In the DCS: Mi-24P Hind "Revenge" campaign, you will participate in similar events to the DCS: Su-25 campaign of the same name, this time as an army aviation pilot.
According to intelligence reports, there is evidence of a Georgian military ground force concentration on the south-eastern side of Enguri River along KAHAT - OIREME - BASHI - RIKE. They are attempting to create a striking echelon, consisting of the 2th MIB and reinforcing units. Enemy radiocommunication and the number of radio checks has also been increased.
In order to withstand the imminent threat in the region, the necessary reinforcements of friendly troops have been undertaken including; the shift of an extra pair of DCS: Mi-24P Hind attack helicopters to the advance position 2 km west of ACHIGVARA (callsign "Skala").
The “Revanche” campaign for the Hind and the brand new 3D pilot model are slated to be included in the next DCS 2.9 open beta update. Stay tuned!
Recently we announced that we have been reviewing new information about the differences between Mi-24V and Mi-24P swash plate movement limits. After thorough additional checks with our SME, we've got more factual information from the real aircraft. The current implementation still stands correct as a result of that research and in the end we've concluded that currently no changes are needed.
AGM-45 Shrike
Development Progress
As many aviation weapons experts know, the first generation of anti-radiation missiles that appeared in the 1960s, such as the AGM-45 Shrike, had interchangeable seekers tuned to different frequency bands. At that time, it was not possible to make one broadband universal seeker, so seekers were mounted on missiles before flight in accordance with the target type it was planning to strike. The Shrike has 10 interchangeable seekers tuned to different frequency bands that overlap each other. Wider bands are suitable for attacks on a family of similar radars, whereas narrower ones are for hitting specific types of radio-emitting equipment.
The AGM-45 Shrike missiles were widely used in the US Air Force by many tactical aircraft since the Vietnam War. In fact, they were the main ARM of both the multi-role F-4E Phantom aircraft and the specialized F-4G Wild Weasel. In DCS, you will be required to select the seeker from a special weapon settings panel in the Mission Editor.
Shadow’s Trophy 23
VIRPIL Controls Competition
The Shadow’s Trophy Tournament 2023 has started! This year, organizers have increased the number of groups to match all the helicopter modules available in DCS! 6 groups — 6 podiums — 18 winners! This tournament features automated selection of the finalists. Hurry! Qualification runs until November 26th, 2023. Read the regulations.
🥇1st Place: — VPC MongoosT-50CM2 Grip — VPC MongoosT-50CM3 Base — VPC Rotor TCS Base — VPC SharKa-50 Collective Grip or VPC Hawk-60 Collective Grip at the pilot's choice. ------- — OR €800 VIRPIL Controls Webstore Voucher
The Сhampions in each group receives 1 module for DCS developed by Eagle Dynamics!
🥈2nd Place: — VPC Rotor TCS Base — VPC SharKa-50 Collective Grip or VPC Hawk-60 Collective Grip at the pilot’s choice. ------- — OR €350 VIRPIL Controls Webstore Voucher
🥉3rd Place: — €100 Coupon valid in any official online store of VIRPIL Controls.
For all pilots who complete the course at least once during the Qualification stage: — Coupon for €5 valid in any online store of VIRPIL Controls!
Please kindly note that this competition requires DCS 2.9 Open Beta. Qualification is open until the 26th of November and the most experienced pilots will battle on for the podium in the Finals on the 2nd of December, 2023! Good luck pilots and see you on the race track! Check out the VIRPIL Control’s tournament page for more information and join the VIRPIL Discord now!
The F-4 Phantom II is an American two-seat, twin-engine, all-weather, long- range supersonic jet interceptor and fighter-bomber originally developed by McDonnell Aircraft for the United States Navy. After entering service with the Navy in 1961, it became adopted by the United States Marine Corps and United States Air Force. Due to its high adaptability, versatility and for its time, unparalleled capabilities, it quickly turned into the main workhorse for all 3 branches and spread beyond the borders of the United States, going on to serve and protect 12 nations across the world, with Phantoms still in operation today. Its production ran from 1958 to 1981, and with nigh 5200 Phantoms built, it became the most produced supersonic US military aircraft in the history, solidifying its place as one of the most recognizable and well known aircraft of the cold war era.
