Update on Aerosoft's Big Cat

[neutrino]

We are happy to announce an update on the development of the Aerosoft F-14A Tomcat for FSX. The project has been in full development for about a year and is currently entering a limited beta test. We had to set our bar very high for this project because there are already several solid renditions of this legendary aircraft. But the Big Cat is seated at the top of the 'Aircraft to model before I quit' bucket list for two of us, and our Flight Modeler/Project lead finally feels he has the knowledge-base to give this aircraft a proper rendition.

NATOPS data was combined with 5 NASA technical publications and refined by the insights of a software engineer who helped program the Military Simulator of the F-14, the chart at the bottom of the post represents the sum of the current efforts. Former fleet Tomcat pilots and other Naval aviators will be helping us refine the control response and stability from here on out.

The images below show a work in progress, we'll be posting more screenshots as the project advances.

www.facebook.com/AerosoftF14 (http://www.facebook.com/AerosoftF14)
http://forum.aerosoft.com/index.php?/topic/59569-f-14-tomcat-x/

http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/AerosoftF-14A-101.jpg

http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/AerosoftF-14A-102.jpg

http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/AerosoftF-14A-103.jpg

(click to zoom)
http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/F-14APerformanceComparison_sm.png (http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/F-14APerformanceComparison_large.png)

[airattackimages]

That is one BEAUTIFUL Turkey... I will definitely buy. Is there a guestimate on a release date?

[hschuit]

Thanks for sharing, looking great :salute:

[sepp666]

We are happy to announce an update on the development of the Aerosoft F-14A Tomcat for FSX. The project has been in full development for about a year and is currently entering a limited beta test. We had to set our bar very high for this project because there are already several solid renditions of this legendary aircraft. But the Big Cat is seated at the top of the 'Aircraft to model before I quit' bucket list for two of us, and our Flight Modeler/Project lead finally feels he has the knowledge-base to give this aircraft a proper rendition.

NATOPS data was combined with 5 NASA technical publications and refined by the insights of a software engineer who helped program the Military Simulator of the F-14, the chart at the bottom of the post represents the sum of the current efforts. Former fleet Tomcat pilots and other Naval aviators will be helping us refine the control response and stability from here on out.


Could you please make a video of the Tomcat Pilots while they are testing the Aerosoft FSX-version? -That would be very very great to hear their comments! Are here at SOH real Ex-Tomcat pilots?
I hope that the HUD will be compatible to the Aircraftcarriers aviable for FSX because IRIS's doesn't and that's what many want!

Man I love that Bird, sooner or later i have to go to the US to some Museum to touch one of these Sexy Cats! It's G.W.Bush's benefit that there is no flyable Cat at the US, at no flight show the Cat will ever be seen. Maybe I must visit Irans Cats...

Sorry for my bad English.

[neutrino]

That is one BEAUTIFUL Turkey... I will definitely buy. Is there a guestimate on a release date?

Thanks for the support! It is too early to talk about a release date, we still have some serious work ahead of us.

[GB]

763797638076381

My intention is not to criticize AS F-14 WIP product but its worth a comparison.

Dino's free F-14 WIP looks so much better and according to his blog will probably be available for public testing soon

[airattackimages]

Fair enough neutrino. I just liked the Facebook page so I'll be keeping an eye out. :jump:



My intention is not to criticize AS F-14 WIP product but its worth a comparison.

Dino's free F-14 WIP looks so much better and according to his blog will probably be available for public testing soon
Dino is a great guy, that does stellar work, but I don't know about your "looks so much better" comment. It looks like it will be fantastic, but I can't say that it looks better than the Aerosoft screens. Speaking only of textures, I'm not really a fan of the textures on Dino's cat. In overall dimensions and shape, yes Dino's cat is very nice and you can't complain about how dedicated he is. It will no doubt be awesome and I can't wait for the final product. In fact I had a couple questions for Dino that I planned on asking about it.

That said, I expect the Aerosoft Tomcat to be awesome as well, and I'm already a fan of the way it looks right here. Even without being dirty the textures look awesome. And since this is a thread about the Aerosoft F-14, I have to mention again I will more than likely, more like definitely, buy.

[GB]

I'm not saying that I won't buy the AS F-14, I surely will. I'm saving as much as I can to enjoy the devs work, especially the warfighting jets and support the devs effort. However it is my personal opinion that Dino's free F-14 is graphicaly more advanced.

[spatialpro]

effort. However it is my personal opinion that Dino's free F-14 is graphicaly more advanced.

I agree. IMO it needs some Ambient Occlusion maps added to the textures.

[skyhawka4m]

I agree. IMO it needs some Ambient Occlusion maps added to the textures.


AGREE!!!!

[Mach3DS]

Looks good. Looks like your FDE is close in all but the Max Sustained Turned performance. Impressive. I love the "A" model most, of all Tomcat variants. Nice job.

[Victory103]

Huge Turkey fan and can't wait to see how the final product does. Hope the nasty TF-30's are modeled within the constraints of FSX. So this will be strictly an "A" model or are any of the later (better) models coming ie A+/B and D? Glad you guys got some SME's and former Naval Aviators to test/confirm.

[Odie]

Outstanding! Another big 'Cat for the hangar! Looking forward to it.

[mike_cyul]

That is one nice looking model. :applause:


Mike

[Mach3DS]

I hope the compressor issues are modeled...in fact....The problem with many great real life planes, when modeled in FSX, is that either systems or FDE or both never match up, so your left with a nice visual that you never fly. I hope this one is systems heavy, and advanced FDE (temps, performance etc.)

[Sieggie]

It seems a bit premature to make comparisons of two models, one of which is almost finished and soon to be released and one that will most likely not be released for 6 months to a year from now, based on the first released WIP screenies. AS has not even shown interior pictures yet and you guys are slamming it as inferior to a freeware model. At least wait until they are close to release before you start denigrating the model.

[JohnC]

Looks good. Looks like your FDE is close in all but the Max Sustained Turned performance. Impressive. I love the "A" model most, of all Tomcat variants. Nice job.

Good eye. So here's the best explanation I can give for the mismatch. We don't have matching data for the F-14, but I can pull something from an Su-27. Below is an image that shows the maximum AoA (i.e. AoA of flow separation/stall) vas Mach and Altitude. Note that in FSX you only get 1 maximum AoA for all conditions (flaps config, Mach, Alt, and Reynold's number). However, while the maximum AoA drops off, the lift slope stays about the same. So the region around M0.9 is tricky region where you want to balance linear acceleration, climb performance, and turn performance. We can't nail all three, so finding an agreeable compromise is about all we're left with.

@Victory: Yes we're adding in a B model so you can hassle the F-15 and Flanker drivers.

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/17394463/Su-27B%20CL%20v%20alpha.png

[MudMarine]

Im not a shop heater fan but this one is a must buy! Nice!

[jp]

Looks great. Been waiting a long time for this one. As a huge Tomcat fan, I'll be buying this for sure.

Jp

[michael davies]

And there was me thinking this one was dead and buried LOL. Looks better with some paint :).

[dvj]

Whaaaat! no 737?

[krazycolin]

LOL!!! (Did I mention we're doing a Tomcat? JUST KIDDING!!!)

[FSDSMAN]

And there was me thinking this one was dead and buried LOL. Looks better with some paint :).

Built from new Michael - not your files as I don't work in that format.

[michael davies]

Built from new Michael - not your files as I don't work in that format.
And very nice it is too.

[FSDSMAN]

I agree. IMO it needs some Ambient Occlusion maps added to the textures.

Ambient Occlusion maps?

[timghetta]

Looking good guys.

[krazycolin]

Basicaly, without getting geeky or techy, it's contact shadows. These are the type of shadows you would see on a cloudy day, at noon under a toy under, say... a car... they make things look... more real. Another term is baked textures...

[GrinningJester]

Basicaly, without getting geeky or techy, it's contact shadows. These are the type of shadows you would see on a cloudy day, at noon under a toy under, say... a car... they make things look... more real. Another term is baked textures...

Techy: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ambient_occlusion

[krazycolin]

http://www.extremetech.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/occlusion_highres.jpg

This is then applied to your base texture using, generally though not always, multiply.. and then you have contact shadows... It adds a nice effect and is very useful in environments such as FSX due to M$' horrible lighting system....

