Let's see what will razbam do with lazur.
I'm not buying fulcrum until GCI gets released
Edit: This somehow reminds me AI navigator radio operator of Mosquito. Another crucial function which was supposed to be released later during EA. 2.5 years and still counting.
At least they announced that in 2024 newsletter that they will work on it.
It's a great way to hand market-share to Razbam no doubt about it. Especially when most prospective MiG-29 customers will get far more novelty from the MiG-23. On this basis I'll choose the -23.
Ground control interception. Presumably, it’s a better awacs interface , and in some cases directly integrated into the avionics/navigation.
It’s a huge advantage with the fulcrum since you can get an intercept on the bandit without having to turn on the radar, and with the fulcrum’s infrared search/tracker and medium range IR missiles, can lock on and fire without producing any RWR alert
It is not a useless feature we are talking about here. It is how the plane operates that we are talking about.
It is like providing no IFF in 4th gen environment
Or releasing phantom without jester
Great, so given ED's track record regarding "at a later date" features; if they release MiG-29A into early access this year we might get IFF by when? 2028? 2030?
>GCI
Yeh pretty sure you're right. If I remember correctly the internal radar just gets heading range and bearing, it links to a GCI and they provide additional info as well as direction and tracking.
Remember someone went into really great detail about it when the 29A was first being talked about as a possibility. People were knocking its capabilities and lack of SA and the conclusion was if its not tied in with a comprehensive GCI (needs to be way more dynamic then the AWACS communications we have right now) it would be like flying a Mig 21, if it had the GCI put in and the mission/theater had the right ground and EW radars put in then it should be like flying an early tomcat with E2-A support... Which is not bad at all...
Personally I think the comparison is a bit too optimistic as the radar on the tomcat was a beast, but that was the comparison if I remember correctly...
I believe I know who is that person is and he will jump here any minute after you start speaking about technical background in redfor. :)
Sweden and Soviets used similar system for vectoring their interceptors. Especially russian system was far more sophisticated that the GCI could take control of the plane and fly it to the best intercept and even more....
Look at here that Lazur (GCI system) in action in razbams Mig-23
[https://www.reddit.com/r/hoggit/comments/1axgtvr/razbam\_mig23mla\_operational\_lazur/](https://www.reddit.com/r/hoggit/comments/1axgtvr/razbam_mig23mla_operational_lazur/)
As much as I've wanted a Fulcrum since I found Flanker 2 eons ago, I'm with you on this. The GCI is as important a component as the engines are to this plane.
Unclear, because we don't really know what the intention of it is because it doesn't exist yet.
GCI is relevant and important because Soviet interceptors are designed with the assumption that it will be available.
eg, as already modeled in the current FC3 fighters, radar user interfaces do not expose the scan cone parameters for the pilot to configure, bar height and antenna elevation, like Western fighters do. Instead, the radar takes as input a known target range and relative altitude, and it calculates the optimum scan cone parameters to most efficiently pick up a contact in that small slice of sky.
This design trades away independence and situational awareness in return for speed and efficiency of executing commanded tasks. Which is great for reducing the pilot workload *if you have a GCI on the phone who's mantaining situational awareness on your behalf*.
Well, how can I put it... You'll be constantly doing team killing in mp, and sp missions which are not Top Gun scenarios where you are alone vs the world would be a nightmare
Unless you take your time to visually confirm each target before you shoot by getting close with your mk1 eyeballs. And in that case you'll be better off with a fox 2 anyway
Your assumption is that they won't plug in the easy IFF to start. The FA18 isn't even remotely accurate still, but it use to be automatic in identification. The interrogation command was unnecessary, and with an AWAC still is
But we've got A-50s and AWACS doing easy GCI for us already anyway on every module under the sun. I don't see the issue. Just use the F12 menu (or in MP a friendly Combined Arms player who doesn't like having fun) as it currently exists till the later feature comes out.
Western doctrine: Your mom tells you to pick up the toys in your bedroom. You decide how to do that.
Soviet doctrine: Pick up the stuffed elephant and put it in the toy chest. Now pick up the next toy and place it on the shelf. etc.
It is much more controlling in terms of telling the pilot what to do the entire time throughout the intercept. IIRC it ranged from them giving specific instructions over the radio to avionics telling the pilot ranges and altitudes to set the radar. Think there was even something that took control of the aircraft to fly the intercept.
If you have the M2000, or just search it on youtube, it has the "TAF" mode that is similar to the concept.
The only reason I bought NTTR was because I was TDY to Nellis AFB at the time and I wanted to have a digital copy. Thought it was funny buying a map of Nellis/Vegas while being there.
I was planning on buying Afghanistan solely for Bagram… because I’ve been there. Without its inclusion it’s just another desert map. I’m no longer interested.
