IF u talk about 1v1 theres not much on an impact using AA, but still not useless. In team games is definitely worth it if ur team mates use it as well.
Its hard to dodge the strafe if ur near the edge of the map and the opponent use it in the right direction, in that case its better to insta retreat if there are enemy squads around. In the mid i would say u can dodge it, but its still not anything easy.
There is basically no vehicles for cas in the early to late game so u dont need much to focus on at guns and stuff, so as soviet i would probably go shocks into kv8 (shock rifle, terror tactics) to counter lmg grens and such.
1. sure 1v1
2. OH vehicles are not commander dependant. So its not a problem at all.
3. How would you instana-retreat At guns and damaged tanks. I see no way