[FSDSMAN]

So what you are suggesting is not getting the material, specular, diffuse and shape of the model correct but adding detail and shadow with textures that are not dynamic and cast a shadow under a wing root say even when flying inverted or directly facing the sun or any other light source?
Will that not appear a bit odd to the more educated eye?
Maybe it is a good cheat and I will try it.
It always seems strange to me why every single gauge glass in a VC has the same reflection although at a different height, angle and size from each other and view point. Canopy internal reflections that shows pilots and cockpit embedded in the reflection when it is open and the external view point is 20 foot or so above so should not been seen at all or at least react to the light source. Maybe a new technique but if I had a monitor that has that - back in the day we would call in "screen burn" and junk it.
Also why do VC reflective textures never change shape and size as the aircraft changes direction and aspect in the sim - also not tone down or disappear with the ambient light?
Why does every rear view mirror in the cockpit reflect the pilots face? Has he adjusted it to apply sun screen or lipstick?
Some of the personal choices that we all subscribe or disagree with I guess but again it is down to choice - no right - no wrong Just what we prefer I guess.<o:p></o:p>
OK Who wants to paint a Tonka or Victor?

[GrinningJester]

So what you are suggesting is not getting the material, specular, diffuse and shape of the model correct but adding detail and shadow with textures that are not dynamic and cast a shadow under a wing root say even when flying inverted or directly facing the sun or any other light source?
Will that not appear a bit odd to the more educated eye?
Maybe it is a good cheat and I will try it.
It always seems strange to me why every single gauge glass in a VC has the same reflection although at a different height, angle and size from each other and view point. Canopy internal reflections that shows pilots and cockpit embedded in the reflection when it is open and the external view point is 20 foot or so above so should not been seen at all or at least react to the light source. Maybe a new technique but if I had a monitor that has that - back in the day we would call in "screen burn" and junk it.
Also why do VC reflective textures never change shape and size as the aircraft changes direction and aspect in the sim - also not tone down or disappear with the ambient light?
Why does every rear view mirror in the cockpit reflect the pilots face? Has he adjusted it to apply sun screen or lipstick?
Some of the personal choices that we all subscribe or disagree with I guess but again it is down to choice - no right - no wrong Just what we prefer I guess.<o:p></o:p>
OK Who wants to paint a Tonka or Victor?

Ambient Occlusion baked into the textures is a very good approximation of real-world lighting conditions, even if the sun is hitting the affected surface(s). AO is an integral part of Global Illumination which affects the lighting of everything, bouncing, refractive, colour bleed, etc. Ambient Occlusion happens to be a part we are able to simulate without significant drawbacks. While yes, it is static, and is not 100% realistic in all lighting situations; it works well for the vast majority of them.

Newer engines use a realtime adaptation of this usually denoted SSAO (Screen-Space Ambient Occlusion), negating the need for the artist(s) to bake them into the textures.

I cannot speak for other developers, but from what I've seen and I've done; your statement does not hold true regarding gauge reflections. Alas, due to the nature of them being essentially a flat plane, oriented at mostly the same angle, it may seem that they are the same.

Canopy reflections are static because.. well; they're just that; static. No current-gen engine has the functionality to render realtime ray-traced reflections, due to performance reasons. Reflections are handled just like in FSX; a cube-map. Whether it is better to omit them due to their static nature? I think the overwhelming public opinion so far sways towards including them.

[skyhawka4m]

http://www.extremetech.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/occlusion_highres.jpg

This is then applied to your base texture using, generally though not always, multiply.. and then you have contact shadows... It adds a nice effect and is very useful in environments such as FSX due to M$' horrible lighting system....


I think this sums it rather easily.

[Whitehawk]

One cannot have enough Tomcats! This will be a must-buy for me!

[JohnC]

The Tomcat was known for having issues with directional stability at higher angles of attack. Without corrective action, or if you did something stupid (as I do below), a spin will set in fast and could be impossible to recover. Fortunately, the sim doesn't replicate the 'eyeball out' 2g's associated with a 90deg/s flat spin. Fully developed, the vertical speed dropped to about -19,000ft/min.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?<wbr>v=93W52zzjS4E&feature=g-crec (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=93W52zzjS4E&feature=g-crec)

[dharris]

Agree with Whitehawk, I have all the rest of the 'cats so one more just makes it that much better.

[airattackimages]

The Tomcat was known for having issues with directional stability at higher angles of attack. Without corrective action, or if you did something stupid (as I do below), a spin will set in fast and could be impossible to recover. Fortunately, the sim doesn't replicate the 'eyeball out' 2g's associated with a 90deg/s flat spin. Fully developed, the vertical speed dropped to about -19,000ft/min.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?<wbr>v=93W52zzjS4E&feature=g-crec (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=93W52zzjS4E&feature=g-crec)

Must've flew right through his jet wash! ;)

[Roadburner440]

GOOSE EJECT!!! EJECT!!!!!!

Man this is going to be a stellar flyer. I cannot wait! Between this and the An-2 there is a lot of good coming from Aerosoft over the next few months... Can't wait to see what the next in the US Cities series is either. The only thing I am not a fan of is that this is not a B model. However Dino is filling that gap nicely with his F-14D. Will be a must have.

[JohnC]

There will definitely be a B model. Idea is that you can see what it was like to fly the original (personal favorite), and then really have an appreciation for the F-110's, Modern HUD, ARI, and a few other perks of the B.

[Warhawk1130]

We are happy to announce an update on the development of the Aerosoft F-14A Tomcat for FSX. The project has been in full development for about a year and is currently entering a limited beta test. We had to set our bar very high for this project because there are already several solid renditions of this legendary aircraft. But the Big Cat is seated at the top of the 'Aircraft to model before I quit' bucket list for two of us, and our Flight Modeler/Project lead finally feels he has the knowledge-base to give this aircraft a proper rendition.

NATOPS data was combined with 5 NASA technical publications and refined by the insights of a software engineer who helped program the Military Simulator of the F-14, the chart at the bottom of the post represents the sum of the current efforts. Former fleet Tomcat pilots and other Naval aviators will be helping us refine the control response and stability from here on out.

The images below show a work in progress, we'll be posting more screenshots as the project advances.

www.facebook.com/AerosoftF14 (http://www.facebook.com/AerosoftF14)
http://forum.aerosoft.com/index.php?/topic/59569-f-14-tomcat-x/



http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/AerosoftF-14A-101.jpg

http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/AerosoftF-14A-102.jpg

http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/AerosoftF-14A-103.jpg

(click to zoom)
http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/F-14APerformanceComparison_sm.png (http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/F-14APerformanceComparison_large.png)

Thats a superb paint job. However, I made 2 cruises with the aardvarks and they were VF-114, not VF-84. This will be a must buy for me as well..

[hschuit]

Thats a superb paint job. However, I made 2 cruises with the aardvarks and they were VF-114, not VF-84. This will be a must buy for me as well..

Where do you see VF-84 ?? In the sceenshots, it clearly shows VF-114 on the ventral fins :isadizzy:

[gtirob01]

Where do you see VF-84 ?? In the sceenshots, it clearly shows VF-114 on the ventral fins :isadizzy:

I can see how he made that mistake, when viewed quickly, the 11 blends a little in the 2nd picture due to pixelation and looks like an 8. I had to do a double check to see if it was an 8, or 11.

Any Tomcat is a must have for me, so I cannot wait for this one! Gotta have em all!

[evvatc]

I am looking forward for this release.

[neutrino]

Here is a glimpse at our 'B' version Tomcat. The distinctive exhaust petals of the F110-GE-400 installed on the F-14B marked a significant improvement in the Tomcat's performance, increasing the thrust to weight ratio to >1.0 for light fuel loads.

Note that these are work in progress shots, textures are only templates.

www.facebook.com/AerosoftF14 (http://www.facebook.com/AerosoftF14)

http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/AerosoftF-14A-109.jpg

http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/AerosoftF-14A-110.jpg

http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/AerosoftF-14A-111.jpg

http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/AerosoftF-14A-112.jpg

[Mach3DS]

Looks great. My personal favorite is the A model so I'm glad it will be a package. I hope the "touchiness" of the TF powerplants will be modeled, with compressor stalls as possible failures? Can't wait for this one. I too hope for some of that ambient occlusion to be part of the final product. Looks very good thus far. Very impressive.

EDIT: JohnC, didn't see your post above about F110's...looks like I will be appreciating the difference! :)

[FSDSMAN]

We will work on some form of "depth layer" in the textures if we can't get the materials as we want them.
Tweaking the "Gear Crouch" and finishing the VC's at the moment. When all parts are texture mapped and no more revisions required we will then start finalising the textures - so if you have a scheme or aircraft you wish to see - now is the time to speak up.