It truly was an iconic and phabulous aircraft that enjoyed unrivaled power and capabilities at the time. It instilled a sense of wonder with unmatched character and left its pilots with a deep sense of respect and love. Both an interceptor and potent air to air fighter, it proved its multirole capabilities as a highly effective air to ground workhorse which packed a serious punch. This unprecedented mission agility and reliability is reflected in the type’s operational lifetime which spanned well over six decades, continuing even today.
Some of the important features of the aircraft are the two General Electric J- 79 turbofan engines which generated an impressive dry thrust of 23,810 lbs and a max afterburner thrust of 35,690 lbf; a crew of two; the powerful AN/APQ-120 Radar; the Digital Scan Converter Group (DSCG); the Weapons Release Computer Set (WRCS); the Aircraft Weapons Release Unit (AWRU) and an Altitude Reference and Bombing Computer Set (ARBCS). The DSCG version of the F-4E also comes with the AN/AVQ-23 Pave Spike targeting pod, allowing for precision strikes and the (self-)-employment of laser guided ammunition. Additionally the F-4E can carry the AGM-65 Maverick, a wide array of iron bombs as well as TV and laser guided bombs, plus the capability to carry out Wild Weasel (SEAD) tasks in a limited capacity with the AGM-45 Shrike. Unlike previous Phantom variants, the -E comes equipped with an integrated M61 Vulcan cannon that can be used both in an air to ground and air to air role. It has an optical sight that allows for lead computing optical sighting (LCOS) in air to air, as well as the ability to carry additional Vulcan cannon pods. It benefits from the ALR-46 Radar Warning Receiver, the AN/ALE-40 countermeasures suite, the AN/ALQ-131 ECM pod, KY-28 encryption equipment and employs a range of early to modern era AIM-9 Sidewinder and AIM-7 Sparrow missiles for aerial combat that can be also used through the additional specialized CAGED and computer automatic acquisition (CAA) modes. The Heatblur Simulations F-4E Phantom II aims to simulate this iconic aircraft as a high-fidelity module for DCS, being the culmination of several years of research, coding and modeling. Special points to highlight are the extensive use of laser scanning and photogrammetry from real Phantoms at various museums, the detailed External Flight Model (EFM) developed over the past several years and verified by F-4 pilots and WSOs, the detailed modeling of the AN/APQ- 120 radar, the various complex onboard systems, and the ability to fly as a two- crew aircraft in multiplayer in addition to the proprietary JESTER-AI assisting you as your AI-WSO in singleplayer.
Key features of the Heatblur Simulations DCS: F-4E Phantom II include:
The simulation of both the DSCG and DMAS equipped -E variants, the DMAS version following later during the Early Access period.
Highly-detailed external model that is built using laser scanning and photogrammetry taken of real F-4 Phantoms across the globe.
New weapon models for some of the F-4 Phantom payloads like the AGM-45 Shrike, the AGM-12 Bullpup, the AGM-62 Walleye, and AN/AVQ-23 Pave Spike targeting pod.
Highly-detailed and accurate 6-DOF (Degrees of Freedom) cockpit that is also built using photogrammetry from the F-4 Phantoms preserved at museums, including Heatblur FORGE elements to be added later during Early Access.
Highly-detailed and accurate pilot and WSO models that will eventually match the many liveries and different nations. Later, during early access, a full character customization system will allow you to customize your pilot and pick and match various equipment to stylize your crew.
Highly-accurate, F-4 pilot and WSO verified, External Flight Model (EFM) based on real performance data.
Accurate aircraft systems simulation featuring: - The Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS). - Detailed electrical system that accurately simulates sources, current, and consumption. It includes realistic circuits and power draw for every connected device. - Detailed Hydraulic System that simulates the flow of hydraulic liquid. This ultimately moves the hydraulics which in turn move the various flight surfaces, etc. - Detailed and accurate oil and fuel system. - Mass based physics system, allowing for unprecedented simulation of moving surfaces, with realistic behavior according to their mass and properties.
Fully functional multi crew that allows a two-seat functionality in multiplayer. This allows a player as pilot to team up with another player as the Weapon Systems Officer, WSO.
JESTER AI 2.0: Heablur’s new and improved lifelike AI that fills the role of the WSO when flying in singleplayer or multiplayer without a human WSO. JESTER AI 2.0 expands functionality, dialogue options, and more.
A simulated Crew Chief for a more immersive and complete startup procedure.
Later during early access, a brand new walkaround mode allows you to do pre-flight checks on your aircraft.
A new versatile set of UI features, that allows for live in-cockpit viewing of the manual and the ability to interact with the various settings and options pertaining to your mission and flight. This feature will be continually expanded during Early Access.
Introducing Heatblur Interactive Tooltips that provide the ability to click on a switch and be directly taken to the relevant manual part without ever leaving your cockpit.
New and improved effects like advanced overwing vapors, new procedural animation systems, and more.
Detailed and highly accurate simulations of the AN/APQ-120 radar and ALR-46 RWR.
A detailed simulation of the AN/AVQ-23 Pave Spike targeting pod that allows the WSO to guide laser guided munitions dropped by the pilot or other aircraft (buddy-lasing).
A comprehensive digital manual, both as a PDF and as a continually updated online manual. It is directly accessible from within the cockpit at any time via Interactive Tooltips and/or the EBAG.
A complete set of interactive and voiced tutorials.
A comprehensive set of missions and campaigns to be gradually released during Early Access and beyond.
NOTE: Some features may not be available immediately. The later F-4E DMAS equipped variant, including Pave Tack and TISEO, will follow during the early access period and the tutorials and campaigns will be implemented and expanded as well.
Please remember you can save -25% whilst pre-purchasing the DCS: F-4E Phantom II on our E-Shop now! This discount will not be available once the module is released to early access.
Get ready to save big on the most popular aircraft, terrains, tech packs and campaigns in the DCS Halloween Sale 2023. Hurry! The massive 50% discounts will end on the 5th of November at 23:59 GMT on our Shop. But wait, there's more! We are equally thrilled to be offering you with a Steam sale as well, where you can find the same incredible deals until the 2nd of November at 15:00 GMT.
Radar Search Modes
Development Report
Over the past several months, we have been developing a realistic radar-model of search mode operations. This White Paper describes the features and how they are accounted for in our model. The focus of the paper is the target detection process, its probability-based nature, and the reasons for that randomness. We will also briefly discuss detection performance of our AN/APG-73 and AN/APG-68(V)5 radar models and related features. For more details, we have specially prepared a white paper document for you to enjoy. Please, read the White Paper Radar Phase 2.
WWII Missions
New Free Content
As a fearlessly skilled pilot of the Bf-109 Kurfurst, Fw-190 A8 Anton, and Fw-190 D9 Dora, brace yourself for the 'Beauvais - Close Air Support' mission, the daunting 'Caen Rail Hub - Bomber Intercept' mission, and the Defend Amiens-Glisy Airfield mission. For all valiant allies, take control of the Spitfire Mk IX, P-47D Thunderbolt, P-51D Mustang, and Mosquito FB VI to engage in the high-stake Harbour Bombing Raid, and experience the 'Train Strafe’ mission, where you'll unleash devastating blows to enemy convoys.
We truly hope that you can take advantage of Halloween Sale 2023 for Steam extension! We also hope that the radar improvements are to your satisfaction and we kindly await your feedback. Please make sure to also check out the new WWII missions now available in 2.9.
ME. Resource manager. Supplier arrow from previous mission remains in some case - fixed
MP. Ships livery does not match livery specified in mission - fixed
AI aircraft. S-3B. Wrong animation of refueling - fixed
AI aircraft. S-3B. Incorrect pylons are displayed in simulation - fixed
AI aircraft. S-3B. Arresting hook sinks in to deck at wire release - fixed
Stennis CVN-74 is not available for spawn and landing without the SC module - fixed
MP. Aircraft and missiles in flight "jitter" back and forwards - fixed
AI aircraft. IL-76MD middle section can endure too many hits - fixed
MP. TACAN range stuck at 20 nm whenever Voice Chat is disabled - fixed
Graphics. Some graphical options can be changed in the simulation without affect to picture: Anti-Aliasing, Flat Shadows Blur, SSS - fixed
Graphics. Screen Space Shadows with DLSS cause Shadow issues - fixed
MP. The new rotor wash effect is not visible other clients - fixed
Graphics. DLSS. FC3 aircraft HUD blurs with rapid movement - fixed
The scripting function coalition.getPlayers() doesn't return CA controlled objects. Only aircraft set to player/client that are occupied are returned. As a result it is impossible to know which units are directly being controlled by Combined Arms players - fixed.
MP. Net protocol changed, so old version servers will not be shown into server list.
DCS: F-16C Viper by Eagle Dynamics
Fixed: TDOA in MP causes severe server lag and 100% CPU usage on server.
