Hot-fix for the latest DCS Version. Please download update your DCS version now!

• Error in wMessage::buildSpeech() ("F-15E - Communication issues with high-digit call signs, support high digits callsigns)
  
• GUI Error when try to change frequency in the generated mission

• INS loses data if engine shuts down and EPU is triggered
  
• laser code set in ME not working
  
• Tuning the IFA alignment - IFA with GPS velocity update fix (an important one

• CTD with new Oculus/Meta Quest 2/3 v63 software - fixed.
  
• NEW: Added over-pressure shockwave influence from bombs, missiles, shells and gunfire on terrain vegetation like trees, bushes, and grass.
  
• FIXED - Linked Zone doesn't work with player-controlled units in Mission Editor.
  
• ChinaAssetPack. Fixed HQ-7 AI launcher missile guidance issue (better hit rate).
  
• ChinaAssetPack. Changed HQ-7 EO drivable version back to tracking radar version
  
• Voice chat:
  - Added a separate input layer for each FC3 aircraft.
  - Added the Forced PTT mode for intercom.
  - Fixed. FM range is missing R-862 radio.
  - Fixed. The frequency range of P-832M.
  
• Weapons. Chaffs do not affect some radar-guided SAMs missiles - fixed.
  
• AI aircraft. Tanker hose-cone is in retracted state when refuelling - fixed.
  
• Update default trimmer sounds in accordance with new references.
  
• AI aircraft. Helicopter with certain main rotor damage makes its crew heads bounce as if head-bangers - fixed.
  
• ME. Crash when deleting text from editor text field in some cases - fixed.
  
• GUI. When the user edit the joystick name and pressing <ENTER> (as suggested by tooltip), OPTIONS window closes - fixed.
  
• Weapons. AGM-65E2\L still hits the target after the laser designator turns off - fixed.
  
• ME. Freeze at Sim Poststart when using 'Show Hidden Units' - fixed.
  
• MP. When started after a DCS client, a local dedicated server "steals" Force Feedback from the DCS client - fixed.
  
• MP. JTAC laser code setting is transferred to another mission - fixed.
  
• AI surface. Some ships prevent Fog of War unfogging when they are more or less distant from the enemy targets - fixed.
  
• AI surface. Ground units don't work if the mission has an intro - fixed.
  
• AI surface. Some units always face north - fixed.
  
• Airborne troops. Crash when requesting to disembark - fixed.
  
• AI surface. Added new sound for M-60, BMD-1 and BTR-D.
  
• 3D Models. Fixed models (SA-10) S-300.
  
• GUI. CTD when trying to play Ogg Theora video tutorials - fixed.
  
• SNS devices. Digital map floating after initialization when an aircraft spawns airborne - fixed.

• G effect improvements. Loss of color, tunnel vision, and black out have been adjusted and all happen over a greater time period. This is most useful AFTER performing a G warmup (4 to 5 G for 90-degrees, and then the same manoeuvre back in the other direction). At 9.3 G and after a G warmup, blackout now occurs at approximately 30 seconds instead of 9.5 seconds. - work in progress. Sound effects will be done later.
  
• Added embedded INS+GPS logic based on Kalman filter. - work in progress.
  
• Fixed: “Knife Edge Pass” review FCS logic.
  
• Fixed: TGT-TO-VRP (CCRP) crash when activating it.
  
• Fixed: CTD when switching FCR mode in OVERRIDE.
  
• Fixed: Datalink with human players not working if GPS is unavailable.
  
• Fixed: Datalink doesn't work for maps in the Western hemisphere.
  
• Fixed: Multiplayer datalink share of detected air targets.
  
• Fixed: VSR gets stuck in EXP when switching to VSR in EXP.
  
• Fixed: FCR auto-display range is not working with a SAM designated target.
  
• Fixed: VSR Scan limits not possible to slew.
  
• Fixed: TGP line-of-sight oscillations and freezing.
  
• Fixed: Commanding area or point track with TGP in STBY moves SPI to behind aircraft.
  
• Fixed: FPS drop with JDAM.
  
• Fixed: Maverick ripple lock loss.
  
• Fixed: MAV TD BOX drift.
  
• Fixed: Inboard HARMs jettisoned inhibit outboard HARMs from designation.
  
• Fixed: HSD Expand can cause some symbology to disappear.
  
• Fixed: MSL/DGFT/AA mode OSB 9..
  
• Fixed: Sensors do not follow steerpoint after AGM-65 EO-VIS usage.
  
• Fixed: WCMD loss of TUI after bomb release on HUD.
  
• Fixed: HTS major and minor axis data becomes unstable in some situations.
  
• Fixed: Engine nozzle feathers graphical error.
  
• Fixed: Jamming SURV effect improvements.
  
• Fixed: Display behaviour for AGM-65 LOS Circle "in range" box is inconsistent.
  
• Fixed: Cockpit seems to have two reflections.
  
• Fixed: IAM missed by the amount of drift.
  
• Fixed: GMT TMS Up while tracking moving ground targets causes target info and background map to disappear.
  
• Fixed: AGM-65 setting SOI to WPN before designating in EO-VIS moves designation to 0,0 coordinates.
  
• Fixed: GBU-24 symbology jumping around and erratic when on ground.
  
• Fixed: Cursor zero ignores newly set Mark Point if using DTOS.
  
• Fixed: F-16 Switching from TWS to RWS while in STT drops track briefly.
  
• Fixed: Visual issue with F-16 HUD glass edge.

• Fixed: BRA on RDR ATTK page does not use MAG, using TRUE heading incorrectly.
  
• Fixed: AACQ and Bullseye information is overlapping - Bullseye symbol overlapping.
  