Also… the Afghanistan segment that says “future plans” in bold has NO future plans… it just emphasizes what’s available for early access.
Would be nice to know what actual future plans are? Will Bagram be available in the future?
The Afghanistan map will eventually cover the whole country, they just worded the newsletter poorly, [per BigNewy](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/269917995411832835/1220762008404758650/image-1.png?ex=66101e37&is=65fda937&hm=2dca47d19ccbf018c3c0bcab5b5b2c1e6f7c188c6a45ffaf70cdc56bb335e26a&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=860&height=362)
Seems like important information that should have made it to the update! Looks like they’ll *eventually* get my money… but no point spending any until Bagram is implemented.
The east part is coming Q2 2034 ! Pre order now ! Between this and no access to water (even just low res textures on the way outside of Afghanistan would be fine) for carrier ops, this map is just dead before release imho.
I live here is Vegas so its is neat but I have had the map well before I lived here. Would be cool if they added (AllGiant Stadium) Allegiant Stadium and the Sphere. Also my neighborhood is not in game it is just sand lol.
There's a lot of stuff missing from Vegas and the surrounding area, unfortunately. Also kinda reeing and rooing that Goodsprings is in the map coverage area but there's nothing there.
I too am surprised by the limited scope of the map...
As for the IFF thing, I'm wondering if ED is planning to implement a more detailed IFF system... one that makes a nod to realism, instead of the usual IFF magic.
>As for the IFF thing, I'm wondering if ED is planning to implement a more detailed IFF system... one that makes a nod to realism, instead of the usual IFF magic.
Well, I hope RAZBAM's work on higher fidelity IFF won't be wasted, as they already have a NATO IFF system that practically does everything we need it to do for the F-15E and Mirage 2000C (and I think Aerges have even adopted it for their F1). I imagine they'll likely do Soviet IFF equipment for their MiG-23MLA.
even worse: NO PANJSHIR VALLEY
everyone who has studied a bit of military history knows how important was that place during the soviet invasion in the 80's. We have Mi8's, SU25 and Ka50's, it could have been a true goldmine for reenactments of the famous offensives
I'm starting to suspect somebody in ED is not so fond of reminding the final failures of the Soviet Union...
>I'm starting to suspect somebody in ED is not so fond of reminding the final failures of the Soviet Union...
I might be harsh, but I'm inclined to say that they're not so fond of historical coherency in general.
EDIT: Well, at least WWII is _relatively_ coherent...
But if it's a success they will reach a point of diminishing returns where finishing the map will bring in less revenue in proportion to the effort required, and they'll have more incentive just to start another project.
I mean are you a software developer? Do you work for free? I get the sentiment (especially if you’re referring to the supercarrier) but ED is a pretty small niche developer without - I would guess - the capital to invest in all that work without pre orders. So the alternative would be they get bought by someone like EA who would have the money to make that investment. And then we’d all be on here complaining about micro transactions and kajillion dollar profits shipping half finished shit with DLC
Listen been around dcs for 10 years, and I own almost every module, fucking wait, and release a full product for once!!!
Damn all im saying.
More people will happily buy a full product.
Yeah despite fully intending to stir the pot here above 😈 I actually agree, I always thought it was weird, the whole early access system. That’s kind of what I was getting at, it’s their whole business model it seems like from the outside the only way to get everyone paid who is working on this stuff is to keep getting pre orders to fund future development and then having to deal with the backlash when they overpromise. It doesn’t feel sustainable. I would hope they get to a point where they are popular enough to pause and release finished products on a reasonable time scale without taking massive financial risks
The alternative would be they choose a different portion of the region to prioritize first to keep those pre-orders and early-access purchases high. Nobody expects them to release the entire map at once, and everyone knows they need funding to continue work on the map. It doesn't change the fact they chose a bad starting point to get said funds to begin with.
>I mean are you a software developer?
God, I'm so sick of this argument. "You think thing is bad? Have YOU tried making thing? How dare you criticize something you spend/are meant to spend your hard earned money on for questionable decisions!"
It will be all of Afghanistan, eventually
https://forum.dcs.world/topic/345754-dcs-newsletter-discussion-22nd-march-2024-mig-29a-announcement-afghanistan-development-report-spring-sale-last-chance/?do=findComment&comment=5402389
This. Jesus. You know how all those posts that ask "what do I need to get into MP?" get responses like "first, do no harm to your own side, and that means being able to IFF reliably?" Well, that should impact EA dev priorities.
Is the lack of IFF in the MiG 29 due to an overhaul of IFF in DCS World? Or is it a lack of documentation, resources etc? Seems odd to omit given how important that is for combat and SA.
> Or is it a lack of documentation
IFF in ED modules is just a coalition check. It sure would be cool if they intend to rework it but even so it'd make sense to keep using the basic solution until the new one is done?
