DCS World Steam Edition News

[h2]Shadow Tournament[/h2]
[h3]Timed Helicopter Competition[/h3]



VIRPIL Controls will be providing a prize pool worth an incredible €8,000! Grand Prizes consisting of complete helicopter controls setups will go to the winners. The tournament this year will be divided into three groups, with each group receiving a full suite of prize devices for 1st, 2nd and 3rd places!

For more information on the tournament and participant statistics, the complete prize fund, and regulations of the event, please visit: VIRPIL Controls Forum.

“Welcome back to the race track! Good luck!” VIRPIL Controls Team



[h2]Mi-24P Hind[/h2]
[h3]Development Progress[/h3]



Work on the Petrovich AI for DCS: Mi-24P Hind continues, and our latest development has focused on Petrovich background behaviors. These determine what Petrovich will do when not busy blowing stuff up with ATGMs or searching for targets through the periscope sight.

One of the activities, which is almost finished, will allow Petrovich to scan for threats and warn you of them. Petrovich AI will move his Field Of View (FOV) in different directions to scan for potential threats like missiles or projectiles fired at you. The FOV is limited, and if Petrovich looks at something on the starboard side, he won't notice gun or missile fire coming from the port side. When detecting threats, Petrovich will only notice missiles from far away when a smoke trail is still present. The projectile detection range is limited to 2.5km. Petrovich will not warn you of everything detected and flood you with messages. Rather, Petrovich will be looking at relative speeds and trajectory to decide if a missile or hail of rounds pose a threat. Just like a real co-pilot, he will make educated guesses and warn about incoming missiles, even if the missile is locked on another target that is close to you.

Messages and voice overs will be in the form of clock direction calls, between 9 o'clock to 3 o'clock. Petrovich will also use countermeasures automatically when he detects incoming missiles. We also have a new video from Wolfpack345 ready that reviews all Petrovich AI functionality. Check out DCS: Mi-24P Hind Petrovich AI.

We will next move this technology to George in the AH-64D.



[h2]Ka-50 Black Shark 2[/h2]
[h3]Big Bundle Bargains[/h3]



With the imminent release of Black Shark 3, we kindly remind you that the Black Shark 2 + Mi-8MTV2 or the Black Shark 2 + Combined Arms bundles are the best way to access massive savings on the DCS: Black Shark 3! Make sure you grab this opportunity whilst there is still time!

https://store.steampowered.com/bundle/13462/DCS_Ka50_Black_Shark_and_Mi8MTV2_Bundle/

https://store.steampowered.com/bundle/13461/DCS_Ka50_with_Combined_Arms_Bundle/

Thank you again for your passion and support,

Yours sincerely,

Eagle Dynamics

[h2]Halloween Sale[/h2]
[h3]Last Chance[/h3]



We are extending the Halloween Sale until the 7th of November at 23:59 GMT. An identical event is also available on Steam, and it will last until the 7th of November. Head over to the shop or Steam and grab yourself something special with up to 50% on most of our aircraft, maps and terrains.

[h2]Aircraft with 30% savings[/h2]
https://store.steampowered.com/app/1417260/DCS_A10C_II_Tank_Killer/
https://store.steampowered.com/app/250300/F15C_for_DCS_World/
https://store.steampowered.com/app/1090850/DCS_F16C_Viper/
https://store.steampowered.com/app/411950/DCS_FA18C_Hornet/
https://store.steampowered.com/app/1199120/DCS_JF17_Thunder/
https://store.steampowered.com/app/1724230/DCS_Mosquito_FB_VI/

[h2]Maps with 30% savings [/h2]
https://store.steampowered.com/app/1120301/DCS_The_Channel/
https://store.steampowered.com/app/411891/DCS_NEVADA_Test_and_Training_Range_Map/
https://store.steampowered.com/app/411890/DCS_Persian_Gulf/
https://store.steampowered.com/app/684850/DCS_Normandy_1944_Map/
https://store.steampowered.com/app/1120300/DCS_Syria/


[h2]DCS 2.8[/h2]
[h3]Progress[/h3]



After the most recent patch, DCS is now running on Open Beta version 2.8.0.32235.1. To address your most common questions, we have put together a list of points.

What is DCS 2.8?
DCS 2.8 is a quality of life update. DCS 2.8 is the next step forward in realism and quality of life improvements. We added atmospheric effects like moving clouds, rainbows, glories, ice halos, and the visual quality of the clouds. We also dramatically improved the AI Basic Flight Maneuvers (BFM) logic for jet aircraft.

Virtual Reality
Because the 2.8 update introduced moving clouds that require additional calculations some of you may have noticed a change in your VR performance. We are investigating this and will strive to address this as soon as possible.

Easter Eggs
During the Halloween period, we included some easter eggs that you may have already seen. We are very thankful to the community for the overwhelmingly positive response, and we would love to continue this tradition in the future with the addition of an Options setting to opt out.

