DCS World Steam Edition News

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



An issue where RWR Contacts displayed on the wrong azimuth has now been resolved. We fixed an issue where moving the TDC caused the radar beam to stick. We also fixed a JSOW A/C manoeuvre error that caused a miss.

Fuel Low BIT has been added, as well as auto-lase for the GBU-24 Paveway III. We are planning for these features and many more to be released in the next update to DCS World Open Beta 2.5.6.

Check out the In Development Screenshots.

[h2]F/A-18C Hornet[/h2]
[h3]Development Progress[/h3]



Ground Moving Target (GMT) Radar Mode
Locating ground targets can be a difficult task, an important tool that can assist you is the Ground Moving Target (GMT) Air-to-Ground (A-G) radar mode. When enabled, this mode detects moving ground units and allows you to designate them for tracking. Note that GMT will not detect stationary targets.

Instruction Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDsTVJ4dcAU

When paired with the AGM-65F Maverick and laser-guided bombs, GMT can be a useful tool for detecting, tracking, and engaging mobile targets.




SEA Radar Mode
Whilst the general MAP Air-to-Ground radar mode has been available for some time, we will soon introduce the SEA A-G mode. This mode allows the radar to detect and track ships out to 80 nm. This is particularly useful for engaging ships using the AGM-84D Harpoon anti-ship missiles with specific range and bearing targeting. SEA mode can also be interleaved to display MAP ground returns.

Instruction Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pmx_pLbgKEo

When a target has been designated in SEA mode, the targeting pod can also be slaved to the target.




Defensive Systems Update
We are pleased to announce several new defensive features planned for the next update. These include the addition of Semi/Automatic (S/A) and AUTO expendable countermeasure programs, the Airborne Self-Protection Jammer (ASPJ), and jammer effects on the radar.

Instruction Video
https://youtu.be/lwtBqwgqh8I




Transmit Designate
We’ll be adding the Transmit Designate (TXDSG) option on the Situational Awareness (SA) display. When enabled, it allows you to transmit suits to ground designation points and Launch & Steering (L&S) targets for flight members and friendly aircraft on the same Link-16 network.

Instruction Video
https://youtu.be/WvnyIaQshLQ


[h2]Additions[/h2]
[h3]Highlights[/h3]



As well as the substantial push to complete the Hornet’s new features, we would like to mention a notable addition:

Handy Wind Bulk Carrier
A new civilian ship equipped with a functioning helipad for:

• DCS: UH-1H Huey
  
• DCS: SA342 Gazelle
  
• DCS: Ka-50 Black Shark 2
  

F-5E Tiger II
The headwind and tailwind anomalies have now been fixed.

Mission Editor
AI escort aircraft not engaging targets correctly issues have been resolved.

DCS World
We have added more realistic cockpit sounds when using weapons. The F-10 Ruler in VR and multi monitor mode has now been fixed. The SA-2 Guidance has received a necessary accuracy improvement. Also, user created ground units now show in white in F10 view.

You can expect these minor fixes and many more additions to be included in the next Open Beta 2.5.6 update planned for next week. We are incredibly optimistic about where we’re heading, and we believe that the opportunities for developers and the creative community are endless, as are all the positive and meaningful benefits to our customers.

We thank you again for your passion and support,

Yours sincerely,


Eagle Dynamics Team

[h2]Support[/h2]
[h3]Windows 7[/h3]



We will no longer be supporting Windows 7. Users who do not want not to change their operating system can still enjoy DCS World 2.5.6. However, new updates will not be available. In order to attend to your needs more diligently, please download the latest version.

[h2]The Channel[/h2]
[h3]Development Progress[/h3]



The latest addition to the Channel map will be the fighter base that protected South East England from Luftwaffe bombers during the Battle of Britain. Over the course of the war, fighters based at Biggin Hill claimed thousands of enemy aircraft, at the cost of hundreds of aircrew lives.