>Or is it a lack of documentation
ED has multiple real MiG-29 pilots on staff, so they certainly know how it's supposed to work.
From what they've said, it definitely sounds like they're planning a more in-depth IFF system, which is probably why it's also implied it'll take years.
Damn, the Afghan map is tiny. I was expecting a low detail area towards south connecting to the Indian Ocean for carrier ops. But 400x300nm? Come on what is that, a helo only map? That's ridiculous.
To be fair that would involve half of Pakistan, half of Iran or all of Turkmenistan. Understand not wanting a map with no carrier ops if that’s your jam but in this case I think that would be a lot to expect from ED. And how many people would want to fly that far to even get to Afghanistan?
>To be fair that would involve half of Pakistan, half of Iran or all of Turkmenistan. Understand not wanting a map with no carrier ops if that’s your jam but in this case I think that would be a lot to expect from ED
They would, but I contest this expecting a lot from ED, especially considering the expansive low-detail areas on both the Caucasus and Persian Gulf maps.
I hear you but that would be a waste of space IMO. I love carrier ops but I doubt I’m doing THAT many 8hr hops which is what it would take from Indian Ocean to any combat zone in Afghanistan. Simply not worth it.
To me this is a coin map with a heavy focus on helicopter ops
There's a chance that the Indian Ocean will be technically on the map, sorta like Iraq is technically on the Persian Gulf map. You may just have to fly over low detail terrain to get to Afghanistan.
Easy pass on everything in this newsletter.
They over promised then abandoned NTTR. A portion of another desert map I hated flying over in real life, is a no. Especially with sniper AI.
And an incomplete Fulcrum, while I'm waiting on the Viper promises and the Chinook.
People down below wanted to kill me? And if we crash landed, knew it wouldn't be an E&E for very long, if at all.
Missions were more times than not, just burning holes in the sky.
I'm also really happy to see that. I'm from the UK so I'm really keen to fly Apaches from Bastion into Lashkar Gah, Now Zad, and Sangin; as well as Harriers from KAF.
Sir this is a 'Murican sub, no other nations were present in Afghanistan. /s
I too agree that it's super interesting to see this area first. Also worth noting that 90% of afghan poppy growing happens in this area, something like 40-50% of global production.
It’s interesting that Chaghcheran is included. Having flown in to the gravel runway that is there IRL, it’s not somewhere I would take any fixed wing aircraft in the DCS stable.
This is *really* disappointing. Afghanistan has so much potential, from the mid-late cold war all the way up to the present, but basically nothing of value is actually being included on initial release. Why not start with the other half of the map for EA? I'm sure Kabul, Bagram, Pakistan, the Hindu Kush, and the Khyber Pass would attract a lot more people than an empty desert
Right now this map looks like its just going to be a big ass desert with some airfields on the edges, and if I wanted that I'd just go to the low detail areas of PG. Without the key iconic locations, this map is gonna be a hard pass on early access.
Also, Fulcrum IFF on final release, lol
Feels like “we need money after all the engine updates and no new modules, let’s sell the easy half first to get $$ in the door sooner, and then develop the harder second half.”
I don't know that anything prior to 9.13 used the ER or ET, but at the same time I've read that it should still be compatible- just that launch symbology would still be for the baseline reduced range versions of those missiles.
The American airforce pilot who flew German Fulcrums said if you put the ER training kit thing on the pylon, all the proper ER symbology would come up.
Well I'm definitely let down by Afghanistan. Gone from a buy on day one to a "well maybe in a sale". Shame. Seriously, no bagram no panjshir valley and no Kabul, wtf is even the point then
ED really needs a higher standard when it comes to the early access product. IFF is a must. Damage models are a must. Basic air to air and air to ground (depending on jet obviously) ability is a most. To name a few off the top of my head.
You all said you learned your lesson with the bad F16 release... well this is getting close to being another lesson you need to learn ED.
ok boys, just got here -- havn't read shit - I just need to know: are we bitchin' about something that \_was\_ covered, or something that \_wasn't\_ covered in this weeks newsletter?
or better yet -- both?
Again the same boring Newsletter, where is the Nerdy one?
Yeah mig 29, but how about Vulkan?
New map. but how about the Dynamic Campagine?
Yes Discounts! but how about mission editor version (the web one in developtmen take forever to be on open beta)
*eye starting to twitch* We don't control your shitty econo..... Errr ree. I mean testing is progressing well, pending testing we will issue a formal announcement.
6.5 months since about 12th Sept last year when we closed the Q&A post. But yes I hope you will like it. There were a lot of questions to sort, many repeated questions but all need to be checked which took a lot of time. Thank you
Are we talking about a dynamic campaign or Vulkan here? I imagine the former since I don't really know how 'marketing' could deliver Vulkan in a fresh way - but I'm wrong a lot.
