I will be running through a basic guide to get up and flying with F4 BMS 4.32. This guide will not be exhaustive, however it will give you a good basic overview of the systems. We will start out by prepping and flying a SEAD (Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses) mission. We will run through the pre-planning our flight and identifying and marking threats along our flight path and then on to flying. Once we are flying I will go through some of the avionics as it pertains to our mission as well as the basic over view of the HUD, MFDs, RWR, ICP, AP etc...
Just a couple of things to note:
1: Flying in F4 BMS is not a reach the objective at all cost. If you encounter heavy SAM activity, fighter activity etc... your best bet is to save your aircraft and that of your elements and RTB. You have to calculate the odds and have good situational awareness. Pre-planning helps in this area, but many times I run into areas where I simply cannot reach my objective.
2: Fuel management is very unforgiving in Falcon 4, so I suggest going to unlimited at first until you get a handle on all the systems of the F-16. It all can seem very daunting at first, however learn flying different roles at a time and become proficient at them one at a time.... then move on to the next. Small bites....
I'll get our first mission together and will see you in the briefing room.
PE
Nice. I'm reinstalled and eagerly awaiting.
Darn....wish I could find my old Falcon CD:(
Quote from: Grim.Reaper on December 31, 2013, 08:36:02 PM
Darn....wish I could find my old Falcon CD:(
I know EXACTLY where mine is at all times. ;D
Quote from: DoctorQuest on December 31, 2013, 09:59:34 PM
Quote from: Grim.Reaper on December 31, 2013, 08:36:02 PM
Darn....wish I could find my old Falcon CD:(
I know EXACTLY where mine is at all times. ;D
Sure, rub it in:). Think it might be in my attic, will hunt tomorrow.
Quote from: Grim.Reaper on December 31, 2013, 10:05:02 PM
Quote from: DoctorQuest on December 31, 2013, 09:59:34 PM
Quote from: Grim.Reaper on December 31, 2013, 08:36:02 PM
Darn....wish I could find my old Falcon CD:(
I know EXACTLY where mine is at all times. ;D
Sure, rub it in:). Think it might be in my attic, will hunt tomorrow.
Sorry. Like you, I have lost my share of beloved CDs. Somehow I always managed to keep Falcon in the right place.
Good luck. It will be worth the hunt.
Quote from: DoctorQuest on December 31, 2013, 10:19:12 PM
Quote from: Grim.Reaper on December 31, 2013, 10:05:02 PM
Quote from: DoctorQuest on December 31, 2013, 09:59:34 PM
Quote from: Grim.Reaper on December 31, 2013, 08:36:02 PM
Darn....wish I could find my old Falcon CD:(
I know EXACTLY where mine is at all times. ;D
Sure, rub it in:). Think it might be in my attic, will hunt tomorrow.
Sorry. Like you, I have lost my share of beloved CDs. Somehow I always managed to keep Falcon in the right place.
Good luck. It will be worth the hunt.
Agreed and that is what has surprised me....falcon was one of the last games that came with a good manual that I just enjoyed reading....always kept it just for that reason....maybe the misses did some cleaning:)
Quote from: Grim.Reaper on December 31, 2013, 10:23:20 PM
Agreed and that is what has surprised me....falcon was one of the last games that came with a good manual that I just enjoyed reading....always kept it just for that reason....maybe the misses did some cleaning:)
So true. F4 came with the best manual I have ever seen for a computer game/sim. Still have mine kicking around. Pity it has no value for use with BMS.
PLANNING
Just a basic guide to get up and going.
- Review Flight Plan
- Briefing
- Review Ordinance
- Recon Target Area
- Recon and Mark Threats along Flight Plan
Today we will be flying a SEAD Strike mission and will fly lead in a 2 ship element.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.linesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2F1.jpg&hash=b177efa2b805b51cc710dbc621aeb0b969807729)
As you can see above: We will be fling the lead call sign Serpant5 and our TOT will be 08:35, current time is 07:37. Our target for today will be the 219th Air Defense Battalion.
You can see our flight plan above which consist of various Steerpoints which are represented by an O shape and the corresponding steerpoint number above it. We will reach our target at steerpoint 5 which is represented by a triangle.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.linesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2F2.jpg&hash=dd6e81341852c8cfa561118e85526c81c1eb323b)
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.linesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2F15.jpg&hash=ead68bcc97ac591bdc3642536c75b2241dae9247)
Looking at the briefing screen (accessed at the bottom of the screen) we have a total of 10 steerpoints and are allowed to engage targets starting at steerpoint (2), however the 219th present position is/near steerpoint 5.
Our ordnance will consist of (2) AM-120B AMRAAM and (2) AM-9m Sidewinder (these are defensive weapons, our primary mission is seek and destroy). I normally will use the AMRAAM in a SEAD mission as a self defense. For example I may fire a AMRAAM Long to cause a enemy fighter to go on the defensive while I RTB if I am out gunned.
