Next from AH: Republic P-47D Thunderbolt

[YoYo]

From FB, busy company :very_drunk: :

https://scontent-ams3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/18489557_938068529664854_946755384863373047_o.jpg? oh=90ce1becb26915bb378d388809fb25b7&oe=59ADC994
https://scontent-ams3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/18489835_938068602998180_3501457625518608260_o.jpg ?oh=a08fdfb313482b01113346c0a2f73584&oe=59B11E45
https://scontent-ams3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/18451527_938068639664843_7043841911462271753_o.jpg ?oh=256b02444f60ee01a8e10ac7552d46a9&oe=59A7A1B3

[YoYo]

Skin proposition from my side - for sure P-47D of Gabreski! :wavey:
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/eb/7e/2c/eb7e2cc57e367f17fe64fc40fa27360a.jpg
also Gladych:
http://www.hyperscale.com/images/p47dgladychartworkao_1.jpg
Lanowski:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v286/katedra/P-47MLanowski01.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/katedra/media/P-47MLanowski01.jpg.html)

[Butcherbird17]

Finally a Bubble-top P-47.:applause: Looking forward to this one.

Joe

[YoYo]

btw. I taken this idea (from AH presentations :- D) to show the model with... box of model, looks nice I suppose, sorry for offtop but can't resist because it's a nice idea (skins are for DCS Spitfire LF IXc), the preview:

http://images82.fotosik.pl/571/d6b2a8ae85dda94a.jpg

http://images81.fotosik.pl/573/a0ebda94c3f56b74.jpg

https://images83.fotosik.pl/571/0dc8de68dfceedd5.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

I wonder what particular bubble-top variant(s) they'll include - quite a number of cockpit changes/differences between the D-25/D-28/D-30, etc., rocket stubs/no rocket stubs (with cockpit rocket firing panel/no rocket firing panel), etc. It would be nice if the canopy/framing/windscreen and wing leading edges (airfoil) were more accurate to the real thing.

Stock from the factory, bubble-top P-47's didn't have external rear-view mirrors (there was a rear-view mirror internally) - but in Europe, some would of course gain an external Spitfire mirror, if the pilot deemed it necessary. The Spitfire mirror dimension should be checked that it is 10.6cm/4.2-inches wide.

[Bomber_12th]

Canopy bubble/framing (original Republic drawing):

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/p47canopy1_zpslmslwqj1.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/p47canopy1_zpslmslwqj1.jpg.html)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/p47canopy2_zpsx9jpx9vi.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/p47canopy2_zpsx9jpx9vi.jpg.html)


Windscreen assembly (original Republic drawing):

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/p47windscreen1_zps75u77zyw.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/p47windscreen1_zps75u77zyw.jpg.html)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/10599647_274611772747377_3941115920785037635_n_zps 5xyggpwt.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/10599647_274611772747377_3941115920785037635_n_zps 5xyggpwt.jpg.html)

[Bomber_12th]

Plexi bubble shaping (original Republic drawing)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/p47canopy3_zpstcckqinp.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/p47canopy3_zpstcckqinp.jpg.html)http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/p47canopy4_zps7ouf3lib.jpg~original

(http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/p47canopy4_zps7ouf3lib.jpg.html)http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/10551089_268398406702047_4389434598013547930_n_zps 4nauxarl.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/10551089_268398406702047_4389434598013547930_n_zps 4nauxarl.jpg.html)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/10548998_268398970035324_7753246000608690281_o_zps kyqzcgtc.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/10548998_268398970035324_7753246000608690281_o_zps kyqzcgtc.jpg.html)

[Bomber_12th]

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/10527271_268398733368681_4134202394253110884_n_zps vevjmbzs.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/10527271_268398733368681_4134202394253110884_n_zps vevjmbzs.jpg.html)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/10429312_268398316702056_8432836096470690659_n_zps w1bpumys.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/10429312_268398316702056_8432836096470690659_n_zps w1bpumys.jpg.html)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/10514319_268398620035359_8566133129485149596_o_zps 7sgb7dji.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/10514319_268398620035359_8566133129485149596_o_zps 7sgb7dji.jpg.html)