Fixed: TDOA generates frozen target
Fixed: AA FCR is detecting ground units (Ground targets are displayed if they have radial velocity more or equal MTR value).
Fixed: Performing the BIT test will remove lock tones from the RWR
Fixed: TDOA generates frozen target
DCS: F/A-18C by Eagle Dynamics
Added New pilot model from first person (Work in progress). Known issues: The salute command doesn't work when using option Afterburner detent.
Fixed: Jamming Symbology Missing from RDR ATTK Page
Fixed: Crash in missions with more than 1000 units
Fixed: Sensor Control Switch aft inoperable in ACM bore mode
Fixed: External fuel tanks do not MASK ATFLIR correctly
DCS: AH-64D by Eagle Dynamics
Fixed: Attitude Hold sub-modes are causing occasional oscillations in pitch and roll.
Fixed: Crash on Datalink BDA Send
Fixed; Throttle Levers not syncing in Multicrew
Fixed: Circular pattern appearing in CPG monitor in certain conditions
DCS: Mi-24P Hind by Eagle Dynamics
Improved: Petrovich AI targets detection tuning. Now Petrovich will take into account more factors like:
If target moving then detection is faster
If target is on road then detection is faster
If Petrovich already detected this target before and scanning same area again same target will take much less time to detect
Added: Petrovich AI now scan for targets routinely from his cockpit when he is not using ATGM aiming sight. Petrovich will report contacts clock wise if he will detect anything. Contacts report if remembered and not spammed constantly, he only warns commander ones then some time should pass before he warns commander about same contacts again. Only subtitles for now.
DCS: A-10C by Eagle Dynamics
Fixed: wrong radio for the voice chat instead of ARC-210 (A-10C II only)
Fixed: SADL: changing ID's only affects own aircraft (fixed duplicate entries in TM and Donor lists after multiple pressing dtc upload button)
Fixed: GBU-31/38/54 do not align
DCS: Yak-52 by Eagle Dynamics
Added: LODs to the aircraft
Fixed: too small trigger zone in the take-off training mission
DCS: Supercarrier by Eagle Dynamics
Fixed: Stennis CVN-74 is not available for spawn and landing without the SC module
DCS Mirage F1 by Aerges
Fixed the inability to communicate with radios (not heard in a hot start mission unless function selector is cycled off and on).
Fixed incorrect fuel quantities initialization in a second, and subsequent starts of missions with different F1 versions being selected in each.
The detotalizer will now display correct values during mission progress.
Fixed the radar scan slowing down sometimes.
Fixed F1BE not reacting to ground crew actions: 'ground power on/off', 'weapons rearm and refuel' and 'repair'.
Fixed rear cockpit ladder animation.
Fixed rear cockpit parking brake inputs not working.
Rear cockpit right brake animation is now independent from left brake.
Fixed throttle (C + M or SW)R button that was not moving with throttle.
Fixed ejection seat pin, it now disappears when fully removed).
Added Mirage F1 BE Single and Quick Start missions for Nevada and Syria maps.
DCS: SA-342 Gazelle by Polychop Simulations
Fixed: VOIP radio selection
DCS: C-101 Aviojet by AvioDev
The radio for transmission is correctly selected now at hot start, before the Intercom mode selector is touched
Over the past weeks, we have discussed a number of the new features coming to DCS 2.9. This update is an important milestone for DCS that is designed to improve your experience across a broad range of areas and is heavily influenced by your feedback and requests. Thank you for your patience and commitment. We also want to thank our external testers for the long hours that they have contributed to proofing this update.
Once we are satisfied with the state of the 2.9 Open Beta, we will move to the DCS stable version.
What to expect in DCS 2.9 Open Beta and later in no particular order:
New Voice Chat features and immersive radio sound effects
Datalink improvements for F-16C, F/A-18C, A-10C II, and AH-64D
Radar improvements for the F-16C and F/A-18C
Mirage F1 BE variant
Updated camera view controls allowing you to use the WASD and QE keys to position the camera on any unit
Improved Track Replay System, W.I.P.
Improved “spotting dots” that change with resolution and are not affected by zoom, W.I.P.