[Mach3DS]

Whatever schemes do end up in the mix, let's have a used and worn template for repainter use. :D

[FSDSMAN]

Whatever schemes do end up in the mix, let's have a used and worn template for repainter use. :D
Blimey I thought the re-painters did that and I just get em out of the factory fresh and new :icon_lol:

[Sundog]

Well, I'd love a VF-33 Starfighters paint scheme and A VF-1 Wolfpack (high viz early and low viz late). I would also like the Christmas Jolly Rogers, VF-84, with the crossed candy canes and the Santa hat on the skull.

http://www.almansur.com/jollyrogers/vf103viamarbreysantacat.jpg

[Mach3DS]

Blimey I thought the re-painters did that and I just get em out of the factory fresh and new :icon_lol:

If it's this one, than sure!.... :kilroy: But the rest...they don't have time for a bath until they hit landfall! lol.

http://flitetime.net/f14vf1.jpg

[PRB]

It was always great excitement watching F-14As take off from the ship, as they needed both afterburners going full blast before the cat fired, and that was awesome, especially standing fifty feet away! F-14Ds had those new engines and ruined all the fun! I worked on A-7s and FA-18s in my navy life, but after getting out I worked briefly for Lockheed, maintaining the navy's “Top Gun” planes in San Diego, and they had F-14s... Dear Lord if the pilots knew how those planes were maintained they would have never climbed into them, but that's another story... So it was only then that I got to crawl around the big Tomcat for the first time. Huge frikken plane! Standing on top it felt like I was standing in the middle of a parking lot compared to the little A-7! And the seat checkout! Before you can sit in the thing you have to know how to check that the seat is “safe”, meaning all the pins are stuck in where they're supposed to be. On the A-7, there were three, I think. The F-14 had twenty-four pins to check, between the two seats and the other stuff to check. I might have to get this one, it's looking good, and steam gauges, like a proper airplane should have! :)

[fsafranek]

We will work on some form of "depth layer" in the textures if we can't get the materials as we want them.
Tweaking the "Gear Crouch" and finishing the VC's at the moment. When all parts are texture mapped and no more revisions required we will then start finalising the textures - so if you have a scheme or aircraft you wish to see - now is the time to speak up.
Some Enterprise schemes please. VF-1 and VF-2 from the mid-70's. VF-114 (done) and VF-213 from the early 80's and late 80's cruises. Will go nicely with the Team SDB Big-E -- just sayin'.
:ernae:

[vora]

VF-84 is just too iconic to pass.
In my childhood I saw "The Final Countdown" three times in cinema and at least two dozen times on VHS. So whenever I visualize a Tomcat in my head it carries the skull and crossbones of the Jolly Rogers. Similarily all Intruders in my head have the jumping cat of the Black Panthers (VA-35) and the Corsairs carry the snake of the Sidewinders (VA-86).
I guess that's the very definition of "iconic".

[Victory103]

Well, I'd love a VF-33 Starfighters paint scheme and A VF-1 Wolfpack (high viz early and low viz late). I would also like the Christmas Jolly Rogers, VF-84, with the crossed candy canes and the Santa hat on the skull.

http://www.almansur.com/jollyrogers/vf103viamarbreysantacat.jpg

Sundog, that is actually a VF-103 F-14B with the special Xmas tails, I was with the air wing (CVW-17) at the time they painted them up. Very appropriate for the season for sure.

[fsafranek]

Besides the schemes carried on the USS Enterprise I mentioned above, how about a VF-1 (still on the Enterprise) with the Keith Ferris camouflage pattern.

Also one of the more colorful schemes was the yellow of VF-142 on the USS America in the late '70s.

But leave something for the repainters. :icon_lol:
:ernae:

[neutrino]

Here are some more shots of the Tomcat to meet the New Year :) We've started the initial testing and we are making various improvements on the model while we gather feedback from our testers.

www.facebook.com/AerosoftF14 (http://www.facebook.com/AerosoftF14)

http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/AerosoftF-14A-114L.jpg

http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/AerosoftF-14A-113L.jpg

http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/AerosoftF-14A-115L.jpg

[orionll]

Looking good, J.R.!

[Mach3DS]

The weapon system was briefly alluded to in some past threads. My one question, Phoenix missile operable? :D

[heavy]

Weapons being usable are important however the ability to be able to put drop tanks and missles on or off would be just as good (payload manager) kind of like the F-111( I have two so I forget which one). Heck, firing the gun would be nice too, but not necessary. IMO, the original Tomcat was a pure fighter before all the "Bombcat" stuff. Jst my IMO though! Cant wait to put this down on the SDB Enterprise and have a 'Top Gun' moment! lol

[Mach3DS]

Yes, not a pound for air to ground (I know, wrong plane, but it fits!). Maybe some wing flex since you can get away with it not having hard points attached to the wings themselves? I'm eagerly anticipating this one. Good work guys.

[Navy Chief]

On the A-7, there were three, I think.

Paul, I think there was just the "Headknocker" between the headrests that (once pulled down) made the ejection seat safe. Not positive about that though. There might have been a separate safety mech for the canopy; not sure......

Pete

[Victory103]

Yes, not a pound for air to ground (I know, wrong plane, but it fits!). Maybe some wing flex since you can get away with it not having hard points attached to the wings themselves? I'm eagerly anticipating this one. Good work guys.

If they stay with early "A's" then I agree, but would be great to get some "Bombcat" versions as well. Just re-reading all my Tomcat books and real world "D" NATOPS in anticipation for the new Cat.

[evvatc]

If I recall correctly, VF-41 was the first Tomcat squadron to drop bombs in combat. It was in '96 and they were flying A's.

I really am excited about this release.

[Victory103]

That is correct, I was just going with the phrase, which is taken from the F-15C Eagle community. Dropping bombs would be a nice to have feature, but not a deal breaker and maybe a service pack updated way down the line. The ability to launch a Phoenix, and feel the weight come off the jet would be cool.

[Mach3DS]

If I recall correctly, VF-41 was the first Tomcat squadron to drop bombs in combat. It was in '96 and they were flying A's.

I really am excited about this release.

Yeah, all I'm saying is that It would be nice to have the "A" model from ten years prior where it was solely devoted to AA and fleet defense and drop that huge honkin missile! :D

Yes, I borrowed the phrase from the F-15...and McDonnell Douglas :)

[FSDSMAN]

Hopefully you should be able to configure the A, A+ and B for what ever role you wish but to what extent is still in the works.

[Odie]

We will work on some form of "depth layer" in the textures if we can't get the materials as we want them.
Tweaking the "Gear Crouch" and finishing the VC's at the moment. When all parts are texture mapped and no more revisions required we will then start finalising the textures - so if you have a scheme or aircraft you wish to see - now is the time to speak up.

VF-201 Hunters (Reserve Tomcat Squadron) and VF-84 Jolly Rogers please.

[skyhawka4m]

Hopefully you should be able to configure the A, A+ and B for what ever role you wish but to what extent is still in the works.


Given Aerosoft past history I don't see this happening....like the F-16 nd OV-10, both had dedicated models and loadouts. They said they were working on add'l OV-10 loadouts but they never came to be......unfortunetly.

[JohnC]

Speculation can be a dangerous game.....:d

https://dl.dropbox.com/u/17394463/Payload%20Manager.jpg

[skyhawka4m]

wish they had done this for the OV-10!!

[AusWilko]

Speculation can be a dangerous game.....:d

https://dl.dropbox.com/u/17394463/Payload%20Manager.jpg

Man I like that setup option, very nice

[krazycolin]

Me too.

[FSDSMAN]

Aerosoft are the publishers not the developers so never assume anything. Most of the team develop solely for Aerosoft but new idea's are being thrashed about.

[Victory103]

Great to see that screenshot, as the new standard seems to be a loadout manager, win for customers who want the options. Now I can see just how bad a fully Phoenix (6) loaded "A" model handles.

[heavy]

OMG! That loadout screeny is awesome. Like a dream come true. As for color schemes, VF-154 based in Japan on board USS Kitty Hawk CV-63 would be lovely!

H

[JAMIE]

just when I thought I had all the planes I need. You do this I want this one .

[evvatc]

It's great that the load out manager will give you the option to select what you are carrying. The glove vane option is a very cool touch. One thing I didn't notice, will we have the option for the pylons or will they always be present?

If you're still taking requests for paints, F-14B VF-32 Modex 110 in 2005 just before they transitioned to the Super Hornet. First Tomcat I worked as a controller.

[DagR]

Speculation can be a dangerous game.....:d

https://dl.dropbox.com/u/17394463/Payload%20Manager.jpg

Looks very nice indeed ;-)


Best
DagR

[Mach3DS]

Both of these please if you are still taking skin requests...


http://flitetime.net/f14packbig.jpg

[FSDSMAN]

How can VF1 and 2 never be included?

[neutrino]

We've been busy adding various subsystems to the Tomcat, including a payload manager which enables dynamic loading of various weapons, automated checklists, the electric, fuel systems, as well as compressor stalls.