[Bomber_12th]

The most authentic P-47 restoration to-date, the P-47D-28 "Dottie Mae", detailed photos galore here (both prior-to and after restoration):

(https://www.facebook.com/pg/Allied-Fighters-254129241462297/photos/?ref=page_internal)https://www.facebook.com/pg/Allied-Fighters-254129241462297/photos/?ref=page_internal

The metal on "Dottie Mae" is not polished, but is fresh Alclad, just as it would have appeared when new from the factory. The darker, less shiny sections of metal are of course stainless steal - stainless steal makes up most of the belly of the aircraft, due to the high temperature of the intercooler/turbo, ducting, and exhaust. Other details that can be spotted on the "Dottie Mae" restoration is the authentic use of various colored rivets - silver, yellow, blue and red - mostly used in a unorganized manner, as per original, as the various rivets, namely the silver/yellow/blue rivets, were mixed together in trays on the factory floors, and whatever color rivet was used was whatever rivet the riveter pulled out of his pocket at that particular moment. Areas where panels have been spot-welded you can see bright lines, a result of acid being brushed onto the aluminum to purify the surface of the metal prior to spot-welding - as per original. All of the stencils and numerous other details are not only accurate to the Republic drawings, but are as they were found prior to restoration.

In the same league as "Dottie Mae", is the P-47D-30 "Tallahassee Lassie". While "Dottie Mae" has been restored precisely accurate to the D-28 it is, "Tallahassee Lassie" was restored precisely accurate to the D-30 it is. Most notably is how different the cockpit is between the two. Being the later variant, "Tallahassee Lassie" has the rocket stubs and rocket-firing panel in the cockpit, where as the earlier variant, "Dottie Mae", does not (not to mention the difference in gunsights, instrument arrangements, switch panels, etc.). Here is a large collection of detailed photos of the incredibly authentic/accurate P-47D-30 "Tallahassee Lassie":

https://www.facebook.com/Randy.Malmstrom/media_set?set=a.1248468561847465.1073742547.100000 529987087&type=3

(https://www.facebook.com/Randy.Malmstrom/media_set?set=a.1248468561847465.1073742547.100000 529987087&type=3)http://westpacrestorations.com/index.php?page=p-47-thunderbolt

[MustangL2W]

Man..... that is just GORGEOUS!!!!! What an Airplane.

[c87]

Aeroplane Heaven might as well just set up a direct withdrawal from my bank account. I just got the Helldiver, am waiting patiently for the Commando, still need to pick up the Typhoon and now there's the P-47, which will also be a definite buy.:untroubled:

[Sundog]

Nice work AH and great info John.

[CG_1976]

Ummm Cuba P47#452

[Mach3DS]

The only thing that I'm disappointed about is the lack of integrated Tacpack...in previous models...its really not that hard to implement and makes it infinity easier when done by the developer to be able to actually integrate TP weapons and visibility, weights etc. Any chance this might be done? Man, this looks oh so nice! C46 AND THIS = instant buys. Glad you chose the bubble.guys. seriously good.judgement. others had their chance..again I hope you make the $$$ you deserve!

[roger-wilco-66]

I'm really looking forward to this one. John, those are excellent images of the screen and canopy assemblies. I love insights like that.


Cheers,
Mark

[DaveQ]

Like others I shall eagerly await a high-quality bubble-top P-47. I never really understood why A2A didn't uprate their bubble-top, having done so with the razor-back. I've spent many hours with MCX and lots of help from others converting it though the cockpit remains animated but unclickable. At least I can use spec, alpha and bump maps to create nice looking paints, so all the time researching new paints can be put to good use.....!

DaveQ

[tommieboy]

Great News......

It's the one plane I missed the most from FS9. Like Dave, I always wondered why A2A never updated their bubbletop model. Well it's moot now thanks to AH! Looking forward to it, and all the great third party repaints to follow.

Tommy

[Mach3DS]

Yes Dave eagerly awaiting this one as well. If AH continues to select the Caliber of aircraft they have been thus far they've guaranteed my business. Not sure why others haven't picked this one or any others up, but goodness, their mistake is AH's opportunity! Go get 'em!

