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Just a quick update this holiday season: During these past few months, our programmers along with the aerospace engineers have been working relentlessly on the flight model performance. We're excited to say we sent our updated FM for evaluation. We're confident it'll be the best simulation of an F4U-1D for everyone to experience. So with that, "it's that time of year again..." The missing 3D cockpit items mentioned to be implemented during early access, have now been modeled, painted, and implemented. Z-2 Anti-G Suit Piping Defrost / Heater System Pulley Cable Mech Rain Guard AN/M8 Flair Gun & Cartridge Box Elevator Control Shaft Updated Seat Mech Updated Canopy Items Finally, we'd like to wish every one an awesome holiday season and hope for a great year in 2025! Bye Phant

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DCS 2.9.11.4686 Bye Phant

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MiG-29A Fulcrum Development Progress The primary MiG-29A development efforts are focused on the design of the external model, cockpit, avionics, and general aircraft systems. The DCS: MiG-29A is our first aircraft based on photogrammetry. The cockpit reference aircraft is located in Aircraft Museum Kosice, and we greatly appreciate their generous assistance. The textures and geometry of the new cockpit have been created from scratch, using new technologies that include high-polygon models for baking-in normal maps. This technique has provided many quality improvements whilst also presenting plenty of challenges. We generated a huge number of photos and videos of the aircraft, and we completely reworked the external model. Based on this reference data and factory diagrams, we were able to include an exceptional level of detail for items such as surface materials and treatment, rivets, screws, and panel joints. The new normal map reflects the structure of the aircraft skin to a high degree of accuracy, with texture resolution increased by 400%. A lot of work has been completed on avionics and systems, including the Optical Laser System (OLS), which is an important component of the MiG-29 targeting suite. Its main elements are the InfraRed Search and Track (IRST) system and laser range finder. Most of the air-to-air targeting modes are progressing well and nearing completion. The gun sight development was not a trivial task, with a complex simulation of both the tracked-target mode and the non-tracked, “funnel” mode. The gun sights have been significantly redesigned for a highly accurate representation of the real unit. A new mode has been added which was designed to engage invisible aerial targets in cloud, haze or at night with the gun. Weapon modes for engaging ground targets with rockets and guns at fixed and moving targets in the presence of wind are in active development. We have also scheduled the development of the basic bombing modes in the near term. We have totally recreated the Fire Control Radar (FCR) architecture and the main modes. After primary work on the OLS and FCR is complete, we will model the interaction between the OLS and the FCR. The SPO-15LM radar warning receiver, also known as Product L006LM, has been completely rewritten. The new SPO-15 uses the same physics-based approach as the SPO-10, but with greater attention being paid to its second iteration of directivity patterns for transmitting and receiving antennas. The latter being of particularly high importance to Soviet RWR designs due to the independent processing of an output from each azimuth sector antenna. Additionally, the database has been expanded, with each radar having a unique signature in terms of signal properties and with the properties themselves covering additional details. Thanks to these improvements, the new SPO-15 can be modelled to closely emulate the algorithms used in the real system, and it simulates many of its real-life quirks and limitations. Pilots will find themselves having to pay attention to these limitations to utilize its full potential. These include, but are not limited to, non-linear range indications that will properly display the signal power, blinding by high power radars, and many cases of incorrect threat type determination due to limited resolution with which the signal parameters are measured. This depth and accuracy of the simulations will make our new implementation of SPO-15 in DCS the most realistic and detailed simulation of this system of any PC simulator. A Mission Editor data programming panel is being developed for the navigation system. This will allow you to program the flight before the start of the mission and use this program in flight. Access to the panel and modification of data will be possible during the simulation, when the aircraft is on the ground. We are developing the MiG-29A INS and its interaction with the navigation system. Special attention is being paid to the modes of ground INS alignment and its accuracy and drift in flight. This will be affected by the alignment mode and the presence or absence of radio correction from the programmed beacon. Work remains on the Identify Friend or Foe (IFF) system, but we'll release the core functionality of IFF at early access, and then continue to work on the more advanced IFF features. Aircraft systems are being added and refined to a deep level of functionality. This includes the new hydraulic and electrical system, procedures and physics of engine startup and shutdown, expansion and reconfiguration of automatic control systems. Numerous new modes are also being introduced, and transients are being improved. Bye Phant

G.91 PROGRESS UPDATE Although we have been very quiet about the development of the G.91 module, rest assured that we have been working on it quite a lot in the past few months: this module remains a key project for us, and development is actively progressing. In particular we have just completed the the total refactoring of the cockpit model, and, while the textures are still WiP, we are happy to finally share with you some screenshot of the pilot's office. The next major step is to fully integrate the new cockpit with the aircraft code on the aircraft to date, allowing us to get rid of the old model, which we no longer consider up to the high-quality standards achieved by DCS World. We believe the G.91 development will proceed at a much faster pace and we are confident that we will be able to release a first version of the DCS G.91 by 2025. While we cannot commit to a specific date just yet, our philosophy remains unchanged across all our products: "It is done when it is done." Thank you for your patience and support as we continue working on our projects - a usual we'll keep you posted with the G.91 progress as soon as possible. Bye Phant