We will also be carrying the AGM-88 HARM Missile (anti-radar) and 4 CBUs cluster bombs. The HARM will actively track radars that are emitting a signal and home in and kill them. The CBUs are there for killing other assets like AA batteries etc...
You will also notice we are carrying the HTS (HARM Targeting POD) noted by the eliminated green box by LOAD HTS and is shown under the center fuselage as the White pod. This allows us locate, identify, and prosecute targets that are emitting.
Weather report shows Sunny and clear
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.linesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2F3.jpg&hash=8d8ffb75bd25c79174ed681e7a220129db3ede0c)
Here is a zoomed in view of our flight path. Steerpoint 1 and 2 are there, however are cut off. Notice will come in close proximity of an airfield, more on that later.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.linesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2F4.jpg&hash=2604ce44bfda5f65b91534f974b416c33fda85f0)
First thing we need to do is right click on our target area (The Red Symbol on Steerpoint 5) and do some recon. By doing this we can get a good look at what we can expect at the target area, as well as any supporting units.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.linesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2F5.jpg&hash=bfee947cf66431f99de9826f69665b28d45dc3cf)
We can see there is a SA-2 site with other supporting units. We can also see the reconed condition and strategic value of each target in that unit. NOTE: When you click the Recon it will show all units in the area, meaning the 219th Air Defense Battalion was one of three in the area.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.linesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2F6.jpg&hash=c2848773c7e927fc2b4d1df253597a3d4a553844)
Along the flight path we can see we will come in close proximity of an airfield. It is crucial that you recon and mark all threats along your flight path so we will recon the Airbase to see what units are stationed there and mark them if need be.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.linesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2F7.jpg&hash=960fee2e3f393255eda5d3d12f8f32fdb6febd1e)
So the Recon of the Airbase between Steerpoint 3 and 4 revealed a SA2 SAM site. We will mark this on our map and it will display in the HSD to let us know when we are in rage of the SAM threat area. Also there could possibly be enemy fighters in the area, just make note.
Notice that you can also designate this target as a Steerpoint (I have marked it as Stpt #15). This is very valuable when finding specific ground targets you want to attack in other modes. It also helps to direct you to specific areas to target. I always mark them in planning and reference them once I am in flight. We will look at this later on while in the cockpit.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.linesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2F8.jpg&hash=2832f54ea9797bf7cad056a08e5842efab7b3df5)
We will now move our cursor over to the right in an open area and right-click. Then we will select Set Preplanned Threat Stpt to mark the map.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.linesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2F9.jpg&hash=5fa7efce6b6e080aca07f985f8f0aa5c2ac4e0e3)
You will now see a green diamond appear on the screen. We now need to right click on the diamond and specify the type of threat it will be.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.linesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2F10.jpg&hash=3bbc5c2ac1f351b84aa2b1796cacef8676b86b7c)
We know after the recon that the site is an SA-2 SAM site so we click it and then click Accept.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.linesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2F11.jpg&hash=4d6a7a808a8118eb9278a595bbe019f0851a1486)
You can now see a red circle around the green diamond desinating the max range of the SA-2. We will now left-click on the green diamond that and hold and drag it over the airfield that we did the Recon on.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.linesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2F12.jpg&hash=26e8490dc3efa1e7ed37e9e2431c2b2ff03e1cc3)
You can now see that the diamond is over the Airfield and the range of the SA-2 is displayed in the red circle. It is important to identify these threats in the planning stage so that once in the air you can be prepared and plan accordingly. This data will also show up on our HSD along the flight path (which we will see once airborne). It is important to note that this mission has light activity, most missions have a lot of activity so it is not feasible to just route around these areas, in this mission it is your job to clear a path.
So we looked at some basic areas during the planning stage and I will go over the Data Cartridge in the next session.
Dismissed.
PE
Quote from: DoctorQuest on December 31, 2013, 10:19:12 PM
Sorry. Like you, I have lost my share of beloved CDs.
I have my CD lying nearby.
But for some mysterious reason, my old cherished ring binder manual for Falcon 4 has been missing for a few years now, after a move. >:(
** Thanks for doing this guide PE!
Wow PE! Cool guide! I will be watching this thread.
Quote from: Yskonyn on January 01, 2014, 04:01:06 AM
Wow PE! Cool guide! I will be watching this thread.
+1 I always wanted to get to know F4 but never found the time.
Quote from: Nefaro on January 01, 2014, 02:51:12 AM
Quote from: DoctorQuest on December 31, 2013, 10:19:12 PM
Sorry. Like you, I have lost my share of beloved CDs.
I have my CD lying nearby.
