Jan 15, 2020

DCS World Steam Edition - bignewy

https://www.digitalcombatsimulator.com/en/news/changelog/openbeta/2.5.5.41962/

DCS World
Added AI short-range missile Scud-B launcher into ground units of some countries (Iran, Iraq and others). It can drive, but missile is not yet functioning and does not launch. WIP

Western RWR:

LHA-1 Tarawa index '40', – same AN/SPS-40 as on Spruance.

KJ-2000 index 50.

JF-17 index JF.

HQ-7 LN SP index 7.

HQ-7 STR SP index HQ.

Fixed M249 AI Infantry poor response to enemy contact.

Fixed name liveries for DEN Leo2A5.

Fixed flight.dll crash on user track.

Fixed mistake in text pop-up in the Russian version of lesson 1 (flaps rising) for Su-25T tutorial.

DCS F-16C by ED
Cockpit. MFD. Fixed wrong AG weapons number. Tuned lighting of navigation gauges and SAI.

Gap near canopy with head shift and mouse look - Fixed

LERX vortex effect corrected.

INS no longer tracks current coordinates in ATT mode.

No longer ALIGN indication in NARF.

Hydraulic flow corrected for JFS start procedure.

INS alignment resets when knob placed to NORM from STOR HDG.

INS coordinates should be confirmed by pilot on DED with enter.

INS coordinates fields on DED no longer limited to 5 or 6 digits.

INS coordinates confirm procedure added to autostart macro.

INS alignment now degraded in BATH mode.

AG TLL Line Points fixed.

Restored missing INS altitude correction from CADC data.

SAI pitch trim index animation corrected.

Fixed DED sub-pages switching.

Fixed AIM-120 reticle position on target

DCS: A-10C by ED
Custom cockpit options updated to correspond with the new model name.

Added strip on windshield glass by outer edges.

Canopy still present in F1 view after jettison - fixed.

Glued strip antenna added to the top of canopy.

BRT DIM Switch has no effect - fixed.

New cockpit caution panel APU GEN not illuminated - fixed.

ADI pointer not illuminated - fixed.

Emergency Chute Safety pin Should be removed for flight

DCS JF-17 by Deka Ironwork Simulations

Fixed RWR issue in MP, RWR signals will be displayed in order of priority, and the total number is limited

Fixed DL receiving E-2/E-3 message in MP

Fixed unguided AG gun/rocket/bomb CCIP not precise because it's based on sea level.

Using SPI (except waypoint) height for CCIP calculation

self radar alt as backup height source

Fixed rada hpt/spt

Fixed radar TDC wont lock target in real time

Fixed radar antenna will try to follow hpt

Fixed radar AG image glitch (with ED's help)

Fixed CM-802AKG will self destroy if launcher landed

Fixed PL-5EII IR missiles will have no tones if not fully powered, default caged, need HOTAS 'T2_Press' to cage/uncage PL-5EII missiles

Fixed HUD TDC axis control logic error

Fixed WMD7 camera init state error, WMD7 camera wont cage after OSB cage clicked

Fixed WPT/RP/PP load issue in MP

Fixed CMS loading issue

Add smoke generators support for pilon 1/2/4/6/7, default 'T' key assigned to turn on/off smokes.

Limitations to turn on smoke generators:

MUST be in NAV master mode

Gun MUST be deactivated

FCS WOW signal MUST be off

Tweak AA missile TOF/TOA, limited by rocket power system time and life time, not hardcoded

Tweak CM-802AKG narrow FOV axis control speed, more quickly now

Tweak CM-802AKG gain/level control, by OSB buttons or keys sensor up/down/left/right, for game play

Restore kneeboard map

DCS AJS-37 by Heatblur Simulations
Added active stores display activated when in TAKT/Out, just pressed IRRB FRAMSTEGN (unless in IDNR) and when UNSAFED (unless in IDNR).

Fixed minus-sign on CK37 thanks to user outbaxx.

Fixed fading-effect of CK37 panel display.

Improved accuracy of low-drag bombs.

Time-to-waypoint is now zero when landing gears are extended or in landing-mode, before it was just frozen.

Fix to IFF IDENT CTD.

Fixed issues with sidewinder step (IRRB FRAMSTEGN) button.

DCS F/A-18C Hornet by ED
TWS - AUTO scan centering does not center antenna elevation on L&S.

ACM entered from TWS incorrect.

L&S/DT2 trackfiles should appear above the LAR Indicator.

AIM-9 Tone does not come through headphone / helmet - fixed.

AIM 9 Not firing after selective jettison.

Fixed TD BOX Guns inside 3000 occluded.

Ground Targets will appear on SA Page if engaged - Fixed

R/BL Harpoon off axis warning - Fixed

DCS Fw 190 A-8 by ED
Gear indicator lights failing or not working correctly - fixed.

SZKK4 controls (knobs and switches) clickable zone increased.

DCS Fw 190 D-9 by ED
Clickable zone increased for cockpit controls: FuG 16 radio selectors, Landing Gear and Flaps Controls pushbuttons, Rocket control switches, Fuel gauge switch, ReVi altitude selector (rotary I)

ReVi altitude selector rotary II is fixed at "63"

DCS Mi-8MTV2 by ED
Fixed broken view position of door gunner at the second mission run.

DCS UH-1H Huey by ED
Fixed broken view position of door gunner at the second mission run.

DCS Combined Arms by ED
Mouse click will no longer fire weapon when ingame debriefing window is open.

DCS Caucasus by ED
Trees restored to original visualization.

Trees removed from roads in some locations.

Mozdok 08 runway broken lights fixed.

Improved a scene on the Gudauta airfield.

Larger aircraft can not use the taxiway. Fixed

Some minor visual improvements.

DCS Campaigns
Enemy Within 3.0 campaign by Baltic Dragon:

M07: helipad and insurgent camp is no longer covered by the trees.

M09: minor changes to AI wingman target reporting.

M13: fixed rare issue when briefing at WP1 wouldn't start.