Colour grading option
New 3D models that include the B-1B, B-52H, S-3B, C-RAM, and SA-10
Transport troops using player-controlled ground vehicles with Combined Arms
Nvidia DLSS 3.5 support
Rotor wash visual effect W.I.P
Airflow effect on vegetation W.I.P
New Spitfire Mk. IX cockpit textures and improved details
Mission updates for all Warbirds
AIM-9 family update
R-13M, R-60, R-3R, and R-3S missiles refactor
Custom payloads
We are thrilled to launch these improvements and trust they will enhance your DCS experience and we look forward to your feedback! Read the full changelog.
Weasels Over Syria
F-16C Viper Campaign
Strap into the mighty F-16C Viper and enter the world of the Wild Weasel! Taking place over Syria, you will fly head-on into the enemy air defences. This campaign features 12 thrilling and immersive missions in which you are tasked with SEAD, DEAD, search and destroy, strike and escort missions. Included are 75 pages of scenario intelligence reports, 22 pages of SPINS, and over 200 pages of detailed briefing and kneeboards. A custom Air Traffic Control (ATC) system has also been created for your home airfield. Buy the DCS: F-16C Weasels over Syria Campaign now!
NEW: Added support for Nvidia DLSS. Using upscaling, Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) can dramatically improve game performance if you are Graphics Processor Unit (GPU) limited. Please note that if your CPU is limited, DLSS will have little to no performance effect. Owners of Nvidia 40-series graphics card will most benefit from this. With DLSS selected as the Upscaling option, you can further refine quality versus performance with Quality, Balance, Performance, and Ultra Performance presets. WIP
NEW: Added support for AMD FSR 2, FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) also using an upscaling algorithm to improve performance. Also like DLSS, it will have little to no effect if you are CPU-limited. WIP.
NEW: Anti-Aliasing. If Upscaling is set to OFF, three anti-aliasing modes are available.
Multi-Sampling Anti-Aliasing (MSAA)
Temporal Anti-Aliasing (TAA)
Deep Learning Anti-Aliasing (DLAA)
NEW: Added graphics option for Screen Space Shadows (SSS). This adds improved shadow detail to grass, bushes, and tree shadows. This is most evident with moving grass and tree shadows at long view distances. WIP.
NEW: Color Grading. Select between nine image color gradients that allow you to adjust the tint of the image to provide the desired effect. This can be most useful for video creators.
NEW: LOD Switch Factor. The Level of Detail (LOD) slider allows you to adjust the distance at which a unit transitions to lower level of detail models. 1 is the default value, but by setting a lower value, game performance can be increased.
NEW: Sharpening. The slider adjusts the image sharpness between 0.00 (default) and 1.00. Sharpening can help make it look crisp and clear by enhancing the edges of objects in the image. However, adding too much sharpness can actually make an image look worse, or it can lead to a loss in image detail. When using DLSS, we suggest a setting of 0.5 and 0.8-1.0 for FSR.
NEW: Cinematic Camera View - Right Control + F2. In combination with the mouse, the WASD keys can be used to move the camera forward, back, and laterally, and the Q and E keys can move the camera up and down. This allows the camera to be positioned in reference to the unit’s coordinate system, allowing much greater camera control for cinematic scenes.
NEW: 3D Models. Newly created models for the B-1B, B-52H, S-3B (S-3B Tanker to follow shortly), “Centurion” C-RAM, and SA-10 (S-300PS).
NEW: Ability to create, save, delete and rename custom weapons loadouts using in game rearm/refuel menu.
Improved “spotting dots” added (WIP):
Increased dot size at high resolutions
Zoom is not affecting dots size
In order to disable new “spotting dots” and revert to previous logic user can put “DotRendererExperiment = False” in autoexec.cfg file located in \Saved Games\DCS.openbeta\Config\
Improved Replays/Tracks: Improved track replay for human controlled aircraft by conducting more frequent continuity checks, WIP. - Note, increased track file data size when saved to disk.
NEW: Advanced Waypoint Action for Unlimited Fuel Option for AI. Please note the task must be at the top of Advanced Waypoint Actions list to make sure it works properly.
NEW: Perform Task/Strafing for aircraft and helicopters as Advanced Waypoint Action. You can now set placement, length, attack direction and attack quantity.
NEW: Added helicopter rotor downwash influence on vegetation.
Graphics. When flying at high altitude, at certain angles, the aircraft, lights and even effects can be seen reflected on the water surface in the far distance - fixed
ME. “No Pylon” payload restriction does not work - fixed
Soil crater is drawn on water surface in certain cases - fixed
MT. Graphics. No ground vehicle dust/snow trail - fixed
GUI. Scale GUI messes with characters alignment - corrected
Memory leak when DCS window minimized to taskbar (both ST and MT) - fixed
ME. Refused from “ИПМ”, “КПМ” markings for non-Westerns due to improper assignment.