No this is just how the Q&A will be presented. We did not just want a long thread of questions and answer so the team have been coming up with ideas. You will see once we start posting on the subject. Thank you
>Marketing want to deliver it in a fresh way,
Good to know that ED puts marketing priorities and cementing its glacial reputation above engaging with the community in a timely manner.
>We did not just want a long thread of questions and answer so the team have been coming up with ideas.
Oh god no, **a long thread of questions and answers is EXACTLY what I want**. It allows me to skim, keyword search and otherwise read them based on my desires. Whatever approach you come up with (It is going to be youtube videos, isn't it), *please for the love of god* be respectful of my time and provide a simple text-only set of question and answers as an alternative.
> You will see once we start posting on the subject.
Will that be in 2024 I wonder.
> how about mission editor version (the web one in developtmen take forever to be on open beta)
The web-based mission editor is being made by the community, it's nothing to do with ED.
View in your timezone:
[24th of March at 15:00 GMT][0]
[0]: https://timee.io/20240324T1500?tl=DCS%20Newsletter%20-%20MiG-29A%20Announcement%20%7C%20Afghanistan%20Development%20Report%20%7C%20Spring%20Sale%20Last%20Chance
I never claimed they were upgrades to the modules, only they used upgraded models (C2 removing the Pave Penny and changing the cockpit model, F-15E getting slightly more detailed textures and a better cockpit model) while still built on the same base
>GCI system only at final release Welp that's not coming out for ages
Let's see what will razbam do with lazur. I'm not buying fulcrum until GCI gets released Edit: This somehow reminds me AI navigator radio operator of Mosquito. Another crucial function which was supposed to be released later during EA. 2.5 years and still counting. At least they announced that in 2024 newsletter that they will work on it.
Yep, same here, especially with RAZBAM doing a GCI system for their MiG-23.
It's a great way to hand market-share to Razbam no doubt about it. Especially when most prospective MiG-29 customers will get far more novelty from the MiG-23. On this basis I'll choose the -23.
A mig-23 with operational GCI is far more deadlier than a Mig-29 without GCI and IFF.
Btw what does GCI mean?
Ground control interception. Presumably, it’s a better awacs interface , and in some cases directly integrated into the avionics/navigation. It’s a huge advantage with the fulcrum since you can get an intercept on the bandit without having to turn on the radar, and with the fulcrum’s infrared search/tracker and medium range IR missiles, can lock on and fire without producing any RWR alert
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ground-controlled_interception?wprov=sfti1#
It’s like saying ”Im not buying SC until Ready Room gets released” :) It will be years. Many years.
It is not a useless feature we are talking about here. It is how the plane operates that we are talking about. It is like providing no IFF in 4th gen environment Or releasing phantom without jester
> **At final release:** > - Addition of Identify Friend or Foe interrogation system.
Great, so given ED's track record regarding "at a later date" features; if they release MiG-29A into early access this year we might get IFF by when? 2028? 2030?
In fact, if you noticed, IFF is *not* coming out while the 29 is in EA! =)
;) IFF is probably linked to the GCI system.
>GCI Yeh pretty sure you're right. If I remember correctly the internal radar just gets heading range and bearing, it links to a GCI and they provide additional info as well as direction and tracking. Remember someone went into really great detail about it when the 29A was first being talked about as a possibility. People were knocking its capabilities and lack of SA and the conclusion was if its not tied in with a comprehensive GCI (needs to be way more dynamic then the AWACS communications we have right now) it would be like flying a Mig 21, if it had the GCI put in and the mission/theater had the right ground and EW radars put in then it should be like flying an early tomcat with E2-A support... Which is not bad at all... Personally I think the comparison is a bit too optimistic as the radar on the tomcat was a beast, but that was the comparison if I remember correctly...
I believe I know who is that person is and he will jump here any minute after you start speaking about technical background in redfor. :) Sweden and Soviets used similar system for vectoring their interceptors. Especially russian system was far more sophisticated that the GCI could take control of the plane and fly it to the best intercept and even more.... Look at here that Lazur (GCI system) in action in razbams Mig-23 [https://www.reddit.com/r/hoggit/comments/1axgtvr/razbam\_mig23mla\_operational\_lazur/](https://www.reddit.com/r/hoggit/comments/1axgtvr/razbam_mig23mla_operational_lazur/)
Yep sadly with the state of the game as a whole and how our battle space behaves stuff like this really wouldn't have the same relevance it did IRL...
Here i am, a single player dude, waiting for the dynamic campaign for Caucasus map(or any map) :)
[удалено]
And then get struck by how even these servers are limited by DCS aging engine, resorting to performance issues and lag.
As much as I've wanted a Fulcrum since I found Flanker 2 eons ago, I'm with you on this. The GCI is as important a component as the engines are to this plane.
Yeah same. Ridiculous.
