Heatblur Simulations Autumn Update + Frog 7 Mini Campaign Announcement

[IronMike]

Dear all,

 

Summer has come to an end and autumn is upon us. We hope you all had a great time during summer and of course, plenty of vacation to hit the beaches, enjoy cool drinks and fly some DCS. After the F-4E release we gave the team some air to breathe and to recharge, as mentioned before, however we have long since returned to advance our roadmap. We apologize for being a bit more quiet with updates the past few months, as we collected and prepared ourselves for a productive rest of the year 2024. Hence we felt it was time to bring you a comprehensive development update for our modules again, and we are delighted to do so. The team has been hard at work introducing new features, refining systems, and addressing numerous bugs to enhance your simulation experience. In this update, we will be diving into the latest developments across the DCS: F-4E Phantom II, DCS: F-14 Tomcat, and DCS: AJS37 Viggen modules. Each aircraft has received dedicated attention to ensure you enjoy the highest levels of authenticity and performance. Let's explore the exciting new features and fixes in detail.

 

 

DCS: F-4E Phantom II - NEW Mini-Campaign - FROG-7

 

As you all know, our commitment to content in Heatblur modules is unparalleled and a plethora of new missions are planned for all our modules, including a new and free campaign for the F-4E Phantom II. Enjoy this little mini-campaign, which sets the mood for the larger, free campaign coming a bit later - Days of Atonement, following events of the Yom Kippur War.

 

 

FROG-7:

On the night of October 9 1973, Syria escalated the Yom Kippur War further by launching FROG-7 rockets at Israel's northern airbase, Ramat David. At 03:35, the missiles struck, killing one Israeli pilot and wounding several soldiers. Additional rockets landed in civilian areas, including Migdal HaEmek and Kibbutz Gvat, spreading fear and destruction among the population.

The Israeli government decided to retaliate decisively. The very same morning the IAF launched strikes deep into Syria, hitting core military installations and infrastructure to cripple the Syrian war-making efforts and to prove that Israel was both still capable and willing to attack its enemies deep in their territory. These attacks were also intended as a deterrent to Jordan to enter the war.

Relive some of the events following the October 9 FROG-7 attacks, including the famous Raid on the Syrian General Staff Headquarters in Damascus. The missions have been meticulously recreated based on a plethora of historical data and SME input from IAF veterans who flew during the Yom Kippur War, including the real life routes that have been used and events occurred during these missions - with as few liberties taken as possible within the limits of DCS.

DISCLAIMER: This campaign is semi-historical, and while it tries to depict historical events as accurately as possible within the limits of DCS, it is in no way motivated by any political, or religious ideologies, and is not connected to any recent events. Rather, it is meant to let the player experience one of the most intensive periods of aerial combat for the F-4E Phantom II.

Requirements: DCS: F-4E Phantom II | DCS: Syria | Optional: DCS: Combined Arms

 

DCS: F-4E Phantom II - Systems, Improvements and Features

We prepared a long list of bug fixes, systems improvements and new features for this update. As many of you requested, we finally added brightness control logic for the UHF repeaters. This improves the visibility across various lighting conditions, enhancing pilot experience in different operational environments. Furthermore, individual backlighting has been added for the WRCS ALT/RANGE placards. Based on the selected Delivery Mode, this backlighting will now indicate which of these is actively in use, bringing more situational awareness during flight. Night operations have also received attention with the addition of backlighting for the WSO ECM and KY-28 panels, improving usability in low-light scenarios.

 

DCS: F-4E Phantom II - RWR

 

Significant updates have been made to the RWR (Radar Warning Receiver). The RWR now detects active radar homing missiles, providing pilots with earlier and more accurate warnings of inbound threats. The RWR database itself has been updated to include new and previously undetected threats, making it a more reliable tool during combat operations. In addition, we've introduced new handoff sounds for emitters, which include the AIM-120, AIM-54, R-77, and Tornado platforms, allowing pilots to better manage their responses to multiple threats. Finally, ALR-46 RWR target separation (TGT SEP) button is now working, it lets you adjust the way the contacts are displayed to avoid symbols overlapping in environments that are highly saturated with emitters.

 

 

 

 

DCS: F-4E Phantom II - New Weapons

 

Weapon systems for the F-4E have also seen several updates. The BDU-33 practice bombs have been added to the inner wing pylons, offering pilots the opportunity to practice their bombing runs with increased realism. We've replaced the GBU-24B/B Navy Variant with the more accurate GBU-24A/B Air Force Variant, ensuring that the correct ordnance is modeled. For those flying the German F-4F, we have introduced the BL755 and SAMP-250KG LD Bombs mounted on TERs, accurately representing the specific loadouts used by the German air force. We've also included a visual-only ACMI/TACTS pod, adding to the authenticity of the aircraft’s visual representation without functional implementation. Furthermore, we have fine-tuned the sight depression limit, adjusting the mechanical range from -225 mils to -250 mils, offering more flexibility in targeting. Along with these changes, we have fixed issues with the Sight Reticle Range Bar, ensuring that it correctly indicates ranges in different modes.

 

 

 

 

DCS: F-4E Phantom II - JESTER AI Navigation Update

 

JESTER has received significant updates in this release, most importantly improving his navigation capabilities. Support for special waypoint types has been introduced, which can now be set up through either the Jester Wheel or the Mission Editor. These waypoint types include Identification Point (IP), Target (TGT), Visual Identification Point/ Nav Fix (VIP), CAP station between two subsequent CAP points and according QnA to set the desired vul-time (CAP), FENCE-IN (F-IN), FENCE-OUT (F-OUT), Homebase (HB), and Alternate (ALT), allowing for more sophisticated mission planning and execution. Jester also now supports in-flight INS updates through the NAV FIX function, which can be initiated via overflight of a VIP special waypoint, ensuring that navigation data can be refined and improved mid-flight. Details of these new functionalities can be found in the manual, which has also been updated. These new special waypoints will already receive more updates in the subsequent patch, such as a “silent VIP”, which allows for more low-key nav fixes on else regular waypoints, as was done for instance by the IAF during the Yom Kippur War, when flying their routes from IP Tower to IP Tower over the else featureless desert terrain of the Sinai. Additionally we want to tie checklists to waypoints such as Fence In and Fence Out in the future, and also allow for a more autonomous attack planning by JESTER based on your IP-TGT relation and mode selection. We are also currently working to implement a comprehensive list of set commands, such as you already know from the F-14, to allow for further mission scripting.

 

 

DCS: F-4E Phantom II - INS Alignment

 

First, we’ve reworked the entire alignment procedure. This new system is designed to streamline the alignment process, making it smoother and more efficient, ensuring your navigation systems are even more precise and dependable.

 

Additionally, we’re introducing new dialogue options with Jester. These will provide greater flexibility in communication, giving you more control and interaction during crucial operations. Whether it's alignment or troubleshooting, you’ll have clearer, more dynamic exchanges with Jester.

To further assist pilots, we’re adding more detailed information about the alignment process. This will give you a deeper understanding of each phase of the procedure, helping you anticipate and manage the alignment more effectively. With this added clarity, you’ll be able to ensure everything is properly set up for the most accurate flights possible.

 

In cases where an alignment fails, we’re introducing new options to handle these situations. Instead of leaving you without clear guidance, the updated system will offer corrective actions, providing a path to recovery and reducing downtime.

 

 

DCS: F-4E Phantom II Bugs

 

In terms of bug fixes, several critical issues have been squashed. We’ve addressed crashes related to homebase TACAN and some problems with the Heatblur UI. Radar antenna range gate acquisition issues that affected certain scenarios have also been fixed. Additionally, we have resolved crashes experienced by users with DCS installed on Unicode directory paths, such as those containing non-Latin characters. Another fix includes correcting the logic that was preventing ECM warm-up from skipping during hot starts. Lastly, we’ve resolved an issue with the Pave Spike STOW and WRCS/INS OUT lamps incorrectly illuminating during BIT 1 tests, ensuring these systems function as intended.