• Fixed: High drag bomb release error in Free Fall (FF) mode.
  
• Fixed: RAID mode can be "pre-activated" prior to entering TWS.
  
• Disabled Game Flight Mode.
  
• Fixed: ASI command makes a little overcompensation command - Pitch down tendency.
  
• Fixed: Check stab command NU at landing flare touch down.
  
• Fixed: TDC in RDR ATTK and AZ/EL does not show info for trackfiles in memory, when in STT.
  
• Fixed: Check trim advisory not showing.
  
• Fixed: Steerpoint TPOD misalignment/drift.
  
• Fixed: ACM Slew and NO RAD indication under specific flow.

• Fixed. Altimeter is missing a decimal separator for pressure setting.

• Game Flight Mode disabled.
  
• Fixed: CTD on turning on AH-64D TADS.
  
• George AI tuning.
  
• NOTE: In the next update, we plan to add LINK, ZOOM, and C-Scope functions.

• Added: Bind for radar altimeter dangerous altitude setting
  
• Fixed: While “Hydro Lock” option activated , moving collective without hydro release pressed still affects avionics but not FM

• Fixed. P-47D-40 bugged gunsight external texture
  
• Fixed. hydraulics drives fail to extend undercarriage after repair
  
• Added. New landing gear physics

• Added. New landing gear physics (including TF-51D)

• Cockpit reflection tuned

• Fixed: Deck crew LODs have spikes
  
• Fixed: Supercarrier ATC radio menu is broken during takeoff from the catapult
  
• Fixed: Radio menu may break after repeated landing request in some case

• Fixed. Terrain mode memory leak leads to CTD
  
• Fixed. Options menus have truncated labels
  
• Fixed. Wrong indicated ground speed
  
• Fixed. HFOM and VFOM statuses on GPS page won't fit into its fields
  
• Fixed. Crash that happens during zooming in and out on the Persian Gulf map

General:

• Rear pilot is now not present in the Mission Editor preview window (basically in payload dialog) when the 'Solo Flight' option is selected.
  
• The rear pilot is now not present in a human-controlled Mirage F1 BE, once in the mission, when the 'Solo Flight' option is enabled.
  
• Adjusted appearance of the aircraft mission options dialog.
  
• Now with the 'Disable force feedback effects' option checked, force feedback joysticks (if any is connected) will always return a constant spring force. All FFB shake effects will be disabled as well.
  
• Now with the 'Disable force feedback effects' option checked, 'Force Feedback' section in the Special Options dialog is inactive.

Radar:

• Implemented radar 'Standby' mode.
  
• Implemented radar power up sequence: Display is available at the 31st second after radar power up (PNE light goes out at the 35th second), and transmitter is ready after 3 minutes timeout (EMI light will cease at this moment).
  
• Added power up logic for the radar “AP” (parametric amplifier) light.
  
• Fixed dedicated 1st and 2nd stage commands of the radar antenna elevation buttons behaviour when 2nd stage is released with 1st stage still being held pressed.
  
• The radar resulting antenna altitude difference now can't be more than +/-48000 ft in both 'E' and 'D' elevation control modes.

Systems:

• Fixed clickability issues (shifted clickspots) with the lights panel at the right side of the Optical Sight ( 'C + M or SW' and 'Jammer Detection' lights).
  
• Fixed AoA light strip not illuminating in Mirage F1 BE rear cockpit.
  
• Fixed combat flaps logic not working in Mirage F1 BE.
  
• Fixed Optical Sight test symbology appearance:

- 'Approach' test mode is now enabled for testing only when none of the weapon modes were selected.
- Attitude scale now displays -60 deg of pitch and 180 deg of bank in normal scale display mode, and -40 mil of pitch and 180 deg of bank in simplified scale display mode.
- Gun firing reticle now has 40 mil diameter in all test modes.
- Adjusted the following symbols positions in various test modes: target symbol, gun firing reticle, radar command reticle.

• IFF will start in N when the aircraft is initialised hot on the ground.
  
• Fixed brightness adjustment of IFF lights.
  
• Default mode 2 IFF code is now 2000.
  
• Added magnetic indicator logic in the Mode 4 IFF panel.
  
• Fixed launch problems created by a mixed F1 and F4 rocket payload.

Flight Model:

• Added vibrations with airbrake deployment at high Mach.
  
• Fixed a small bug in airbrake pitching moment tables.

Communications:

• Added 'Engage Ships' radio command.
  
• Added 'Engage with' radio submenu.
  
• Added F1 TRAP 136 and TRAP 137B radios presets for Voice Chat.
  
• Changed TRAP 136 V/UHF radio guard frequency to the standard one: 243 MHz.
  
• Voice Chat intercom does not operate anymore when electric power is unavailable.

3D model and textures:

• Added cryptographic computer unit texture.

Miscellaneous:

• Updated Flight Manual. Mainly IFF description, including mode 4, and Controls Window description.

General:

• Rear pilot is now not present in the Mission Editor preview window (basically in payload dialog) when the 'Solo Flight' option is selected.
  
• 'Solo Flight' is now available for AI-controlled aircraft.
  
• Fixed C-101EB 'English' cockpit livery not being applied.
  
• Now with the 'Disable force feedback effects' option checked, force feedback joysticks (if any is connected) will always return a constant spring force. All FFB shake effects will be disabled as well.

Communications:

• Added Voice Chat sound filters parameters for ARC-134, V/TVU-740, and VHF-20B radios presets.