We're also very excited to announce that we are working on a TacPack integration that will enable the Tomcat to fire missiles and destroy other aircraft. We don't know if we would be able to include the TacPack enabled version in our initial Tomcat release - the seamless integration requires a very careful testing and we don't want to release a version that is "half-ready" for TacPack.

...On a routine test flight, a MiG-28 was spotted somewhere over the Pacific. Watch the confrontation here with TacPack (guns) and a pilot voice over:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j1YbISwZJoQ

The major difference between users who own TacPack and those who do not will be payload functionality. Non-TacPack users still get customize-able stores and fuel loading via payload manager, they are simply unavailable for use. For those paying attention to the details, the following visual systems will be available to all users:

Pilot cockpit:
• HUD - collimated, two models - the vintage 'A' type (projected on the windscreen) and the more advanced Sparrow Hawk model with integrated combiner; operates in all Flight and Steering modes, including A/A and A/G, shows Carrier TACAN and ILS symbology.
• VDI (Vertical Display Indicator) - in-the-cockpit aircraft attitude instrument with ground and sky textures.
• HSD (Horisontal Situation Display) - compass rose and steering symbols (TACAN, CRS, ADF).
• RWR (Radar Warning Receiver) - shows ground and sea based radar emitters.

RIO cockpit:
• DDD (Detailed Data Display) - shows raw radar data in azimuth and range-rate.
• TID (Tactical Information Display) - presents radar targets in a computer-generated, synthetic, clutter-free format.
• AWG-9 radar - 8 modes of operation (including STT, RWS, TWS, PLM), adjustable azimuth scan and elevation bar patterns, ranges from 5 to 200 n.mi.

All displays have the authentic F-14A type symbology and functionality is programmed according to the NATOPS Manual.

www.facebook.com/AerosoftF14 (http://www.facebook.com/AerosoftF14)

[Victory103]

Thanks for the update, as a TP user, can't wait to start seeing models integrated with TP. Love the vid with the audio, one can see had the Tomcat 21 ever evolved, the one-piece windscreen would've been much appreciated by Turkey crews at the merge.

[AusWilko]

Looking forward to this

[Odie]

Thanks for the update, as a TP user, can't wait to start seeing models integrated with TP. Love the vid with the audio, one can see had the Tomcat 21 ever evolved, the one-piece windscreen would've been much appreciated by Turkey crews at the merge.

Now that (Tomcat21) would be a great what-if model and round out the evolution of the Big Cat!

[Sundog]

Great video and excellent news. :)

[empeck]

We're also very excited to announce that we are working on a TacPack integration that will enable the Tomcat to fire missiles and destroy other aircraft. We don't know if we would be able to include the TacPack enabled version in our initial Tomcat release - the seamless integration requires a very careful testing and we don't want to release a version that is "half-ready" for TacPack.

Excellent news, sir!

:icon31:

[JohnC]

The dev team has been hard at work on an 80,000 ton flat the Tomcat can call home. The USS Kitty Hawk will come with no less than five carrier tracks at historically significant locations, and saved flight files which allow you to load the sim on a moving carrier deck.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/Kitt%20Hawk%20Preview.jpg

[Odie]

JohnC...now that's what I'm talking about! Looking forward to this one.

[TeiscoDelRay]

Got a buddy was on the Kittyhawk in Vietnam era. He comes over to fly on the computer once a week so this would be a treat for him.

[CG_1976]

:icon_lol:Here Kitty Kitty, come to Gitmo

[Sundog]

Another carrier? Excellent!

[Dino Cattaneo]

Knowing the skill and dedication of the people involved - and considering all the features being worked on - I am sure this will be an awesome package!

[ryanbatc]

Anyone know the history on the pilot voiceover from that clip?

[Victory103]

Not sure, probably have to ask on the FB page, it does match up pretty good, not sure it's actual Tomcat ICS/radio comms, but adds so much to the vid.

[strykerpsg]

Anyone know the history on the pilot voiceover from that clip?

It's the Libyan encounter in the Gulf of Sidra back in 85, I believe?

[Victory103]

1st Libyan engagement was 1981, 2nd was 1989, both of those audio tracks are pretty wild as one can imagine.

[evvatc]

The voice over was from a video of a 2v3 ACM hop, 2 F-14s vs 3 F-5s. Circa 1985.

http://youtu.be/L9aCAlhurpg

[neutrino]

"Fox Three" - AIM-54 first test launch...

http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/AIM-54_test_logo_zpsa8c0fc24.jpg~original

[Victory103]

Very cool, there goes a million dollars(virtual)!

[peter12213]

Thoroughly looking forward to this!

[Ark]

VF-84 is just too iconic to pass.
In my childhood I saw "The Final Countdown" three times in cinema and at least two dozen times on VHS. So whenever I visualize a Tomcat in my head it carries the skull and crossbones of the Jolly Rogers. Similarily all Intruders in my head have the jumping cat of the Black Panthers (VA-35) and the Corsairs carry the snake of the Sidewinders (VA-86).
I guess that's the very definition of "iconic".

LOVED that movie.

Sent from my HTC6435LVW using Tapatalk 2

[airattackimages]

"Unload, 500 knots -- lets get the hell out of here"

I have always loved listening to the audio recording of the 89 Gulf of Sidra engagement.

[gtirob01]

LOVED that movie.

Sent from my HTC6435LVW using Tapatalk 2

Me too! So much that I just last week bought it on blue ray! Looks fantastic!

Man I cant wait for this to be ready!

[neutrino]

http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/2013-6-23_21-57-24-384-HD-720_zps10148bfa.jpg~original
www.facebook.com/AerosoftF14 (https://www.facebook.com/AerosoftF14)

[neutrino]

http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/2013-6-30_19-51-35-420_zps63d5b326.jpg~original

The F-14A carrying TacPack weapons...

www.facebook.com/AerosoftF14 (https://www.facebook.com/AerosoftF14)

[Odie]

http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss333/neutrino2009/Aerosoft-F14-Tomcat/2013-6-30_19-51-35-420_zps63d5b326.jpg~original

The F-14A carrying TacPack weapons...

www.facebook.com/AerosoftF14 (https://www.facebook.com/AerosoftF14)

Big Kitty with claws.....got a space in the hangar ready.

[Dino Cattaneo]

@neutrino

Knowing your attention to detail, I am confident this will be the most accurate and detailed rendition of the Tomcat ever!
Looking forward to it!

[JohnC]

Running through post-start and this picture had to be taken. This is a stock install of Acceleration (computer crashed recently) and is the scene which is loaded with the Kitty Hawk's saved flight in the Mediterranean.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/Queen%20of%20Spades.jpg

[Dino Cattaneo]

Wonderful model! I believe this can well be the ultimate Tomcat we have been dreaming of for a while...

[sepp666]

I love the Tomcat!

I truely can't belive that the US did not beware(for shredding) two or three of them for flight-shows. I will never see one flying, or i'll have to go to Iran...:crybaby:

[evvatc]

I see a little GBU peeking around the external tank:applause:

[ST0RM]

VF-41 during that time carried the LANTIRN pod to lase targets for the FAST FAC mission. They could also drop their own dumb and smart bombs.

Hopefully Aerosoft's Tomcat includes this detail.

Jeff

[Victory103]

A great update shot and I hope the repainter will tweak the Theodore Roosevelt (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theodore_Roosevelt) on the tail.

[Odie]

I love the Tomcat!

I truely can't belive that the US did not beware(for shredding) two or three of them for flight-shows. I will never see one flying, or i'll have to go to Iran...:crybaby:

In 2003 when I heard they were planning to retire the Big Cat, I "made" my 22 year-old son make the trip to NAS Oceana for the express purpose of seeing the Tomcat
in it's native environment. Somethings you just have to see and hear to appreciate!

[sepp666]

In 2003 when I heard they were planning to retire the Big Cat, I "made" my 22 year-old son make the trip to NAS Oceana for the express purpose of seeing the Tomcat
in it's native environment. Somethings you just have to see and hear to appreciate!

One day i'll come over the great ocean to the US and go to some museum to get in touch with our Kitty. This is really a must for me.
But a holiday trip from Germany:germany: to America:unitedstates: isn't that cheap.

[evvatc]

In 2003 when I heard they were planning to retire the Big Cat, I "made" my 22 year-old son make the trip to NAS Oceana for the express purpose of seeing the Tomcat
in it's native environment. Somethings you just have to see and hear to appreciate!

I did the same thing with the family in '04, just to see the Tomcat fly. I have seen them fly before but not like at Oceana.

The first 3 years of my life were on Marine Corps Air Stations and I grew up around airports (father was an Air Traffic Controller). I have been to my share of air shows (Oshkosh many times, Dayton, Pensacola...) but that 2004 Oceana Airshow is my favorite.