John Terrell! Those images are outstanding! Yes the FHC's (now FHCAM) P-47 Is an impeccably restored version. I'm lucky enough to see this coming Saturday 5/20 for the annual Paine field aviation day where admission is free and both the FHCAM and the HFF are accessible with aircraft flying during the day and tons of static displays as well as armor firing displays, boom! If you are in yhe neighborhood this Saturday, I wouldn't mind meeting up with some fellow simmers on the flight line behind the FHC main hangar.

[vmag17]

Thank you AH! Have been looking forward to a "D" Bubble top for FSX for a long time.
http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/attachment.php?attachmentid=50144&stc=1

Hopefully to be followed by an "N" - my all time favorite.
Many a hour spent cruising the Pacific in this beast.

And John - as always - many interesting and informative details.

http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/attachment.php?attachmentid=50143&stc=1

[BUDSCH]

John, I agree that the cockpit framing isn't quite right, but with the drawings you provided there is no reason to get it wrong now. I would love to buy a "corrected" version.
BUD

[heywooood]

Eagleston...

[IanP]

/Ian P grumbles slightly while grinning inwardly and shoves Boxted a bit further up the "to do" list... Altbough there's already at least one Jug base done for the UK, he just can't remember which one it is offhand...

[Bomber_12th]

Original factory specifications for all external markings and stencils. These all come from one single large Republic blueprint drawing (multiple scans). Most of the stencils are numbered and thus are meant to be traced to the key, where you can read what the stencil is supposed to state (as well as size of font and color), but for any that may happen to be marked with a drawing number (decals), let me know which numbers those may be/which ones are needed, and I can provide copies of those particular drawings as well.


http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-47_Markings1_zpsjg890fgh.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/P-47_Markings1_zpsjg890fgh.jpg.html)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-47_Markings2_zpsimf1xyle.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/P-47_Markings2_zpsimf1xyle.jpg.html)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-47_Markings3_zps4zh90l5u.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/P-47_Markings3_zps4zh90l5u.jpg.html)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-47_Markings5_zpskyps73rs.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/P-47_Markings5_zpskyps73rs.jpg.html)

[Bomber_12th]

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-47_Markings4_zpsabexw2vh.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/P-47_Markings4_zpsabexw2vh.jpg.html)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-47_Markings7_zpskjyb81be.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/P-47_Markings7_zpskjyb81be.jpg.html)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-47_Markings6_zpss92o6oau.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/P-47_Markings6_zpss92o6oau.jpg.html)

[Bomber_12th]

In addition to all of that stuff...every removable/access panel on the P-47 was stenciled with an individual number. That number was applied to both the access panel and the main body of the airframe, one over the other (as outlined in the drawings), so that each panel could be matched-up easily to the right location on the aircraft. Here is the diagram drawing for each of those numbers that were stenciled onto the access panels and main body of the aircraft:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-47_Panel_Number_Stencils1_zpsrg2bfepn.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/P-47_Panel_Number_Stencils1_zpsrg2bfepn.jpg.html)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-47_Panel_Number_Stencils2_zpscamatkve.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/P-47_Panel_Number_Stencils2_zpscamatkve.jpg.html)

Here you can see more clearly the way the removable/access numbers are accurately applied as per original/factory specification:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/15002250_610563699152181_8539968513016326140_o_zps m0g7baq3.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/15002250_610563699152181_8539968513016326140_o_zps m0g7baq3.jpg.html)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/15003248_610563019152249_6866674299922651771_o_zps fzkbywkk.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/15003248_610563019152249_6866674299922651771_o_zps fzkbywkk.jpg.html)

[Bomber_12th]

Some fun photos to share:

Late variant (a P-47D-40-RA) - with tail fin fillet, rocket stubs and dive flaps

https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5605/18828831492_4ad7391af7_k.jpg

Earlier variant (actually a P-47M) - with no tail fin fillet or rocket stubs

https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5510/18829016102_d008e48029_k.jpg

https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5616/18827569272_94359359df_o.jpg

