DCS World Steam Edition News

New campaign: DCS: F-15C Aggressors Air Combat Maneuvering Campaign by Maple Flag
https://store.steampowered.com/app/2742450/DCS_F15C_Aggressors_Air_Combat_Maneuvering_Campaign_by_Maple_Flag/

[h3]DCS World[/h3]

• Terrain scenery performance: optimized instancing and improved and optimized streaming.
  
• ChinaAssetPack. Missiles KD-20, KD-63 and C-701T switched to ED’s declaration.
  
• ChinaAssetPack. Bomb Type-200A switched to ED’s declaration.
  
• ChinaAssetPack. LS-6/GB-6 updated range table.
  
• ChinaAssetPack. HHQ-9 cold launch effect added.
  
• Input. When a single Controller Axis is bound twice (ex. with and without a modifier) on a single Game Axis, the "Axis Tune" modal fails to save its settings. Fixed.
  
• IR render. Fixed the square surface texture under the destroyed vehicle in FLIR.
  
• Weapons. APKWS RCS decreased from 0.04 -> 0.01 sq m.
  
• Fixed crash when one of two groups is destroyed while embarking a helicopter.
  
• Fixed crash when one of two groups is destroyed while embarking a vehicle.
  
• Fixed crash when infantry destroyed during a task Embarking.
  
• Fixed crash when one of two groups is destroyed while embarking a ship.
  
• Task Embarking, distribution doesn't work correctly for boat - corrected.
  
• Fixed crash while performing a task Embarking in some cases.
  
• Fixed exploit - aircraft can be equipped with weapons from other aircraft in some cases.
  
• AI aircraft. AI S-3B tanker parks on a place already occupied with static - fixed.
  
• Triggers. Part of group in zone - activates when it should not - corrected
  
• Triggers. Trigger Zone. Checking inside the attached zone.
  
• Effects. Rain effect is not cleared when it is turned off without restarting the DCS - fixed.
  
• Fixed bug when camera can attach to dead object.
  
• AI ground. When a SAM launcher has no LOS with its tracking radar, it still fires missiles, but they explode one second later - fixed.
  
• AI helicopters. Fixed IAS speed vs. wind bug.
  
• AI helicopters. Wheeled helicopters allow take off & landing from a parking position. "Normal" weight value was corrected.
  
• Control hover added Ah-64 taxi improved.
  
• AI helicopters. AIs collide with each other on vertical take off - fixed.
  
• AI wingman with data links remain on after shutdown - fixed.
  
• SSE. MT. Any looped outText message flashes at different intervals in Multithreading - fixed.
  
• AI surface. Infantry does not move after switching green state - fixed.
  
• AI surface. Radar SON-9 alarm state cannot be set to GREEN - fixed.
  
• AI surface. Ships may behave incorrectly when using the checkbox 'on land' - fixed.
  
• AI surface. The second group can't execute command Embarking to ship - fixed.
  
• AI surface. Deactivation function works only on part of units from the group - fixed.
  
• AI aircraft. SA342 using ATGM HOT3 missile in Hellfire style - fixed.
  
• Weapons. Negative weight of ATGM HOT3 payload - fixed.
  
• Effects. Moonlight reflection over the sea produces a blinding halo - corrected.
  
• Weapons. Kh-65 missiles turn around, and most don't hit their target - fixed.
  
• AI aircraft. The likelihood of the aircraft colliding with trees when going around mountain tops has been reduced.
  
• AI aircraft. AAR. AI struggles to keep the probe into the right drogue when the tanker orbits in a left turn - fixed.
  
• VR In cockpit cursors have become oversized and blurred - fixed.
  
• Effects. Flickering shadows in mirrors at night at some camera angles - fixed.
  
• AI aircraft. Drones were unable to launch ATGM Hellfire from high altitudes due to a missile guidance issue. Now the altitude is limited to 3600 meters.
  
• AI surface. S-75 (SA-2) tracking targets through mountains. LOS check restored.
  
• ME. Triggers. Added expanding window function for scripted trigger actions and messages.
  
• Weapons. ATGM AT-6 and AT-9 will be lost if the launcher is destroyed.
  
• AI aircraft. Incorrect behavior of the helicopter during landing in some cases was fixed.
  
• AI aircraft. AI helicopters fail to engage ground targets in some cases - fixed.
  
• Crash when deactivating a ship during a helicopter task cargo transportation fixed.
  
• AI surface. NASAMS attacks helicopters from short distances only - fixed.
  
• Weapons. Corrected aiming data for GBU-10, KAB-1500-LG-Pr, KAB-1500LG, GBU-24, KAB-500L, GBU-54, GBU-12.
  