• New: inSky SATAC 2022 Champion skin
  
• New: draw two airspace on HSD (A: purple and B: cyan)
  
• MISSION (default): Added by mission maker using draw->line->segments

- Blue: BKYA and BKYB
- Red: RKYA and RKYB
- Neutral: NKYA and NKYB

F10 Label: Added by player on F10 using label

• JKYA1~JKYA10 and JKYB1~JKYB10
  
• Always closed polygon

Preset: Added by preset lua
- Each terrain has its own airspace lua
- Lua sample can be found in JF-17/Doc directory
- Lua (file) can be edited (replaced) during (MP) mission for quick update
- In MP, each flight/squadron can use its own lua (convenient distribution)
- Help keep F10 map clean

• Clean: remove airspace from HSD
  
• Note:

- You can select airspace source in configuration panel then update DTC
- Each draw no more than 10 line segments

• Fixed: unstoppable refocus of WMD7 camera
  
• Fixed: WMD7 laser cannot be repaired after run out of life
  
• Adjusted: WMD7 CCD image source (better CCD grey image)
  
• Adjusted: install/remove ladder and inlet cover via config panel
  
• Adjusted: switched to ED’s GB-6 and LS-6

• Fixed Ka-50 old QS Syria missions corrupted start position
  
• Incorrect audio/subtitle warning given for INU Fixpoint within 18km - fixed

• A-10A. Panel lights texture issue (border) - fixed
  
• A-10A. Cockpit model adjustments
  
• Su-33. Reflections can be too strong at odd times on gauges - fixed
  
• Su-25T. Kh-58 missile collide with plane during launch with big sideslip angle - fixed
  
• A-10A. HSI and ILS are not working - fixed
  
• Su-25A. CCRP ripple release mode does not work with MBD2-67 - fixed
  
• Su-27. MFD placed in wrong place in HUD view mode - fixed

• Added Marianas Instant Action missions

• Cockpit reflections tuned

• FIXED: Reflections too strong under flashlight

• Fixed player-JTAC operation in MP.

Campaign was updated to version 2.3

• All Missions - Top down review and many bugs squashed big and small. Many thanks to Pyrocumulous! His help was instrumental.
  
• All missions - radio frequencies better coordinated for all aircraft in the strike package
  
• All missions - updated Datalink connections for all like aircraft.
  
• All missions - changed all displayed messages to Clearview
  
• All missions - updated to new F10 menu system which adds new options for the player to manage thier simulation's environment. Thanks Gareth Magnall https://www.youtube.com/@Pukin-Dog
  
• All missions - Wingmen (Pig-2, 3 & 4) changed over to a seperate group for more tasking flexibility. Thanks B.D.
  
• All missions - added the option of a Practice Sortie to each mission. This will allow the mission pilot to exit the primary mission, fly a practice sortie with the same loadout as the primary mission, and then reenter the primary mission. The mission pilot can fly and practice any technique/profile, rearm and refuel as desired, and then re-enter the primary mission when ready.
  
• All missions - now have the ability to accelerate time (fast forward between waypoints) without missing any mission critical inputs or messages. Thanks Sedlo.
  
• All missions - datacards use different font/colors for easier reading.
  
• All missions - end of mission music added.

• All missions – Air defense visibility adjusted to get AI SEAD flights attack higher priority targets over Rapiers and AAA

• Updated mission 13

• Su-25T was removed from modules list

• Added campfire to mission 1 to assist in location of enemy training camp

• ATC frequencies changed and corrected

• Complete revamp of the campaign to version 2.0
  
• Every mission uses historical locations now
  
• Mission historical inconsistencies fixed
  
• Mission timings adjusted based on further research
  
• Smoothened triggers
  
• More voice overs and sound effects added
  
• Reworked kneeboards and briefing visuals
  
• Corrected mission timings
  
• ATC frequencies changed and corrected yet again.

• ATC frequencies changed and corrected yet again.
  
• All takeoff sequences were reworked

• More damage fail safes added to mission 12

• ATC frequencies changed and corrected

• Mission 12 - flight has no bombs - fixed

• Corrected CMSP Switch Trigger Test for both A-10C and A-10C II BFT01 missions.

• Mission 1 - In some cases, AI does not trigger when landing at station 1. The trigger has been adjusted and the take-off can be forced as a solution via the F-10 radio menu.

Mission 2:

• fixed issue where mission would not progress after reporting seeing the yacht
  
• complete mission update to match new radio system
  
• F10 radio menu and space bar now can be replaced by HOTAS switches for better immersion
  
• added Link4 and ACLS to the carrier

Mission 9:

• fixed issue with Texaco 21 refuelling of Texaco 11
  
• fixed issue with SCUDs not firing and breaking the mission
  
• complete mission update to match new radio system
  
• F10 radio menu and space bar now can be replaced by HOTAS switches for better immersion
  
• added Link4 and ACLS to the carrier
  
• added working TACAN to all flight members

• Missions 1: Fail on entering display fixed.
  
• Missions 3,5, 8 and 10: EZ refuel versions Fords fuel mass reduced

• Mission 6: IR shield removed from enemy Helos.
  
• Mission 7: Convoy blocking itself and not moving fixed.
  
• Missions 4 to 9 and 13: EZ refuel versions Fords fuel mass reduced.

• Mission 6: F18 not exploding fixed.
  
• Mission 4,6,8,9a,9a and 12: EZ refuel versions Fords fuel mass reduced.
  
• Mission 12: Bugged moving rectangular zone fixed.

We hope that our approach to packaging your questions works well and that you will enjoy Matt’s performance. Over the coming months we will be providing further videos covering your 2000+ questions. As you can imagine, quite a few of the issues raised have similarities and hence we have categorised them in subject matter blocks published on Youtube and on our Forums. Enjoy!

