The “New” AIM-54 Phoenix I: First Look [2.9.25.21123 11/03/2026]
This is a brief look at the updated AIM-54 Phoenix, released in March 2026. Later on, if there is enough interest, I will prepare the usual load of charts and data in more detail.
This is a brief look at the updated AIM-54 Phoenix, released in March 2026. Later on, if there is enough interest, I will prepare the usual load of charts and data in more detail.
After a few months collecting data, I have finally finished a new thrust-to-weight fuel & performance model. However, the amount of data is so huge that I had to break it down into multiple discussions. This is the first one, and we start with a bang with one of the most beautiful aeroplanes ever designed: the F-14 Tomcat.
Another quick demo showing the principles of the SYNC-Z-TURN applied to other fighters. After the F-4E and the Mirage F1, it is now the F-14 Tomcat’s turn.
This is a rapid look at what has changed with DCS Open Beta patch 2.8.7.42718, which should have fixed and improved the loft dynamics of the Phoenix missile.
The newly released patch has affected the notch and loft behaviour of the AIM-54, but it also has introduced some severe issues.
The activity of our F-14 Tomcat pilots in our squadron prompted us to create a “Quick Reference Kneeboard”. This pack contains checklists, useful data and graphics that help understand certain calculations.