• DCS MT. Vehicle guns shaking during rotation - fixed.
  
• AI surface. Turned off exaggerated recoil when launching missiles.
  
• ME. GUI Error when changing ship type if AMMO tab open - fixed.
  
• Weapons. Increased APKWS M282 warhead power.
  
• AI aircraft. S-3B tanker. Mechanics of releasing the refueling basket and the refueling process have been adjusted.
  
• Voice chat
  
• Added transparency to the VC widget window. change colors in widgets
  
• Fixed. MiG-15 VC radio mode does not work
  
• Fixed. Active radio is not highlighted in the widget
  
• AI surface. Freeze when performing Embarking task for ship in some cases - fixed
  

For a full list of changes, please read the full changelog.

[h2]Lunar Sale[/h2]
[h3]Reminder[/h3]



https://store.steampowered.com/app/1199120/DCS_JF17_Thunder/

The Lunar Sale has huge savings up for grabs across most of our popular aircraft, terrains, add-ons and campaigns. Please head over to the Shop and check out the exclusive deals.

https://store.steampowered.com/app/223750/DCS_World_Steam_Edition/

That’s not all! Campaigns are also available with up to 50% off. These include Stone Sky’s MAD series, the Maple Flag Campaigns, Reflected Simulation Campaigns, and many more. Check out the Shop.

Due to database maintenance in the European time zone, you may have experienced downtime and errors whilst accessing the website and online multiplayer servers. This issue has now been resolved and we apologies for any inconveniences this may have caused. We hope that extending the Lunar Sale till the 25th of February at 15:00 GMT provides you with enough time to find your next module or campaign, or both!


[h2]F/A-18C[/h2]
[h3]Update[/h3]



The F/A-18C has been one of our most popular DCS aircraft as it provides a wealth of game play options and is nearly feature-complete. There are though a number of items that we continue to address that will further improve the realism and attention to detail of this DCS flagship aircraft.

Flight Model
For the past several months, we’ve been improving the flight dynamics of the F/A-18C to represent this aircraft’s unique flight qualities even more accurately. Much of this has been focused on expanding the F/A-18C’s high Angle of Attack (AoA) capabilities by adjusting the stabilizer scheduling. These changes will allow maneuvering up to 50 to 55 AoA, compared to mid-30s earlier. This expanded AoA capability will better allow players to take advantage of the F/A-18Cs outstanding low-speed, high-AoA maneuver capability. Note that this expanded AoA capability can result in a dramatic loss of airspeed, if not careful.

Another important improvement is the handling characteristics in Powered Approach (PA) mode when landing. During landing, you will find achieving and maintaining on-speed AoA easier. This is tied to the flight control system changes.

Nose pitch effects have also been added when the speedbrake is extended and retracted to match the real F/A-18C. Overall aerodynamic damping has also been improved to better match F/A-18C handling characteristics.

Flight Control System
The Flight Control System (FCS) has been completely reworked in all channels, and it provides much improved behavior when switching the control logic system between AUTO flaps mode to HALF\FULL flaps. You will find the transition much smoother with little to no un-commanded pitching moments. This will also make getting on-speed during landings much easier.

Roll characteristics have also been improved to better match the real aircraft with greater stability in the roll and yaw channels. This also applies to improved behavior around the longitudinal axis when taking off.

The yaw channel FCS in PA mode has also been adjusted to improve landing control in a crosswind. In total, the improvements in the FCS will make takeoff and landings much easier.

Landing Gear
The landing gear shock absorbers were adjusted to match documentation and reference videos. The F/A-18C landing gear articulation is a complex and dynamic process that is accurately modeled for carrier recoveries and touch-and-go. This change also provides improved landing control in a crosswind and addresses excessive G loads when landing. Whilst greatly improved, we will continue to tune this mechanic to allow even more accurate nosewheel touch-and-go behavior to allow lower airspeed rotation.

In addition to the landing gear mechanisms, the tires have also been adjusted to provide more authentic friction forces that will be apparent in crosswind takeoff and landings.

Engine
Engine transition thrust time was adjusted to be more accurate between afterburner and MIL thrust modes. The engine transition time is now faster from afterburner to idle. This allows you to reduce airspeed when cutting the engines to idle more quickly.

Autopilot
F/A-18C autopilot operation has been improved by tuning its behavior when initiating an altitude hold mode whilst the aircraft is unbalanced. The updated autopilot also improves holding the set altitude when in a roll and initiating an altitude hold mode. Before, you would often lose or gain hundreds of feet. Last, the autopilot control is much smoother when transitioning through waypoints in coupled mode.