Lucky me, in 2005 I got to work my first F-14 as an Air Traffic Controller, Gypsy31. After it landed I went over to the FBO to take some pics of the Tomcat and meet the pilots. I didn't realize it at the time but I think the pilot was Jay from "Speed and Angels". VF-32 F-14B modex 110.

[mgchrist5]

I did the same thing with the family in '04, just to see the Tomcat fly. I have seen them fly before but not like at Oceana.

I recall seeing a Tomcat perform at the annual Willow Grove NAS airshow back in the early '90s when I was a teenager. The noise and earth-rumbling power left an indelible impression on me. Sadly, I was also on hand to see the last ever departure of a Tomcat from Willow Grove, shortly before their fleet retirement. Sadly, now the base AND the aircraft are no more. :frown:

The AS version certainly looks to be top-shelf. I'm not a big military flyer in FS, but I might make an exception for this one!

[gtirob01]

I was lucky enough to live very very close to Miramar in the Top Gun days... so seeing a 'cat was an everyday thing for me. Even got to go on the flightline as a kid and get a personal tour of a 'cat. Sat in it, under it, touched all parts of it..... if I only had a camera with me back then! But I also remember some of the bad like when one tomcat lost its hydraulics and crashed into a hanger at Gillespie field. I was worried then because my dad worked right near that crash. He was safe though! But I sure do miss seeing that beautiful aircraft streaking across the sky above me... gave me goosebumps every time! :salute:

[Geomitrak]

A great update shot and I hope the repainter will tweak the Theodore Roosevelt (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theodore_Roosevelt) on the tail.

Yes I was going to mention that too. Theadore Rosevelt ??

[neutrino]

Hi guys, thanks for the feedback, the name is fixed now - this was a work in progress, far from finished, but we wanted to show it so much :) We just started working on the paint schemes, so we'll post more.

[ST0RM]

I didn't realize it at the time but I think the pilot was Jay from "Speed and Angels".

I met him as well. He flew backseat in a brand new VFA-32 F/A-18F that stopped over at McConnell AFB where I was stationed. Although he was a pilot too, the front seater was TJ Flora whos father at the time was a General in the KS ANG.

I had just returned from deployment a couple of days prior, so this was a great welcome back. I've got a photo of Jay and I sitting on the jet, with him explaining the WSO 'pit.

Great memories in that pic of the Gypsy Tomcat!

-Jeff

[Sundog]

The first of the teen series fighter demo's I ever saw was the Tomcat at the Kalamazoo Air Zoo, back in the '80's. From the World Famous Pukin' Dogs. They used to perform the Grumman Cat fly by back then, with the Wildcat, Hellcat, Tigercat, Bearcat, and Tomcat. During the second pass when they flew over the crowd the Tomcat would pull into the vertical for the missing man fly-by. That was always an awesome sight.


I realized they were getting old around the second to last year they were at Gary, IN. and the Tomcat that went for the night show had to call a mayday due to a hydraulics failure and he had to land using the chain on the runway since he lost his brakes. It was dark, you couldn't really see anything until the tail hook hit the concrete and you could see the sparks. We didn't have night vision at the time, because we were all forced back into the hangers or the parking lot for safety reasons. I always loved it when it would fly a missed approach then pull vertical in full burner. All you could hear was the noise of the engines until he came out of burner. Then mostly what you heard were all of the car alarms from the parking lot going off as a result of them converting fuel into noise at a prodigious rate!!!

[JohnC]

A few more pictures with some new liveries fresh out of Mark's paint shop:

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/Tomcat%2001.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/Tomcat%2002.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/Tomcat%2003.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/Tomcat%2004.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/Tomcat%2005.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/Tomcat%2006.jpg

[Mach3DS]

John,

I'm very happy to see that two of my picks made th cut. Also I'm noticing that the pilots are not wearing oxy masks? Is there a pressure system modeled? If so, good on ya! If not, well it's still nice to see the option of mask on/off.

[JohnC]

Hello Rick,

We're still wringing out the details; but the oxy system will definitely be in place.

[Ian Warren]

Is the Kitty Hawk being released with the cool cat ? ... or If not ... Ive hiding in a closet is it a freeware hiding somewhere else :cool:<input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><input jscode="leoInternalChangeDone()" onclick="if(typeof(jsCall)=='function'){jsCall();}else{setT imeout('jsCall()',500);}" id="jsProxy" type="hidden">

[orionll]

Is the Kitty Hawk being released with the cool cat ?

I believe it is.

[Ian Warren]

I believe it is.

Well .. Let step up to the plate then .. actually i have perfectly superb Team SDB USS Enterprise but a little , very little difference in deck size but going to a almost traditional Island structure , looks so well done , a great complement to both :cool:
<input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><input jscode="leoInternalChangeDone()" onclick="if(typeof(jsCall)=='function'){jsCall();}else{setT imeout('jsCall()',500);}" id="jsProxy" type="hidden">

[Mach3DS]

Fabulous...The more carriers the better!

[JohnC]

@Ian - Yes, the Kitty Hawk is being released with the Tomcat in a single package. It's also coming with 11 carriers tracks (with a task force), and each track has a saved flight which will let you load on the deck of a moving carrier either Cold&Dark or with the engines running.

[Victory103]

Noticed the O2 masks and the glove vanes, plans to have both operational and welded shut versions?

[Ian Warren]

@Ian - Yes, the Kitty Hawk is being released with the Tomcat in a single package. It's also coming with 11 carriers tracks (with a task force), and each track has a saved flight which will let you load on the deck of a moving carrier either Cold&Dark or with the engines running.

Don't spose you could add a Twelve to the list .. USS America is the second off two the Class ( practically indentical bar the ship number) and she did enter Wellington harbour in 1966 - maybe a track down the coast to Christchurch Lyttleton harbour , albeit not with Tomcats but a New Zealand track with a task force would really shake the 5000 Kiwi flight simmer to bit .. slight pennant number change and your cooking :cool:


<input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><input jscode="leoInternalChangeDone()" onclick="if(typeof(jsCall)=='function'){jsCall();}else{setT imeout('jsCall()',500);}" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><input onclick="if(typeof(jsCall)=='function'){jsCall();}else{setT imeout('jsCall()',500);}" id="jsProxy" type="hidden">

[JohnC]

@Victory - Later A model Tomcats will have the vanes welded shut, and there's an option in the aircraft manager to manually weld them shut for the early versions.

@Ian - I'll have to get back with you on that one. Our initial set of tracks are all historically accurate spots for the Kitty Hawk, and it would be a major undertaking to add another carrier (there's no way we could do just one track for it). One things I've been planning is a request poll after initial release to find the top ~5 desired locations for a carrier in general, and add then create an extra set of tracks/flights. I'd imagine NZ would be a strong case for one of those locations.

Kindest Regards,
John

[Ian Warren]

@Ian - I'll have to get back with you on that one. Our initial set of tracks are all historically accurate spots for the Kitty Hawk, and it would be a major undertaking to add another carrier (there's no way we could do just one track for it). One things I've been planning is a request poll after initial release to find the top ~5 desired locations for a carrier in general, and add then create an extra set of tracks/flights. I'd imagine NZ would be a strong case for one of those locations.

I found this link , short film on USS America's just for interest sake, I guess i could always have a play with AI traffic .. http://www.ziln.co.nz/video/1211 ... course no Tomcats back then but idea is to bring one off these close to our shores again .

<input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><input jscode="leoInternalChangeDone()" onclick="if(typeof(jsCall)=='function'){jsCall();}else{setT imeout('jsCall()',500);}" id="jsProxy" type="hidden">

[MDIvey]

This project just gets better and better. Looking forward to it.

Matt

[neutrino]

A very short formation video:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tfC2fE0J8g8&hd=1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tfC2fE0J8g8&hd=1)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tfC2fE0J8g8&hd=1)

[orionll]

Nice camera work, J.R.! :)

[FSDSMAN]

Don't spose you could add a Twelve to the list .. USS America is the second off two the Class ( practically indentical bar the ship number) and she did enter Wellington harbour in 1966 - maybe a track down the coast to Christchurch Lyttleton harbour , albeit not with Tomcats but a New Zealand track with a task force would really shake the 5000 Kiwi flight simmer to bit .. slight pennant number change and your cooking :cool:


<INPUT id=gwProxy type=hidden><INPUT id=jsProxy onclick="if(typeof(jsCall)=='function'){jsCall();}else{setT imeout('jsCall()',500);}" type=hidden jscode="leoInternalChangeDone()"><INPUT id=gwProxy type=hidden><INPUT id=jsProxy onclick="if(typeof(jsCall)=='function'){jsCall();}else{setT imeout('jsCall()',500);}" type=hidden>

USS America although the third ship of the class was completly different in appearance. The only ship that comes close to the Kitty Hawk was the Constitution.