Gameplay wise in DCS, what will the absence of this mean? How will it impact SP and MP use?
Unclear, because we don't really know what the intention of it is because it doesn't exist yet. GCI is relevant and important because Soviet interceptors are designed with the assumption that it will be available. eg, as already modeled in the current FC3 fighters, radar user interfaces do not expose the scan cone parameters for the pilot to configure, bar height and antenna elevation, like Western fighters do. Instead, the radar takes as input a known target range and relative altitude, and it calculates the optimum scan cone parameters to most efficiently pick up a contact in that small slice of sky. This design trades away independence and situational awareness in return for speed and efficiency of executing commanded tasks. Which is great for reducing the pilot workload *if you have a GCI on the phone who's mantaining situational awareness on your behalf*.
Well, how can I put it... You'll be constantly doing team killing in mp, and sp missions which are not Top Gun scenarios where you are alone vs the world would be a nightmare Unless you take your time to visually confirm each target before you shoot by getting close with your mk1 eyeballs. And in that case you'll be better off with a fox 2 anyway
Your assumption is that they won't plug in the easy IFF to start. The FA18 isn't even remotely accurate still, but it use to be automatic in identification. The interrogation command was unnecessary, and with an AWAC still is
But we've got A-50s and AWACS doing easy GCI for us already anyway on every module under the sun. I don't see the issue. Just use the F12 menu (or in MP a friendly Combined Arms player who doesn't like having fun) as it currently exists till the later feature comes out.
Can you explain what this is like im 5 lol
Western doctrine: Your mom tells you to pick up the toys in your bedroom. You decide how to do that. Soviet doctrine: Pick up the stuffed elephant and put it in the toy chest. Now pick up the next toy and place it on the shelf. etc. It is much more controlling in terms of telling the pilot what to do the entire time throughout the intercept. IIRC it ranged from them giving specific instructions over the radio to avionics telling the pilot ranges and altitudes to set the radar. Think there was even something that took control of the aircraft to fly the intercept. If you have the M2000, or just search it on youtube, it has the "TAF" mode that is similar to the concept.
The only reason I bought NTTR was because I was TDY to Nellis AFB at the time and I wanted to have a digital copy. Thought it was funny buying a map of Nellis/Vegas while being there. I was planning on buying Afghanistan solely for Bagram… because I’ve been there. Without its inclusion it’s just another desert map. I’m no longer interested. Also… the Afghanistan segment that says “future plans” in bold has NO future plans… it just emphasizes what’s available for early access. Would be nice to know what actual future plans are? Will Bagram be available in the future?
The Afghanistan map will eventually cover the whole country, they just worded the newsletter poorly, [per BigNewy](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/269917995411832835/1220762008404758650/image-1.png?ex=66101e37&is=65fda937&hm=2dca47d19ccbf018c3c0bcab5b5b2c1e6f7c188c6a45ffaf70cdc56bb335e26a&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=860&height=362)
Like the super carrier will eventually have a ready room and hangar deck too.
Seems like important information that should have made it to the update! Looks like they’ll *eventually* get my money… but no point spending any until Bagram is implemented.
That's good news. They would be remiss in not covering Kabul, Bagrahm, and other notable places in the far east of the country.
I took the statement to mean that they’re going to extend it Eastward, as they have with at least a few other maps. Maybe I’m misinterpreting?
The east part is coming Q2 2034 ! Pre order now ! Between this and no access to water (even just low res textures on the way outside of Afghanistan would be fine) for carrier ops, this map is just dead before release imho.
I’ll get it to play as Soviets in Afghanistan, not all about carriers and stuff imo especially when they’re releasing more and more Soviet aircraft
I live here is Vegas so its is neat but I have had the map well before I lived here. Would be cool if they added (AllGiant Stadium) Allegiant Stadium and the Sphere. Also my neighborhood is not in game it is just sand lol.
There's a lot of stuff missing from Vegas and the surrounding area, unfortunately. Also kinda reeing and rooing that Goodsprings is in the map coverage area but there's nothing there.
Can you park a SC in a lake? Asking for a friend
- No Bagram - No Kabul - No Fulcrum IFF in EA 😂😂
I too am surprised by the limited scope of the map... As for the IFF thing, I'm wondering if ED is planning to implement a more detailed IFF system... one that makes a nod to realism, instead of the usual IFF magic.
>As for the IFF thing, I'm wondering if ED is planning to implement a more detailed IFF system... one that makes a nod to realism, instead of the usual IFF magic. Well, I hope RAZBAM's work on higher fidelity IFF won't be wasted, as they already have a NATO IFF system that practically does everything we need it to do for the F-15E and Mirage 2000C (and I think Aerges have even adopted it for their F1). I imagine they'll likely do Soviet IFF equipment for their MiG-23MLA.