DCS MB.339 RECAP The Macchino continues to be one of the most beloved modules to us, and in 2024 we have introduced a number of fixes and improvements. In particular: FLIGHT DIRECTOR SYSTEM: The most significant addition this year is undoubtedly the implementation of the Flight Director system, based on a PID control. This addition extends the training possibilities, which now include instrumental landings. SPECIAL OPTIONS: New special options have been introduced, allowing users to customize their flight experience on the MB-339. These options provide greater flexibility in configuring the module to personal preferences. NEW KEY BINDINGS: We have expanded the number of available keybindings to allow for more intuitive and comprehensive control of the aircraft. FLIGHT MODEL IMPROVEMENTS: The flight model has undergone several updates, further refining the aircraft's performance. In particular, improvements have been made to ground behavior during taxiing and takeoff, making these phases more realistic. BUG FIXES: We have worked tirelessly to address various issues reported by the community. Some of the key bug fixes have been: - More accurate Gunsight adjustments. - Resolved GPS and TACAN issues, which now correctly indicate magnetic heading. - Fixed incorrect altimeter values. - Numerous other minor optimizations that improve stability and overall experience. FUTURE UPDATES: The MB-339 remains in continuous maintenance, and we will continue to release updates and bug fixes to ensure the highest level of quality and fidelity. Additionally, we are considering introducing new features, such as the ability to deploy AIM-9L and/or Magic II air-to-air missiles. Although this is a fictional feature for the A version, it could be an interesting addition to expand the module's operational capabilities. Bye Phant

Heatblur Simulations While it's been a publicly quiet late summer and fall; we've been working hard behind the scenes on polishing the F-4E, restructuring some of our codebases, preparing for the future and working on future aircraft. That said; we've also been spending time with the F-14, shipping some new enhancements and features while working on the early -A. Changes to Link 4 and various other QoL changes have shipped in the last patches, and the next DCS patch will see a significant improvement in parts of the radar: Primarily, this includes a major change in TWS Track combining and splitting, especially with an airborne Phoenix underway. This should yield far more effective employment of the AIM-54 and radar in high threat density environments or where a Phoenix would otherwise fail when tracks would drop or diverge. Attached are some images of the before and after state of such scenarios and how the AWG-9 previously could incorrectly extrapolate tracks when splitting or combining tracks, leading to trashed Phoenixes. Enjoy smacking down those enemy groups more effectively with your AWG-9/Phoenix combo soon. Bye Phant

December Kola Map Update - Coming Soon! Two new airports: Bardufoss (ENDU) and Kattila (EFKT). Additional towns and villages surrounding the new airfields. Enhanced low-level terrain visuals. Optimization pass of several urban and industrial blocks. TACAN placed at Andoya, as requested. Bye Phant

Iraq Out Now The early access launch of DCS: Iraq covers Central and Northern Iraq. This map uses our latest map technology with improved normal mapping, better vegetation, and many interesting Points of Interest (POI) to provide a highly-realistic and engaging feeling of flight. Work will continue in the early access period to include improved roads, the inclusion of H2, H3, Al-Kut and Mosul airfields, more POIs, and tuning of view distances and airfields. Further expansions will grant you access to the Iraq Southern region, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia. Just like other DCS maps, we offer the DCS: Iraq as a complete map that will be updated throughout the early access period. However, if you are only interested in a particular region or on a budget, you can decide to simply purchase the northern Iraq region in high-detail. The choice is yours. Modular Options DCS: North Iraq ($29.99): Perfect for those focused on the heart of Iraq’s northern conflicts like the Global War on Terror and ISIS. DCS: Iraq ($59.99 early access price with 20% off). This is the ultimate package, combining North and South Iraq plus a large neighbouring areas for a complete experience. DCS: South Iraq ($29.99): Immerse yourself in the oil fields, marshlands, and Gulf War theaters. This region is not currently available for purchase and will be coming in Q2 2025 or earlier. Bye Phant

East Afghanistan Development Update Report We are committed to delivering the Afghanistan East project into Early Access in the nearest future, and to ensuring that it meets the expected quality standards. Our primary focus is currently centered on creating essential airfields and ensuring they operate seamlessly. We are also carefully refining and enriching the areas surrounding these sites to minimize any need for later adjustments after the initial release. Beyond the airfields, we are enhancing existing models and introducing new, unique ones to more closely reflect the local real-world environment. This includes the addition of various infrastructure elements such as fuel stations, administrative buildings, and cultural or religious landmarks. Simultaneously, we are developing a detailed, non-destructive road network across Afghanistan. We are also significantly expanding the map’s overall data, incorporating an unprecedented number of settlements, agricultural areas, and industrial zones. This surpasses any previous DCS map in terms of scope and density. On the technical front, we are improving ground textures and employing new algorithms to create more detailed normal maps. These refinements will bring greater visual depth and realism to the terrain. As we prepare to release the second part of the Afghanistan map, the entire project will benefit from an expanded main map area, albeit at a lower fidelity, to support aircraft carrier operations, catering to you, our most dedicated enthusiasts. Optimization efforts are ongoing, and we appreciate your understanding during the Early Access phase. Many planned features for the Afghanistan theater remain in development and will be introduced in future updates during the polishing stage. Completing all planned elements of the Afghanistan project represents a significant undertaking, both in terms of workload and time. Bye Phant

Bye Phant

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DCS 2.9.10.4160 Bye Phant