Please note that DCS: The Channel will soon be moving to Release state. Don’t miss the opportunity of enjoying the 20% Early Access discount while it lasts. Check out the In Development Screenshots.

New Unique Objects England:

• Leeds Castle
  
• The Parish Church of All Saints Birchington
  
• St Augustine's Abbey, Ramsgate
  
• Holy Trinity Church, Broadstairs
  
• St Laurence's Church, Ramsgate
  
• Deal Castle
  
• St Mary The Virgin Church, Ashford
  
• South Foreland Lighthouse
  
• St Mary's Church, Dover
  
• Dover Town Hall
  
• St Mary and St Eanswythe's Church, Folkestone
  
• St Leonard's Church, Hythe
  
• Hastings Pier St Leonards Church, Deal
  

New Unique Objects France:

• Château de Boulogne-sur-Mer
  
• Belfry Of Dunkirk
  
• Church of Saint-Éloi, Dunkirk
  
• Hôtel de ville de Dunkerque
  
• Column of the Grande Armée
  
• Fort d'Ambleteuse
  
• Église Saint-Pierre, Calais
  
• Town Hall, Calais
  
• Lighthouse, Calais
  
• Eglise Notre-Dame de Calais
  
• Saint-Omer Cathedral
  
• Basilica of Notre-Dame de Boulogne
  

We are making fine edits to building and terrain textures and final testing is now progress.

[h2]WWII[/h2]
[h3]Missions[/h3]



We have now introduced a difficulty selector option used in conjunction with the F10 Comms Menu. Options "EASY" "MEDIUM" or "HARD" will allow you to revisit missions and test your improved skill set. Singleplayer and campaign missions include new briefings.

Mission sets are wide and varied and will include:
Bomber Escort
Flight/Section Scrambles
Anti-Shipping Strikes
Photographic Reconnaissance
Airfield Strikes
Train Strafing
Close Air Support
Bomber/Fighter Intercepts

In some Single Player missions we have introduced FWAF (Fly With A Friend). It allows you to upload the mission to your own server and fly it with a friend or virtual squadron. Ideal for training and for those not quite ready to venture into multiplayer just yet. This is a great way to share the experience with those of you who are just getting started in DCS World.

Thank you again for your passion and support,

Yours Sincerely,

Eagle Dynamics Team

[h2]DCS World[/h2]
[h3]2021 Roadmap [/h3]



Before we discuss the new projects, let’s first touch on the support of existing products in 2021:

DCS: F/A-18C Hornet
Finalising this fantastic module is one of our top-priorities and our goal is to have the project out of Early Access by the end of the 1st quarter. In January, we will be adding new functions for expendable countermeasures, Electronic Attack (EA), radar jamming effects, SEA and Ground Moving Target (GMT) radar modes, designated target sharing (TXDSG), the FUEL page BIT, BDU-45 and BDU-45B practice bombs. Following these items, principal items remaining include: the ATFLIR targeting pod and the AGM-88C HARM Pre-Briefed (PB) mode, AGM-84K SLAM-ER, coupled (CPL) autopilot modes. Once out of early access, Hornet support will continue with the addition of the AIM-7P, ACLS mode, WIDE ACM mode, and the Data Transfer Cartridge functions. Thereafter, we will be maintaining and polishing this module on an ongoing basis.

DCS: F-16C Viper
Once the Hornet is out of early access, some of the developers will be allocated to the Viper team in order to enhance their capabilities. Based on customer feedback, their highest priorities includes completing air-to-air radar modes and functions, additional AGM-88C HARM modes, GPS/INS-guided weapons, expanded defensive systems, air-to-surface radar modes, mark points, additional ICP and MFD options, new weapon delivery modes, and more.

DCS: A-10C II Tank Killer
The Hawg is already nearly complete, but we do plan to deliver some additional features in 2021 that include the ARC-210 radio, updates to the Tactical Awareness Display (TAD), changes to optically guided Maverick slewing, and the long version of the AN/ALQ-184 ECM pod.

