So what exactly happens if i.e. a needlejet attacks a ground unit equipped with AAA tracking? Lets say that happens out in the open with no modifiers involved. Does the game compare the jet's attack against the units armor? Or does this count as air-to-air combat?

Because the game specifically states that air-to-air combat is resolved by comparing attack values on both sides. Basically what Im asking is are land based 1-3-1 AAA defenders worth it or do I need to build 8-1-1 AAA for that?

Avo, I'll mark your post as solution. Now in hindsight it seems obvious to me that it has to still be ground-to-air because if only the weapons were compared 1-3-1 AAA defenders would always lose against 8-1-1 needlejets. Which they dont. Case closed. :D Thanks.