Lighting & Shadows
We introduced a new point lighting system to the DCS: Persian Gulf map as a test. This allows light sources like parking ramp flood lights, and more to cast dynamic lighting of objects and within cockpits. We plan to implement this lighting to other maps later.

Shadows are an important part of this visual effect, and this improvement to the lighting will also require related dynamic shadows from these light sources. We are planning a new approach to handle the complexity of shadows in DCS.

All of the mentioned features are available in the latest DCS Open Beta update, and we encourage you to check them out for yourself! Please remember that the Halloween Sale is still on, and it is a great opportunity to take your DCS to the next level with new maps, aircrafts, and campaigns! Check out the Shop.

Thank you again for your passion and support,

Yours sincerely,

Eagle Dynamics

[h2]Halloween [/h2]
[h3]2022 Spooky Sale[/h3]



The DCS Halloween 2022 Sale gives you great savings of up to 50% across our most popular products. Head over to our Shop for an exclusive sale until the 6th of November at 23:59 GMT. Due to Steam Halloween Sale criteria, this promotion is not available on Steam.


[h2]DCS 2.8[/h2]
[h3]Progress[/h3]



We are excited about the release of DCS version 2.8. This update includes some long-requested improvements such as moving clouds and weather effects, HOTAS updates, new jet aircraft AI Basic Fighter Maneuvers (BFM), multicrew sync enhancements, an F10 compass mode, Module Manager groups, and more! The Persian Gulf map also includes new, dynamic light sources like street lamps and airfield flood lights.


[h2]MB-339[/h2]
[h3]Release[/h3]



The MB-339 is an Italian, single engine, twin seat, jet trainer and light attack aircraft that was derived from the Cold War MB-326. The aircraft entered service in the early 1980s and quickly became the primary trainer of the Italian Air Force.



The MB-339 was exported and many are still in service. Flown by the Armada de la República Argentina (Argentine Navy), this aircraft took part in the Falklands-Malvinas war. It was also used by the Eritrean Air Force against rebels, smugglers, and the Ethiopian Air Force.

Historic operators of the A version of the MB-339 were the Air Forces of Italy, Malaysia, Nigeria, Peru, United Arab Emirates, Argentina and Ghana. Thanks to its superb flying qualities, the MB-339’s PAN aerobatic version is also used by two national aerobatic teams: The “Frecce Tricolori” (Italian Air Force) and the “Al Fursan” (“The Knights” – UAE Air Force). The MB-339 is the only jet aircraft capable of performing the famous Lomcovák maneuver.



The MB-339 will be released in an almost feature-complete state. Some of the most interesting features available at release include:

A highly advanced Flight Model based on performance and engineering data from the real aircraft. Furthermore, the flight model has been deeply tested by former MB-339 Frecce Tricolori pilots.

Extensive and detailed simulation of all flight systems:

• Flight control system.
  
• Full electrical system including circuit breakers logic.
  
• Detailed hydraulic system.
  
• Fuel system.
  
• Oxygen and pressurization systems.
  
• Navigation systems: TACAN, VOR/ILS, and AHRS/GPS including the possibility to load a custom data cartridge.
  
• Blind flying hood.
  
• Radios compatible with SRS and DCS voice.
  
• Internal and external lighting.
  
• Armament system.
  
• Smoke system.
  

A highly accurate 3D model that is based on blueprints and surveys of the real MB-339. The model includes a complete set of animations, lighting and a detailed damage model.



A very accurate 6-DOF (Degrees of Freedom) cockpit with realistic and detailed instruments, controls, and textures. The cockpit is VR-ready.

Weapons:

• Anti runway Durandal.
  
• Cluster Belouga bombs.
  
• BAP-120 and BAP-100.
  
• Pod conformal cannons DEFA 553 30mm.
  
• Pod conformal machine guns AN-M3 12.7mm.
  
• Pod conformal camera (only visual at release).
  
• Travel pod.
  
• LR-25-0 (or AL-25-50) for 50mm rockets SNIA.
  
• 50mm rockets Snia ARF-8/M3 (API/HEI/TP).
  
• BRD-4-250 for training bombs Mk-76 /MK-106 and 2 50mm rockets.
  
• Mk-76 for BRD without hook, Italian labels.
  
• MK-106 for BRD without hook, Italian labels.
  

Included with the purchase of the MB-339 is an array of country liveries. Several training and practice missions, single player missions, and instant action missions are included. Also available at launch is a mini campaign and an exhaustive PDF user manual. We look forward to your feedback!

Thank you again for your passion and support,

Yours sincerely,

Eagle Dynamics

​[h2]KA-50 Upgrade[/h2]
[h3]To Black Shark 3[/h3]



The Black Shark 3 Upgrade Program will allow all existing owners of the Black Shark 2 to upgrade to Black Shark 3 at a reduced price. Now is a great time to download DCS: Ka-50 Black Shark 2 to get to grips with this fearsome beast in time for the Black Shark 3.