M14: fixed issue with F-16s not engaging bandits.

M16: updated triggers so that chances of saving HVA are higher. Minor fixes to VO timings.

M17: fixed issue with show of force by player having no effect on the CLA troops on the ground.

F-86F Hunters over the Yalu Campaign by Reflected Simulations:

Corrected F-86 livery folder name for displaying of custom liveries.

Jan 10, 2020

DCS World 2020 and Beyond – Non-Aircraft Projects

DCS World Steam Edition - NineLine

DCS World 2020 and Beyond – Non-Aircraft Projects

In last week’s newsletter, we reviewed our 2020 and beyond plans for aircraft in DCS World. One aircraft we forgot to mention was the MiG-23 from RAZBAM. This will be a great eastern aircraft addition to the stable of jets to DCS World, and it is being created by the same RAZBAM team that created the MiG-19.

For this week’s newsletter, we are excited to discuss the many other DCS World projects that are not aircraft. This includes both new modules and core features to DCS World. Like the aircraft, this is a listing of what we will be working on this year, but unless specifically noted, we cannot promise that all these projects will be completed by the end of 2020. In fact, some of the larger projects may extend past it.

DCS: Supercarrier

In the latter part of 2019, we released a video showing off some of the early fun parts of this project. We are now nearing the finish line. Much of the remaining work involves adjusting the complex deck crew animations to support the launching of aircraft from all four catapults; ship lights that include the floodlights, the Improved Fresnel Optical Landing System (IFLOLS), and landing area lights; damage modelling; network copy protection; and up to 14 spawn points in multiplayer for client aircraft.

Following the early access release, more features will be added that include a briefing room, more ships of the class, player IFLOLS operation, and more.

We are pleased to announce that the DCS: Supercarrier module will also include a greatly updated Kuznetsov-class aircraft carrier (without deck animation), the Su-33 Flanker D for DCS World (for those of you who don’t already own it), and the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer!

The Kuznetsov is a Russian-built aircraft carrier that is substantially improved over the existing version in DCS World. It is a completely new model with detailed geometry, textures, lighting, and animations. Players can operate the Su-33 Flanker D from the Kuznetsov, including carrier landings and ski-jump ramp takeoffs. In addition to a formidable suite of surface-to-air defenses, the Kuznetsov is also armed with P-700 Granit anti-ship cruise missiles. The Kuznetsov sister ship, the Varyag, was sold to China and now serves in the Chinese Navy as the Liaoning.
A cornerstone of today’s American Carrier Battle Group (CVBG) is an array of Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers. Built around the SPY-1D radar and AEGIS battle management system, the Arleigh Burke-class provides an effective air defense umbrella around the CVBG and is also armed with Harpoon and Tomahawk cruise missiles, close-in gun systems, torpedoes, and a 5-inch deck gun.

These new naval elements to DCS World will be at home in the recently announced Mariana Islands map. Although the island portion of the map will be approximately 400x400 km, the overall map size will be 1000x1000 km in order to provide realistic ranges for modern-day naval operations, sensors, and weapon systems.

As with the new Nimitz-class aircraft carrier model for Supercarrier, the Kuznetsov and Arleigh Burke will be visible to all in multiplayer, regardless if you own the Supercarrier module.

DCS: Supercarrier will be available for pre-order on January 17th with a 30% discount and will deliver as an Open Beta by the end of Q1 2020. Owners of DCS: F/A-18C will receive a discount when purchasing DCS: Supercarrier.

Maps

The Channel Map

In addition to the Mariana Islands map, we are pleased to announce the first dedicated World War II map for DCS World that is created by Eagle Dynamics: The Channel map! This map will represent southeast England, the English Channel, and portions of the low countries and north eastern France. The map is built to support missions and campaigns between the late 1930s and 1945 with a new level of detail and realism not seen before in a DCS World map. Airfields of the map include:

Manston
Detling
Hawkinge
Lympne
Dunkirk Mardyck
Saint-Omer Longuenesse
Merville Calonne
Abbeville Drucat

It will also include detailed renditions of the cities, towns, road and rail network, forests, rivers, canals, communication lines, radar stations, of this important region during the Second World War.

DCS: The Channel Map will be available for pre-order with a 30% discount in early February 2020.

Third Party Maps

While we are focused on the Mariana Islands and Channels maps, our third parties will also be quite busy!

Falkland Islands Map

The RAZBAM map team is making great progress on their Falkland Islands map, while at the same time creating new assets and player-units to suit.

Syria Map

After completing a great update to their DCS: Normandy 1944 map, Ugra Media will continue their work on the ambitious Syria map. This map spans from Turkey in the north to Israel in the south, with Syria and Lebanon in between. After an initial map review, the Ugra Team will be implementing the feedback to move forward on an early access release.

DCS: World War II Assets Pack

Work continues on the World War II assets pack, with the addition of several important air, ground, and naval units including:

Ju-88A-4 medium bomber
A-20 Boston medium bomber
C-47 transport
MK.VIII Centaur IV tank
Mk.IV Churchill VII tank
Elefant self-propelled artillery
Stug III tank destroyer
M10 tank destroyer
QF 3.7-inch AA gun
37 mm Gun M1
M45 Quadmount that can be used on different platforms
8.8 cm Flak 41 AAA
Flakscheinwerfer 37 and generator support unit
Schnellboot Type S-100 E-Boat
Type VII U-Boat

We are also looking at adding some exciting new features to the Asset pack, which include Torpedoes, Paratroopers and functional searchlights.

DCS World Core Updates

The core DCS World program will continue to grow and improve in 2020 across several key areas. In fact, more than half of Eagle Dynamics staff is devoted to improving the core of DCS World and not for-purchase products.

Vulkan API Support

In order to improve game performance, particularly in VR and take advantage of today’s hardware, we have been working on the integration of the Vulkan API into DCS World over the past year. This is an important undertaking, but we believe it will be well worth the end-results.