DCS: Supercarrier
Most of our effort on the Supercarrier has been focused on creating the 3D environments for the Ready Room, Air Boss Station (PriFly), and the hangar deck. Other tasks for 2021 include plane directors to marshal aircraft to the catapults and off the landing area, the “burble”, deck crew light wands for night operations, unique radio channels for different controllers, and manual LSO control.


[h2]New Aircraft[/h2]
[h3]DCS World[/h3]



DCS: Mosquito FB MK.VI
Our first new product of 2021 will be the impressive Mosquito. This will be our first multi-engine, multi-crew World War II aircraft for DCS World, and it will mark an important capability for future projects. The Mosquito is planned to be released into early access by the end of the 1st quarter of 2021.




DCS: Mi-24P
Named the Hind by NATO, this Russian attack helicopter is a deadly player on the battlefield with an array of Anti-Tank Guided Missiles, twin-barrel 30mm cannons, unguided rockets, and more. Featuring cooperative multiplayer in the front and back seat, the product will offer an even higher level of detail and accuracy than our Mi-8MTV2. With the ability to also act as a troop and cargo transport, the Mi-24P will add an all-new dimension to attack helicopter operations in DCS World. The Mi-24P is planned for release in the 2nd quarter of 2021.




DCS: AH-64D
Perhaps our biggest new aircraft project for 2021, the AH-64D will be the most accurate and detailed simulation of this iconic American attack helicopter. Like the Mi-24P, it will feature front- and back-seat operations in single player and multiplayer. Based on a 2002 Block II version, the AH-64D will be armed with Hellfire anti-tank guided missiles, unguided rockets, and a head-tracking 30mm cannon. The early access AH-64D is planned for release in the 3rd quarter of 2021 and will be available for pre-sales as of February 2021 with a 30% discount.

Note: Due to new Russian Federation laws pertaining to the gathering of information of Russian military equipment, we have had to reconsider our plans to add new systems to the Ka-50. We continue to update the cockpit, as well as a highly detailed updated external model.


[h2]M.A.C[/h2]
[h3]Modern Air Combat (MAC)[/h3]
Despite the lack of updates on this project, it is still very much alive and we are making continued progress. Much of the work remains on the new gameplay modes, updating the 3D models and cockpits for the MAC aircraft, creating a new input manager “wizard”, and continued work on a new Graphical User Interface. We are shooting for 3rd quarter 2021 release, but latest Q4 2021.


[h2]Maps[/h2]
For our maps, we will continue to address bugs and map improvements to the Persian Gulf, Caucasus, and Nevada maps. Most of our map work though is focused on The Channel map and the upcoming, free Mariana Islands map.




The Channel
We continue to expand this map with additional airfields, including the famous Biggin Hill RAF and Eastchurch airfields in England, two new advanced landing group airstrips, and numerous new landmarks. We plan to release the final version of the Channel map in the 1st quarter of 2021.




Mariana Islands
Slated to release in the 2nd quarter 2021, this map will first be a modern-day depiction, and it will include Andersen AFB and several other airfields along the island chain. Combined with the Chinese Assets Pack, we see interesting single player and multiplayer possibilities. This is still planned as a free map, and it will later serve as the foundation for our first World War II Pacific Theater map.


[h2]New Clouds[/h2]
[h3]Volumetric [/h3]



The wait is almost over, and the new clouds for DCS World will be introduced in the 1st quarter of 2021. In addition to being visually stunning, the new clouds will block visual and optical sensor line of sight and be synchronized online. We will initially release the new cloud system with an array of weather presets that will cater to most mission building scenarios. Later in the year, we will update the Weather Tool in the Mission Editor that will allow finer control of the clouds with a dynamic weather system based on a more advanced meteorological engine.


[h2]New Visual Effects[/h2]



Some of the new / improved visual effects in development for 2021 includes:

• Improved helicopter rotor wash over water and ground.
  
• Missile flame and smoke.
  
• Ground unit dust clouds.
  
• Trans-sonic shock cones.
  
• Fuel explosions.
  