[YoYo]

New screenies of Cocpit & info! Simply cant wait for this Grey Cat.

http://forum.aerosoft.com/index.php?/topic/59569-f-14-tomcat-x/page-6#entry512173

http://forum.aerosoft.com/index.php?app=core&module=attach&section=attach&attach_rel_module=post&attach_id=43638

[Dman]

Just wondering, will the "B" model also be included in the initial release? Or will it be added on later..

[JohnC]

We're aiming to have the B model ready shortly after the A, and release as one package.

[sepp666]

New screenies of Cocpit & info! Simply cant wait for this Grey Cat.

http://forum.aerosoft.com/index.php?/topic/59569-f-14-tomcat-x/page-6#entry512173

http://forum.aerosoft.com/index.php?app=core&module=attach&section=attach&attach_rel_module=post&attach_id=43638

Very nice, but i hope that it will get a bit more dirtyer look. Will it?

[Ian Warren]

USS America although the third ship of the class was completly different in appearance. The only ship that comes close to the Kitty Hawk was the Constitution.

Kitty Hawk and Constellation were even slightly different in regard to radar placement and even sorted weapon changes differed , America's differed only slight not having the the fresh air intakes on the starboard island and course the stack design is more square given room for the SPG55 Terrier which was removed in the mid 80s ... a few changes with boat bays but all in all so close to the untrained eyeball , just depended on how the ship handle the oceans weather it needed large refit or quick shop fix the three had same deck plan , leads me to one question , the fresh air intakes , are they those below the deck directly under the island structure on CV-66 ?
<input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><input jscode="leoInternalChangeDone()" onclick="if(typeof(jsCall)=='function'){jsCall();}else{setT imeout('jsCall()',500);}" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><input onclick="if(typeof(jsCall)=='function'){jsCall();}else{setT imeout('jsCall()',500);}" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><input onclick="if(typeof(jsCall)=='function'){jsCall();}else{setT imeout('jsCall()',500);}" id="jsProxy" type="hidden">

[JohnC]

A few more video updates:

Quick Preview #1:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FmluzKU-o0k&feature=player_embedded#t=0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FmluzKU-o0k&feature=player_embedded#t=0)

Quick Preview #2:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lyZkiDISYyI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lyZkiDISYyI)

[JohnC]

Cat Launch:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KjV_nPtNhAw&feature=player_embedded#t=0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KjV_nPtNhAw&feature=player_embedded#t=0)

Automated Carrier Landing System:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jKzPkIwpOIw&feature=player_embedded#t=0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jKzPkIwpOIw&feature=player_embedded#t=0)

[JohnC]

Wing Sweep Implementation:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uaqCrGLz4jk&feature=player_embedded#t=0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uaqCrGLz4jk&feature=player_embedded#t=0)

[sepp666]

One question: When will we get that masterpiece?! I can't wait for her...:bump:

[JohnC]

Really glad you're liking it! We're rounding up the creation of new features and about to enter into a mode of buff and polish.

[PRB]

Love the addition of the Kitty Hawk. The four ships of that "sort of almost kind of" class have been a huge hole in the "carrier scenery" out there in FSX land. The F-14 is looking good too... :icon_lol:

[gtirob01]

Can I haz Tomcat yet? :wavey:

[Odie]

https://www.facebook.com/AerosoftF14

Small update on the Big Cat from the end of December.....looks like they are still compiling the model but are also adding
some additional features to the avionics and putting together the manual.

[sepp666]

https://www.facebook.com/AerosoftF14

Small update on the Big Cat from the end of December.....looks like they are still compiling the model but are also adding
some additional features to the avionics and putting together the manual.

A few new pictures are online now!

[Dino Cattaneo]

Looks awesome!
The F-14A is THE Tomcat... while I am quite proud of my own F-14D, that variant was chosen because of the source material I had available (let alone the fact I could reuse the NACES model)!

[navy81]

I did not see any reference in the previous posts, but will Kitty Hawk be useable with Lamont Clark's utility AI Carriers?
This is looking great!

[JohnC]

(Navy81) Yup indeed, the Kitty Hawk will have configs for AI Carriers and is already integrated into TacPack as a spawnable carrier.

(Dino) As always, you're a class act.
:ernaehrung004:

[Odie]

Looks awesome!
The F-14A is THE Tomcat... while I am quite proud of my own F-14D, that variant was chosen because of the source material I had available (let alone the fact I could reuse the NACES model)!

And yours will be the go-to for the D-cat, Dino...it's truly a work of art and the constant refinements that you do will keep it in the hangar for quite some time!

I remember many moons ago (a little off-topic) when Microprose's F-14 Fleet Defender came out, they had actually based the in-game F-14 engines on the F-14A+/B due to the Cat's original
engines being a handful to manage. The developers said at the time that they had initially used the engines for the "A" model but found that they had to spend more time managing the
engines than actually playing the sim/game.....so they switched out the engines as a development decision to make it a better experience for the player.

What with Dino and other developers incorporating Weapons programs into their models, it's a good time to be in the FSX world. :applause::applause::applause: Maybe we'll see FLEET DEFENDER lite become a
reality within FSX itself one day.

[Dino Cattaneo]

Having been a Tomcat fanatic since I saw Top Gun as a kid, Fleet Defender was a dream come true at the time. Absolutely the best F-14 rendition at the time (and even a little more complex than I could handle). Its only drawback was the fact that, at the time, 640x480 resolution started to be popular for many games... and Fleet Defender was 320x200.


4002

[JimmyRFR]

Having been a Tomcat fanatic since I saw Top Gun as a kid,


Along the same lines here - in fact, Top Gun was the first movie I ever saw on the big screen, in between my mom and dad at a drive-in theater.

[sepp666]

...Do ya feel the need, the need for...?

I love -=TOP=GUN=- too!

It's a shame that here in Germany the movie was not shown in IMAX-theaters in 3D... I prayed for that but then, Tony Scott jumped from the bridge and paramount-pictures decided to not show it outside the US i think. So finaly i bought the 3D BluRay and watched it on my 40" LCD TV, it looks really nice but the !!"WOW"!! effect is missing. I think you have to watch it in cinema on a monster screen!
I'm afraid of what they will do with TOP GUN 2 which Jerry Bruckheimer and Tom Cruise confirmed that it will come!

One of the Movie Cats, look at the VF(A)...
http://www7.pic-upload.de/06.02.14/lm659nhf2ix.jpg (http://www.pic-upload.de/view-22187302/topguniceman104.jpg.html)

[YoYo]

Some of new screenies:

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/MiG.03.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/MiG.01.jpg

[Dino Cattaneo]

Looking great - and, as far as I can tell, completely accurate to the real thing!!!

[Navy Chief]

Hey Dino,

Maybe with enough research, theirs MIGHT be as good as yours! :wink: NC

[Dino Cattaneo]

...well, Neutrino is the same guy that provided the HUD for my F-14D - and I can tell you that the guy is very keen on realism and authenticity.
From what I have seen, the Aerosoft F-14A is already superior in terms of functionality and realism to my F-14D...which I still believe is pretty good.
For one, there is a video on the internet which shows a much more realistic behavior including the infamous flat spins - my flight model is way less developed in that respect.
The Aerosoft team is very dedicated and competent, and moreover the F-14A documentation publicly available is much more extensive and complete, and weapon system operations will be much more realistic (including the famous possiblity to track multiple targets and launch 6 AIM-54s simultaneously at separate targets).
They have also been pushing VRS to include AIM-54A, AIM-54C and Tomcat external fuel tanks in the Tacpack - kudos to them for doing so (...and these features are implemented in my Tomcat thanks to their work).

I have no doubt that the F-14A will be THE Tomcat for FSX - and then, if you are looking for a freeware model and can live with some inaccuracies and guess work (and the fact it is an F-14D) my Tomcat will still be available for download.

[Navy Chief]

...well, Neutrino is the same guy that provided the HUD for my F-14D - and I can tell you that the guy is very keen on realism and authenticity.
From what I have seen, the Aerosoft F-14A is already superior in terms of functionality and realism to my F-14D...which I still believe is pretty good.
For one, there is a video on the internet which shows a much more realistic behavior including the infamous flat spins - my flight model is way less developed in that respect.
The Aerosoft team is very dedicated and competent, and moreover the F-14A documentation publicly available is much more extensive and complete, and weapon system operations will be much more realistic (including the famous possiblity to track multiple targets and launch 6 AIM-54s simultaneously at separate targets).
They have also been pushing VRS to include AIM-54A, AIM-54C and Tomcat external fuel tanks in the Tacpack - kudos to them for doing so (...and these features are implemented in my Tomcat thanks to their work).