DCS World 2.5.6 Lighting Improvements

This month we begin the testing of version 2.5.6 of DCS World that will include improvements to the lighting system. This will be most evident at night when viewing the cockpits. In addition to cockpit lighting, overall world lighting will appear more natural and balanced with improved tones.

Following this, our goal will be to further enhance world lighting by allowing multiple world-lighting sources. This will provide a much more natural and realistic appearance to the world.

Clouds and Weather

Another important DCS World enhancement in 2020 will be the delivery of substantially improved weather and clouds. The first step is our new system will render many different types and sizes of clouds in multiple layers. These clouds will impact certain sensors, and be synchronized in network play. We are setting a high bar for ourselves, and it is taking a bit longer than expected. However, we trust that it will be well worth the wait.

In parallel, we are also working on significant improvements to the dynamic weather system of DCS World that will also take advantage of this new cloud system as well as pressure fronts.

Voice Chat (VC)

In late 2019 we released the first test version of our free, integrated voice chat system into DCS World. Since then, we have been analysing your feedback to make further improvements. Thank you for all the great comments! In 2020, we aim to deliver peer-to-peer connectivity and user chat “rooms” generation. The next step thereafter will be to support radio modulation and frequencies as well as varied mic and audio characteristics of helmets and radios from different eras. Our final goal will be to include communications jamming and secure voice capability. This will continue to be a free and fully integrated feature of DCS World.

Damage Modeling

Another new feature of DCS World 2.5.6 will be the initial release of the improved damage system for the WWII fighters in DCS. As we have discussed in prior newsletters, this system includes a complex and realistic accounting of damage to aircraft systems, round trajectory and penetration, deflection, and localized damage. We have also added substantially enhanced visual damage effects that include missing structural components, fuel and hydraulic leaks. The new damage model will provide a much more engrossing and realistic experience.

Once we and our clients are happy with the warbirds damage model system, we will implement this new damage modelling to the more modern aircraft, ground units, and naval units.

Aircraft Artificial Intelligence (AI)

In 2019 we made initial improvements to the dogfight AI that delivers more realistic and human behaviour, this also includes implementation of modern control theory Necessary Condition Analysis (NCA) and Incremental Nonlinear Dynamic Inversion (INDI) to all our AI aircraft in DCS in 2020. The new approach will extend flight envelopes and improve AI control quality and control response in mass and moment of inertia changes. In 2020 we will continue this effort, but also devote resources to improve other AI areas to include:

Beyond Visual Range (BVR) offensive and defensive behaviour
Formation keeping and correct use of external lights
Air-to-Ground attack maneuvers
Very-low level flight and terrain following
Defensive threat responses (SAM and AAA)

Airfield Air Traffic Control (ATC)

Another AI task that we will kick off in 2020 is a new implementation of ATC radio communications for airfields. This will be a more realistic and complete ATC system to account for ground, tower, departure, and approach controllers, as well as account for variables that include VRF/IFR and overhead/straight in.

We will be working with subject matter experts to ensure that this new ATC system is a valuable addition to DCS World immersion and enjoyment.

Air-to-Ground Radar and Forward-Looking Infrared (FLIR)

Critical to complete the F/A-18C and F-16C, will be the inclusion of completed air-to-ground (AG) radar and Forward-Looking Infrared (FLIR) sensor systems. Last year, the JF-17 Thunder used our AG radar application programming interface (API) to great success. We will continue to improve the AG radar API and use it for both the Hornet and Viper. We will continue to enhance this area of expertise and work to improve radar shadowing, synthetic aperture radar (SAR) support, and varied resolution based on the type and era of radar.

The updated FLIR API will be used to improve the targeting pod’s infrared (black hot/white hot) cameras. This is a rather large undertaking because it not only involves programming tasks to account for thermal dynamics of world and unit objects but also creating thermal maps for all objects in DCS World and how they behave under different conditions.

Missile Dynamics

Last year we used the AIM-7 as a testbed to implement several air-to-air missile performance and guidance improvements. Early this year we will be doing the same for the AIM-120. The AIM-120 performance in 2020 will be closer to claimed specifications given adjustments to G-induced drag in the trans-sonic region, and we improved the efficiency of the lofting profile.

New AI Units

In 2020 we will continue to update older DCS World units. We are currently developing the SA-5 surface-to-air missile and the SS-1 SCUD surface-to-surface missile (we still need to develop the Short-Range Ballistic Missile flight model), the S-3B Viking, and cows of course! There are other units we hope to revisit to like the B-52H, C-17A, Tu-95, and others.

Dynamic Campaign

Work on the dynamic campaign has been underway for over a year, and the progress has been steady on this very complex task. We understand that this is one of the most awaited features in DCS World and we are giving it the attention it deserves.

Much of the work is focused on the dynamic campaign creation tool layers as part of the Mission Editor, developing machine learning mechanics, and creating an AI neural network for the RTS element of the system. The machine learning and neural network tasks are particularly challenging, but we believe they should provide a unique dynamic campaign experience.

We expect to start testing this feature in the latter part of 2020.

Thank you for the support and kindness,
The Eagle Dynamics Team

Jan 3, 2020

Introducing a New Free Map to DCS World: The Marianas

DCS World Steam Edition - NineLine

Winter Sale Ends Soon!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OGq2vcbGgaI

Only a few days remain to pick up those modules you have been wanting! The Winter sale will end on January 5th. Save up to 50% on most DCS World products, the only exceptions being:

DCS F/A-18 Hornet by ED - 25% off
DCS Persian Gulf Map by ED - 25% off
F/A-18 Persian Gulf Map bundle - 35% off
DCS: Christen Eagle II by Magnitude 3 LLC – 25% off
DCS: F-14 Tomcat by Heatblur Simulations – 20% off
DCS: F-16C Viper by ED – not on sale at this time
DCS: JF-17 Thunder by Deka Ironwork Simulations - not on sale at this time
F-86F Hunters over the Yalu Campaign by Reflected Simulations - not on sale at this time

Note that this is the first time the DCS: F-14 Tomcat will be on sale!
We are also taking part in the Steam Winter Sale as well.

