Today Eagle Dynamics released another module for its popular military flight simulator DCS World, the iconic Boeing CH-47F Chinook.
The Chinook is mostly known for its rather rare tandem rotor design, which makes it extremely capable as a military transport platform.
It’s also extremely widespread, being used by over 20 nations around the world, including the US, the UK, Japan, Italy, Spain, and many more.
As is usual for DCS World, the helicopter is available in early access, which means that it will be improved considerably during that cycle before it’s fully released.
This doesn’t mean that it isn’t an accomplished simulation in its current state, but it isn’t yet complete. It’s available on Eagle Dynamics’ store for $55.99, discounted from $69.99.
It hasn’t yet been released for the Steam version at the moment of this writing, and it’s worth reminding that the two versions aren’t compatible, so if you buy the add-on on Eagle Dynamics’ store, you can’t use it on the Steam version of the simulator.
Below you can check out the helicopter in action. if you want to see more, you can watch another video showing taxi and take-off operations, and one focusing on landing.
Here’s what you can expect from the early access version of the helicopter.
Early Access features
- 3D models
- Highly detailed external and internal modelling, including cockpit and cargo hold.
- Fully interactive, VR-ready cockpit.
- Highly detailed pilots and animations (3rd person view).
- U.S. Army Paint Schemes.
- Avionics and other features
- Unmatched helicopter flight dynamics that only DCS can provide.
- Basic trim system and AI helper.
- High-level Multi-Function Displays (MFD)
- VSD page
- HSD full/half pages with moving map support
- Engine and Powertrain full/half pages
- Fuel full/half pages
- Flight plan summary page
- Radar Warning Receiver (RWR) and pilot-controlled Countermeasures Dispenser System with chaff and flares.
- Integrated ARC-186 radio with Voice Chat.
- Base Night Vision Goggles.
- Multi-crew
- AI-side gunners equipped with M60D machine guns.
- Base multi-crew for online games including pilot, co-pilot and two side gunners stations
- Cargo
- Ability to load and unload cargo from the internal bay based on weight and volume.
- Single-point sling loading.
- Supporting the new DCS warehouse to warehouse cargo transfering feature
- Early Access Manual.
- Quick action missions
Features to do during Early Access
- 3D models
- Pilot and co-pilot models for first person view
- More Paint Schemes.
- Avionics and other features
- DAFCS trim system and force trim.
- Autopilot Hold Modes.
- Completed MFD pages.
- Full Night Vision Goggles.
- Heads Up Display System.
- Missile Warning System (MWS).
- Engine fire extinguishers and EAPS system.
- Multi-crew.
- A second crew member can be another player or the AI.
- Flight engineer functionality on different stations.
- Gunner on the ramp.
- Different machine gun models for side and ramp gunners.
- Cargo
- Multi-point sling loading.
- Extended range fuel system (ERFS II).
- Full manual.
- Training Missions.
- Additional Missions.
If you’re unfamiliar with DCS World, it’s a free-to-play military flight simulator, ranging from World War 2 to the present day. It’s available exclusively on PC (via Steam or Eagle Dynamics’ own store).
Yet, fully enjoying the simulator pretty much requires the purchase of additional modules like the Chinook showcased here, even if Eagle Dynamics has a pretty solid trial and introductory discount program.
DCS World is well known among enthusiasts to be very challenging for those who aren’t familiar with advanced flying simulation, and flying its more cutting-edge aircraft (including the Chinook) requires days or even weeks of study. Of course, many find this very rewarding.
If you’re intimidated by the apparent complexity of flight simulation, but you’re interested in giving it a try, you read our introductory guide, alongside the second episode focusing on installing add-ons, and another showcasing the basic instruments.
You can also keep up to date with the flight simulation news via our daily roundup articles.