I have no doubt that the F-14A will be THE Tomcat for FSX - and then, if you are looking for a freeware model and can live with some inaccuracies and guess work (and the fact it is an F-14D) my Tomcat will still be available for download.

Dino,

I know Aerosoft's Tomcat will be high quality; just a weak attempt at humor. Am sure I will eventually get the Aerosoft version, but until that happens, I will be turning and burning with your creation! NC

[Odie]

...Do ya feel the need, the need for...?

I love -=TOP=GUN=- too!

It's a shame that here in Germany the movie was not shown in IMAX-theaters in 3D... I prayed for that but then, Tony Scott jumped from the bridge and paramount-pictures decided to not show it outside the US i think. So finaly i bought the 3D BluRay and watched it on my 40" LCD TV, it looks really nice but the !!"WOW"!! effect is missing. I think you have to watch it in cinema on a monster screen!
I'm afraid of what they will do with TOP GUN 2 which Jerry Bruckheimer and Tom Cruise confirmed that it will come!

One of the Movie Cats, look at the VF(A)...
http://www7.pic-upload.de/06.02.14/lm659nhf2ix.jpg (http://www.pic-upload.de/view-22187302/topguniceman104.jpg.html)

If you want the inside baseball story on the US Navy involvement in making the film, the book TOP GUN DAYS is a good read by one of the pilots
that flew in the film. Not only do you get the skinny on that but some detail on his Naval career. It's a good read.

[JohnC]

Top Gun Days is a great read.

Another good read that's a little more obscure is; Hoser Here....Shoot!
It's full of short stories that are perfect to pass the time while FS is loading.

A fairy tale starts with "Once upon a time", a sea story starts with "This is no ****"
http://www.lulu.com/us/en/shop/tomcat-sunsetorg-staff/hoser-hereshoot/hardcover/product-20298856.html (http://www.lulu.com/us/en/shop/tomcat-sunsetorg-staff/hoser-hereshoot/hardcover/product-20298856.html)

[Navy Chief]

Top Gun Days is a great read.

Another good read that's a little more obscure is; Hoser Here....Shoot!
It's full of short stories that are perfect to pass the time while FS is loading.

A fairy tale starts with "Once upon a time", a sea story starts with "This is no ****"
http://www.lulu.com/us/en/shop/tomcat-sunsetorg-staff/hoser-hereshoot/hardcover/product-20298856.html (http://www.lulu.com/us/en/shop/tomcat-sunsetorg-staff/hoser-hereshoot/hardcover/product-20298856.html)

Just ordered "Top Gun Days", used, off of Amazon. Thanks! NC

[airattackimages]

Top Gun Days is a great read.

Another good read that's a little more obscure is; Hoser Here....Shoot!
It's full of short stories that are perfect to pass the time while FS is loading.

A fairy tale starts with "Once upon a time", a sea story starts with "This is no ****"
http://www.lulu.com/us/en/shop/tomcat-sunsetorg-staff/hoser-hereshoot/hardcover/product-20298856.html (http://www.lulu.com/us/en/shop/tomcat-sunsetorg-staff/hoser-hereshoot/hardcover/product-20298856.html)
Hoser is the man. Still flies a Grumman, fighting fires in the S-2T with Cal Fire.

[JohnC]

:mixed-smiley-010:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6aILfg1KRcg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6aILfg1KRcg)

Note the caption:
"If you look closely, you can spot where he had a thumb replaced with his big toe. He lost the thumb in a shooting accident."

From the Book:

"Then there's the epic Hoser story of when he took his trophy M61 Vulcan barrel and was working to develop a new faster/long range round for the M61 in his backyard in Nevada. His improvised breech (he turned it into a a single shot firing device) exploded in his hand blowing off his thumb"

(Hoser)
"They were gonna sew my **** there, but figured I'd be sucking my thumb too much!"

[sepp666]

Thank you for your hints with the books, i will have a look at it.
Has anyone of you seen TOP GUN at IMAX 3D?

I have heard also of Mr Hoser, especially of his legendary story of a gun kill. F-14 vs F-15!
Here is the picture of his gun camera:

http://www7.pic-upload.de/27.03.14/hy8ieqsclm4v.jpg (http://www.pic-upload.de/view-22680855/FINAL212.jpg.html)

Someone made a fantastic model-diorama of that scene, you can find it here: http://www.airwarriors.com/community/index.php?threads/no-kill-like-a-gun-kill-the-legendary-joe-hoser-satrapas-famous-eagle-model.35572/

[joe bob]

Thank you for your hints with the books, i will have a look at it.
Has anyone of you seen TOP GUN at IMAX 3D?

I have heard also of Mr Hoser, especially of his legendary story of a gun kill. F-14 vs F-15!
Here is the picture of his gun camera:

http://www7.pic-upload.de/27.03.14/hy8ieqsclm4v.jpg (http://www.pic-upload.de/view-22680855/FINAL212.jpg.html)

Someone made a fantastic model-diorama of that scene, you can find it here: http://www.airwarriors.com/community/index.php?threads/no-kill-like-a-gun-kill-the-legendary-joe-hoser-satrapas-famous-eagle-model.35572/



Wow, you know an aircraft is overrated when it's legendary kill is a training sortie
Long live the Viper!


Just a dig at the Navy types:very_drunk: I stand, credit card in hand, awaiting this release.

[Navy Chief]

Just ordered "Top Gun Days", used, off of Amazon. Thanks! NC


Received the book!

I searched all the usual flight sim sites, but haven't found a repaint for Dino's Tomcat in VF-24 colors. RATS! NC

[YoYo]

TOP GUN at IMAX 3D?



If You have TV with conversion module 2D to 3D will be nice too (but for sure not like full support of 3D).
I recommend it : ).

[Victory103]

Received the book!

I searched all the usual flight sim sites, but haven't found a repaint for Dino's Tomcat in VF-24 colors. RATS! NC


NC, most of the repaints I have are based on squadrons that actually flew "D's", not to say a willing repainter can throw a Renegade paint together.

[sepp666]

...Do ya feel the need, the need for...?

I love -=TOP=GUN=- too!

It's a shame that here in Germany the movie was not shown in IMAX-theaters in 3D... I prayed for that but then, Tony Scott jumped from the bridge and paramount-pictures decided to not show it outside the US i think. So finaly i bought the 3D BluRay and watched it on my 40" LCD TV, it looks really nice but the !!"WOW"!! effect is missing. I think you have to watch it in cinema on a monster screen!
I'm afraid of what they will do with TOP GUN 2 which Jerry Bruckheimer and Tom Cruise confirmed that it will come!

One of the Movie Cats, look at the VF(A)...



If You have TV with conversion module 2D to 3D will be nice too (but for sure not like full support of 3D).
I recommend it : ).

As you can see, i have the 3d Blu Ray Disc...
My question was for the people that live in the US, where TOP GUN came in IMAX3D-Theaters...

[YoYo]

As you can see, i have the 3d Blu Ray Disc...
My question was for the people that live in the US, where TOP GUN came in IMAX3D-Theaters...

Maybe this new one "Top Gun" 3D ? ; )))))) :


http://youtu.be/Sqy_geYwV6A

http://www.downloadfilmbaru.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Red-Sky-2014-BluRay-720p-5.1CH.png

Its a 3D version too.

[JohnC]

Mark has been finishing up the livery list, fourteen in total

Early A model
VF-1, 1976
VF-14, 1976
VF-24, 1976
VF-114 1977

Late A model
VF-2, 1991
VF-32, 1989
VF-41, 1991
VF-111, 1989
VF-154, 1998

B Model
VF-101, 2004
VF-102, 2002
VF-103, 2005
VF-143, 2005

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/12APR2014-6.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/12APR2014-5.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/12APR2014-3.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/12APR2014-2.jpg

[JohnC]

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/Tomcat%2006.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/18APR2014-001.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/12APR2014-8.jpg

[JohnC]

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/19APR2014-1.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/19APR2014-5.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/12APR2014-9.jpg

[YoYo]

Something more:

http://forum.aerosoft.com/index.php?/topic/59569-f-14-x-preview/?p=577018

[Ian Warren]

One special selling point, I really mean this, is the older class carrier, gone like the cat - Brilliant choice :encouragement:

[vora]

One special selling point, I really mean this, is the older class carrier, gone like the cat - Brilliant choice :encouragement:

For me the Kitty Hawk is almost THE selling point.

Otherwise Dino's cat would be sufficient for me (who don't know how a F-14 really flies or who isn't interested in TacPac because of P3D2).

[Dman]

For me the Kitty Hawk is almost THE selling point.

