Digital Combat Simulator: AH-64D

DCS: AH-64D is another paid module for the popular flight simulator Digital Combat Simulator World. Its star is the legendary AH-64D Apache attack helicopter. In an effort to faithfully reproduce it in the game, Eagle Dynamics has worked with experts in the form of former and current pilots of these machines, who - being gamers themselves - did their best to create something they would like to fly virtually themselves.

Construction and history of the AH-64D Apache

The AH-64D Apache design is an upgraded version of the AH-64A model, battle-tested during Operation Desert Storm. It is characterized by a more modern cockpit with multifunction screens, as well as Longbow support and the ability to mount a Fire Control Radar (FCR) dome. The Apache is a twin-engine, two-seat assault helicopter with a tandem cabin. The helicopter's main armament is AGM-114 Hellfire missiles and a 30mm caliber M230 (Chain Gun) mounted under the fuselage. In addition, the machine can be equipped with Hydra 70 unguided missiles.

AH-64 Apache helicopters scored their baptism of fire in 1989 during Operation Just Cause in Panama. This was followed by the Iraq War and Desert Storm, during which the machines destroyed nearly 300 tanks and other vehicles. Apaches also played an important role during operations in Afghanistan and Iraq after 2001. In addition to the United States, users of the AH-64 include Greece, Israel, Japan, the United Kingdom and several other countries.

DCS: AH-64D Apache Simulator

The Apache helicopter has long been a popular machine in computer games and has lived to see many iconic titles. The most famous of these are the Gunship series from MicroProse studio, or the Jane's (Longbow) series published by EA. However, it is only the DCS: AH-64D Apache module that particularly faithfully reproduces the authentic behavior of the machine in the air and the operation of on-board systems and weapons.

The developers took care of a realistic flight model including various trim modes. The operation of Hellfire missiles, the M230 cannon and unguided rockets has been authentically reproduced. The player can more than freely switch between the pilot's seat in the rear and the deck gunner's in the front, where care has been taken to faithfully reproduce the TADS targeting system. The second crew member is simulated by a specially created AI with an order-issuing system, and in multiplayer mode two players can operate in a single helicopter as a single crew.

Developing the module, the developer also added a fire control radar (FCR), which allows detection, classification, tracking of multiple targets simultaneously.