• Weapon water splash.
  
• Further explosion improvements.
  
• Smoke grenades.
  

We hope to have many of these available in stages throughout the year.

[h2]Dynamic Campaign[/h2]
This massive task has been underway for over two years, and the progress has been exciting. The campaign is built around a Real-Time Strategy (RTS) foundation that factors resources, zones of control, logistics, available forces, and a strategic decision-making system. While we believe internal testing will continue in the 1st quarter of 2021, it is too early to estimate a release date. However, external Beta testing is planned hopefully in Q2/Q3 2021.

[h2]Vulkan API and Multi-threading[/h2]
With the integration of these libraries, DCS will benefit from improved performance throughout, including in virtual reality. This has been a substantial task to develop and integrate into our codebase, but we are nearing the end of this journey, and expect it to be available in the 3rd quarter of this year.


[h2]Damage Modeling[/h2]
[h3]Progress[/h3]



In the end of 2020, the new damage model system for our World War II aircraft was released. Although some tuning remains, most of our work on this front in 2021 will focus on bringing the technology to our modern aircraft like F/A-18C Hornet, F-16C Viper, and A-10C II Tank Killer. This is an ongoing process which we hope to deliver in stages during the latter half of 2021.


[h2]Air Traffic Control (ATC)[/h2]
Over the past year, our primary ATC focus has been on the Supercarrier. Now that the Supercarrier ATC system is nearing completion, we will next move on to airfield ATC radio communications. Given the scope of DCS World, this is not a simple task, and it will require three separate ATC systems: Western Modern Day, Eastern Modern Day, and World War II.
Because this effort will require a large amount of new radio voice overs, we will also take this opportunity to update the radio communications for other entities like flight members, other flights, AWACS, tankers, etc.

This will continue to be developed in 2021, but we do not have an estimated release date.


[h2]FLIR[/h2]
New and Improved Forward Looking Infrared
In the modern battlefield, a realistic rendering of FLIR sensors is mandatory, not just for aircraft but also for ground units, unmanned systems, and weapon sensor video. Given the need to create the underlying technology and then create thermal maps for all the world objects, terrain surfaces, and units, this has been quite a large task. We will continue to develop this well into 2021 and we hope to deploy this new FLIR enhancement in Q3 2021.


[h2]AI Units[/h2]
[h3]New and Updated assets[/h3]
Because DCS World is built on a project spanning almost two decades, some units now show their age and will be updated throughout the year. It is also important that we add new units to better fill the battlefields. Here are some of the items that we intend to create or update in 2021:
Large Aircraft: B-52H, Tu-95MS, Tu-142, B-1B, IL-38, and Tu-160
Carrier Aircraft: S-3B and SH-60B
Ground Units: M1A2, AMX-56 Leclerc, Wespe Sd.Kfz.124, KS-19 100mm ADA, Son-4 “Flap Wheel” radar, C1 Ariete, Pantsir SA-22 “Greyhound”, and S-300/SA-10 “Grumble”.


[h2]Enhanced AI[/h2]
[h3]Behaviour[/h3]



Currently, much of our AI engineering effort is focused on the AI aircraft behaviour, in harmony with the new damage modelling and in line with logical and understandable rules and practices. Additionally, the new ATC and radio communications will demand a significant amount of AI engineering. This work is ongoing and will probably never really be finished but we do hope to deliver substantial enhancements during the latter half of 2021.

We have taken the liberty of limiting this overview to issues which have ‘officially’ been announced. Rest assured, many secret and exciting developments to the DCS core are ongoing and will be revealed in the fullness of time. In addition to our internal development, rest assured our brilliant third parties are hard at work to bring you some wonderful modules in 2021 and look forward to hearing from them very soon.

Once again, thank you for all your passion and support in 2020. We hope that 2021 will prove to be a good year, one with many upward trends, not only for DCS but for you, our faithful community and for the world at large.