Otherwise Dino's cat would be sufficient for me (who don't know how a F-14 really flies or who isn't interested in TacPac because of P3D2).


Agreed!!!!!

[Navy Chief]

Me too!!!! The Sh..ty Kitty!

[Sundog]

I'm definitely looking forward to this release. Thanks for all of the Preview pics. They have the Wolf Pack and The World Famous Pukin' Dogs, now I'll just need to wait or make a texture for the Topcatters and I'll have all of the squadron markings I'll need. :)

[YoYo]

The last with TARPS pod. F-14B v.

http://s25.postimg.org/a8kzl9lrh/Screenshot48990.jpg

http://s25.postimg.org/domr5oep9/Screenshot8299.jpg

http://s25.postimg.org/i1uxyyj59/Screenshot13379.jpg

http://s14.postimg.org/ofhu6dfun/Screenshot100639.jpg

[YoYo]

http://forum.aerosoft.com/uploads/monthly_04_2014/post-43-0-42784000-1398758431.jpg

http://forum.aerosoft.com/uploads/monthly_04_2014/post-43-0-81472700-1398758428.jpg

http://forum.aerosoft.com/uploads/monthly_04_2014/post-43-0-30354900-1398758423.jpg

http://forum.aerosoft.com/uploads/monthly_04_2014/post-43-0-02209400-1398758434.jpg

In the last - full package: F-14 + Kitty Hawk.

[YoYo]

Ok something new. I hope You will like this Cat.

Top Gun series:

http://s25.postimg.org/my3pyuelp/F_14_B_Tomcat51.jpg

http://s25.postimg.org/oveos0qct/F_14_A_Tomcat59.jpg

http://s25.postimg.org/c1c1kxnjh/F_14_A_Tomcat58.jpg

http://s25.postimg.org/jjdqdcj8t/F_14_A_Tomcat72.jpg

[YoYo]

Carrier Ops.

http://s25.postimg.org/6vqo8c9v1/F_14_B_Tomcat3.jpg

http://s25.postimg.org/80kqdpwbx/F_14_B_Tomcat67.jpg

http://s25.postimg.org/5e57ws54d/F_14_A_Tomcat83.jpg

http://s25.postimg.org/b8p7qrilp/F_14_A_Tomcat69.jpg

Still WiP.

[Ian Warren]

One dramatic thing missing is a more dynamic ships wake at the bow/stern and along the hull, wonder if there has been any thought into area?

[YoYo]

Ian, it depends from the speed of carrier. I will check wave present effect on Nimitz and Enterprice but not sure about existing here too. USS Kitty Hawk is very well done in this package and for me not needs something more (its a here like a gift too!) but for sure You can use any better payware carrier as addon for FSX too.

[sepp666]

Carrier Ops.


http://s25.postimg.org/5e57ws54d/F_14_A_Tomcat83.jpg

Still WiP.

I love this one. It seems to be the time was turned back into the mid 80's! Bear and cat are cuddling on.

[Ian Warren]

Ian, it depends from the speed of carrier. I will check wave present effect on Nimitz and Enterprice but not sure about existing here too. USS Kitty Hawk is very well done in this package and for me not needs something more (its a here like a gift too!) but for sure You can use any better payware carrier as addon for FSX too.
It would be great if it could be enhance, that effect - maybe increase smoke/spray , I guess it would require an extra animation connected to the model then adding a spray effect again - extra addition and work, most screens I do with these I do edit the screen and ship wake to bring life to the ocean , very surprised one has not looked into this .

Tell one thing YoYo , plopping that 'Sundowners' on the deck ... One wicked screen :encouragement:

[expat]

Strange, for some reasons I cannot see the images posted by YoYo in posts #187 and 188 above. Can see others. Am fully logged in. Any theories why this is? Like the Tomcat and Kitty Hawk.

[Alpha Two Zero]

I cannot see the images posted by YoYo

Same here
Timm

[Daube]

Same here.
However, using Chrome, if I make a right click on the picture icon, and choose "open picture in new tab", then I can see it.

EDIT: ah, my mistake. It worked yesterday, but today this trick doesn't work anymore :/
Also, in post #187 above, I can see one of the pictures directly in this topic. Yesterday, I had only missing pictures.

[YoYo]

Dont know why,
Sometimes provider of Internet blocked this webpage with free base of pictures (for example in my work but in home, on my private net it works well).

[Ian Warren]

It appears this not seeing screens or running multiplays and silly errors such as 'IPS provider' or many other problem's has really reared it head over the last few months, affects Team Speak channels and access to my local sites simply getting shut down.

[Odie]

3-4 new screen captures of the Big Cat on the Aerosoft F-14 Facebook page. Posting indicates they are working on finishing up the external bits.

Given Dino's excellent work on his D model and subsequent updates, the Tomcat FSX world is rocking!

[YoYo]

3-4 new screen captures of the Big Cat on the Aerosoft F-14 Facebook page. Posting indicates they are working on finishing up the external bits.

Given Dino's excellent work on his D model and subsequent updates, the Tomcat FSX world is rocking!

+ 1 extra for SOH only:

http://s25.postimg.org/wa1v03d2l/F_14_A_Tomcat86.jpg

:wavey:

[skyhawka4m]

sweet work YOYO :applause:. don't forget the teeth on the fuel tanks

[YoYo]

sweet work YOYO :applause:. don't forget the teeth on the fuel tanks

Yes, I know it :).

[henrystreet]

+ 1 extra for SOH only::wavey:

yikes! that is a beautiful pair

[JohnC]

+ 1 extra for SOH only:

http://s25.postimg.org/wa1v03d2l/F_14_A_Tomcat86.jpg

:wavey:


Hey!! What's the deal? You release pictures like that and people are going to start asking questions, things like "does it come with the package" and "will we be able to practice radar intercepts". Those are questions we are not ready to answer. :mixed-smiley-010:

[YoYo]

Hey!! What's the deal? You release pictures like that and people are going to start asking questions, things like "does it come with the package" and "will we be able to practice radar intercepts". Those are questions we are not ready to answer. :mixed-smiley-010:

No, no, John, I'm quiet like a grey rock. Only picture :wiggle: .

[Odie]

Looks like Aerosoft and the RAZBAM team are working together with RAZBAM providing one of their birds that you can call up as
a tanker. Some good screenshots as well here:

https://www.facebook.com/AerosoftF14

[YoYo]

Looks like Aerosoft and the RAZBAM team are working together with RAZBAM providing one of their birds that you can call up as
a tanker. Some good screenshots as well here:

https://www.facebook.com/AerosoftF14

Yes, it was a payware tanker from Razbam (from 1 mission). It will be as addon in this package of F-14A/B, compatible with TacPack too. :wavey:

[Victory103]

Great to use the Raz additional AI models for the task, flying Dino's Turkey and using the KC-130J from the Raz AV-8B package just last night. The KA-6 and KC-135 get regular use with TP.

Aerosoft textures look good to me, are they trying to do the "baked" textures?

[Odie]

The Aerosoft F-14 Facebook page has 4 new in-development screenshots......strange to see the Big Cat with no drop tanks, but she's looking good!

[YoYo]

@TY Odie. The model recived new pit and some of new external effects. :)

http://s25.postimg.org/racji9mul/Screenshot42932.png

http://s25.postimg.org/bo4478jjh/Screenshot33470.jpg

http://s25.postimg.org/q8psft3vx/Screenshot36233.jpg

[dhazelgrove]

They're taking their time with this one - or so it seems.

Dave

[JohnC]

True! But we've been hard at work:


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


https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/VF-114%2001.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/VF-114%2002.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/VF-114%2003.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/VF-114%2004.jpg

[JohnC]

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/VF-114%2005.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/VF-114%2006.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/VF-114%2007.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/VF-114%2008.jpg

[JohnC]

And for those whose browser wouldn't load Yoyo's well framed shots:

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/PIT.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/RIO.jpg

[sepp666]

I love that babe!:applause:

[Odie]

And for those whose browser wouldn't load Yoyo's well framed shots:

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/PIT.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/RIO.jpg

Bravo! :applause::applause:

[strykerpsg]

True! But we've been hard at work:


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


https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/VF-114%2001.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/VF-114%2002.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/VF-114%2003.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/17394463/VF-114%2004.jpg

Incredible shots of an incredible model. Well done Aerosoft. I am looking forward to reliving the Microprose days of Fleet Defender. Thank you so much for sharing.

I also wanted to add my respects for the collaborative efforts put into this as well. I didn't realize how many are working with you to provide a superb package until seeing the credits in the video. Thank you for also taking the time to recognize and credit them as a responsible design team. This will be a must buy for me.

OT, when you launch on your missions, will an AI wingman also accompany you? Thanks again for sharing.