AI Ships. Aircraft with start from the deck of Kuznetsov spawn in the air - fixed
Crash on track restart in some cases - fixed
JTAC. During LGB delivery JTAC marked the target with smoke instead of laser and says to use a gun - fixed
FLIR. Added radar heating.
Ships. Fixed sound for CV Kuznetsov.
VR Option. Added Controller position sliders. Ultraleap special option. Added position sliders.
MT. Trains jitter when moving - fixed
DCS Weapons
New implementation of A2A missiles (by ED) for MiG-21 and AJS-37: R-3S, R-3R, R-13, R-13M1, Rb-24/24J, and Rb-74.
Fixed inaccuracies in several versions of the AIM-9.
Added AIM-9P3 and R-60A missiles.
Fixed R-60 payload drag.
AIM-120 has a more advanced 3rd order tracking filter and double-contoured tracking loop that provides faster transient process and higher resistance to ECM blinking.
Introduced ejector mechanics for bombs.
F/A-18C. AIM-7 missile is incorrectly attached to pylon 4 and 6 - fixed
MK-82Y. Huge aiming miss - fixed
Wind correction for CBU-105 WCMD inaccuracy - fixed
Sea Cat's and Sea Wolf's proximity fuzes are disabled by default - fixed
When dropping a CBU-97 from a low altitude, submunitions would sometimes get stuck in the ground - fixed
BGM-109C. Incorrect name in debriefing - fixed
Kh-29 - missiles got updated FM and realistic autopilot / guidance system.
Increased dispersion of air rockets.
Updated eject/release effect of all air-to-ground weapons in China Asset Pack.
For the entire list of new features, improvements and fixes, please read the full changelog.
To ensure improved immersion, our new Voice Chat system now uses real-world audio physics to modulate the sound of your voice in order to replicate radio effects. To create more life-like communications, distortions, signal loss, and interference are simulated. These effects will vary based on the era of the radio, meaning, voices in modern aircraft will be clearer than in warbirds.
We are also making improvements to the radio and Voice Chat Room interfaces, allowing you to find your friends in multiplayer more easily.
Soon, Voice Chat will be rolled out to all other DCS modules, starting with the ‘Airboss’ for DCS: Supercarrier. We are also working on a separate voice chat program, which will allow you to communicate with units in multiplayer servers without having to actually run the simulator. Please subscribe to the newsletter in the Personal section on our website for more details coming soon!
Datalink
Development Report
Both the F-16C and F/A-18C include the Tactical Network Datalink, or TNDL. This allows the creation and in-mission editing of datalink members. Members can exchange air-to-air and air-to-surface targeting information. Both aircraft types can exchange data with each other. Please enjoy these videos by Matt Wagner on the DCS: F-16C Viper | Datalink Update and the DCS: F-16C Viper | HARM Targeting Update with TDOA. To get familiar with datalink in the Hornet, make sure to check out the DCS: F/A-18C | Datalink Update video.
DCS 2.9 will also include datalink for the AH-64D. This datalink can currently only exchange data between other AH-64Ds. It features the ability to send and receive participant locations, targets and threats, waypoints and hazards, routes, and more. It also allows the sharing of fuel, ammunition, rockets, missiles, FARM and reports between members. Watch the DCS: AH-64D | Datalink Setup and DCS: AH-64D | Datalink Messaging.
The DCS: A-10C II Tank Killer datalink will also benefit from an update in DCS 2.9, allowing you to configure Track Numbers for A-10C II aircraft as members and donors across groups.
MAD Black Shark
Campaign by Stone Sky
In the upcoming DCS: MAD Black Shark Campaign by Stone Sky, you will take part in a civil war in the Persian Gulf region. Get ready to operate the Ka-50 Black Shark 3 from an aircraft carrier and travel across the entire DCS: Persian Gulf map. This campaign includes both single-player and multiplayer gameplay.
Missions from Special Operations Forces CAS and CSAR missions
Assault operations in large cities
12 narrative missions with English and Russian localisation
Over 1400 triggers and story radio dialogues
Custom liveries for KA-50-3, UH-H1, UH-60, JF-17, Su-27, and Su-33
Detailed documentation and kneeboard
Multiplayer available for two players
We hope you enjoyed the update on the new Voice Chat features and improvements to the datalinks. Please note that these features are planned for the DCS 2.9 Open Beta update. We look forward to your feedback!
In our previous White Paper regarding Phase 1 of improving the F-16C and F/A-18C radars, we discussed advances in how we calculate detection range based on Pulse Repetition Frequency (PRF), average transmitted power, receiver noise figure, antenna area, and Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR). You can find this White Paper here:
For Phase 2 of radar model update, we will be accounting for the following:
Fluctuation of Target RCS. Real targets have complex shapes, and their linear sizes are often larger than radar wavelength. This means that radar returns from different parts of the airframe may add or cancel each other depending on their relative phase causing the RCS to fluctuate. In our approach, RCS is approximately constant during dwell, but randomly changes from dwell to dwell according to exponential distribution (this approach is known as the Swerling Case I model). This results in non-constant detection range and target detection probability.
Noise Variability. Detection probability will also depend on the noise level, its variability, and the number of Coherent Processing Intervals (CPIs) per dwell. Because the noise level continuously changes, the target may or may not be detected in a particular CPI. For example: There are three CPIs per dwell in HPRF RWS mode, and for successful ranging, the target should be detected in all three CPIs. Obviously, the probability of detection in all three CPIs is lower than the probability of detection in one of three CPIs or in three of eight CPIs (like in MPRF mode). In HPRF Velocity Search mode, Post-Detection Integration (PDI) replaces Frequency Modulation Ranging (FMR). In that mode, signals from three CPIs are summed to make noise fluctuations smaller and thus minimise the probability of false alarms. This allows lower threshold sensitivity and increased detection range without increasing false alarm probability.
Mode-Specific Range and Doppler Resolution. Closely spaced targets may not be resolved individually, and they may be displayed as a single target. Return energy off such targets may fall into a single doppler range bin and result in detection at longer ranges. Velocity resolution depends on CPI duration. So, in HPRF with three CPIs per dwell resolution is better than that in MPRF mode with eight CPIs per dwell (dwell duration is constant, so CPIs are shorter). In RAID mode, up to four CPIs may be merged into one, thus increasing velocity resolution four times. RWS HPRF mode uses linear frequency modulation for ranging, and it has poor range resolution (in order of 2 nm, which improves four times in RAID mode). In MPRF mode, range resolution is defined by range bin size and it is always equal to 150 meters.
Atmospheric Propagation Loss. The atmosphere absorbs radio waves proportional to its density. So, at higher altitudes, detection range is greater than at low altitude.
In summary, the Phase 2 changes provide a more realistic simulation of radar detection probabilities that will have more variable detection ranges, low-quality/spurious detections, more accurate RCS effects, and modelling of radar modes.
In Phase 3 we will focus on false targets, look-down performance, and improved modelling of Single Target Track (STT) mode.
Mi-24P Hind
Development Progress
Recent DCS: Mi-24 Hind development has focused on additional Petrovich AI features, an SPO-10 RWR system update, and tuning of the swashplate control limits.
Petrovich AI is getting new and more realistic target scan behaviour to deal with the same issues that real crews cope with. You may have noticed that Petrovich AI now lists all the targets he can see only after his sight is enabled and can be slewed. We've decided to improve this interaction with Petrovich AI by restricting him to the same limits as a human operator.
The new target scanning system involves a deeper analysis of the target area and its surroundings. It will analyse the target area for any threats in the vicinity. After that, the algorithm calculates the search time based on the number of objects surrounding the target. With this new system, only targets that are clearly in view will be recognized instantly, while targets that are hidden by trees, bushes etc. will take longer to spot. The more objects surrounding the potential target, the longer it will take for Petrovich to detect it.
The updated SPO-10 RWR will consist of four channels with completely independent processing, the same as in the real system. The radar detection calculations are physics based, they calculate the radiation pattern of the transmitting source, the sensitivity of the receiving antennas, and the transmitting power of the emitter. This translates to detecting low-power radar emitters and shorter range and vice versa. Detection range will also vary based on bearing to the emitter source. For certain radars, the range can also be judged based on how frequent the detections are. The system will now only detect emission sources within the operating frequency range of the RWR. For instance, early warning and search radars and some other radar types will not be detected.
We are also refining the pitch and roll channels authority based on comparison data. Our earlier version was based on the Mi-24V swashplate limits. Compared to new Mi-24P data, it should have less authority in pitch and roll, and we are correcting this discrepancy. This will make DCS: Mi-24P Hind more responsive to pitch and roll input changes.