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7381/26837881860_ca0139a821_o.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7313/26506128934_036518a902_o.jpg

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7019/26505730314_43f8600f49_o.jpg

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7297/27110701935_72c72c0e94_o.jpg

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7547/27042369031_3500b4c666_o.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7286/26506669474_5f2fba7341_o.jpg

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/531/18584351828_3b3928aab5_b.jpg

https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5572/18833500915_4b18439a5e_o.jpg

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7613/26506745763_932c13fb1a_o.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3682/18645718948_300b90000c_b.jpg

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/290/18772240835_b7c46f2597_o.jpg

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/389/18584458970_e55bb18ee3_o.jpg

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7525/26507087444_dd6172feb3_b.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

Note that the majority of the period photos show the Thunderbolt with the 13ft-diameter Curtiss-Electric cuffed propeller, with the bullet-like Curtiss-Electric prop hub. However, the 13ft 7/8in-diameter Hamilton Standard hydromatic non-cuffed propellers, with the Hamilton Standard hydromatic prop hub, was also used (all of the props fitted to P-47's flying today are of the Hamilton Standard type) - and like the unit seen on the AH model. The Hamilton Standard prop type can be clearly seen in the photo of the P-47D "Rae", as well as likely in the photo of "Shirley Jane III". The cuffs of the Curtiss-Electric blades were only meant for use at high altitudes, so for those which only participated in low-altitude work (ground-attack/ground-support assignment), the Hamilton Standard blades fit the bill, with the big, thick paddle blades of the Hamilton Standard units pulling the fully-loaded aircraft off the ground better at takeoff as well.

[Sundog]

Nice pics John.

[Bomber_12th]

We need a bubble-top P-47 in FSX that looks just like this: https://www.facebook.com/100004877147814/videos/795742097265021/
(https://www.facebook.com/100004877147814/videos/795742097265021/)
The video is of the first engine run and taxi-test of the restored combat-vet P-47D "Dottie Mae", the most authentic Thunderbolt restoration to-date - everything about the restoration was done to put it back just the way it was when new from the factory, accurate down to the rivets. Note that the metal is not polished at all, it is fresh Alclad-covered aluminum, as it looked/looks when fresh/new (as it did when new from the factory in the 40's). With the full use of FSX materials, there is no problem in getting this exact look in the sim.

I can't wait to see the restored "Dottie Mae" with its cowlings on and the recreated original and very colorful nose art. Rumor has it that it may be a surprise attendee at Oshkosh this summer. As always, you can follow (and look back on) the restoration of this aircraft, in detail, here: https://www.facebook.com/Allied-Fighters-254129241462297/

[MustangL2W]

Really looking forward to this and I agree with Bomber_12th. I was just flying the A2A Razorback "D" over the weekend, and thinking about and hoping this D is even better! I've always had a few issues with the A2A model, but made the very best of it over the years. Getting to see John Penney in "Balls Out" last year at Oshkosh really re-kindled my interest and respect for the "Jug." The airplane reminds me of an Iron Fist....just waiting to 'SMASH' whatever gets in its way! Sure wish there were more flying...to represent and tell the story of the machine and the men who flew and maintained them during WWII.

[Bradburger]

Looking nice on the AH FB page in the P3D v3.4 screenshots, but I notice the front windscreen and canopy are still not accurate, as pointed out by John.

(Just compare with the Republic P-47 drawings he posted along with the excellent pictures too).

Hopefully this will be corrected before release, as a good quality P-47D-25 is long overdue!

Cheers

Paul

[Bomber_12th]

Knowing what can be done with FSX and P3D materials, if only...

I know some people would look at this and say, "oh, that's polished", but it isn't. The metal, as you see it, is the same as the metal looked when the aircraft rolled out of the factory in 1944, as simply fresh/new Alclad. The metal panels along the bottom of the fuselage are always darker, because much of the panels that make up the bottom of the fuselage are stainless - they have to be, due to the heat of the exhaust and the turbo ducting that runs much of the distance of the fuselage. Republic wasn't known for using very much green zinc-chromate either, and you'll find that the gear wells were always almost entirely yellow zinc-chromate(of course the cockpits were painted either interior green or bronze green depending on production block).

