DetectionSystem Beta Update
Author: Jimmy Arcade,
published 1 year ago,
This update integrates the VTR (Visual, Thermal, Radar) system into all units and their various detection systems.
As I mentioned before none of the current aircraft have any Radar stealth characteristics so don't expect any noticeable change in Radar detection. However, where helicopters do excel is in their thermal reduction.
For example, the Kiowa has the best thermal profile of all the helicopters and this can be seen when approaching Strelas as they will not be able to lock on at maximum range. The Kiowa can actually work 300-400m inside the Strela's engagement range safely as long as it maintains its nose towards the Strela. If it turns away then the engine exhaust will become more visible and it could find itself in a whole load of trouble!
The rest of the helicopters have profiles as you would expect with the Viper and Delta Apache having the best Thermal reductions. The Viper also has better Visual reductions to the front/rear due to its narrow profile.
The Lynx is probably the "average" helicopter and doesn't really have any particular benefit
While the Gazelle only really benefits from being the smallest helicopter and therefore the least visible. It's thermal profiles are pretty poor though due to that mainly exposed engine!
The final task I have is to integrate the VTR system into the current missiles guidance system which will then, potentially, allow you to defeat incoming IR missiles by turning to face them (although you'd have to be pretty quick though as they cover the relatively short distances very quickly).
The main benefit of doing this, however, will be the ability simulate a whole range of Visual, Thermal & Radar jamming systems such as the AN/ALQ-144 or other ECM systems.
And yes! I did just say "Visual" jamming systems! Think weather - such as fog, mist or other poor visibility environments that would globally effect Visual and/or Thermal targeting systems. ːsteamhappyː
Hopefully I should get the final piece of the VTR puzzle done tomorrow and, assuming no major bugs, I'll be able to send this out to the main branch.
The next Beta will be the MapExpansion beta which will be looking at expanding the current desert environment in not only physical size but also details such as airbases, civilian structures etc which should make it much more interesting to fly over.
I will also be looking at changing the terrain to real world terrain from Libya which I think will work better than the computer generated terrain the desert area currently uses.