BogeyDope
Promotion
Please visit BogeyDope's channel! His goal is to grow the DCS community by breaking down the complex topics into manageable tutorials. This is a fantastic resource for new DCS pilots learning to fly complex aircraft. Watch his channel and please show him your support!
Included in the latest DCS 2.9 build are five months of development work that you have not yet had the opportunity to see. We are thankful to all our QA and Closed Beta Testers for their invaluable time in helping to shape the DCS of tomorrow.
What to expect in DCS 2.9 and later in no particular order:
New Voice Chat features and immersive radio effects
Datalink improvements for F-16C, F/A-18C, A-10C II, AH-64D
New cinematic camera view
New 3D models like B-1B Lancer, B-52H, S-3B, S-3 Tanker, C-RAM, S-300PS
AI aircraft behaviour improvements
Troops transport on player-controlled vehicle
Nvidia DLSS support
And more….
We look forward to sharing more about the list of new features coming to DCS 2.9 in an upcoming newsletter. Please stay tuned!
Multiplayer
Development Report
The new multiplayer server user interface adds more convenient ways for you to interact and choose aircraft slots in a multiplayer server. This capability, which has been a highly requested feature by the Community, will permit you to view all aircraft spawn slot locations on the map and to select directly from there.
We also added a filter system for the slot list that will be built into the interface. So when a slot is picked from the list, the map view will jump to that slot location.
Additionally, we are completing a new kind of aircraft slot that will be dynamically added by the filter system based on the availability and inventory of the airfield warehouse. This new dynamic system will not replace traditional slots but will add convenience for mission designers and will coexist with regular spawn slots. The system of dynamic slots will distribute spawns to parking positions automatically and will not need any additional placement of aircraft from the mission designer. When spawning in a "dynamic" slot, users will be able to choose aircraft type, hot or cold start and all parameters that are available in the rearming panel. We are in regular contact with community server hosts and content creators who are helping us greatly with their excellent feedback.
B-17G
Livery Competition
To those of you who participated in the B-17G Livery challenge, thank you for your fantastic artwork. All the top ten liveries will soon be added to the B-17G in the DCS: WWII Assets Pack. Please take a look at the full list of winners:
We sincerely hope that you will enjoy these excellent liveries and hope that the sneak peek at the upcoming 2.9 version and the future Multiplayer (MP) enhancements are to your liking.
We are not just celebrating 15 Years of DCS, we’re also setting the stage for the next 15 years of flight simulation history! Until this Sunday, most of our aircraft, terrains, tech packs, and campaigns are available with up to 60% discount on our Shop! Thanks to the great interest in our 15 Years of DCS celebration sale we decided to extend the closing date until the 24th of September, 16:00 GMT on our Shop. Don’t miss the final days and the opportunity to get something special at an exceptional price.
In the next DCS Open Beta, you will be able to customize your data link members consisting of up to four team members and 12 donors using the Mission Editor based on Track Numbers, or TNs. Please note that this operates on a different data link than the F-16C and F/A-18C data links. At a later point, we plan to add a second data link option that will be compatible with those other aircraft. Stay tuned!
We are also making steady progress on the implementation of the SNS + INS system, which will provide more immersive and realistic position errors. Over the past month, the DCS: A-10C II Tank Killer has undergone maintenance, and several bugs have been corrected. Notably, AGM-65L laser codes from 2111 to 2688 couldn't be read from the scratchpad; this has now been fixed. The laser code has also been added to the MAV page, which is available for editing. We are tuning and adding new functions to the ARC-210 radio and Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) guidance system.
The Virtual 303rd FG
MP Server
The Virtual 303rd Fighter Group is an excellent team whose focus is on tactics, training, and realistic combat operations. The members have over 2,400 sorties, totaling more than 5,000 multiplayer flight hours in the DCS: A-10C II Tank Killer and DCS: F-16C Viper. They have their very own DCS: F-15E squadron too!
The v303rd offers structured training for all of their supported aircraft, optional follow-on training, and two persistent, dedicated servers that run training and combat missions on the DCS: Nevada NTTR.
They are a highly professional, close-knit and relaxed mil-sim group that prioritises family-first. If you enjoy flying with friends while focusing on real world tactics, techniques, and procedures, join the 303rd Fighter Group Discord.