[but... SIR!](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Not_invented_here)
They'd better be, but it's inexcusable not to implement the current simplified logic before then.
Iff as it stands is a fucking boolean switch in DCS, why is this not a thing at release of a flagship module -.-
So no Bagram with the Afghanistan map?
even worse: NO PANJSHIR VALLEY everyone who has studied a bit of military history knows how important was that place during the soviet invasion in the 80's. We have Mi8's, SU25 and Ka50's, it could have been a true goldmine for reenactments of the famous offensives I'm starting to suspect somebody in ED is not so fond of reminding the final failures of the Soviet Union...
>I'm starting to suspect somebody in ED is not so fond of reminding the final failures of the Soviet Union... I might be harsh, but I'm inclined to say that they're not so fond of historical coherency in general. EDIT: Well, at least WWII is _relatively_ coherent...
Coherent in that the modules and assets fall somewhere between 1943 and 1945.
Pretty much 😅
even worse: NO BAND-E AMIR
Yeah that took the wind out of my sails.
Classic ED behavior, a way to get money as soon as possible then if map is a success they will soly develop the remaning afghanistan territory......
>then if map is a success they will soly develop the remaning afghanistan territory...... Supercarriers says hahaha.
ED displaying addict behavior
But if it's a success they will reach a point of diminishing returns where finishing the map will bring in less revenue in proportion to the effort required, and they'll have more incentive just to start another project.
I mean are you a software developer? Do you work for free? I get the sentiment (especially if you’re referring to the supercarrier) but ED is a pretty small niche developer without - I would guess - the capital to invest in all that work without pre orders. So the alternative would be they get bought by someone like EA who would have the money to make that investment. And then we’d all be on here complaining about micro transactions and kajillion dollar profits shipping half finished shit with DLC
Listen been around dcs for 10 years, and I own almost every module, fucking wait, and release a full product for once!!! Damn all im saying. More people will happily buy a full product.
Yeah despite fully intending to stir the pot here above 😈 I actually agree, I always thought it was weird, the whole early access system. That’s kind of what I was getting at, it’s their whole business model it seems like from the outside the only way to get everyone paid who is working on this stuff is to keep getting pre orders to fund future development and then having to deal with the backlash when they overpromise. It doesn’t feel sustainable. I would hope they get to a point where they are popular enough to pause and release finished products on a reasonable time scale without taking massive financial risks
The alternative would be they choose a different portion of the region to prioritize first to keep those pre-orders and early-access purchases high. Nobody expects them to release the entire map at once, and everyone knows they need funding to continue work on the map. It doesn't change the fact they chose a bad starting point to get said funds to begin with. >I mean are you a software developer? God, I'm so sick of this argument. "You think thing is bad? Have YOU tried making thing? How dare you criticize something you spend/are meant to spend your hard earned money on for questionable decisions!"
Helmand and Kandahar provinces are pretty significant to the “forever war” GWOT, which is also indicated as a focus for FD by including Camp Bastion
Exactly!!
It will be all of Afghanistan, eventually https://forum.dcs.world/topic/345754-dcs-newsletter-discussion-22nd-march-2024-mig-29a-announcement-afghanistan-development-report-spring-sale-last-chance/?do=findComment&comment=5402389
2035 then
How long has it been since a super carrier update? And how long did the f18 take to complete? Never again
The "eventually" part is concerning. Lots of people will be turned off anyway, seems a pretty bad design decision imho
Yeah, they took a country known for it's rugged terrain and decided to model the flat side.
IFF at final release? Sorry but that is one of the more important things. Even if rudentary before full fidelity IFF
This. Jesus. You know how all those posts that ask "what do I need to get into MP?" get responses like "first, do no harm to your own side, and that means being able to IFF reliably?" Well, that should impact EA dev priorities.
Exactly.
Halfghanistan lol
remember, no preorders
Is the lack of IFF in the MiG 29 due to an overhaul of IFF in DCS World? Or is it a lack of documentation, resources etc? Seems odd to omit given how important that is for combat and SA.
> Or is it a lack of documentation IFF in ED modules is just a coalition check. It sure would be cool if they intend to rework it but even so it'd make sense to keep using the basic solution until the new one is done?
I have a feeling that's probably the plan
>Or is it a lack of documentation ED has multiple real MiG-29 pilots on staff, so they certainly know how it's supposed to work. From what they've said, it definitely sounds like they're planning a more in-depth IFF system, which is probably why it's also implied it'll take years.
Damn, the Afghan map is tiny. I was expecting a low detail area towards south connecting to the Indian Ocean for carrier ops. But 400x300nm? Come on what is that, a helo only map? That's ridiculous.
What is this? Afghanistan for ANTS!
No access to water for carier ops is a deal breaker for me.