Automatic Carrier Landing System
When activating the Automatic Carrier Landing System (ACLS) in coupled mode, the autopilot will use smoother and improved approach behavior.

Get the DCS: F/A-18C at 30% off now during the 2024 Lunar Sale that has been extended to February 25th, 2024.

https://store.steampowered.com/app/411950/DCS_FA18C/


[h2]Digital Coalition Air Force [/h2]
[h3]Multiplayer Server[/h3]



The Digital Coalition Air Force is a fun and engaging way to enjoy DCS online. The members fly on the EU timezone and are recruiting DCS: F-15E Strike Eagle, DCS: F-16C Viper, DCS: AV-8B Night Attack V/STOL pilots and controllers.

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2316890/DCS_F15E/

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1090850/DCS_F16C_Viper/

https://store.steampowered.com/app/759130/DCS_AV8B_Night_Attack_VSTOL/

This military simulation group alternates between training and operation seasons. Q1 and Q3 are training seasons when new cadets are screened and trained as per squadron standards. Operation campaign seasons are Q2 and Q4.

You can read more about how the F-15E's squadron training season would work here.
DCAF teaches many bespoke training courses that cadets can access and be assessed on. Make sure to and check out their DCAF Discord.

Thank you again for your passion and support,

Yours sincerely,

Eagle Dynamics

[h2]Year of the Loong[/h2]
[h3]DCS Lunar Sale 2024[/h3]



Welcome to the DCS 2024 Lunar Sale where you can enjoy huge savings on most popular aircraft, terrains, campaigns and other important modules! Please checkout the details below and take this opportunity to explore a new aspect of DCS.

https://store.steampowered.com/app/223750/DCS_World_Steam_Edition/

[h2]OH-58D Kiowa[/h2]
[h3]Report by Polychop[/h3]



The goal of the DCS: OH-58D Kiowa Warrior is to deliver an exciting and authentic virtual rendition of this renowned military reconnaissance and light attack helicopter. The Kiowa Warrior is a versatile aircraft that is well-suited to locating enemy forces that can then be passed to other forces to engage. The OH-58D also packs a punch with an assortment of weapons. It will find a great home flying along the AH-64D and the upcoming CH-47F Chinook in DCS.

While the OH-58D Kiowa Warrior thrives in the reconnaissance role, making full use of its iconic Mast Mounted Sight (MMS). In more recent conflicts, it’s played a pivotal role in both gathering critical intelligence and supporting ground troops with precision fires on enemy positions.

Armed with an array of weapons that include laser-guided Hellfire missiles, a .50 caliber M3P machine gun, Stinger air-to-air missiles, and a large selection of unguided and guided rocket types such as the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS), we’re certain that DCS: OH-58D Kiowa Warrior pilots will find it thrilling to roll in hot on targets. Please check out the Development Screenshots.

[h2]Pimax Crystal[/h2]
[h3]Promotional advert[/h3]



Experience Virtual Reality in DCS like never before with the Pimax Crystal VR headset. Delivering an incredibly high 5760 x 2880 pixels with a host of performance-enhancing features such as foveated rendering, the Pimax Crystal promises market-leading clarity and convenience for the ‘ultimate’ life-like simulation. The Pimax Crystal is an outstanding choice for DCS providing crisp and clear displays for visually tracking targets whilst providing excellent performance.

Key Features:

• Inside-out tracking means there’s no need to buy or manage base stations.
  
• Glass aspheric lenses, QLED panels, and local dimming create vivid colors with realistic contrasts.
  
• 2880 x 2880 native resolution (per eye, even at 120Hz), delivers incredible clarity.
  
• Eye tracking means the Crystal is Quad Views capable, allowing it to perform with exceptional GPU efficiency.
  

An Introduction To Quad Views

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBjJN5Uu12g

Eye-tracking within the Crystal enables the use of Quad Views, a form of Dynamic Foveated Rendering that uses the position of the user's gaze to render in full resolution only the area the user is looking at. Areas outside the user gaze are rendered to a lower resolution, which results in DCS VR performance gains of up to +50% FPS. Watch the video above for a demonstration. Learn more about Quad Views for Pimax here.

Available Now:

• Follow this link and use code DCS2024 during checkout to purchase your Pimax Crystal with a $100 USD discount, available until March 15th.
  
• Visit the Pimax area of the DCS forum where Pimax staff are available to answer your questions and support your VR experience.
  
• To hear what the DCS VR community has to say about the Pimax Crystal, please follow the video playlist link here.
  

Make the most of the incredible offerings that await you in the DCS Lunar Sale 2024. Polychop’s Kiowa is progressing well, and the Pimax Crystal promotion is your gateway to an even more immersive virtual reality experience.

