Still not a single photo of Wildcat AH.1s carrying weapons though...
ORIGINAL: 1Eddie2
I've compiled a list of UK aircraft in the game which may need changes made to them. I've tried to explain what they need changed and I'll provide links by PM if needed or put them up in a text file because I can't post them yet.
The A330 MRTT Voyager KC2 has a passenger transport capability as does the KC3 version (not in game) which has a centreline drogue for refuelling larger aircraft.
The RAF operates two more BAe Statesman (-200 model) which carry small freight loads, these were introduced in 2011. Designated BAe146 CMk3
The C-130J is being upgraded to Lockheed Martin's Block 8.1 standard (improved communications and surveillance capabilities) and an additional modification of external fuel tanks for special forces use. (N.B. UKSF are reportedly not impressed with the A400M)
Eight C-17s are in service with the RAF with the designation.. C-17 (for some reason they never named it)
Further to my post last time new Chinook variants are being gradually introduced. Chinook HC4 is an upgrade of the Chinook HC2. This adds a glass cockpit, improved engines, improved DAS, new comms suite, FLIR.
The HC5 is an upgrade of HC3s to give it similar performance to the HC4. The HC3 model has external fuel tanks.
The HC6 is a new build of 14 CH-47F model helicopters fitted with FLIR, rescue hoist, Digital Automatic Flight Control System (DAFCS) and Display Night Vision Goggles (DNVG), although all Chinooks are cleared for night operations.
The E-3D Sentry received a Mode S upgrade to its IFF system last year, allowing it to operate in controlled airspace.
As already mentioned the Merlin Crowsnest bid was won by Thales who will integrate and then upgrade the already existing Searchwater 2000 radar. This will be known in service as the Merlin ASaC5
Merlin HM1/HM2 is able to use the MX-15 EO/IR sensor turret on one of its outboard weapons pylons, and an M3M .50 Cal machine gun mounted in the cabin.
The Merlin HC3 is listed as Navy although it is technically (the best kind) in service with the RAF. The Merlin HC3 will enter service with the Royal Navy's Commando Helicopter Force (CHF) this July. It will then undergo upgrades to give it the same cockpit as a HM2 (glass), folding tail boom and main rotor blades, and a strengthened undercarriage. It will then be known as the Merlin HC4
The Puma HC1 has been upgraded to the HC2 version and entered service last year. Upgrades include a glass cockpit, Digital Automatic Flight Control System (DAFCS), increased fuel capacity, upgraded DAS, ballistic protection for crew and passengers
The Sea King HC4 (Plus) Commando has now been retired and have been replaced by the Merlin. Also all Sea King HC4s were part of the Royal Navy, not the British Army (as listed in game). The Sea King HAR.3 are retiring from RAF service this year. In game they are listed as Royal Navy, which they never served with. The Sea King HAR.3 S&R role will be fulfilled by a civilian organisation so there's no direct replacement.
The Typhoon FGR4's CAESAR radar supposedly detects targets at a further range than the Rafale due to more T/R modules on the larger Typhoon radar. There's an interview with a Selex ES representative that I can provide if you need it. Jamming and electronic attack are also rumoured to be in development under the UK's Project Bright ADDER programme, although there's obviously no official or hard evidence of this.
The WAH-64D Apache (known in Army service as the Apache AH1) will likely be upgraded in the next couple of years to AH-64E Guardian standards with additional UK specific items: A floatation device, canopy jettison ability, an improved battery life and an I-band transponder to navigate back to ships. Delays by lobbyist Agusta-Westland means the decision won't be made until 2016, so introduction won't be until around 2018 at best.
Wildcat AH1 can carry forward firing 2.75" rockets on its outboard pylons. Wildcat HMA2 will carry the Lightweight Multirole Missile (LMM), a small missile with a 6.6lb warhead intended to destroy small boats. The Royal Navy and Marine Nationale will also be using the Sea Venom (UK designation) anti-ship missile in the coming years. In UK service this replaces the Sea Skua.
TL;DR: A lot of minor aesthetic changes that most likely aren't needed, but some upgrades that are coming up for key aircraft.
Hopefully this doesn't come across as demanding, just pointing things out [:)]
TL;DR: A lot of minor aesthetic changes that most likely aren't needed, but some upgrades that are coming up for key aircraft.
Hopefully this doesn't come across as demanding, just pointing things out