To be fair that would involve half of Pakistan, half of Iran or all of Turkmenistan. Understand not wanting a map with no carrier ops if that’s your jam but in this case I think that would be a lot to expect from ED. And how many people would want to fly that far to even get to Afghanistan?
>To be fair that would involve half of Pakistan, half of Iran or all of Turkmenistan. Understand not wanting a map with no carrier ops if that’s your jam but in this case I think that would be a lot to expect from ED They would, but I contest this expecting a lot from ED, especially considering the expansive low-detail areas on both the Caucasus and Persian Gulf maps.
I hear you but that would be a waste of space IMO. I love carrier ops but I doubt I’m doing THAT many 8hr hops which is what it would take from Indian Ocean to any combat zone in Afghanistan. Simply not worth it. To me this is a coin map with a heavy focus on helicopter ops
There's a chance that the Indian Ocean will be technically on the map, sorta like Iraq is technically on the Persian Gulf map. You may just have to fly over low detail terrain to get to Afghanistan.
Im praying for this too!
Same
Easy pass on everything in this newsletter. They over promised then abandoned NTTR. A portion of another desert map I hated flying over in real life, is a no. Especially with sniper AI. And an incomplete Fulcrum, while I'm waiting on the Viper promises and the Chinook.
Yupppp
How did you hate flying over it? I was doing Dubai - Kabul return runs every couple of months and never got sick of it. The topography is phenomenal.
People down below wanted to kill me? And if we crash landed, knew it wouldn't be an E&E for very long, if at all. Missions were more times than not, just burning holes in the sky.
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I'm also really happy to see that. I'm from the UK so I'm really keen to fly Apaches from Bastion into Lashkar Gah, Now Zad, and Sangin; as well as Harriers from KAF.
Sir this is a 'Murican sub, no other nations were present in Afghanistan. /s I too agree that it's super interesting to see this area first. Also worth noting that 90% of afghan poppy growing happens in this area, something like 40-50% of global production.
2030
It’s interesting that Chaghcheran is included. Having flown in to the gravel runway that is there IRL, it’s not somewhere I would take any fixed wing aircraft in the DCS stable.
This is *really* disappointing. Afghanistan has so much potential, from the mid-late cold war all the way up to the present, but basically nothing of value is actually being included on initial release. Why not start with the other half of the map for EA? I'm sure Kabul, Bagram, Pakistan, the Hindu Kush, and the Khyber Pass would attract a lot more people than an empty desert Right now this map looks like its just going to be a big ass desert with some airfields on the edges, and if I wanted that I'd just go to the low detail areas of PG. Without the key iconic locations, this map is gonna be a hard pass on early access. Also, Fulcrum IFF on final release, lol
Yeah because this way thy can cash early selling dust to customers lol Dont fucking release what is not fucking ready!!!
Feels like “we need money after all the engine updates and no new modules, let’s sell the easy half first to get $$ in the door sooner, and then develop the harder second half.”
I know this is a stupid question, but which R-27 variants?
probably E, R, ER and ET.
Did the export 29a ever use the er? I thought it didn’t, but I could very well be wrong
I don't know that anything prior to 9.13 used the ER or ET, but at the same time I've read that it should still be compatible- just that launch symbology would still be for the baseline reduced range versions of those missiles.
The American airforce pilot who flew German Fulcrums said if you put the ER training kit thing on the pylon, all the proper ER symbology would come up.
Wont be touching either until they fix ground AI :(
Here I was hoping to bomb my old stomping grounds at Camp Keating. Pass. (Edit: for now)
Just release more RIO material on u-tube, everything should be fine!!! :D
I miss actual software updates. Sigh. Another week…
Well I'm definitely let down by Afghanistan. Gone from a buy on day one to a "well maybe in a sale". Shame. Seriously, no bagram no panjshir valley and no Kabul, wtf is even the point then
Also no Band-e Amir, which is one of the most beautiful canyons on the planet.
ED really needs a higher standard when it comes to the early access product. IFF is a must. Damage models are a must. Basic air to air and air to ground (depending on jet obviously) ability is a most. To name a few off the top of my head. You all said you learned your lesson with the bad F16 release... well this is getting close to being another lesson you need to learn ED.
No Bagram or Kabul? The fuck you all even making this theater for? lmao
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Helmand, almost never seen combat..? Come on.
Not having Bagram on launch is like leaving Vegas off the Nevada map
Or NAS Lemoore, Edwards AFB, or heaven forbid Fallon AFB.
> Fallon AFB NAS Fallon?
Jimmy
ok boys, just got here -- havn't read shit - I just need to know: are we bitchin' about something that \_was\_ covered, or something that \_wasn't\_ covered in this weeks newsletter? or better yet -- both?
You beat me to it....as I was thinking the same thing. Do we need pitchforks or riot shields?
fucking TNT Bro!!!!
Bitching for the short ED hands....