Thank you again for your passion and support,

Yours sincerely,

Eagle Dynamics

[h2]Bo-105[/h2]
[h3]Miltech-5[/h3]



The above screenshot shows the current state of the Bo-105, which will be available in three versions: the German Bo 105 PAH 1A1/VBH, the Swedish Hkp9A, and the South Korean Bo-105 as AI only.

Aside from the liveries, all three versions will have different internal devices and are offered as separate versions. The external and internal 3D models of all Bo-105 versions will have a high level of detail that is close to photo realistic. All movable parts of the helicopter have been modelled, from rotor blade articulation to circuit breakers.

Initial tests have shown the great potential of their new development strategy for internal machine logic. It fits well into the existing DCS API and environment. The program logic changed from event control to situation control. This means that all devices have their own program and are interconnected within a global system. The advantage is that specific control situations do not require special coding. The result is an auto-generated output that is dependent on all the connected devices. An example of this is autorotation. The handling is initiated by the corresponding pilot inputs. The rotor system, as an independent device, reacts like a real Bo-105. Even non programmatically planned situations are handled realistically. This system is termed MEDUSA by Miltech-5. It is a multithreaded system that can handle all devices in different threads.

The external and cockpit models, electric system, engines, fuel supply, and rotor system are in advanced development states. The next steps are focused on flight performance, handling, and fine tuning the Bo-105’s behaviours.


[h2]South Atlantic[/h2]
[h3]Development Report[/h3]



Since the release of the DCS: South Atlantic map, RAZBAM has provided a series of updates including new airfields, improved visual appearance and performance. They have also resolved bugs and this is now a much improved map that will see further enhancements this year.

A large amount of work has gone into modelling and improving all towns, cities and small hamlets. This includes new building types, Points of Interest (POI), and optimising them for a boost in performance. RAZBAM have also invested time and expense in aerial photography drones to provide improved terrain distribution aesthetics.

RAZBAM will be focusing on further ground texture and normal map improvements in the coming months. Please make sure you update to the latest version to enjoy all these new updates or consider a purchase of this large, unique, and historic region of the DCS: South Atlantic.

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2017210/DCS_South_Atlantic/


[h2]Digital Controllers[/h2]
[h3]Multiplayer Server[/h3]



Digital Controllers aim to unite individual squadrons by inviting them to participate in large inter-squadron events. Collaboration becomes far easier by training squadron air controllers to a global standard. Pilots new to radiotelephony are welcome to participate in the training too!

They provide detailed publications that define training standards and provision of ATC/Tactical Control. This allows squadrons to quickly and easily reference standard specifications. The linked example is a work in progress Air Traffic Control standards guide.

Their mission is to standardise ATC and Tactical Control, resulting in a friendly hub that brings the DCS community closer together. Check out their website and join in on Discord.

Thank you again for your passion and support,

Yours sincerely,

Eagle Dynamics

[h2]Unified Release[/h2]
[h3]A new era begins[/h3]



For the past several years, we have released DCS in two forms: the Open Beta, which includes the most recent changes to allow broad testing and the Stable version which is based on the most recent Open Beta and has no known crashes, thus the term Stable. In 2024, we will be moving to unified DCS updates.

This change has been a common customer request and will streamline our release process. We believe that it will also help avoid version confusion for both single-player missions and multiplayer servers. Starting with our first update of the year in February, we will also be making the same changes to the DCS Steam Edition. Please stay tuned for more details.


[h2]AviaStorm’s Tornado[/h2]
[h3]Development Progress[/h3]



Five 3D artists are currently working on the project, which involves significant personnel commitment. This investment will result in a module that meets your expectations.

AviaStorm has had the opportunity to examine many small details of this aircraft for the level of detail that DCS demands. Such details may not initially stand out, or even be noticed by most customers, but they are crucial in the context of creating a masterpiece that is the Tornado. An example includes the emergency RAM air flap and two cooling flaps.

“We are dedicated to achieving the level of quality we and Eagle Dynamics aspire to and what is expected from DCS customers.”

– AviaStorm


[h2]Growling Sidewinder[/h2]
[h3]Affiliate Program[/h3]



We are pleased to extend our warmest congratulations to Growling Sidewinder as he takes on the roles of affiliate and brand ambassador for DCS. His proven determination fuels our fires and we are incredibly thankful to have him on-board. Please check out the GS Discord and keep your eyes on the skies for some exclusive deals, only on Growling Sidewinder’s Youtube!

As always, thank you again for your passion and continued support,

Yours sincerely,

Eagle Dynamics