Ka-50 Black Shark 3 FAQ and Mini-Updates

NineLine · December 16, 2022

What is the DCS: Ka-50 Black Shark 3 update?

This is a paid update to the existing DCS: Ka-50 Black Shark 2 to add new systems, features and fixes to usher in another 10 years of the most advanced simulation of the Ka-50 on the market.

How much will it be?

The full version will be available for only $69.99 on our Shop and Steam. For owners of the Black Shark 3, you may take advantage of the Black Shark 3 Upgrade Program. This offer grants you the brand new version for only $10.99. Please note that this offer is only available for 3 months. After that, the upgrade cost will increase to $19.99.

**Please note** Users who received BS2 as a gift or event prize will not be eligible for the update, the full version must be purchased.

I already own the DCS: Ka-50 Black Shark 2, do I need to buy this?

No, if you do not want to buy the upgrade, it will not be required. You will have everything the current Black Shark 2 module has currently, you will not receive the new systems and updated 3D model and textures. **NOTE** If you are upgrading for an older version still using Starforce and are experiencing issues, please contact support and we will get it sorted for you. Thanks!

I only own the DCS: Ka-50 Black Shark 1, can I upgrade?

You can only upgrade the DCS: Ka-50 Black Shark 2. You will most likely be better off to by the full version of the DCS: Ka-50 Black Shark 3.

Will Ka-50 Black Shark 3 and the upgrade option be available on Steam?

Yes, we plan for both. **Please Note** Those who purchased BS2 on Steam and migrated to Standalone will have to purchase BS3 upgrade on Steam and migrate once again. We cannot provide an upgrade option on Standalone to them.

Why do I have to pay for this, shouldn't it be free?

The paid version is for weapons and systems that required extra research, development and implementation to add."

What happens to my original Ka-50 Black Shark 2 if I buy the upgrade?

It will still be available to use as you remember it today. You will still be able to use all the content and such you had before, you will simply have another module called the Ka-50 III in the game to use. Alternatively, in the Mission editor, you will be able to remove the MWS sensors and Igla missiles, returning the helicopter to the original version but with the brand new 3D External model.

What new features will come with the upgrade?

Main features:

A Missile Warning System for warning about the launch of missiles at a helicopter has been developed.
The possibility of using Air-to-Air Igla missiles has been implemented.
A realistic model of an Inertial Navigation System has been developed, which has the properties of a real one: it requires alignment before the flight and accumulates an error. The error of INS coordinates can be fixed in flight by previously assigned landmarks as fixpoints.
New, more accurate and detailed 3D helicopter model using modern technologies and materials.
The Black Shark 3 project fixed a number of old bugs and made some improvements from the users wish list and builders of home cockpits. (Also fixed for BS2)
Changes in the flight dynamics model include the implementation of the engine gas-dynamic instability during the rockets launch from the inboard launchers, from hover and at low speeds. This is due to the sake of hot rocket gases into the air intakes, which can lead to a drop in thrust, surgeon and shutdown of the engines. (Also fixed for BS2)
Added vibration during the transition from hovering to flight and vice versa. (Also fixed for BS2)

Will there be a new Manual for DCS: Ka-50 Black Shark 3?

Yes, you can find it on the doc folder for the module or you can download it here: https://www.digitalcombatsimulator.com/en/downloads/documentation/.

Will there be any missions for the DCS: Ka-50 Black Shark 3?

Yes, we will have a mix of new, and updated instant action and missions for the the Ka-50 Black Shark 3.

Will my campaigns work with the new module?

This will be up to content creators if they choose to update their campaigns to the new module, other wise they will work as normal.

Why are you doing this, shouldn't you be working on the Mi-24, AH-64D and other core issues?

The DCS: Ka-50 Black Shark is an important module to DCS World, keeping it updated and relevant is very important to us, and to our users. This project is only being worked on by a few devs that were instrumental in the original Ka-50 Black Shark, it has not affected any other project or core issues being addressed.

Known Issues as of release

Release Video: