MQ-9B SkyGuardian

[EchoOneOne]

With DCS constantly evolving, the addition of a full-fidelity UAV would be a game-changer. The MQ-9B SkyGuardian is the perfect candidate, offering advanced sensors, multi-role capabilities, and a realistic operational experience for drone warfare. This could pave the way for a new level of gameplay, introducing true UAV operations for the first time in DCS.

Why the MQ-9B?

-First full-fidelity UAV in DCS – setting a new precedent for unmanned systems.
-Multi-role capabilities – ISR, strike, naval operations, SIGINT, AEW, and more.
-Realistic drone operations – incorporating datalink control, sensor fusion, and remote weapons engagement.

Key Features & Capabilities

Armament:

• 9 hardpoints:
  • 1 centerline
  • 8 wing hardpoints

Payload options:

• AGM-114K
• Brimstone
• APKWS
• AIM-9X 
• GBU-12
• EGBU-12
• GBU-38
• GBU-49
• GBU-54

Avionics & Sensor Suite:

• AN/DAS-1 MTS-B Multi-Spectral Targeting System
• AN/APY-8 Lynx II radar (SAR/GMTI)

Optional Mission Kits:

• 360° multi-mode maritime surface search radar
• Automatic Identification System (AIS) for naval ops
• Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) package
• SIGINT for electronic warfare and intelligence gathering
• Link-16 tactical datalink for networked warfare
• Airborne Early Warning (AEW) capabilities
• Communications relay functionality

How It Could Work in DCS:

• Player-controlled UAV module with a ground-based GCS (Ground Control Station).
• Data-link integration to share real-time intel with fighters and ground units.
• Autonomous flight modes with realistic mission planning.

Why DCS Needs This:

Adding the first full-fidelity UAV would redefine modern warfare in DCS. The MQ-9B could be a force multiplier, expanding mission design possibilities for both single-player and multiplayer. Whether hunting enemy armor with Hellfires, tracking ships with maritime radar, or relaying battlefield data via Link-16, this UAV would open up new strategic gameplay elements never seen before in DCS.

Let's make it happen  

[upyr1]

I'm thinking this might be an interesting project for heat blur 

 

The predator and reaper drones are operated by a crew of two, a pilot and a sensor operator I know we do both tasks in both modules but it would be cool to have Jester AI 

[twistking]

Normally i'm all for Full Fidelity, but for Drones i could also see a super low fidelity implementation work well. Similar for AWACS or general C2.
So something between Flaming Cliffs and Combined Arms, where a player could jump between different units and stations...