Check out the first video on Performance questions.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-DtSJjG61iU

Written and additional answers can be found on the Forum here. Thank you for your patience and all your support!




F-16C INS+GPS System Overview
The navigation system on the DCS: F-16C Viper is a complicated mixture of technical solutions that are intended to supply the avionics with coordinates, velocity, and angles, that are characterised by precision, availability, integrity and autonomy. This is achieved by the cooperative work of the Inertial Navigation System (INS) and Global Positioning System (GPS) whose navigation inputs are processed through a Kalman filter in the Modular Mission Computer (MMC). Let’s discuss each of the components in detail.

The Inertial Navigation System is an autonomous device that performs dead reckoning of aircraft coordinates by measuring the accelerations and then integrating them twice whilst taking into account the aircraft’s orientation in space. The latter is obtained from the F-16 ring-laser gyros. This type of INS is termed “strapdown” as there are no rotating parts. Basically, INS consists of three accelerometers, each for one orthogonal axis, and three gyros.

The main features of INS improvements are:

• Autonomy, as it doesn’t require any external signals to do dead reckoning.
  
• Stability in a short period of time (5-10 minutes).
  
• Noticeable error accumulation over longer periods of time based on the physics of dead reckoning. Together with the integration of accelerations (to update speed) and integration of position (to update coordinates), the small errors at the level of accelerations that are introduced by accelerometer noises and imperfect alignment are integrated twice as well.

Furthermore, the larger those errors are, the faster they accumulate due to the so-called integral correction of INS, which updates the local Earth gravitational force vector with the coordinates and adds them into the relative angles of the G vector.

Another distinctive feature of INS is the Schuler Oscillation with a period of 84.4 minutes. Due to the integral correction algorithm mentioned above, the INS behaves like a pendulum. In ideal circumstances, it stays in equilibrium while the aircraft moves along the Earth. When coordinate errors appear, it displaces the pendulum from the resting point and it starts oscillating. The larger the errors are, the larger the amplitude of the introduced oscillations. That’s why one may notice that INS errors get smaller at a rate of 84.4 minutes once airborne.

Global positioning system measures the aircraft position by measuring the signal propagation delay from GPS satellites to the receiver. Satellite orbits are precisely known, the exact positions of the satellites are computed according to an almanack that is transmitted in the same GPS radio signals. That’s why GPS needs a couple of minutes after the cold to start obtaining the almanack. The moments of the signal transmission are also known and are defined by a very precise atomic clock on board the satellite. Thus, in an ideal case, if the GPS signals are propagated through space with the constant speed of light, as they do in a vacuum, the receiver could precisely determine its position by intersecting the surfaces of equidistant radio signal delays from the satellites. You may think of it as spheres with centres located at the satellite’s positions, although it’s a bit more complicated in real life. However, there are two significant factors that prevent us from obtaining the ideal point of the surface intersections; the ionospheric delay and multipath. Both add unknown time to the actual signal propagation time. Multipath happens when the receiver is placed relatively near the ground and the signal may be reflected from ground objects that results in the signal's edges degrading; this is similar to an echo in the mountains where it’s too hard to tell one word from another. When such delays are unexpectedly added by the receiver, the precise navigation solution gets lost and the output
coordinate gets noisy. That’s where military GPS signals help to get a better signal resolution by the use of so-called P-codes, and the usage of dual frequency helps to eliminate the unknown ionospheric delay.

Integrated solution. Kalman filtering
To summarise the above: we have two navigation systems, both of which have flaws: INS accumulates errors over time, GPS is noisy and prone to interference due to natural factors like multipath and ionospheric delay and to enemy jamming and spoofing. Here is the good news! There is a way to avoid these flaws with the Kalman filter. It takes GPS and INS coordinates together with speeds as its input. The Kalman filter is a great algorithm that is able to get the maximum precision even out of measurements far from ideal, and it takes the best aspects from both systems: the stability and autonomy of INS and the precision of GPS to obtain an integrated navigation solution that is both stable and precise.

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1090850/DCS_F16C_Viper/

Furthermore, the Kalman filter knows, in terms of mathematical equations, the dynamic properties of the aircraft that is moving through space. If the aircraft is moving, it predicts where the aircraft will be on the next filter step. That’s why it is called recursive and the filter won’t let erroneous GPS signals decrease the precision of the output navigation solution. Moreover, it is able to dynamically change its measurements vs. prediction weights to adjust to a degraded navigation precision of any input.





This April, Fox3 is thrilled to announce a heart-pounding, adrenaline-fueled DCS tournament that's not just about showcasing your skills, but also about rallying our incredible community to a great cause; supporting the heroes at K9sForWarriors. Learn more about the K9sForWarriors mission.

Mark Your Calendars! The battlefield opens from the 19th of April to the 21st, 2024. Prepare for three days of intense aerial challenges, camaraderie, and epic battles that will test your mettle. Please note that this is a charity event with paid attendance and fantastic prizes: Fox3's Ultimate DCS Skills Showdown is Here!

Thank you again for your patience, passion and support,

Yours sincerely,

Eagle Dynamics

The DCS: Afghanistan Map is now available for pre-purchase on our e-Shop.

20 years of the War on Terror and the Soviet operations of the 1980s place Afghanistan as one of the most important combat theatres of the past half century. Few war zones have ever seen more A-10C, AH-64D, F-16C, F/A-18C, CH-47F, Mi-24P, Mi-8MTV2, and Su-25 sorties.

The entire map of Afghanistan and small portions of neighbouring countries will be available, showcasing our latest map technologies at a superb level of detail and fidelity.

DCS: Afghanistan is offered with a special 30% discount at $48.99 during pre-purchase. The early access release price will be set at 20% off, or $55.99, until the final release.

