• Grenade, Flashbang, Breaching Charge, 9-Banger
  
• Snake Camera, Breaching Shotgun, Door Knocker

Incoming Storm, Hidden Forest, Sever Snake, Trident Lightning

BLACK / CAMO 4 / MULTICAM BLACK + Black / Brown / Light Brown

• M4URGI, MK18, SCAR-H, M4 Entry
  
• TRIDENT LIGHTNING: MP5
  
• G18C, P226

• Grenade, Flashbang, Breaching Charge, 9-Banger
  
• Breaching Shotgun, Door Knocker

Incoming Storm, Hidden Forest, Sever Snake, Trident Lightning

Well... That was quite the write-up. I hope this guide helped you somehow along the way - whether you're here just for the weapon information, taking some inspiration for a future loadout, or planning your next milsim operation. If you made it this far, thanks for reading!

If you...

• Have any suggestions about something else I should include in this guide.
  
• Noticed I got info wrong.
  
• Know more about TAVR's missions inspirations.
  
• Have any additional loadout ideas.
  
• Or want to say anything, really.

Please don't hesitate to comment! I'll be reading them regularly.

You can also find me on Discord as Reaper#5917.

To BoogalooBandito69420: For introducing me to the Incoming Storm - 90's Marines - No NVG/Laser challenge. And for single-handedly inspiring this guide. It was the most fun I've had in TAVR. Hope to find you in-game again at some point.

• 15/06/25: Upload date
  
• 15/06/25: Added iron sights to M4A4, Famas attachments. Added 4x ACOG to Famas attachments. Thanks to Content_Election_218 on Reddit.
  
• 15/06/25: 416 overview update, added Afghan police to AMD-65 users. L85 IRL model replaced with L85A2, UK loadouts amended. Minimi IRL inspiration expanded. FN MAG + PKM MMG correction. M9A1 overview update. MK18 IRL model change. Small changes to US law enforcement loadouts. Breaching/beanbag shotgun IRL model correction. Updated some camo info. Thank you to PopsicleCatOfficial on Reddit!
  
• 16/06/25: Revised AK-105 users, removed it from BOPE loadout. Thank you to Independent_Food6108 on Reddit!