 

Improvements have also been made to the control inputs. New 4/8-way hat steering binds have been introduced for the Jester Wheel, providing greater control over AI management. Self-accelerating knob binds have been added for various cockpit controls, such as the Sight Depression, HSI Course, Target Latitude/Longitude, and Bombing Pull-Up Timer, simplifying input management for these functions. You may want to remap some of your slow/normal/fast keybinds, though we kept these to offer you more choice. Several issues with broken bindings have also been addressed, and missing toggle and axis binds have been added for systems like the Antenna Switch, Anti-Skid, and Emergency Gear handles.

 

Audio improvements for the F-4E are another highlight of this update. The engine sounds have been overhauled, offering a more immersive and authentic auditory experience that enhances the sensation of flying the Phantom. Canopy sounds have also been improved, adding further depth to the aircraft’s interaction with its environment.

 

Visually, we’ve made several important updates. We fixed the external engine blades LoD00 - LoD01. The fuel tape visibility has been improved for better readability during flight. A previous issue where formation lights disappeared when zooming out has been resolved, ensuring consistent lighting visibility. The throttle animation has been updated to include afterburner detent sideways movement, bringing more realism to throttle operations. Various cockpit indicators and animations, including those for the HUD and other critical systems, have been reworked to enhance both visual fidelity and functional accuracy, and much more.

 

Beyond these updates, we’ve refreshed the in-game manual to reflect all the latest changes and features, ensuring pilots have the information they need at their fingertips. Missions have also been updated to take advantage of these new capabilities, and new ones have been added for greater variety, introducing the first set of basic instant action missions for the new Afghanistan map, with more to follow. Additionally, we’ve introduced support for Historical Mode in the Mission Editor, allowing for more authentic mission setups. For mission creation, we’ve added new models, including an IP Tower and a GHQ Building, expanding the possibilities for mission design. Lastly, new liveries have been added, such as the Israel Kurnass 303 Toad 1967 livery with thanks Fish.

 

DCS: F-14 Tomcat

 

 

For the F-14 Tomcat, we’ve made several important updates to systems, weapons, controls, and more. One significant fix addresses an issue in NAVGRID mode, where true bearing was incorrectly displayed instead of magnetic bearing. We’ve also updated the TID repeater on the pilot's HSD, which now functions properly when the RIO selects TV mode. Laser code settings have been removed from the Kneeboard and Mission Editor aircraft properties, and you should now use the new fuze settings for configuring these codes in the DCS rearm menu.

 

Weapon adjustments for the F-14 include correcting the LAU-10 Zuni pod mass, reducing its weight by 150kg to reflect the correct loadout specifications. Unnecessary fuze settings for the BDU-33 practice bombs have been removed. We’ve also made the TARPS pod compatible with a wider range of munitions, including the Mk 82, Mk 83, GBU-12, and GBU-16, offering more flexibility for mission planning. Several fixes have been made to resolve corrupted weapon names in the Jester Ordnance Menu, and we’ve aligned the default payloads between the two Tomcat variants to ensure consistency.

 

We’ve also made several fixes to the cockpit controls. Issues where controls were clickable from the wrong cockpit have been addressed. Three-position switches now move in the correct direction when left or right-clicked, and tooltips for the IFF panel have been adjusted to provide clearer and more accurate information.

 

In addition to these updates, we’ve also added a first new set of basic instant action missions for Afghanistan with more to follow. Big thanks also to Kaba for an overhaul of the Cage the Bear campaign. Please note that older, obsolete versions have been removed, to keep the maintenance slim.

 

 

DCS: AJS-37 Viggen

 

 

The AJS-37 Viggen has received updates and bug fixes to improve both realism and gameplay. We’ve updated the airfield database to include support for the new Kola map and increased the maximum number of airfield reference codes to 98. The "Beredskapsvarning" warning is now enabled in LANDN P/O mode, adding more accuracy to emergency operations. Pilots can now select how REF codes are generated through a newly added Special Option, allowing for more customized mission setups.

 

Several critical bug fixes have been implemented. An issue preventing the RB15 missile from locking onto targets when released in NAV mode has been resolved, ensuring more reliable missile targeting. We’ve also fixed problems with saving manually set runway direction and TILS data, providing better operational consistency. The BAS selector loop issue, which occurred when spawning at bases with IDs greater than 72, has also been addressed. Additionally, we’ve adjusted the flash rates for ground collision and "beredskapsvarning" warnings to 5 Hz and 2.5 Hz, respectively, bringing them in line with real-world operations.