We have also decided to make this map more accessible by offering users the option of purchasing regions separately: Southwest, East and North. Each region will be offered as a separate release at approximately 3 months interval. Today, you can pre-purchase DCS: Southwest Afghanistan for $23.99 instead of the release price in June 2024 that will be set at $29.99. DCS: East Afghanistan and DCS: North Afghanistan will be offered for purchase as and when they are ready, later this year.

The early access release of DCS: Afghanistan will focus on a detailed southwestern and encompass 12 airfields, including Kandahar and Herat. Whilst the entire map is under development, the Southwest region is currently the most complete. The second region to be released will be the Eastern region and finally the Northern region. DCS: Afghanistan FAQ.

Please keep in mind that even if you purchase only one region, you will still be able to play online across the whole map. Only the non-purchased regions will be in lower detail.

We are truly excited to offer you this monumental map and to give you the chance of purchasing in stages at more bite-sized prices should you so choose.

Key Features at Early Access

• The entirety of Afghanistan with the southwestern portion available in high detail at early access.
  
• High-resolution terrain mesh, textures and objects that look great from low to high altitude.
  
• Numerous, authentically modelled air bases such as Kandahar and Herat.
  
• Diverse terrain ranging from towering mountains to vast deserts.
  
• Recreate battles spanning the last 40 years.
  
• Densely populated towns and villages
  
• Afghanistan Area: 1449216 sq km
  
• DCS: Southwest Area: 471381 sq km
  
• DCS: East Area: 320529 sq km
  
• DCS: North Area: 443199 sq km
  
• Year: 2008-2010
  
• Advanced normal map technology for mid- and long-range landscape detail
  
• Improved closeup surface material for better detail
  
• Highly detailed city scenes, buildings, vegetation, static cars and more
  
• Highly detailed airfield scenes
  
• Unique objects, cultural monuments
  
• Highly detailed road network

Save now with a huge 30% discount while in pre-purchase on DCS: Afghanistan.




The Winter On Fire Tournament is organised each year by the Joint Task Force Francophone (JTFF) for the French DCS Community. Thrustmaster, Heatblur, RAZBAM, and Materiel.net will all be contributing. Best teams prizes are up for grabs.

The Event will be covered on the JTFF Twitch Channel with broadcasters. Please follow the Tournament and note that there will be viewer gifts.

Thank you again for your passion and support,

Yours sincerely,

Eagle Dynamics

Our MiG-29A, NATO codename Fulcrum, will be the export modification of the “A” version that was supplied to Warsaw Pact countries. The MiG-29A was designed to counter all types of aerial targets with radar- and infrared-guided R-27, R-73, and R-60 air-to-air missiles and its single-barreled 30mm cannon with 150 rounds of ammunition. The MiG-29A also has limited visual ground attack capability with 50 to 500 kg bombs, cluster bombs, and unguided S-5, S-8 and S-24 rockets.

The MiG-29A can operate day or night and in all weather conditions. Its radar is capable of look-down / shoot-down in a heavy electronic countermeasure environment. The weapons control system consists of two complexes: the Fire Control Radar (FCR) and the Optical-Electronic Targeting Navigation System (OETNS). The OETNS includes an optical-electronic sighting system (OESS), a navigation system, a weapon control system, a unified display system, and multifunctional control panels. The OEPS includes an optical location station OLS that consists of an Infrared Search and Track System (IRST), a Laser Range Finder (LRF), and a Helmet-Mounted Sight (HMS) designation system.

The MiG-29 is equipped with the SPO-15 “Beryoza” Radar Warning Receiver (RWR) defence system that is designed to warn of radar-directed weapon attacks. To protect against infrared-guided weapons, the MiG-29A features flare dispensers.

The navigation system consists of on-board navigation equipment, a vertical and heading information complex, and an airborne signal system as part of the Optical-Electronic Targeting Navigation System (OETNS).




At Early Access Release:

• Fully interactive and highly detailed cockpit that is based on 3D laser scanning and photogrammetry.
  
• Highly detailed and accurately reproduced external model.
  
• Highly detailed pilot model.
  
• In-depth study of aircraft systems and equipment.
  
• Detailed model of the navigation system with the gyro platform reference system, air data computer, and navigation equipment.
  
• Defensive equipment to include the SPO-15LM “Beryoza” and Flare dispenser system.
  
• Fire Control Radar with authentic modes for aerial targets.
  
• OETNS with modes for air and ground targets.

At Final Release:

• Addition of Identify Friend or Foe interrogation system.
  
• Addition of Ground Control Intercept (GCI) command system.

The development of the DCS: Afghanistan Map is progressing on schedule with significant milestones achieved. We are committed to delivering a highly immersive and authentic representation of Afghanistan for virtual pilots to explore and engage in combat operations. Continued collaboration, testing, and refinement will ensure the map’s successful completion and release to our DCS community.

Development Progress
We have made substantial progress in recreating the diverse landscape of Afghanistan. This includes the rugged mountain ranges of the Hindu Kush, the vast deserts of the Dasht-e Kavir and Dasht-e Lut, and the fertile valleys and river basins. Efforts have been dedicated to accurately portraying the unique cultural and urban features of Afghanistan. This involves recreating cities like Kandahar and Herat, with special attention to landmarks, infrastructure, and architectural styles like the blue mosque of Herat. Aerial imagery has been utilised to enhance the realism and accuracy of the map. High-resolution satellite imagery is being integrated to provide authentic terrain textures and details.

The diverse terrain and complex topography of Afghanistan has presented technical challenges due to the large mountainous ranges. Optimization efforts are ongoing to maintain performance without compromising on visual fidelity, particularly in densely populated urban areas and detailed terrain features. The map is designed to look equally as good from low to high altitude.