Mariana Islands Map Announcement!

Since the release of DCS World, the sole free map has been the Caucasus Map. Although a great map and the recipient of a huge update in DCS World 2.5, we are happy to announce a second, free map for DCS World! For this new map, we want to use our latest map technologies and provide a very different combat environment in a new part of the world. The map must have the following features:

A very large ocean area with a few islands. Ideal for carrier operations.
Islands that are situated such that airfields have natural red, blue, and contested locations.
Home to at least one modern-day USAF base.
Feasible for US, Russia, and China operations in the Pacific.
Take advantage of the Chinese Assets Pack.

Taken as a whole, there is only one natural choice: the Mariana Islands. It will initially be a 400 x 400 km map with the option to expand further in the future. Home to one of the largest USAF air bases in the region, Andersen AFB on Guam serves as an anchor of US forces in the Pacific region, but it is within reach of both Chinese and Russian Pacific forces to the north. The same island chain also served as the backdrop of the World War II battles of Guam, Saipan, and Rota, as well as the carrier vs. carrier Mariana Islands battle.

At release, the following islands will be included and modelled at an extreme level of accuracy using our latest map and graphics technologies:

Guam

Andersen AFB.
Weapons storage bunkers northwest of Andersen AFB.
Ordnance Annex in south-central next to Santa Rita.
Antenna array installation on the west coast.
Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport.
Abandoned Northwest Airfield in the northeast corner of the island.
Abandoned Orote Airfield at Crote Pointe.
US Naval station and Guam Port Authority at Apra Habor / Sumay.
Fort Soledad and Fort Juan Muna.
Urban areas of Talofofo, Yona, Tumon, Yigo, Maggilao, Asbeco, Dededo, Inarajan, Santa Rita, Agat, Piti, Asan, Hagatna, Barrigada, Magilao, and Adacao, Agana Heights, Asan-Maina, Chalan-Pago-Ordot, Mongmong-Toto-Maite, and Umatac.
The University of Guam.
Leo Palace Resort.

Saipan

Saipan International Airport.
Port of Puerto Rico.
Urban centers of Kagman, San Roque, Tanapag, Garapan, San Vucente, Dandan, Chalan Kiya, Susupe, Chalan Kanoa, Afetna, and Chalan Kiya.
Golf courses at Agingan, Kagman, and along the eastern coast.
Memorial at the east end.

Tinian

Tinian International Airport.
The abandoned airfield at the north end of the island.
Urban areas of San Jose / harbor and Marpo Heights.
Antenna array along the central west coast of the island.

Rota

Rota International Airport.
Urban areas of Sinapalu, Songsong, and Teneto Village.
Golf course on the northern coast of the island.
Abandoned weapon storage area on the east end of the island.

Farallon de Medinilla

Air-to-ground weapons training range

Aguijan

We are very excited to bring this new, free map to you in 2020 that will offer new gameplay, home to new units, and a new chapter for DCS World.

DCS 2020 and Beyond Update - Aircraft Modules

From all of us at Eagle Dynamics, we want to wish you a happy new year and every success and happiness for 2020! 2019 was a wonderful year for us with the release of several outstanding aircraft for DCS World. These included the release of the F-16C Viper, Fw 190 A-8 Anton, F-14B Tomcat, JF-17 Thunder, Christen Eagle II, I-16, completion of the C-101, a new A-10C cockpit, and continued development of the F/A-18C, Harrier, M-2000C, and other modules. It was an extremely busy year for us, but we will further accelerate development in 2020.

Now is a great time to try one of these new modules while the Winter Sale lasts:
https://www.digitalcombatsimulator.com/en/shop/modules/

What follows is a listing of aircraft projects that we and our valued partners will be working on in 2020. We do not expect all these projects to be released in 2020, but this is where our development focus will be in 2020.

DCS: A-10C Warthog 2

Following the free A-10C cockpit update, we will be releasing A-10C Warthog 2 in 2020. This will be a dramatic visual and systems upgrade to our A-10C. Once the new features have been finalized, we look forward to sharing them with you.
In addition to DCS: A-10C Warthog 2 being available as a new module that will replace DCS: A-10C Warthog, it will also be available to existing A-10C Warthog owners at a significant discount.

DCS: Ka-50 Black Shark 3

Since the release of the DCS: Black Shark 2 upgrade many years ago, our technology has improved greatly to allow us to create an even better Ka-50 Black Shark! As with the A-10C Warthog 2, this includes both graphical and system upgrades.

We will first release a free update to Ka-50 Black Shark 2 that provides a free overhaul of the cockpit graphics. This is not simply updated textures, but rather a completely new cockpit 3D mesh and high-resolution textures. This will also address any remaining cockpit lighting issues.

Later in 2020, we will release DCS: Ka-50 Black Shark 3. This upgrade will build on the free cockpit update and add the following features:

Option for weathered cockpit textures.
Completely new external model with a much-improved 3D mesh detail and textures. It will also account for the new systems like the Missile Launch Warning Systems, Directional Infrared Countermeasures (DIRCM) and the Igla air-to-air missiles.
Ability to carry up to four Igla air-to-air missiles.
Integrated Missile Launch Warning System (MLWS) system with display system.
Integrated Directional Infrared Countermeasures (DIRCM) system with integrated display system.

In total, it will make the Ka-50 much more deadly and survivable on the DCS World battlefield.

As with A-10C Warthog 2, Ka-50 Black Shark 3 will replace the current Ka-50 Black Shark 2, but existing owners of Ka-50 Black Shark 2 will get a significant discount for version 3.

DCS: P-47D Thunderbolt

Our next warbird for DCS World will be the P-47D Thunderbolt. The Thunderbolt will be our first allied radial-engine warbird for DCS World, and it will fill in fun and interesting role in operations over western Europe and beyond. Combining both air-to-air and air-to-ground mission capability, it will provide a wealth of mission types, heavy armament, excellent protection, and long-range.

