This is a quick overview of the effects of patch DCS 2.8.7.42583, released on 24/07/2023.
Changelog for the F-14 Tomcat:
• New: Added Quickstart Missions for DCS: Sinai map.
• Improved AIM-54 loft.
• Improved AIM-54 notch behavior.
• Fixed laser issues with painted objects.
• Possible fix to INS readout bug on TID.
• Refined gearing ratio between pedals and commanded NWS angle for better ground control.
• Reduced pitch trim actuator speed by 25%.
• Reduced carrier catapult shot speed target by 15 knots to be more realistic.
• Increased possibility of compressor stall in MCB region while MCB is inactive (CB pulled) by 300%.
• Increased volume of DLC deploy sound.
Of course the most interesting bits are the changes to the AIM-54 behaviour.
AIM-54 Patch Effects
The performance in the no-loft region is identical, but as soon as the loft kicks in, something goes wrong and the missile loses energy quite rapidly. Looking at the datapoints I collected, it seems that the characteristic cruise region where the missile maintains speed before diving, and sometimes accelerating, has been severely affected.
I have not collected many datapoints, as the behaviour is clearly visible already.
“37” stands for “2023 07“.
Speed vs Time
Distance vs Time
Impact Speed vs Range (35,000ft)
I have not collected many datapoints for this test, hence the appearance of the curve. However, they are enough to highlight the issue.
The issue should not be on Heatblur’s side, whereas on ED’s. They have missed part of the intended implementation, with the effects we are seeing.
Follow this thread on ED’s forum for more information.
FlyAndWire 