Future Plans
In the above screenshot, you can see the area of DCS: Afghanistan that will be available in Early Access. The airfields that will be available at launch include Kandahar, Herat, Bost, Camp Bastion, Chaghcharan, Dwyer, Farah, Maymana Zahiraddin Faryabi, Qala i Naw, Shindand, Tirinkot, and Zaranj. The focus will be on completing the detailing of terrain features, including rivers, roads, vegetation, rocks, small stones, ground clutter and geological formations to enhance immersion and realism. Extensive testing and optimization will be conducted to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with a wide range of hardware configurations. Please stay tuned for the pre-order coming soon!




The DCS Spring Sale 2024 is your chance to grab massive 50% savings across almost our entire range of aircraft, terrains, tech packs, campaigns and more! Please make sure that you do not miss out on this opportunity and remember the DCS Spring Sale 2024 runs until the 24th of March, 2024 at 15:00 GMT on our E-Shop.

Thank you again for your passion and support,

Yours sincerely,

Eagle Dynamics

Explore up to 50% discounts on most DCS modules, campaigns, and other DCS goodies. Don't miss out on this limited-time opportunity to pack your hangar with new aircraft and content. The Spring Sale will last until the 24th of March, 2024 at 15:00 GMT.

Steam users, rejoice! We're also pleased to be taking part in the DCS Steam Spring Sale! Enjoy discounts on DCS content, whether you're a seasoned veteran or a rookie pilot, this is the time to find something new. The DCS Steam Edition Spring Sale will run until the 21st of March, 2024 at 18:00 GMT.

Lock in your savings, and take flight during our Spring Sale event. Hurry! The DCS Spring Sale 2024 will last until the 24th of March at 15:00 GMT.






The La-7 by OctopusG is making great progress. The development of the La-7 flight model is now complete, and the assembly and preparation of the necessary documentation for certification is in progress. Unique features have been implemented like the decrease in lifting force when the side cowl flaps are fully opened due to the deterioration of the aerodynamics of the wing root.


The above graph demonstrates expected and actual La-7 performance in DCS. From this and other reports, OctopusG will be providing an excellent simulation of the flight performance and characteristics of this famous warbird.

An armament system has been completed and includes a bomb-aiming control system.


Please enjoy this DCS: La-7 Bombing video and pay special attention to the mechanical details. In this second short video, the cockpit canopy locking system is demonstrated: La-7 Canopy mechanics. In this example, it is important to note that the effect of airflow is present.


A wide collection of liveries are being prepared that will continue to expand. The damage model is complete, a quick manual has been written, and 2D for the GUI art has been created. The product is now being finalized for early access. Please stay tuned for the planned launch date.






The Portuguese virtual squadron Esquadra 701 celebrated six years of operation this year with nearly 5000 hours in operations. This group established A-10C, AV-8B, F-15E, F-16C F/A-18C, and AH-64D training procedures based on real-life operations. It is divided into three divisions: the land-based 1st Division "Talons", the carrier-based 2nd Division "Makos", and the training and support 3rd Division "Pythons". The group also has a sub-division for helicopter and aerobatic team operations, the "Lusitanos".

Esquadra 701 runs a dedicated server for training and scheduled missions. They also have a very active Discord server that is open to all. The squadron regularly organises events to bring new pilots to the group, called "Open Skies" on Discord.

Thank you again for your passion and support,

Yours sincerely,

Eagle Dynamics

A valuable resource to all pilots is the User Files section. We have a tremendously active and talented community that creates fantastic, free content for DCS including aircraft liveries, missions, documents, audio, and other modifications. These missions offer endless hours of fun. The page allows you to sort by aircraft, map, and other filters to find the missions.


Each submission is first sent for review and approval to ensure a high standard of quality. The webpage also provides a reporting option for any issues that you may encounter with a submission. This is a great resource that we urge you all to take advantage of. We take this opportunity to thank all our contributors and look forward to all your future creations.





As DCS maps have increased quality, detail, realism, and complexity over the years, it’s been a challenge to balance this with maintaining a decent level of performance. With the most recent and upcoming maps, we have raised the bar to higher to provide a better balance. This has led us to rethink our approach to terrain scenery computing, instancing, and streaming.

Our task was to create a flexible system focused on utilizing and saturating an increasing number of compute cores in modern GPUs.



The new scenery compute system achieved our ambitious goals of:

1. increased GPU performance
   
2. improved VRAM management
   
3. increased CPU performance
   
4. improved streaming from storage disk to VRAM with optimised CPU usage

Our tests indicate a notable performance increase in densely built up scenes, depending on graphics settings and hardware. Please provide us with feedback on your enhanced DCS performance, we look forward to it!




If you are a talented mission creator and are interested in becoming an official campaign 3rd party, please get in touch! This allows you to exercise your passion while making an income.

Prior to expressing your interest to us, first determine the details of your campaign like the aircraft the player will fly, over what map, the narrative scenario, and so on. The more detail the better. We’d also need to evaluate the first three missions of the campaign at a complete state.

With a cool idea for a campaign, you’ll also want to be deeply familiar with the Mission Editor, its trigger system, military practices, how to craft great briefings, be able to provide quality voice overs, and more. It can be a daunting task, but well worth the effort when creating something special that all DCS pilots can appreciate. In fact, more than one 3rd party campaign creator has made it their full-time job.

We hope that you take advantage of the thousands of community made free User Files and that the new terrain scenery system will enable you to see performance improvements across all maps. If you are a mission maker then please make sure to contact us via our Forums or on Discord. Additionally, please join us in celebrating all the important women in our lives on this special International Women's Day!