Knowing what can be done with FSX and P3D materials, if only...

"Dottie Mae" will be making its first public debut on August 26th and 27th at the Warhawk Air Museum's "Warbird Roundup" event, being held in Nampa, Idaho. It is being hinted at that the original nose art/pinup will be painted onto the cowls during this event or leading up to it. Note the black circle, or "period", next to the 'S', which is on both sides of the aircraft - this shows up in several original wartime photos and could still be seen on the aircraft when it was pulled out of the lake in 2005, but it always seems to be forgotten about/left off of artwork/profiles that people have done.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4290/34858132364_5048442a2f_o.jpg

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4209/35568371021_77342a4bbe_o.jpg

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4131/35311905110_1d9c074afa_o.jpg

[gray eagle]

This video shows six of the world's flyable Republic P-47 Thunderbolt (Jug) fighters.

The following five Thunderbolts are seen flying in formation during the 2005 Planes of Fame Museum airshow at Chino, California. That was quite a sight (and sound) having five Thunderbolts in the air at one time!

1. P-47D NX47RP "Big Chief"
2. P-47D NX647D "Wicked Wabbit"
3. P-47D NX47DF
4. P-47D NX9246B "Hun Hunter XVI"
5. P-47G N3395G "Spirit of Atlantic City NJ"

The sixth Thunderbolt, P-47D NX147PF "No Guts, no Glory!" (with the checkerboard cowling) is seen in the close-up taxiing sequence.



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVAiGYBrajs

Published on Jul 1, 2012



Wonder why the Navy didn't buy into this, perhaps too heavy for carrier service.

[Mach3DS]

Knowing what can be done with FSX and P3D materials, if only...

I know some people would look at this and say, "oh, that's polished", but it isn't. The metal, as you see it, is the same as the metal looked when the aircraft rolled out of the factory in 1944, as simply fresh/new Alclad. The metal panels along the bottom of the fuselage are always darker, because much of the panels that make up the bottom of the fuselage are stainless - they have to be, due to the heat of the exhaust and the turbo ducting that runs much of the distance of the fuselage. Republic wasn't known for using very much green zinc-chromate either, and you'll find that the gear wells were always almost entirely yellow zinc-chromate(of course the cockpits were painted either interior green or bronze green depending on production block).

Knowing what can be done with FSX and P3D materials, if only...

"Dottie Mae" will be making its first public debut on August 26th and 27th at the Warhawk Air Museum's "Warbird Roundup" event, being held in Nampa, Idaho. It is being hinted at that the original nose art/pinup will be painted onto the cowls during this event or leading up to it. Note the black circle, or "period", next to the 'S', which is on both sides of the aircraft - this shows up in several original wartime photos and could still be seen on the aircraft when it was pulled out of the lake in 2005, but it always seems to be forgotten about/left off of artwork/profiles that people have done.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4290/34858132364_5048442a2f_o.jpg

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4209/35568371021_77342a4bbe_o.jpg

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4131/35311905110_1d9c074afa_o.jpg


John, thanks for pointing this out. I have been a champion of this perspective for a long time. The problem with black and white photos is that they omit the visible part of the refelcted image in the metal finish. The color! But, if you look closely at a photo, and analyze the composition, taking note of the details in the environment, you can deduce why in some images the finish doesn't appear "polished" while in others it does. Not every case, but many cases, you're dealing with a photo that was taken with broken clouds overhead. WIth only white as the contrast overhead, there's not much contrast in the refelection. I've noticed this on the B-58 Hustler images. As well as the first flight video of the A-12 Oxcart. But if you look closely at that video you'll notice that it's taking place in April and the clouds are overcast. Compare that to the photos of the first flight and some may be left scratching their heads, because the photos show a clearly clean Titanium reflective skin, while the video shows a more matted finish. The aircraft climbed above and away from the clouds clearly. Great explanation and thank you for the photos!

