Bullseye_F-16

Just wanted to give a quick update. I tried this setup and it works great! I used the Paddle Switch on my joystick as a modifier, then mapped the roll axis to the rudder axis while holding it. Now, when I hold the Paddle and move the stick left or right, the aircraft steers perfectly on the ground. Super smooth taxi control! Big thanks to everyone who shared this idea. This is an awesome little trick that really solves the problem!

Yeah, I totally understand that — it could definitely be tricky to implement across so many aircraft. I’ll give the modifier method a try soon and share how it goes. Maybe instead of a global NWS option, it could be something enabled or disabled per aircraft, which might make it a bit easier technically. Of course, I have no idea what’s going on under the hood — just throwing out an idea. Thanks again for the helpful input!

Thanks a lot for the detailed and thoughtful explanation — you make some very valid points! I completely understand the potential issues you mentioned, especially regarding crosswind takeoffs, differential braking, and training missions. That’s why I imagine this feature as something purely optional — a simple accessibility assist for players without rudder pedals. It wouldn’t need to disable the roll axis completely. Instead, it could work only at very low ground speeds, similar to how Falcon BMS handles it. Above a certain speed, it could automatically deactivate, letting the normal flight controls behave as usual. Of course, anyone who prefers full realism (or needs to train specific procedures) could simply leave it off. But for players with limited hardware, it could make taxiing much smoother and more enjoyable without affecting others. So in short, it’s not meant to replace proper rudder or NWS control — just to make DCS a bit more accessible for those who don’t have all the hardware yet. Thanks again for your insight — really appreciate the detailed feedback!

Yeah, that could definitely work for now. I’ll give it a try when I get the chance. Really appreciate the suggestion. Thanks.

I totally get your point, and you’re right — a twist grip stick is usually the go-to solution for those without rudder pedals. However, in my case I’m using the Thrustmaster Viper TQS Mission Pack and Thrustmaster Viper Joystick, so using a Logitech Extreme 3D just for the rudder doesn’t really make much sense with this setup. That’s why I think the “Roll-Linked NWS” option I mentioned above would completely solve this issue in a much cleaner way.

Hi DCS Team and fellow pilots, I’d like to suggest adding a feature similar to the “Enable Roll-Linked NWS” option found in Falcon BMS. In Falcon BMS, this function links the nose wheel steering (NWS) to the roll axis (joystick left/right movement) while taxiing on the ground. For players without rudder pedals, it offers a simple and intuitive way to steer aircraft during taxi by just using the joystick. Right now in DCS, aircraft that rely heavily on rudder input during ground operations can be quite difficult to handle without pedals. This can make taxiing frustrating for users with limited hardware setups. Having a “Roll-Linked NWS” option — even as a simple toggle in the gameplay or control settings — would make DCS far more accessible to a wider audience, while still allowing realism-focused users to keep it disabled if they wish. This would be a small change, but it could make a big difference in usability and enjoyment for many DCS players who love flying realistically but don’t have rudder pedals. Thanks for considering this and for all the great work you continue to do on DCS!