 

In terms of input controls, we’ve added toggle bindings for the ATT and HÖJD autopilot controls, offering more flexibility and ease of use.

 

As with the other modules, new instant action missions have been added for the Afghanistan map, and existing ones updated to reflect the latest changes. Mission makers now have the option to filter out FARPs from the REF code list by adding "-REF-" to the unit name, allowing for more refined mission design. The manual has also been updated to provide comprehensive guidance on these new features.

 

 

Q3 2024 and what the future holds

 

The rest of the year is already packed full with tasks for the team, as we continue our efforts on the side of the release for the Viggen and the F-14, (our upcoming MSFS modules, as a side note,) the Eurofighter, of course and more. We are currently wrapping up the A-6 AI development, which we hope to bring to you in one of the next updates. And we hope that we can bring the early F-14A to you before end of the year as well. Beyond that, we will of course have more in depth updates for you on the development of our various modules as the year keeps moving along. 

 

We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated community for your ongoing support and invaluable feedback. Your passion and engagement continue to inspire us to extend our efforts in delivering the highest quality simulation experience possible.

 

Thank you for being part of our journey to push the boundaries of flight simulation. Fly safe, and see you in the skies!

 

 

The Heatblur Team

Edited September 21, 2024 by Cobra847

[CaptPickguard]

Outstanding work, everyone. Can't wait to hear more about the Eurofighter! ;)

[scommander2]

Never regret and disappoint having HB's productions and surprises always happened... Thank you for hard work and dedication. 

[freehand]

What does "we're doing our part" relate to ?

[IronMike]

13 minutes ago, freehand said:

What does "we're doing our part" relate to ?

Would you like to know more?

(It is a silly Starship Troopers reference - aka bug squashing etc..)

Edited September 20, 2024 by IronMike

[Mike Force Team]

Heatblur, 

We are impatiently waiting for the Eurofighter.  Please make it available in time for the Christmas shopping season.

Mike Force Team

[IronMike]

1 hour ago, Mike Force Team said:

Heatblur, 

We are impatiently waiting for the Eurofighter.  Please make it available in time for the Christmas shopping season.

Mike Force Team

We will. Just not this one unfortunately.

[Stackup]

A-6E AI in one of the next updates?  Great!  Here's hoping they stick the landing this time and don't have a repeat of last year's "coming this summer" announcement.

[Bazz_Mulder]

Hey @IronMike!

Impressive list of fixes!

Can you share any information about when we will get DMAS upgrade for F-4E? 6 months / 12 / more? 

Edited September 21, 2024 by Bazz_Mulder

[Hiob]

AWESOME, guys!

[James744]

Amazing work! Is it possible to ask how high on the priority list Jester's use of the TGP to find targets is? Is this a long way off, or something soon to be worked on?

[IronMike]

2 hours ago, James744 said:

Amazing work! Is it possible to ask how high on the priority list Jester's use of the TGP to find targets is? Is this a long way off, or something soon to be worked on?

Probably not something we will manage before the end of the year, as it is quite a daunting and extensive task. Just to temper expectations a bit. Of course we hope as soon as possible, but I could not give you a fair estimate just yet, my apologies. And thank you for the kind words!

3 hours ago, Bazz_Mulder said:

Hey @IronMike!

Impressive list of!

Can you share any information about when we will get DMAS upgrade for F-4E? 6 months / 12 / more? 

 

Thank you! Unfortunately it is a bit too early to put a finger on an estimate just yet. As with everything, we hope sooner than later, of course.

Edited September 21, 2024 by IronMike

[joker62]

Awesome work! Big THANKS to all HB team.

[Raven (Elysian Angel)]

[draconus]

Glad to see you working on all fronts now and thanks for the new assets and maybe even AI A-6 this time

We were asking for Jester Nav fix for years in the F-14 forum and now the Phantom Jester get it first?

What about F-14A campaign in PG? Is it waiting for the early A?