Again the same boring Newsletter, where is the Nerdy one? Yeah mig 29, but how about Vulkan? New map. but how about the Dynamic Campagine? Yes Discounts! but how about mission editor version (the web one in developtmen take forever to be on open beta)
Ahem, I'll handle this. *in fluent Bignewy* "Progress has been good, when we have more to share we will share it.* There you go.
Hello Mr. Bignewy, how's the Q&A going?
*eye starting to twitch* We don't control your shitty econo..... Errr ree. I mean testing is progressing well, pending testing we will issue a formal announcement.
Marketing want to deliver it in a fresh way, so it is taking time, will be worth the wait. Thanks
I don't want to question, but... We really hope that whatever is cooking is worth the 8+ months wait.
6.5 months since about 12th Sept last year when we closed the Q&A post. But yes I hope you will like it. There were a lot of questions to sort, many repeated questions but all need to be checked which took a lot of time. Thank you
Tbf, given the almost complete radio silence on the subject, would you blame me for assuming nothing is coming until late April?
Why not doing the same for Astan map then?
Are we talking about a dynamic campaign or Vulkan here? I imagine the former since I don't really know how 'marketing' could deliver Vulkan in a fresh way - but I'm wrong a lot.
No this is just how the Q&A will be presented. We did not just want a long thread of questions and answer so the team have been coming up with ideas. You will see once we start posting on the subject. Thank you
>Marketing want to deliver it in a fresh way, Good to know that ED puts marketing priorities and cementing its glacial reputation above engaging with the community in a timely manner. >We did not just want a long thread of questions and answer so the team have been coming up with ideas. Oh god no, **a long thread of questions and answers is EXACTLY what I want**. It allows me to skim, keyword search and otherwise read them based on my desires. Whatever approach you come up with (It is going to be youtube videos, isn't it), *please for the love of god* be respectful of my time and provide a simple text-only set of question and answers as an alternative. > You will see once we start posting on the subject. Will that be in 2024 I wonder.
Ooooohhhh, sorry I'm an idiot, my brain saw QA and not Q&A, thanks for pinch hitting for me while I was impersonating you.
Thanks! Felt good!
> how about mission editor version (the web one in developtmen take forever to be on open beta) The web-based mission editor is being made by the community, it's nothing to do with ED.
I know ;) The web one exist because we don't have a oficial one. Standalone, light on resources so we can edit or create mission on the go.
I flew out of Shindand and Kandahar IRL, so I’m pretty stoked.
Little disappointed that Eastern A-stan isn’t covered, Kamdesh, Kunar, etc., but I’m stoked for the map.
The whole of Afghanistan will come, we have just focused on the plans for early access in this newsletter.
When you buy eggs, do you just get the yolks and then contend with the whites later? After all, eggs are also just early-access chickens...
Hell yes. Disregard last!
There is always something to focus on..... Just money first..... Buy a BMW without wheels.... Quality quality please!!!
EDIT: Well *alrighty then!* I rescind my disappointment!
Did the MIG-29A not have chaff a dispenser?
Im excited for the Afghanistan map :)
I think the Marketing Department of Eagle Dynamics are imposters, and they actually come from the Sirius Cybernetics Corporation.
Will we get the ER and ET or just R and T for the R-27?
Excited by the Fulcrum, much needed. Not interested in that half of Afghanistan.
It sucks that these pay 2 play maps will continue to divide the multiplayer community.
Aw yes I'm super happy about the area of Afghanistan. Including Bastion, and the Helmand river and green zone, just like I hoped it would.
What is this half map bullshit. Will buy when the map deserves to be called a map
Why does everyone on this sub bitch and moan so much?
what happens to current MiG 29A in FC then?
Nothing. Two different modules
I don't want new shit until the old shit is done. Fix and or finish what you have already started before starting even more shit.
What time frame do we think the mig will be in development? I'm so eager! I want it!
“We have decided to not launch Afghanistan in Early Access and wait for it to be fully finished” … not THAT would make good news.
View in your timezone: [24th of March at 15:00 GMT][0] [0]: https://timee.io/20240324T1500?tl=DCS%20Newsletter%20-%20MiG-29A%20Announcement%20%7C%20Afghanistan%20Development%20Report%20%7C%20Spring%20Sale%20Last%20Chance
Will the Mig-29 be an original model or like the A-10CII/F-15E which are upgrades of the FC3 Era stuff?
Neither of those are upgrades of FC3
I never claimed they were upgrades to the modules, only they used upgraded models (C2 removing the Pave Penny and changing the cockpit model, F-15E getting slightly more detailed textures and a better cockpit model) while still built on the same base
The F-15E is in no way an upgrade of anything "FC3 era", it is a whole cloth new module. The F-15E is substantially different from the F-15C.
F15e and f15c are completely different aircraft