[h2]Black Shark 3[/h2]
[h3]Development Report[/h3]



3D Helicopter Model

The completely new and more accurately detailed 3D model is based on newly available data, drawings and photographs. The model incorporates our latest technologies and materials, which will bring the Black Shark 3 to the current standards of recent DCS modules and exceed it. A novel modeling of internal compartments, engines, transmission, and control elements is a first for a DCS module. All of this exquisite detail can be seen under the hatches.



Air-to-Air Missiles

Igla missiles are similar to those used in MANPADS and they are designed to intercept subsonic aircraft out to 5 km. New wingtip pylons have been added for Igla missiles that provide two additional hardpoints to the four existing ones.

Missile Warning System

The sensors of the Missile Warning System (MWS) are integrated into the onboard defense system with the ability to display detected threats on the ABRIS display. Four combined MWS sensors operate in the IR and UV ranges, and they are located in pairs on the nose and tail of the helicopter. When a launch is detected, a missile launch warning is displayed on the ABRIS display and automatic dispensing of flares is possible.

New Inertial Navigation System

The inertial navigation system in the Ka-50 is now based on complex information processing algorithms using the Kalman filter - just like in real navigation systems. The calculator receives data from several navigation sensors. Based on these input data, the Kalman filter vector is calculated, consisting of three-axis coordinates, velocities, heading, drift angle, and wind speed. Thanks to the filter, even if one or more navigation sensors fail or give out data with a large error, the navigation parameters will continue to be calculated indirectly through data from other sensors. This model of the inertial navigation system is the most advanced in DCS and will be used in the development of new aircraft.

For fans of the classic Ka-50 of Black Shark 2, there will be a Mission Editor option to remove the Missile Warning System (MWS) sensors and Igla Air-to-Air missiles.

 

[h2]Bundles[/h2]
[h3]Promotion[/h3]



We are pleased to offer two exceptional bundles that combine DCS: Black Shark 2 with either the DCS: Mi-8MTV2 or DCS: Combined Arms. Purchasing both products together will grant you a massive discount of up to 50%. These bundles are also available on Steam.

Black Shark 2 and Magnificent Eight Bundle
https://store.steampowered.com/bundle/13462/DCS_Ka50_Black_Shark_and_Mi8MTV2_Bundle/?beta=1
The ultimate combination of striking force and transport. This bundle will prepare you for the more advanced features, coming to Black Shark 3. It is a good way to practice your helicopter flying skills too.

Black Shark 2 and Combined Arms Bundle
https://store.steampowered.com/bundle/13461/DCS_Ka50_with_Combined_Arms_Bundle/?beta=1
This bundle allows you to fly the powerful Ka-50 Black Shark 2 and manage the battlefield from the map view during a mission using Combined Arms. Combined Arms also allows you to play the role of a Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC).

Both of these bundles are now available for $49.99. Prepare for Black Shark 3 before it’s too late!

Thank you again for your passion and support,

Yours sincerely,

​Eagle Dynamics

[h2]DCS: La-7[/h2]
[h3]Introduction[/h3]



The Lavochkin La-7 is one of the most famous Soviet fighters that saw action towards the end of the Second World War. It was the crown jewel of Soviet World War II aircraft design and saw great success at the hands of Red Army Air Force ace, Ivan Nikitovitch Kozhedub, with 60 kills, the vast majority of which were Fighters!



The La-7 aircraft is equipped with the 14 cylinder ASh-82FN radial engine which was a derivative of the ASh-62, itself based on a license built version of the American Wright Cyclone R-1820. The ASh-82 was truly the pinnacle of Soviet air-cooled engines, reliable and easy to maintain, it developed 1’850 hp. The aircraft was also well armed with two formidable 20-mm ShVAK cannons. The wooden airframe was light and sleek yet extremely rugged. It offered excellent overall performance, and was loved by its pilots for its handling and capabilities, making it easily as good as the best Axis fighters in air combat.



The OctopusG team has leveraged their experience developing the DCS: I-16 to develop the most accurate La-7 possible. Their La-7 will have a fully interactive cockpit, detailed systems modeling, and an outstanding flight model based on years of DCS World development experience.

The module is very far along, and it is planned to be released into Early Access in the first part of 2023.



[h2]Dynamic Weather[/h2]
[h3]Coming soon[/h3]



After extensive testing of new moving clouds and effects like rainbows, we are ready to update DCS World weather in the upcoming 2.8 version. The Weather System includes optimization for VR, and we are confident that this will result in a more stable and smooth experience.



Version 2.8 will be a large update to DCS, and you will be able to experience new atmospheric effects like rainbows and ice halos. The ice halo effect settings have been added to the Mission Editor Weather tab, and clouds will now move according to wind direction and speed. The rain effect has also been enhanced, and there have been fixes to rare volumetric clouds artifacts.



Adjustments have been made to the tone-mapping process and exposure control. We recommend a gamma setting of 2.2. Flat shadows on MFDs and cockpit shading have also been improved.

We are excited to bring you this Weather System update, and we look forward to your feedback. Please stay tuned for more DCS 2.8 news coming soon.

Thank you again for your passion and support,

Yours sincerely,

Eagle Dynamics