not planned or correct for version AIM-7

[Slowdive]

What are the odds of allowing the F-16 to carry the AIM-7, as it would make simulating some historical engagements more realistic. For example a friend and I are running an Israel vs Syria campaign in Liberation circa 1982. Not having the AIM-7 is kind of a bummer. I understand that the aircraft simulated is a USAF F-16C circa 2008 or thereabouts, but it appears that the USAF did in fact have the capability to use the AIM-7 on that aircraft, so it's not beyond the realm of reality.

Reference this discussion: https://www.f-16.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=57760

[Stratos]

I will really really love the Sparrow on the F-16, and now is possible to restrict certain loadouts using the ED tools in the mission editor. BUT I really doubt ED will ever add it to our F-16.

Edited November 4, 2021 by Stratos

[Tholozor]

IIRC the only F-16 in U.S. service to carry Sparrow was the Block 15 ADF.

[LieutenantFalcon]

17 hours ago, Slowdive said:

For example a friend and I are running an Israel vs Syria campaign in Liberation circa 1982. Not having the AIM-7 is kind of a bummer.

Well realistically you'd be going haywire with Sidewinders and Pythons, or just calling in the F-15s and F-4s.

[Stratos]

On 11/4/2021 at 10:27 PM, Tholozor said:

IIRC the only F-16 in U.S. service to carry Sparrow was the Block 15 ADF.

Yes, and as I see currently we have specific airplanes modeled, not even marks, but specific Bu numbers, as used in specific air forces. Adding certain weapons would help representing other services, and with the hability to restrict weapons on pylons is easy to restric "unhistorical" loadouts for ceratin AF, years or theatres.

For example LietuenantFalcon says about Pythons, and altough IDF Vipers can carry them, our cannot. Why not to add them so we can have IDF Vipers, and If the mission maker or server ownder do not like them restrict them?

[Tholozor]

The problem with that is how the weapon then interacts with the avionics inside the cockpit. ED would then have to acquire the data on how that information is presented to the pilot and implement it, which then automatically creates a Frankenstein of avionics.

[Stratos]

Thats true, and thats a limiting factor of DCS, we will not ever see different variants of planes.

[Exorcet]

5 hours ago, Stratos said:

Thats true, and thats a limiting factor of DCS, we will not ever see different variants of planes.

We already have different variants of planes. P-51, L-39, F-14, A-10*, C-101, MiG-29*. Harrier variants are planned. We just need to show there is demand for ever more variants.

*FC variants, but still

[bies]

I woul love to see some early, lightweight, more maneuverable F-16 variant like early F-16A. 

But F-16 never used Sparrow except for a handful of National Air Guard specially modified F-16A ADF in limited number, but they were used only to intercept Soviet bombers over the North. With F-16 radar Sparrow was only useful to attack big, heavy, sluggish bombers at high altitude, it wouldn't be useful to fight tactical fighters in complicated situation. That's why they didn't even station in Europe.

Sidewinder/Gun only F-16A was simply better to combat Soviet tactical fighters like they have shown during 1982 Bekaa Valley clash you described. Only F-15 was firing Sparrows during 1982 war.

[Stratos]

Wondering if the Iraqi Vipers use similar software procedures to our Hornet in order to launch their Sparrows.

[VTJS17_Fire]

I also would like to see the AIM-7 on Iraqi Vipers, as they do carry the Sparrow. At least for the AI, which need player-like avionics and data presentation (HUD etc) at all.

 

Sources:
https://www.flightglobal.com/iraq-offered-new-f-16s-with-older-missiles/96044.article

https://www.forbes.com/sites/pauliddon/2022/02/15/the-iraqi-air-force-perpetually-between-east-and-west/?sh=37af834f21d3

https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/iraq-f-16-aircraft