I'd also mention VR/MT bug with black TV/LANTIRN display in front cockpit...

Edited September 22, 2024 by draconus

[MPK]

Please address this issue:

It is hugely annoying and I get this at least 50% of the time when spawning on a carrier in a busy server. The only fix is to restart DCS

[gulredrel]

Awesome. Thanks for the dev update.

Looking forward to the improved F-4E JESTER navigation options and finally A-6, even AI. It's such an awesome looking jet.

Thanks HB and IronMike.

[UrgentSiesta]

On 9/20/2024 at 11:38 AM, IronMike said:

we continue our efforts on the side of the release for the Viggen and the F-14, (our upcoming MSFS modules, as a side note,)

@IronMike many thanks for that update!

Looking forward to (trying) to find time to explore them for all those modules

Would you please expand a bit on MSFS plans? So far, we have F-14. Are there plans for other modules or updates to MSFS Tomcat?

[Raven (Elysian Angel)]

4 hours ago, UrgentSiesta said:

Are there plans for other modules

HB already announced an F-16A.

[freehand]

On 9/20/2024 at 11:32 PM, IronMike said:

Would you like to know more?
 

Not really it is of little interest to me just seemed a bit random any how looks like you removed the comment.

Edited September 23, 2024 by freehand

[pjbunnyru]

1 час назад, Raven (Elysian Angel) сказал:

HB already announced an F-16A.

yep,  but in msfs

[Raven (Elysian Angel)]

1 hour ago, pjbunnyru said:

yep,  but in msfs

Yes? I replied to the question if there are any other upcoming modules for MSFS...

[quote]Would you please expand a bit on MSFS plans? So far, we have F-14. Are there plans for other modules or updates to MSFS Tomcat?[/quote]

[pjbunnyru]

3 минуты назад, Raven (Elysian Angel) сказал:

Yes? I replied to the question if there are any other upcoming modules for MSFS...

[quote]Would you please expand a bit on MSFS plans? So far, we have F-14. Are there plans for other modules or updates to MSFS Tomcat?[/quote]

i can give just this :

Responding to questions in the comments, IndiaFoxtEcho report that they have no plans to bring the F-16A to DCS World with the thinking that many users may not want a less capable Viper with the F-16C Block 50 already in the sim. But they are listening to user comments on the issue nonetheless and there may yet be interest.

 

Спойлер

https://stormbirds.blog/2024/07/25/heatblur-and-indiafoxtecho-announce-f-16a-for-msfs/

 

[IronMike]

2 hours ago, freehand said:

Not really it is of little interest to me just seemed a bit random any how looks like you removed the comment.

 

That, too, was a quote from the movie.

I recommend watching it, it is a good movie.

8 hours ago, UrgentSiesta said:

@IronMike many thanks for that update!

Looking forward to (trying) to find time to explore them for all those modules

Would you please expand a bit on MSFS plans? So far, we have F-14. Are there plans for other modules or updates to MSFS Tomcat?

Yes. (And apart from the F-16A, that is all I shall say for now.)

[SloppyDog]

"These waypoint types include Identification Point (IP), Target (TGT), Visual Identification Point/ Nav Fix (VIP), CAP station between two subsequent CAP points and according QnA to set the desired vul-time (CAP), FENCE-IN (F-IN), FENCE-OUT (F-OUT), Homebase (HB), and Alternate (ALT), allowing for more sophisticated mission planning and execution." 

And in the manual it is stated: 

"Fence In (F-IN) and Fence Out (F-OUT): These waypoints function similarly to the IP and Target types, but with additional tasks."

Also a warning (or note):

" For Fence In and Fence Out, Jester will later also guide the pilot through specific checklists."

 

So, are we going to see something similar to the Wizzo on the old and venerable Jane's F-15? In that game, the WSO was a great part on making the game feel alive. Also, when you hit the target he would celebrate, with some very funny phrases. I saw in the mini-campaign trailer that Jester says something like that when the target is hit.

 

P.S: I started to making decent landings and Jester does not say something in the line of  "my mustache is fusioned with my eybrowns" anymore. Should I get worried? Or celebrate?

 

Edited September 24, 2024 by SloppyDog