Thank you again for your passion and support,

Yours sincerely,

Eagle Dynamics

In case you missed it, Ugra Media's most recent updates to the DCS: Syria Map delivered optimized scenes and models by reducing the number of bushes, and textures while simplifying damages and car models. Ground textures saw a boost in frame rate performance due to updates to the ground vector data renderer. 

Detailed enhancements cover the territories of southern Israel and Jordan, featuring additions like Amman, King Abdullah II, Prince Hassan, Muwaffaq Salti, and Herzliya airfields. Technical fixes addressed relays and ILS in Ramat David airfield, and errors in objects were also fixed. The adjustments to the sea depth near the shore and a tower frequency change at Wujah Al Hajar airfield improve realism, while Ein Shemer airfield benefits from a runway extension, and added parking lots at Ein Shemer, Megiddo, and Ramat David airfields.

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1120300/DCS_Syria/


 



We are pleased to share our progress on improving the functionality of the Mission Editor Payload settings window and the in-mission Rearm and Refueling pop-up. These interfaces will allow you much finer control of fuze settings, laser-codes, cluster bomb settings, unique 3D fuze models, and more. These panels will allow you to take “weaponeering” to the next level in DCS.

More specifically, we have focused on implementing bomb features that are relevant for modern munitions that include both general purpose bombs, sub-munitions, and guided munitions. This specifically includes setting the laser code (PRF) for laser-guided munitions like Paveway II and III, target spin rate at bomblet release for CBU-type munitions, airburst heights for munitions with radio-altimeters, and even adjusting seeker and control system parameters for weapons that have this capability.

Based on the nose fuze selection, the 3D models are now adjusted accordingly and even include sub-variants for nose plugs. We are also including bomb casings differences between USAF and US Navy weapons.
 




Wolf Pack is a thriving community across more than 10 multiplayer servers encompassing every facet of DCS: from WWII PvP/PvE missions to a modern jet competition division. They host a campaign mission every Sunday and a weekly helo mission on Tuesday and Wednesday nights. They fly dedicated WWII missions every Thursday/Saturday night. 

Check out the Wolfpack Discord event tabs for the week's mission schedule, or jump into our Discord voice chat when you fly to team up with other wingmen.

As a dedicated DCS Community, Wolfpack welcomes members from other DCS groups. If you're part of another community or squadron, make sure to connect! Introduce yourself in the Discord "introduce-yourself" section, share your link, and recruit for your group. The aim is to foster collaborations with other DCS communities and squadrons.

Thank you again for your passion and support, 

Yours sincerely,

Eagle Dynamics

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

The DCS: Flaming Cliffs aircraft have received a texture refresh upgrade to their cockpit and external model textures. The F-15C, A-10A, Su-27, Su-33, and J-11 have received new cockpits and external textures, and the Su-25 has received new cockpit textures. These upgraded cockpits focus on detail and realism and include Physical Based Rendering (PBR) textures. This free upgrade propels Flaming Cliffs 3 to 2024 texture standards and promises to maintain Flaming Cliffs 3 as an excellent choice for new and veteran DCS pilots.

Our goal is to further improve the new user experience in DCS. The Flaming Cliffs 3 aircraft provide professional-level flight models but with simplified controls that result in a shallower learning curve for new virtual pilots. The F-15C, A-10A, Su-27, Su-33, J-11, MiG-29A, MiG-29S, and Su-25 provide a variety of aircraft that range from air superiority to attack. These come with a wealth of missions and campaigns and are operable on most online servers.

If you are not already flying Flaming Cliffs 3, now is a great time to jump in and enjoy this great value.

https://store.steampowered.com/app/249320/DCS_Flaming_Cliffs_3/





In our ongoing commitment to providing a seamless and streamlined experience for our pilots, we're thrilled to share positive news on the transition to a single-version approach, eliminating the distinction between Stable and Release versions.

This move is aimed at ensuring all players enjoy the latest features, updates and improvements simultaneously. Please make sure to get familiar with the more harmonious and collaborative DCS World by updating to the latest version now! Notably included in this update is a performance improvement for terrains, an impressive set of new liveries from Polychop for the DCS: SA-342 Gazelle, as well as improvements to the DCS: MB-339 flight and collision model by IndiaFoxtEcho. We have also delivered a large number of bug fixes for DCS: AH-64D, DCS: F-16C Viper and DCS: F/A-18C. For a list of changes, please check out the full changelog.





The F-15C Aggressors ACM campaign puts you in the cockpit of an F-15C Eagle as a new Aggressor pilot with the 65th Aggressor Squadron at Nellis Air Force Base. Based on real world procedures, you will fly as Red Air against Blue Air Forces.

You will face a series of challenging Air Combat Maneuver (ACM) missions against dissimilar aircraft with a wingman for assistance. Each mission will comprise two 2 vs 2 air to air engagements. Tankers are available if you wish to refuel before the second engagement.

Your opponents include the F-4E, F-14A, F-15C, F-15E, F-16C, F/A-18C, M-2000C, MiG-29G, CF-188, MiG-21, Su-27 and an unknown type. Three campaigns are included in the download package to allow you to fly against Rookie, Ace and Random AI opponents.

Additionally, there is an 11 mission practice campaign against the Rookie and Ace AI with in-air starts so you can perfect your ACM tactics and techniques.

Key features:

• Over 1800 voice overs
  
• 49 pages of briefing material including the RED FLAG Spins, Red Forces In Flight Guide
  
• Maps, Diagrams
  
• Custom Kneeboards and Mission Data cards

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2742450/DCS_F15C_Aggressors_Air_Combat_Maneuvering_Campaign_by_Maple_Flag/

We hope you're as thrilled as we are about these latest developments in the world of DCS. Please remember that the Lunar Sale is in its final hours and ends on the 25th of February at 15:00 GMT. Do not miss out on this fantastic opportunity to land something truly special!

Thank you again for your passion and support,

Yours sincerely,

Eagle Dynamics

New campaign: DCS: F-15C Aggressors Air Combat Maneuvering Campaign by Maple Flag
https://store.steampowered.com/app/2742450/DCS_F15C_Aggressors_Air_Combat_Maneuvering_Campaign_by_Maple_Flag/

• Terrain scenery performance: optimized instancing and improved and optimized streaming.
  
• ChinaAssetPack. Missiles KD-20, KD-63 and C-701T switched to ED’s declaration.
  
• ChinaAssetPack. Bomb Type-200A switched to ED’s declaration.
  
• ChinaAssetPack. LS-6/GB-6 updated range table.
  
• ChinaAssetPack. HHQ-9 cold launch effect added.
  
• Input. When a single Controller Axis is bound twice (ex. with and without a modifier) on a single Game Axis, the "Axis Tune" modal fails to save its settings. Fixed.
  
• IR render. Fixed the square surface texture under the destroyed vehicle in FLIR.
  
• Weapons. APKWS RCS decreased from 0.04 -> 0.01 sq m.
  
• Fixed crash when one of two groups is destroyed while embarking a helicopter.
  
• Fixed crash when one of two groups is destroyed while embarking a vehicle.
  
• Fixed crash when infantry destroyed during a task Embarking.
  
• Fixed crash when one of two groups is destroyed while embarking a ship.
  
• Task Embarking, distribution doesn't work correctly for boat - corrected.
  
• Fixed crash while performing a task Embarking in some cases.
  
• Fixed exploit - aircraft can be equipped with weapons from other aircraft in some cases.
  
• AI aircraft. AI S-3B tanker parks on a place already occupied with static - fixed.
  
• Triggers. Part of group in zone - activates when it should not - corrected
  
• Triggers. Trigger Zone. Checking inside the attached zone.
  
• Effects. Rain effect is not cleared when it is turned off without restarting the DCS - fixed.
  
• Fixed bug when camera can attach to dead object.
  
• AI ground. When a SAM launcher has no LOS with its tracking radar, it still fires missiles, but they explode one second later - fixed.
  
• AI helicopters. Fixed IAS speed vs. wind bug.
  
• AI helicopters. Wheeled helicopters allow take off & landing from a parking position. "Normal" weight value was corrected.
  
• Control hover added Ah-64 taxi improved.
  
• AI helicopters. AIs collide with each other on vertical take off - fixed.
  
• AI wingman with data links remain on after shutdown - fixed.
  
• SSE. MT. Any looped outText message flashes at different intervals in Multithreading - fixed.
  
• AI surface. Infantry does not move after switching green state - fixed.
  
• AI surface. Radar SON-9 alarm state cannot be set to GREEN - fixed.
  
• AI surface. Ships may behave incorrectly when using the checkbox 'on land' - fixed.
  
• AI surface. The second group can't execute command Embarking to ship - fixed.
  
• AI surface. Deactivation function works only on part of units from the group - fixed.
  
• AI aircraft. SA342 using ATGM HOT3 missile in Hellfire style - fixed.
  
• Weapons. Negative weight of ATGM HOT3 payload - fixed.
  
• Effects. Moonlight reflection over the sea produces a blinding halo - corrected.
  
• Weapons. Kh-65 missiles turn around, and most don't hit their target - fixed.
  
• AI aircraft. The likelihood of the aircraft colliding with trees when going around mountain tops has been reduced.
  
• AI aircraft. AAR. AI struggles to keep the probe into the right drogue when the tanker orbits in a left turn - fixed.
  
• VR In cockpit cursors have become oversized and blurred - fixed.
  
• Effects. Flickering shadows in mirrors at night at some camera angles - fixed.
  
• AI aircraft. Drones were unable to launch ATGM Hellfire from high altitudes due to a missile guidance issue. Now the altitude is limited to 3600 meters.
  
• AI surface. S-75 (SA-2) tracking targets through mountains. LOS check restored.
  
• ME. Triggers. Added expanding window function for scripted trigger actions and messages.
  
• Weapons. ATGM AT-6 and AT-9 will be lost if the launcher is destroyed.
  
• AI aircraft. Incorrect behavior of the helicopter during landing in some cases was fixed.
  
• AI aircraft. AI helicopters fail to engage ground targets in some cases - fixed.
  
• Crash when deactivating a ship during a helicopter task cargo transportation fixed.
  
• AI surface. NASAMS attacks helicopters from short distances only - fixed.
  
• Weapons. Corrected aiming data for GBU-10, KAB-1500-LG-Pr, KAB-1500LG, GBU-24, KAB-500L, GBU-54, GBU-12.
  
• DCS MT. Vehicle guns shaking during rotation - fixed.
  
• AI surface. Turned off exaggerated recoil when launching missiles.
  
• ME. GUI Error when changing ship type if AMMO tab open - fixed.
  
• Weapons. Increased APKWS M282 warhead power.
  
• AI aircraft. S-3B tanker. Mechanics of releasing the refueling basket and the refueling process have been adjusted.
  
• Voice chat
  
• Added transparency to the VC widget window. change colors in widgets
  
• Fixed. MiG-15 VC radio mode does not work
  
• Fixed. Active radio is not highlighted in the widget
  
• AI surface. Freeze when performing Embarking task for ship in some cases - fixed

For a full list of changes, please read the full changelog.