[flaviossa]

There is one in flight conditions -- at least is informed to being so -- here in Brazil too (MUSAL Rio de Janeiro):


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzhLRI8Xvv4

[Bomber_12th]

She's now complete (photo copyright Allied Fighters, via Facebook):

So cool(!) The artwork was done by a local Idaho artist, Jeff Devey. I'm glad they chose someone to recreate the artwork that wouldn't have to go and add their own flare (like some of the big name nose artists) - just recreate how it was originally.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/20108306_738375013037715_3338074031462055549_n_zps rxclaec5.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/20108306_738375013037715_3338074031462055549_n_zps rxclaec5.jpg.html)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/20106328_738375053037711_6516027910736101054_n_zps frr5v8pu.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/20106328_738375053037711_6516027910736101054_n_zps frr5v8pu.jpg.html)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/20229502_738375209704362_6620880025811037301_o_zps znwgkzvp.jpg~original (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/Bomber_12th/media/20229502_738375209704362_6620880025811037301_o_zps znwgkzvp.jpg.html)

[YoYo]

Small update on AH FB page:

https://scontent-waw1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/20626596_996941593777547_2192172564832526488_o.jpg ?oh=7169ab48227c25625262660f94510c26&oe=5A2FFD83

https://scontent-waw1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/20689964_996941610444212_959466986297804801_o.jpg? oh=4afc3e5e8a71eacc64d42bd205bb7f92&oe=59F5DFED

[Bradburger]

I see someone else has flagged up the incorrect canopy on the AH FB page, but AH seem to disagree with the observation!

Interesting that they claim that they used original factory drawings, yet the canopy bares no resemblance to that in the ones that John posted earlier, and indeed what my eyes see in the pictures as well.

(They did the same thing with the Typhoon canopy also).

Whilst it my seem like nitpicking to some, it is a valid piece of constructive criticism, which will only enhance the appearance of what looks like an otherwise accurate and well modelled P-47D-25.

Cheers

Paul

[YoYo]

I see someone else has flagged up the incorrect canopy on the AH FB page, but AH seem to disagree with the observation!

Interesting that they claim that they used original factory drawings, yet the canopy bares no resemblance to that in the ones that John posted earlier, and indeed what my eyes see in the pictures as well.

(They did the same thing with the Typhoon canopy also).

Whilst it my seem like nitpicking to some, it is a valid piece of constructive criticism, which will only enhance the appearance of what looks like an otherwise accurate and well modelled P-47D-25.

Cheers

Paul

+1, I see differences also in model and real.

http://www.368thfightergroup.com/images/w-397-wenk-p47-recovery-2.jpg

https://scontent-waw1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/19467602_967988263339547_5798903590927567622_o.jpg ?oh=cde38b59f315d61349d509b6c57e0abb&oe=59F7A963


Btw. any news about this skin? ;>

https://www.cgstudio.com/imgd/l/46/55ec1218ccff759f3d8b4567/4000.jpg

[ZsoltB]

Any news the released date? :jump:

http://www.aeroplaneheaven.com/product_p47.php

[YoYo]

Skin proposition from my side - for sure P-47D of Gabreski!
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/eb/7e/2c/eb7e2cc57e367f17fe64fc40fa27360a.jpg


Wow!
Thank You AH!!!

https://scontent-waw1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/23509145_1070573223081050_4784876572916004425_o.jp g?oh=d6bf44375287aecb7a2fb4959c1c3a7f&oe=5AA96B02

http://www.historynet.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/Gabreski1200_480.jpg

btw. more pictures with this skin (I see it's WIP still :wavey: ) : http://modelwork.pl/viewtopic.php?f=64&t=32649

[Odie]

Good info here, folks! Thanks for sharing! The P-47, like the British Typhoon were two planes that looked like they were meant to "take care of business"; and you did not want to be on the business end!
Looking forward to this release.

[WarHorse47]

Be nice to see this one before Christmas.. :encouragement:

[MustangL2W]

That pretty little Stinson they tease on Facebook too....

[ZsoltB]

Any news the released date?

[bazzar]

It's just gone into beta test so fingers crossed and all that...:engel016:

[mattcurry]

I get the feeling that AH is going to be getting a lot of my money over the next few months with all these projects. The screenshots look excellent, and I'm interested by the post war photos of P-47s; repaints galore!