The P-47D is far along in development with mostly flight model tuning, adding object details, and creating the mission content. Suit up!

We plan to release a new World War II Europe map to coincide with the release of the P-47D.

DCS: De Haviland Mosquito FB MK.VI

Following the P-47D, our next warbird will be the Mosquito. Noted for its impressive speed and heavy armament, the Mossy will provide a unique element to DCS World in both the attack and reconnaissance roles. Skimming Europe at tree-top height at high speed will be thrilling!

DCS: Mi-24P HIND

The Mi-24P has been in development for the past year, and it is on track to be released in 2020. The HIND will be the next helicopter for DCS World and will include cooperative multiplayer, next-generation graphics for the external model and cockpit, and a wide range of mission types from anti-armor attack to troop transport.
The Mi-24P will be an outstanding partner to the Mi-8MVT2!

DCS: F/A-18C Hornet and F-16C Viper

While our warbirds and helicopter teams are focused on the P-47D and Mi-24P, our modern-day jets team will be working diligently on the Hornet and Viper, with the goal for both to be feature complete and out of early access by the end of 2020.
Important development aspects for both will be the air-to-ground radars, a new Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) system, additional radar modes, new weapons, and more.

DCS: UH-1H Huey

For 2020, our next improvement for the Huey will be the addition of cooperative multiplayer. This is currently in internal testing, and we hope to have it to you soon.

Modern Air Combat

Over the past year, a massive amount of work has gone into Modern Air Combat in order to make it a AAA title. During this period, we have also expanded the scope and features of the product substantially. This has led to us push back its release date to 2020.

Modern Air Combat will not be a DCS World product, but rather a new series for us that focuses more on action, gameplay, and a shallowing learning curve.

DCS: OH-58D Kiowa Warrior

Developed by Polychop-Simulations, the developer of DCS: SA-342M Gazelle, the OH-58D will add the first American attack-reconnaissance helicopter to DCS World. Using the Mast-Mounted Sight (MMS), the Kiowa can acquire and track targets while in cover, and it has teeth that include Hellfire anti-tank guided missiles and unguided rockets.

DCS: F-15E Strike Eagle

Building upon their excellent M-2000C, Harrier, and MiG-19, RAZBAM is hard at work on the iconic F-15E Strike Eagle. Given the massive complexity and mission flexibility of this aircraft, it will be a very challenging module that we are sure RAZBAM will exceed expectations.

While there are other 3rd party aircraft in development, they are currently not under a development license agreement. Once they are, we look forward to providing you with updates on them.

In next week’s newsletter, we’ll talk about the non-aircraft projects and core DCS World improvements that we’ll be working on in 2020.

Happy New Years and thank you for the support and kindness,
The Eagle Dynamics Team

Dec 24, 2019

Stable version DCS 2.5.5.41371 patch notes

DCS World Steam Edition - bignewy

https://www.digitalcombatsimulator.com/en/news/changelog/stable/2.5.5.41371_stable/

Introducing DCS JF-17 Thunder by Deka Ironwork Simulations.
Added initial release of DCS Voice Chat.
Introduced new high quality A-10C cockpit.
Update for Normandy map (see details below).
Support of F-86F Hunters over the Yalu Campaign by Reflected Simulations.

DCS World
ChinaAssetPack: Add all JF-17 related weapons
Fixed DCS crash in AI Follow task
Fixed GUI Error when use Trigger Zone window after change locale
Server folders navigation will work in case of user name in windows contains dash symbol '-' (2D hex)
Graphic options. Graphic preset "High" will set "Default" value for "Terrain objects shadows"
ME. Custom coalition list isn't applied to new mission if it isn't saved - fixed
Shadows of some aircrafts will not disappear in some conditions
In relation of integrating the Voice Chat there was implemented new SOUND options
AI Wingmen will use radar by default without player permission
SPG Msta armour tweaked
Fixed crash caused by train destroying
MP. Fixed servers disappearing from the master list (error 28)
RTC crash when multiplayer track replayed - fixed
MP. Fix crash when client is entering a server with JDAM in flight
F-5E AI. Nose gear strut will now fully de-hike before it enters the wheel well
Voice Chat button will be disabled in simulation
Fixed crash when ship is deactivated if helicopter starts up at this time
Ground vehicles. Adjusted armor for BRDM-2, COBRA, Fuchs, LAV-25, M113, GAZ TIGR
China Asset Pack: added ZTZ-96B
No active AI reaction for broken lock with fox 3 - fixed
Voice chat. Client in the default configuration can connect to a non-standard server port
Voice chat. Problem when server with UPnP can not see other clients in voice chat is fixed
Voice chat. Connect to local Voice chat server via localhost, not the external IP
Voice chat panel. Added Illumination of the PTT button while transmitting
MP. Check for second instance BEFORE creating the logs
Fixed helicopters slide off the deck of moving ships
AI Spitfire erratic behaviour fixed
AI UH-1 gunner. Attack enemy helicopters restored
Dedicated server. Added the ability to take a screenshot of any player's DCS window
Corrected flight dynamics of AIM-120 missiles based on our latest CFD research. All changes increased the launch range by about 10-20%
AIM-120C got next changes:
- Significantly reduced subsonic and transonic zero-lift drag
- Slightly increased of siupersonic zero-lift drag
- Reduced lift-induced drag
- Increased lift
AIM-120B got next changes:
- Reduced lift-induced drag
- Increased lift
Both missiles received an updated calculation of thrust altitude dependency. Because of this, the thrust at altitude has become somewhat less, and the maximum speed is less
AI F-16C. Corrected landing gear compression on the ground