2021 Onwards and Upwards!

Yours sincerely,


Eagle Dynamics Team

[h2]End of Year[/h2]
[h3]Winter Sale 2020[/h3]



Our Winter Sale 2020 is on until the 11th of January. On Steam, the sale will end on the 5th of January at 15:00GMT. Most modules have a 50% discount (excluding campaigns).

Modules with a 30% discount:

• P-47D Thunderbolt
  
• The Channel Map
  
• F/A-18C Hornet
  
• F-16C Viper
  
• A-10C II Tank Killer
  
• Supercarrier
  

Exceptions:

• F-14A/B Tomcat will have a 25% discount
  
• JF-17 Thunder will be only $59.99
  

We hope that this will help when gifting your loved ones and who knows, you might find your next fighter or terrain. Make sure to check out Youtube tutorials and in-game training missions.

[h2]UH-1H Huey[/h2]
[h3]Multi-Crew[/h3]



The new functionality was developed with a user-friendly approach in mind and is the next stage of multi-crew operations in DCS World.

Permission system
A new permission system to the available seats in the aircraft is implemented through the interface of pop-up windows (widgets). It allows the pilot (the owner of the aircraft specified in the Mission Editor) to control the access of other players to the available seats in the aircraft.

Flight control transfer
The transfer of aircraft flight controls from the first pilot to the second pilot and back has been implemented. At the same time, the owner pilot can control requests from shooters and allow or reject them. The owner pilot of the aircraft, specified in the mission editor, always retains the ability to forcibly return control of the helicopter to himself.

System control transfer
For a helicopter like Huey, when the same instrument of cockpit control is available to both pilots at the same time, it was necessary to develop specific logical solutions in the "multi-crew" functionality which, with a minimum delay, ensures mutual accessibility of the instruments and cockpit controls for the pilot / co-pilot.

The updated mechanics for multi-crew access to the controls, as well as the ability to exchange seats within one helicopter (via free seat), required additions in the mechanism of interaction between the helicopter model and the DCS core. Due to this, the work took way way longer than was anticipated. We faced some major bugs where warnings were not seen by co-pilots, and some issues where the aircraft status was not synchronising correctly for all crew.
We continue to work on the implementation of the ability to separate the view axis and the machine gun direction for a more comfortable game from the shooter's workplace. Now, if you have Track-IR or VR, the game will assign these devices to view axis while the machine gun axis will remain under mouse control. In addition, the ability to assign a machine gun control to the joystick will be added. This will lead us closer to the completion of this new feature and to it’s roll out to other platforms.

We hope you will have fun with this new addition to DCS: UH-1H Huey.

[h2]Free to Play[/h2]
[h3]Two More Weeks[/h3]



We are excited to be able to offer you this Free to Play event, the complexities of these aircraft can be a challenge to master and we hope this gives you a chance to explore all of what is on offer in DCS World.

On behalf of all of us, we would like to extend our warmest wishes to you and your loved ones. May this festive season bring you peace, happiness, health and all the prosperity for the year ahead. We rise together to face the challenges of today and are hopeful for New Year's brighter days.

Thank you again for your passion and commitment,

Kind regards,

Eagle Dynamics Team

After a relatively large number of Open Beta updates, we have now released a substantial update to DCS World Stable. As always, the goal with Open Beta is to test new features and ensure they do not result in game crashes. Once we are satisfied with the stability of DCS World, we update the release version.

This update includes the F-14 Tomcat A variant, new WWII Assets and a massive sound exterior and interior sound overhaul for A-10C II Tank Killer.

GBU-24 Paveway III laser-guided bomb for the Hornet
Azimuth/Elevation with IFF page for the Hornet
AGM-88C HARM HAS and POS/RUK modes for the Viper
Refactoring of the F-16C Sensor Point of Interest (SPI) logic
New Air-Air training missions for the Viper
New Engine and Damage Models for World War II aircraft
New turbine stall and bearing wear sounds for Thunderbolt
NS430 mount/dismount for Gazelle during mission creation

For more details on all that is new, please read the full changelog.