If it could be released today that would be great. Otherwise, please wait for next payday!

Matt

[IanP]

It's just gone into beta test so fingers crossed and all that...:engel016:

Guess my New Year Resolution has to be to actually get Boxted done then...

No point me even trying to volunteer for beta teams any more, unfortunately. What little physical health I had left has flown South for the winter. :(

Ian P.

[blanston12]

It's just gone into beta test so fingers crossed and all that...:engel016:
Is there any news on this project?

[thefrog]

I always assume that if there was any news we’d hear about it from the developer.

[WarHorse47]

Sure been in beta a long time. No new screenshots. Got me curious. :wiggle:

[bazzar]

I wonder what the definition of "long time in beta" actually is. When a project enters beta, one is entirely in the hands of the beta testers. If a tester falls ill, goes on holdiay, has equipment problems or whatever, there is nothing to be done but wait. As any dev will tell you, lengthy and involved discussion can also evolve and slow things down. That's beta testing. It can take months. Thankfully we can multi-task...:engel016:

[WarHorse47]

Maybe this (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hz64hWng2vM) will explain things a little better... :biggrin-new:

I see the P-47 along with the Javelin and Lanc are still "in development" on the JF site. Looking forward to all of them.

[bazzar]

We currently have 7 projects on the go at the moment. They vary in size and complexity so obviously, will have markedly different completion times. In this business, you learn to multi-task very quickly! BTW the Lancaster is not on the JF in-development page. It may have two less engines but the Caravelle is just about as huge a project as the VC10. If anybody has studied the mechanics of the nose gear, for example, they will know what I mean. Boxcar is a breeze compared to that one. Still, they're all fun. :engel016:

[WarHorse47]

Oops. Your right, Baz. It's the Vulcan "in development", not the Lanc.

I gotta start taking notes. :untroubled:

[IanP]

I don't suppose you can confirm whether you got my "Whoops, I goofed" e-mail about the bubble-top P-47 did you Bazzar? It's not exactly important, but I'd like to do something if I can.

Cheers,

Ian P.

[bazzar]

Sorry Ian, I did get it but I have been somehwat tied up with personal matters and haven't got around to it yet. Will do though.:engel016:

[IanP]

Not a problem, Baz... I know you're busy both with work and other things.

Cheers,

Ian P.

[blanston12]

I wonder what the definition of "long time in beta" actually is. When a project enters beta, one is entirely in the hands of the beta testers. If a tester falls ill, goes on holdiay, has equipment problems or whatever, there is nothing to be done but wait. As any dev will tell you, lengthy and involved discussion can also evolve and slow things down. That's beta testing. It can take months. Thankfully we can multi-task...:engel016:

Hi Bazzar, I don't mean to be disrespectful but I have worked as a software engineer in and around Silicon Valley for a very long time, and been in more than my share of beta test, both as developer and tester. Certainly its true that they can take a long time, you keep doing cycles until the beta testers stop reporting errors (at least errors worth stopping the release, no piece of software is ever totally bug free). But I have never heard of a beta test being delayed because one of the testers got sick or had an equipment problem, they simply are not participating any more. It would have to be someone very special (like the CEO or a senior VP) to do that, and if they were that important we would provide them with the equipment.

[bazzar]

I am not altogether sure of the point of your post.

Beta testing of large commercial software systems is a very different kettle of fish to flight sim development. There are no rules or protocols in this game , just a reliance on a few people, mostly hobbyists, to test as best they can and report errors. But none of this is of any import anyway when, like us, one has no control over the beta process. Perhaps that should all change but I would be certain prices would rise, development would take longer and there would be less choice and variety.

I think a sense of perspective needs to be applied here. The value of the product is a fraction of the cost of major commercial software programmes, no money has been taken and certainly no harm has been done to anyone. This is not by any means a long development. The product will be released when it is ready.

Sometimes you just have to wait for the good things.:engel016:

[blanston12]

I'm sorry Bazz, I had a weak moment this morning and I kept remembering your previous response and if I had said that to my VP of Engineering I would never hear the end of it.