DCS: F/A-18C Hornet by ED
Added damage as a result of an overload of G-forces
Added Aft Antenna for the AWW-13 Data Link Pod
Fixed dispensing on both press and release by wall dispense button
AGM-62 Walleye trying to lock target right after uncage fix
Added noise on Walleye/Data Link video
AGM-62 Walleye select/deselect fix
AGM-62 Walleye Datalink interaction fix
Drop Tank Textures on VFA-106 skins fixed
Added illumination of some knobs in cockpit. Albedo of come cockpit textures tuned
Gen tie switch guard should move switch to NORM when closed - fixed
EXT XFER Caution fixed
Autostart in cold weather fixed
Fuel temperature initialization fixed
OBOGS failure causes pilot death even on the ground - fixed
Data link 16/MIDS between clients F-16 and F/A-18 aircraft is working
FCS override switch guard should move switch to NORM when closed - fixed
Added TWS radar mode
F18 REDFOR (US Aggressors + NATO) will be able to use GPS
Fixed significant performance drop on SA page with big amount of contacts
JDAM/JSOW STEP Logic changed
JDAM/JSOW Power Logic changed
Fixed JSOW not releasing from stations 7-8
Fixed several AA radar mode issues
Reworked AA modes transition logic
Corrected target designation logic via undesignate button
Restored missing TWS L&S Data
Corrected the heading vector of target tracks

DCS: F-16C Viper by ED
Jettison will no longer break SAM designation or STT Lock
Added damage as a result of an overload of G-forces
Track While Scan (TWS)
Data Link (Link-16 with MIDS)
External Lights (wip)
Countermeasures Dispenser System (CMDS) manual option programming
Fixed countermeasures rearming
Fixed dispensing on both press and release by wall dispense button
Corrected RWS Contact Symbols. Now contact displayed as a small square with velocity vector
Now radar scan area centered about cursor
Radar cursor is drawn below friendly and foe contacts - fixed
FCR tracks bugged target up to 20 degrees outside antenna limits - fixed
FCR cursor jumps from page edge to center even at max/min range scale - fixed
Added missing SAI pitch trim scale and arrow on the knob
Corrected antenna elevation axis
Added 300 gal centerline fuel tank
Adjusted payloads drag
MFD Clips text on SMS page - fixed
The eject sequence animation has been adjusted
Adjusting the seat animation by height corrected
Added radio-commands for radar usage to wingmen
Improved cockpit interior lighting at night
Fixed inlet and wingtip lights flashing
Adjusted inlet and wingtip lights brightness
Fixed external lights brightness control
Fixed ANT ELEV control sensitivity with keyboard
Datalink tracks now aren’t correlated after switching from TWS to RWS
FCR does not produce mid-course update for missiles - fixed
ACM Radar Lock Problem fixed
All target symbols disappear from FCR screen in EXP mode - fixed
Fixed wrong countermeasures amount after rearming
Fixed chaff/flare voice message
Fixed programme not running with either chaff or flare empty
RWR tones corrected
Added centerline fuel tank to F-16C missions originally designed with them in mind
Stick in the cockpit can be hidden
Added ability to change bombs laser code on ground (like in F-5)
Internal lights are creating triangle shadows in the cockpit - fixed
Fixed AIM-9 COOL at DGFT mod
Fixed sidewinder sound when not selected
Added wing flex (WIP)
Fixed significant performance drop on datalink/FCR pages with big amount of contacts
Added steerpoints modes for Autopilot
Fixed missile Tone with Guns selected
Fixed radar strobe on HSD does not mimicking horizontal motion of strobe on radar page
MAG VAR will now switch between AUT and MAN by use of the SEQ position of DCS switch
Fixed FUEL QTY SEL knob behavior with left mouse click action
Corrected right brake braking power
Gun can no longer be fired on the ground
Fixed pylon selection staying on an empty space after last missile was released
AIM-9 seeker uncage mode indication corrected
LAU-129 - missile rails now removed together with pylons
3D cockpit model. Eliminated some gaps and stitches in the forward part of the cockpit
Increased length of afterburner effect, slightly decreased diameter
Corrected afterburner textures
Flashlight can be used without aircraft battery power
3D model. Corrected wing flex animation with lights and pylons
Ground refuelling fixed when battery is off
AIM-9 Uncage Needed for Radar Slave - Fixed
Sidewinder Seeker Diamond won't move to target - Fixed
When the pylons are set to be removed in the Mission Editor, they missile rails still appear - Fixed

DCS: MiG-21bis by Magnitude 3 LLC
Added Phase 1 Radar glass screen cover
Added Phase 1 Radar indicator lights
Added Phase 1 T-4, T-6, and T-10 indicator lights

DCS: Christen Eagle II by Magnitude 3 LLC
Fixed propeller animation at idle

DCS: C-101 by AvioDev
Engine won't stall now when using emergency fuel lever with engine computer off
Now it's not so easy to get engine stall when moving throttle abruptly is engine computer is off
Changed the name of "computer total failure" for "failure of auto and manual modes (back-up mode)"
Added specific normal inverter and standby inverter failures, apart from both inverters failure already present
Implemented caution lights of normal and standby inverter failure
Normal and standby inverters failure logic:
After a failure of normal inverter there is an automatic switching to standby inverter, if CB Normal Inverter is IN
When there is an inverter failure, the corresponding caution light will illuminate, unless the pilot sets the inverter switch to the position of the working inverter
Added several new liveries made by "Etten" for Chile and Spain
Added realistic engine sound, though it’s still much WIP yet, especially cockpit sound. Expect further improvements in subsequent updates
Fixed the bug that caused total loss of electrical power when both batteries and bus tie were disconnected. Now the secondary bus still works, as it should (and the essential bus if essential transfer is engaged)
Fixed several other electrical system issues
Updated Caucasus hard mission and added Caucasus extremely hard mission:
Using anti-ice system will now prevent ice accretion in hard mission, while it will still be a problem in extremely hard mission since it takes place in stormy weather

