The much anticipated launch of the Phantom II is just around the corner. Renowned for its capabilities as a highly effective and versatile fighter-bomber, this iconic jet excels in both air-to-air combat and ground attack missions using a wide array of munitions. With Heatblur’s dedication to ultra-realistic simulation, you can expect meticulous attention to detail from cockpit graphics to the flight model. More details will be unveiled soon.



The upcoming pilot models for the DCS: F-16C Viper and DCS: F/A-18C are set to significantly enhance the realism and immersion of these aircraft. We are excited to bring these updates to you, and we look forward to your feedback.


The primary objectives for the new pilot models are to:

• Enhance visual fidelity and realism in line with new graphical technologies.
  
• Improve animation fluidity for more lifelike pilot movements.
  
• Incorporate detailed flight suits and equipment specific to the aircraft, reflecting actual gear worn by F-16C and F/A-18C pilots in the mid-2000s

Suit Modelling
The flight suits are crafted with high-resolution textures to accurately replicate the fabric and material properties. Special attention has been paid to the reflectivity and roughness maps to ensure that the suits react realistically under various lighting conditions. Harness systems and life support equipment have been carefully modelled. For the F-16C pilot, the harness connects to the ejection seat precisely as it would in the real aircraft. The F/A-18C pilot features a survival vest equipped with pockets and gear appropriate for carrier operations. The helmets are modelled with operational visors that can move up and down, helmet mounted displays, and night vision goggles.

Animations
Subtle in-cockpit movements such as head-turning to check instruments, hand movements for throttle and stick operation, torso movements, and even eye movements are being refined to mimic real-life. We continue to work on making the pilot’s body respond to G-forces more realistically. We hope to include inflation of the G suit during high-G manoeuvres and subtle shifts in weight.

Next Steps
Once these new pilot models are integrated for the first and third person views for the DCS: F-16C Viper and the DCS: F/A-18C, we will implement a similar 3D pilot model to the DCS: A-10C II Tank Killer.



This immersive campaign features 12 unique missions that are interconnected through a continuous narrative across multiple Middle Eastern locations. Both carrier and land-based operations are included. Developed with virtual reality in mind, the campaign eliminates the need for jotting down transient coordinates, thereby maintaining immersion. Optional tanker refuelling is available, though careful fuel management can negate its necessity.

The campaign includes over 1,700 voice-overs, a 'Speed Stop' feature to prevent missing content during time acceleration, and adjustable AI settings for the final four missions to suit different skill levels. Each mission comes with detailed briefings that are accessible in-game and as downloadable PDFs. Customised aircraft skins are included to enhance the personalisation of the gameplay experience.

We hope you took advantage of the F-4E Phantom pre-purchase discount and that the preview of the upcoming F-16C Viper and F/A-18C pilots are to your satisfaction. Also, keep a lookout for Badger633's Operation Green Line campaign, coming in the next DCS update!

Thank you again for your passion and support,

Yours sincerely,

Eagle Dynamics

DCS 2.9.4.53990 Update

Introduced a new terrain module: DCS: Kola Map by Orbx
https://store.steampowered.com/app/2778890/DCS_Kola_Map_by_Orbx/

• Reset the M00 opening animation to address the issue of not being able to take off directly. (If you encounter this problem, it is recommended to press the radio menu: Ground Crew - Salute)
  
• Fixed the issue in M07 where there is no further storyline after shooting down all enemy.
  
• Fixed missing Chinese images and translations of some dialogues in M10.
  
• Fixed spelling text errors in some MIZ.
  
• Fixed missing custom labels for some MIZ.
  
• "Hit SA-11 CP" has been removed and "Hit all SA-11 LNs" has been added from the final mission objective in Tutorial - HARM.
  
• Changed the activation time of some images in Tutorial - ACM.
  
• Fixed the invincibility of some units to correct mission stuck in Tutorial - HMD.
  
• Changed the type of IR missile to fixed the mission stuck in Tutorial - CMD IR.
  
• Changed some flag to fixed the mission stuck in Tutorial - CMD CF.
  
• Reduce the starting altitude to facilitate players in reducing bombing errors in Tutorial - CCRP.

• BBC is available on channel C

• New interactive checklists

• New interactive checklists
  
• Comms issue possible workaround (C-17 voice transmitter shouldn't rtb)

• New interactive checklists
  
• Skippable briefings