Of course your right, we are in very different industries but the only thing I would challenge you on is the statement "one has no control over the beta process", as the project lead (I assume you are the project lead) you should maintain control over the beta process.

I will be quiet now patiently await the wonderfulness that arrive when its finally released.

[bazzar]

With our arrangement, the beta process is driven by the client. We do not call the duration or make any decisions related to release dates under this sort of agreement.:engel016:

[DennyA]

After seeing the Flying Heritage Collection's P-47D flying this morning, can't wait for yours!

http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/attachment.php?attachmentid=60497&stc=1

[IanP]

Something that has to be remembered - by a lot of people - in this hobby and industry is that it is both. It's a hobby, which is heavily supported by a payware industry that is peoples' livelihood.

We want perfection and we want it now, but we want it cheap. I've been involved in many beta tests, payware, donationware and freeware, over the last twenty-five-odd years in the FS world and one of the really big challenges is how you run a beta. A lot of people will apply for betas purely to try and get a free aircraft; they will provide no feedback at any point, or maybe post once or twice to "justify" their being on the beta team. Others will test constantly, they'll be there every day with acres of feedback, but it's usually in their specific area of interest, so you'll get someone posting reams and reams of graphs and screenshots and text on the physics, or the model, or the sound, but nothing else. Finally you have the largest group, people who will test what and when they can. They're not experts, they have lives and jobs and houses to deal with away from the sim. They miss stuff, they aren't experts on anything, so they don't know to look for specific things... They're the most maligned but most common group of beta testers.

I've been in all three groups, on various projects at various times (most of the time in the third, majority, group on AH projects, sorry Baz!) but when I found myself posting less and less on beta forums, I quit them, primarily out of embarrassment. I know I'm not alone, for various reasons. Beta teams in the simulation industry tend to be made up primarily of hobbyists, have a high turnover rate and are primarily made up of people who have to do other things most of the time. Sometimes they'll get told to hold off on one project and move to another one, where people move between the three "groups" depending on their areas of knowledge and experience. You do get 'professional' beta teams, but most of the time, it's us. It's customers, people who are interested and prepared to help try and get a model out the door and working properly. They can't always provide the time for the quantity and quality of testing that they would like to.

Personally, I'd love to get back in there, to go back to creating my own test plans, test things, give feedback, make a product as good as it can be. My mental and physical health says no. I'd be in that first group I described, where I'm embarrassed to be, so I don't go there.

I'll shut up again now. I haven't even looked at Boxted, yet, either. :(

Ian P.

[WarHorse47]

I have a list of about 21 (military) flight sim aircraft or updates "in development" and I'd say about 1/3rd of these are slow to get released for one reason or another. This count includes some freeware, btw.

At least Baz has been kind enough to give us some answers and a few others have been great at posting screenshots on the development process, but others have been silent when asked about status or don't feel it necessary to inform us end customers.

If anyone needs another beta tester who is efficient, thorough, and good looking you know how to reach me. :biggrin-new:

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a185/WarHorse47/DSC00340_zpsqqesbyge.jpg

[mal998]

Hiya Baz,
(Wish for the future). Sure would like to see an early model B-25 to go along with that Thunderbolt. :eagerness:

[c87]

I couldn't agree more, mal998. I've always thought a B-25 would be right up AH's alley. It's a gaping hole in our sim right now. Don't want to hijack this thread but I'm glad someone else feels the same way I do! Baz, you create a B-25 and you're guaranteed to get my money. :untroubled:

[bazzar]

It all depends on commercial viability. There are currently two payware B-25s in production. Much as we would like to do one, it would be risky to put something into an already diluted market.:engel016:

[wombat666]

It all depends on commercial viability. There are currently two payware B-25s in production. Much as we would like to do one, it would be risky to put something into an already diluted market.:engel016:

And that is worth bearing in mind when touting for one's own aviation wishlist!
:encouragement:

[mal998]

Thanks for that Baz. Had no idea there were 2 B-25s in the works. Probably both will be late models (drat), but fully concur with your thinking on commercial viability. Say hello to brother for me.