DCS F-14B by Heatblur Simulations
NEW: Introducing NAVGRID for the TID
Added Jester functionality for Navgrid
Added Navgrid section to the manual
Make Jester switch to wide FOV on TCS more reliably when target becomes too large, including when TCS is tracking without radar STT
Increased IR signature for the F-14
Added AIM-7MH (aka AIM-7M H-build) to loadout
Further tweaks to Afterburner cone pending new afterburner effects
Fixed triggers for "HB Tomcat Iran Flogger Faceoff Coop" mission
Fix for IP to TGT settings not synced in multicrew (for CMPTR/IP bombing)
TCS: you can now fire phoenix and sparrow missiles on targets that have the radar slaved to TCS; WIP/not yet implemented: lock azimuth to TCS angle for RDR supersearch
Removed baking residue from cookies: black helmet knob shadow removed on default liveries
Show more accurate radar altimeter reading on carrier deck
Allow hooking datalink targets on TID in all radar modes
Fix: Allow half-action HCU slewing in TV mode to override slave to STT for TCS direction
Fixed floating RIO mirror
Fix HUD glow visibility
Fix RIO console & instrument light brightness step keybinds
Increased brightness of LANTIRN panel lights & text
Increased brightness of RIO cockpit buttons/controls
Tweaked missile loadout drag values on all stations
Fixed double fuel weight assigned to ac on carrier spawn
Possible fix to right engine not starting on spawn
Improved lead pursuit steering solution for missile launches
Fixes to TALD loadout definition for Jester menu naming
Fixes to TALD drag influence
Fix CTD when trying to enter lat/long for location hook
Added JF-17 VID/ recognition callouts for JESTER
Added JF-17 to the RWR threat library as '17'
Added all variants of Tornado to the RWR threat library as 'TO'
Added utility kneeboard charts for radar elevation
Added utility kneeboard charts for scan bars
Updated both versions of Cage the Bear Campaign. Thank you Kaba!
Fixed Jester Navgrid Reference manual entry being stuck after first use
Possible fix for idle lockup RPM bug
Tweaked damage probabilities for the engine (the engine will take damage more consistently from direct missile hits to the aircraft)
Adjusted damage thresholds for aerodynamics/structures (the airframe, structure and flight surfaces will take damage more consistently from direct missile hits to the aircraft)
Tuned AB thrust for top speeds after stores drag improvements
Further increased full flap drag when deployed above 275 KIAS

DCS AJS-37 by Heatblur Simulations
Aircraft now repairable
Adjusted acceleration at height. Fixed bug with abrupt deceleration at M1.85/1.72
Corrected HUD height information when setting altitude reference via HÖJD switch
Fixed sounds and heatblur from engine while the engine is shut off
NEW!: Added “Wrath of Thunder” (Caucasus) Campaign - Climb back into the cockpit, directly following the events that happened in "The Mjolnir Response". Help to end the war in Georgia. Enjoy!
NEW!: Added Pilot Body in Cockpit + associated keybinds
NEW!: Added Ram Air Turbine (RAT) visuals. The RAT will deploy with weight on the front wheel
NEW!: Added Radar Night Filter (not clickable yet)
Minor tweaks to cockpit graphics
Fix to TILS station being on the wrong end of a runway when landing in the opposite direction
Fix for afterburner not relighting after high alt flame-out
Increased max cockpit FoV
Sight ballistics improved for LD-bombs (tossing)
Fixed IRRB FRAMSTEGN (Sidewinder missile step)
Corrected issue where inputting wrong wind data would increase Bk90 accuracy
Removed various assertion-errors, especially associated with low-drag bombing
Fixed RAT clipping through intake
Fixed missing RAT textures
Fixed missing Pilot Oxygen hose
Fixed last sidewinder causing CTD
DCS Fw 190 A-8 by ED
Eliminated black stripe artefact that was displayed after pilot ejection

DCS Mi-8MTV2 by ED
Pilots not die at external view - fixed
Good old mission "A Hop from MinVody" (Russian voiceovers) is remade and available from Single Mission menu

DCS Combined Arms by ED
Clients unable to assign fire at point tasks via Combined Arms for units dynamically spawned in multiplayer - fixed

DCS P-51D by ED
Updated P-51 Mustang Sounds (External, Internal, Distance, Startup/Shutdown)

DCS AV-8B by RAZBAM
JDAMs Enabled
Fuel Flow modelling improved

UH-1H by ED
AI Door gunners engage units through buildings - Fixed

DCS Normandy 1944 map
Textures massive update for fields, cities and towns, villages, airfields
Added four new regions in France that includes:
Cana district
Quarantine estuary
Coasts north of the Utah landing zone
The Mont Saint-Michel area
Included seven new airfields (The total number of airfields has been increased to 38):
Argentan is a single-lane track
Barville is a two-lane dirt track
Essay is a single-lane grass track
Goulet is a single-lane grass track
Hauterive is a single-lane grass track
Vrigny is a single-lane grass trac
Conches is a single-lane concrete track
Airfields have a significant increase in detail with many more objects
Trees and forests have been updated to use SpeedTree, with 20 unique types of trees
More detailed Atlantic Wall:
Added costal anti-tank hedgehogs, barbed wire, etc.
8 zones were added that includes artillery batteries
New, detailed scenery has been added that includes:
Le Mont-Saint-Michel
Jumièges Abbey
Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Rouen
Rouen-Rive-Droite Station
More detail was also added objects in the original map
The vector data was significantly improved over 20,000 sq kms
Additional bug fixes and performance optimisations

Campaigns

M-2000C Red Flag campaign by Baltic Dragon.
Changes are to missions 4, 5, 7, 9, 10, 11, 13, 14 and 15:
Updated numerous missions to fix possible bug with AI wingmen and other flights not following their lead
Updated safeguard for Gazelles in M15 to make sure they are destroyed
Updated M04 and removed chatter about lack of NVGs

Spitfire IX The Big Show Campaign by Reflected Simulations:
Voice overs updated - Al Deere has a Kiwi accent now
Triggered explosions and fire effects added to make bombing raids more dramatic
Mission 6 - Typhoon leader returns to base properly
Mission 12 - clock position in voice over corrected
Mission 10, 12 - added more targets of opportunity

