Update - Checking interest on DCS: IADS (Integrated Air Defense Network) - Part 2

[NineLine]

As a follow up to their initial post found here, they wanted to update you on where they are at right now.

Hello everyone!
 

We have been closely monitoring the poll and all your feedback. We can assure you that all of your answers and opinions have been thoroughly read and evaluated. The COVID-19 pandemic and its worldwide impact (including our business) have also influenced our IADS simulation development plans. Nevertheless, in the last couple of months, we've been working closely with the ED team on this module's possibilities and features, which we would like to share with you. Please understand that nothing is final yet – everything that follows is not a promise or obligation in any way and is subject to change at any moment.

 

What we can tell you so far is that the IADS simulation module will include some of the following features, all part of the DCS core:

• Addition of IADS building tools to the Mission Editor
• IADS generator (automatic and manual)
• Logistics component (replenishment of fuel and ammunition)
• New unit templates
• New types of trigger zones: Lines (borders), Circles (including lower/upper altitude boundaries), Polygons (including lower/upper altitude boundaries)
• New drawing tools
   

Following features will be part of the IADS module itself:

• Recon information processing – ELINT, SIGINT, COMINT
• Real-time telemetry with realistic delays
• Mission Editor enhanced functions:
  • Radar coverage computation and display
  • Radar placement recommendation (depending on the type)
  • Definition and prioritization of defended objects
  • Anticipated air attack directions
  • No-fire sectors/areas
• Global and local control options (role dependent)
• Advanced AI-assisted Command and Control (based on ROE and pre-set tactics)
• Multiplayer support – different roles/sectors/areas
   

Electronic Warfare simulation and techniques are currently being evaluated and discussed. It's a very delicate topic – our goal is to simulate the Electronic Warfare arena realistically, which means we have to tread very softly. It is one of the most guarded secrets all around the world. To understand the complex task of simulating a modern multi-layered and integrated air defense, please check out the following article, written by Maj. Peter W. Mattes, USAF. https://www.airforcemag.com/article/what-is-a-modern-integrated-air-defense-system/

 

This is all we can tell you for now. Please stay tuned for more news and stay safe!

 

[Wdigman]

I did not see the original Post about this, the Poll.

 

My vote is Yes.

 

Is this something that would be part of a Dynamic Campaign, or added on later? I could see this as a paid add-don to enhance a dynamic campaign, you have to make money.

 

The result would  the best most immersive modern war simulator ever made. Every mission would be different, and it wont matter if your in a Tank a Ship Sub or Aircraft.

[pikkuhukka]

this sounds like an Awesome addition to the game, to add even more depth to it

 

Definitive yes

[SkillyJ]

That all sounds pretty good to me. If I had one thing that I'd change, it'd be that the "Radar coverage computation and display" should also be a core feature, as it's really an important thing to know when you're placing down units. I would consider it an extension of the "Sensor range" line we have in the Mission Editor already.

 

Also I'd argue that the IADS Generator would probably be a feature of the IADS Module, not a Core item. Best leave that stuff to the professionals, right?

 

I look forward to seeing what you end up developing for the Electronic Warfare additions, especially if things like Radio jamming affect how units maneuver and react when they don't know what other units/elements are doing/seeing.

[PickleMonster]

Good gravy! Yes please.

[VincentLaw]

I play DCS exclusively in VR now. Please make sure any operator stations and interfaces for modules like this function in VR.

[BarTzi]

Please make this a reality! 

 

[Ghost117]

Yes, please! 

[nighthawk2174]

Absolutely yes, as long as it doesn't divide the MP community, it'll be a day one buy for me.  Good to see some long requested features will also be added to support this as well.  Additionally with any luck this will force ED to revisit the SAM's in the game and give them a proper CFD work over, and guidance rebuild, which they have desperately needed for nearly a decade now.

Edited January 18 by nighthawk2174

[Desert Fox]

Thanks for keeping us updated @NineLine

If this is going to happen, it will be a big improvement for DCS. Can't tell how much im looking forward to this!

[Rubberduck85]

Yes please, do it, DCS needs core-tied IADS.


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[Northstar98]

4 hours ago, NineLine said:

...

• New types of trigger zones: Lines (borders), Circles (including lower/upper altitude boundaries), Polygons (including lower/upper altitude boundaries)
• New drawing tools

...

 

YEEEEEEEEE HAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!

 

So many have been waiting for this feature for ages, it's fantastic that it's getting implemented to the core.

 

Is there any more detail on the drawing tools? Will we be able to place icons (such as NATO Joint Military Symbology), arrows etc? Kinda like that infantry focused sim?

 

Overall it sounds like this is going to be a very awesome addition to DCS!

 

Edited January 18 by Northstar98

[QuiGon]

I really like what I read there! These are exactly the things I would love to see in DCS!

 

I'm just a bit worried about the performance impact of all those IADS computations.

[uri_ba]

As long it's something like CA where you cannot take control but everything works thats OK.

 

Something rediculus like "people without the module will not be engaged or be able to destroy IADS SAMs" is unacceptable.

 

It cannot limit people ability to fly or edit the mission (you can lock out the fancy features in the editor, but don't wipe them out if someone edits the mission)

 

 

[kotor633]

A small milestone and a clear point at which DCS would have a unique selling point. Sounds great!

[Matti0503]

This is going to be awesome, both for the people that get it and the people that don't

[FoxOne007]

I can’t wait for this, hopefully it will also come with some new SIGINT AI assets like the RC-135V/W Rivet Joint to support in theatre operations!!

 

[naizarak]

sounds like a bunch of meta-tools that should be included in the core game by default

[Juuba]

"SAM Simulator" in DCS would be a dream come true for a few/many!!!

[GVO]

Damn, this would be a fantastic addon for DCS! Can’t wait to hear more about this in the future

[Worrazen]

I was going to write about some wishlist-things back then but was too busy, if I have the time I will do it tying this IADS idea with that as well, nothing new perhaps overall, but it may offer some bits of thought and maybe helps out with the direction/focus.

[Silver_Dragon]

Yes

[PREACHr]

Yes.

 

Whatever expends the posibilities to create immersive missions with no fly zones and border protection will get my vote. Also see an immens upgrade if this integrates into dynamic campaigns

[bies]

Great news. Electronic warfare implementation makes me the most excited.

[Ahmed]

Great to see this progressing!

 

Hoping they can get also get a good compromise for EW simulation.

Edited January 18 by Ahmed