When calculating the ballistic characteristics of a tactical missile, the atmospheric parameters have a significant impact on determining possible launch and missile engagement zones. The paper introduces the results of comparing the standard atmospheric parameters according to the State Standard GOST 4401-81 “Standard atmosphere. Parameters” and four empirical models of the atmosphere obtained from radio sounding data in different climatic zones and at different times of the year. By the example of a hypothetical air-to-air missile, we demonstrate possible launch and missile engagement zones for the considered atmospheric models. The main purpose of the work is to establish the relationship between atmospheric parameters and ballistic characteristics of missile engagement in general and air-to-air missiles in particular