Bf 109 K-4 Jagdflieger Campaign by Reflected Simulations:
Some RTB speeds corrected
More airfield ambience objects added
Mission 8: D-day landings made more realistic / dramatic
Mission 8-9: ROE of enemy planes change based on the player's altitude
Mission 10: surprise opponent added
Triggered explosions and fire effects added to make bombing raids more dramatic

P-51D: The Blue Nosed Bastards of Bodney Campaign by Reflected Simulations:
Triggered explosions and fire effects added to make bombing raids more dramatic
Mission 10, 12 - added more targets of opportunity

M-2000C Red Flag Campaign by Baltic Dragon:
M06: fixed an issue with other flights in the package (including the wingman) refusing to taxi

Su-27 The Ultimate Argument:
Mission 11 - added AWACS

Dec 20, 2019

Winter Sale Begins & Christmas Open Beta Update

DCS World Steam Edition - NineLine

Winter Sale Begins!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OGq2vcbGgaI

Get great savings on that module you have been waiting for! The Winter sale started December 19th and runs until January 5th. Save up to 50% on most DCS World products, the only exceptions being:

DCS F/A-18 Hornet by ED - 25% off
DCS Persian Gulf Map by ED - 25% off
DCS: Christen Eagle II by Magnitude 3 LLC – 25% off
DCS: F-14 Tomcat by Heatblur Simulations – 20% off
DCS: F-16C Viper by ED – not on sale at this time
DCS: JF-17 Thunder by Deka Ironwork Simulations - not on sale at this time
F-86F Hunters over the Yalu Campaign by Reflected Simulations - not on sale at this time

Note that this is the first time the DCS: F-14 Tomcat will be on sale! Climb in Maverick.
We will also be taking part in the Steam Winter Sale.

Christmas Open Beta Update

This week saw the release of one of our biggest updates of the year. Many fixes and some very sought after features were introduced. Some of the highlights include:

New Cockpit for the A-10C
Updates to the Normandy Map
A number of fixes to the JF-17
Track While Scan (TWS) radar mode for the Hornet
And much more

See the full changelog for this patch, and the hotfixes released this week here.

Thrustmaster/Hornet Challenge

Thrustmaster, partnered with Eagle Dynamics SA, has created a competition for some of our favourite content creators. The challenge is for each creator to provide a video showing their coolest maneuver using the DCS: F/A-18C Hornet and the Thrustmaster Hornet Stick.
You can see all the videos here:

Jeff Favignano
DevilDogGamer
Jabbers
Growling Sidewinder
Spudknocker

Between December 20th and the 22nd, vote for your favourite video.
Follow Thrustmaster on social media for instructions on how to vote, and have a chance to win some prizes!
Thrustmaster Twitter - Thrustmaster Facebook - Eagle Dynamics Facebook

F-86F Hunters over the Yalu Campaign Released

The new F-86F Campaign by Reflected Simulations is available in the E-Shop now!

https://youtu.be/bgbO557tOB4

It's early 1953, and after completing several tours during WWII, you're once again putting your neck on the line by flying dangerous combat missions over North Korea. Command the 67th Fighter Bomber Squadron and attack enemy bridges, factories; strafe supply columns; and support US troops as they fight their fierce battles. Survive heavy flak and fighter attacks, and then transfer to the legendary 39th Fighter Interceptor Squadron to carry out large fighter sweeps over MiG Alley and fight massive battles in the stratosphere. Watch out for the honchos, they say Casey Jones is back in business!

Key Features:

12 realistic missions to be flown as the squadron leader of the 67th FBS and the 39th FIS
Sequel of the "Blue Nosed Bastards of Bodney" campaign, although not mandatory
A detailed background story, mission contexts, and checklists
Detailed briefings and briefing images that include separate PDF mission descriptions
Unique kneeboard graphics for each mission
Over 300 custom recorded voice-over messages and radio broadcasts
Historically accurate custom skins
A wide array of missions including CAS, Bombing, Fighter Sweep, Escort and Scramble

Development Update #9

Normandy Map Update - Our friends at Ugra Media have also provided a free update to their Normandy map for DCS World! This is a great home for the DCS warbirds. The update adds many new airfields and famous landmarks, a new tree and forest system, and more detail around existing airfields and urban areas.
We will be working closely with Ugra Media to make additional improvements to this work-in-progress.

Textures massive update for fields, cities and towns, villages, airfields
Added four new regions in France that includes:
- Cana district
- Quarantine estuary
- Coasts north of the Utah landing zone
- The Mont Saint-Michel area
Included seven new airfields (The total number of airfields has been increased to 38):
- Argentan is a single-lane track
- Barville is a two-lane dirt track
- Essay is a single-lane grass track
- Goulet is a single-lane grass track
- Hauterive is a single-lane grass track
- Vrigny is a single-lane grass track
- Conches is a single-lane concrete track
Airfields have a significant increase in detail with many more objects.
Trees and forests have been updated to use SpeedTree, with 20 unique types of trees.
More detailed Atlantic Wall:
- Added costal anti-tank hedgehogs, barbed wire, etc.
- 8 zones were added that includes artillery batteries.
New, detailed scenery has been added that includes:
- Le Mont-Saint-Michel
- Jumièges Abbey
- Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Rouen
- Rouen-Rive-Droite Station
- More detail was also added objects in the original map
The vector data was significantly improved over 20,000 sq kms.
Additional bug fixes and performance optimizations.

A-10C Warthog Cockpit - In 2011 we released our A-10C for DCS World and it has been one of our most successful and loved modules to date. Over the years, technology and tools have improved, and we are pleased to provide you with a free update to its cockpit. This includes an entirely new 3D mesh, new high-resolution textures, improved lighting, and improved VR.
This is an early work-in-progress, and we will further enhance the weathering, textures, and lighting over the coming weeks.

DCS: Ka-50 Black Shark Update - In 2020 we will also give you a free update to the Ka-50 Black Shark. Like the free A-10C cockpit, it has been re-built from scratch with a much higher level of detail and accuracy. We hope you enjoy it.

Merry Christmas to you and yours, and we thank you for your support and passion,
The Eagle Dynamics Team