But for some mysterious reason, my old cherished ring binder manual for Falcon 4 has been missing for a few years now, after a move. >:(
** Thanks for doing this guide PE!
Yep, I am kind of bummed I can't find it, especially the manual. I still remember when I got this game. I was dating my future wife and we were at a local Best Buy store that they were displaying the new game on a shelf (yes, this was a time when physical games still was the main way to buy games, the good old days) and she noticed me drooling over it. Happened to be right around Valentine's day and when I opened my present from her, there it was all in its glory....she bought me the game:)
At that point I knew I had to marry her:) But now I am sure she is regretting purchasing it since that helped contribute to my gaming addiction:)
PE, great job with the information and look forward to following it...
One thing I failed to mention before in the Briefing area is that we have 1 E-3 AWACS available and will use a lot.
Also, The Rules of Engagement in the Briefing area state that before we engage any air target that we must confirm ident from the AWACS before firing. This is only Air to Air engagements. So we must lock the air target and then declare from AWACS.
PE
Would it be at all possible to indicate, when feasible, the actual key command for each task you describe while in flight? That would be really helpful!
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on January 01, 2014, 01:19:12 PM
Would it be at all possible to indicate, when feasible, the actual key command for each task you describe while in flight? That would be really helpful!
Yes I will, and just to note I am using the Logitech 3D Pro and this is how I have my layout. I highly recommend doing the Main list I have below (You will use a lot), then the optional. Also
NOTE: I am using the Keyboard Profile in BMS and NOT the BMS key layout. You will need to change it in the Setup.(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Flinesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2Fjs.png&hash=8d97d557e8a61a1c0b30f70ef4d9649a3412fb57)
MAINTrigger/Primary Fire: Fires your guns (M61) Keyboard control: /
Pickle: Fire release of weapons (Missles / Bombs...) Keyboard control: Space
TMS UP: This locks on targets you select in your radar. Keyboard control: Ctrl + Up arrow
TMS Down: This will unlock a target you have selected Keyboard control: Ctrl + Down arrow
DMS Down: Switches your SOI (Sensor of Interest) Keyboard control: Ctrl + Alt + Down arrow
Wheel Breaks: Wheel breaks while on ground. Keyboard control: k.
Chaff/Flare: Releases countermeasuresChaff/Flare. Keyboard control: x
If you have the buttons:TMS Right: This will cycle through radar contacts in a group while in TWS mode. Keyboard control: Ctrl + Right arrow
RADAR INT UP: Tilts the RADAR down to higher altitude. Keyboard control: F7
RADAR INT DOWN: Tilts the RADAR down to lower altitude. Keyboard control: F5
CYCLE AA: Cycle through A/A weapons. Keyboard control: Enter
CYCLE AG: Cycle through A/G weapons. Keyboard control: Backspace
If you have TRACKIRRadar Cursor: Used to select Radar contacts in the MFD. You can assign this to your HAT swicth. Keyboard control: Arrow Keys
PE
I definitely need a key chart. So far, I've managed to pretty competently take-off and land. My navigation skills are somewhat rudimentary, but this is mainly because I have forgotten the avionics systems and again, do not know the keys. Also, I managed a pretty solid landing at around 160 knots, but then did not know the key for the gear brakes. I rolled off the end of the runway. It was embarrassing.
Overall, the aircraft is remarkably easy to fly. It damn near flies it self. Learning all of the advanced systems...now there is the tricky part.
PE...with all of the simming you do, I'm surprised you don't have a HOTAS. I'm set up with the X52 and plan on upgrading to the X55 as soon as it is released.
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on January 01, 2014, 05:09:43 PM
I definitely need a key chart. So far, I've managed to pretty competently take-off and land. My navigation skills are somewhat rudimentary, but this is mainly because I have forgotten the avionics systems and again, do not know the keys. Also, I managed a pretty solid landing at around 160 knots, but then did not know the key for the gear brakes. I rolled off the end of the runway. It was embarrassing.
Overall, the aircraft is remarkably easy to fly. It damn near flies it self. Learning all of the advanced systems...now there is the tricky part.
PE...with all of the simming you do, I'm surprised you don't have a HOTAS. I'm set up with the X52 and plan on upgrading to the X55 as soon as it is released.
I did have, until it went belly up, so I am waiting for an upgrade.
Some NAV practive for you.
NAVAGATION BASICSTry this while I am putting together the other section. We discussed steerpoints in our briefing so lets go fly them.
First, Make sure you are using the Keyboard layout in the controls config instead of BMS.
Now, before we take off we need to press the
s key which will cycle to our next steerpoint which should read 2. 1 is usually the base you are taking off from. In the right MFD zoom out until you see the a O (steerpoint) in the flight path that is solid. That will be the active steerpoint.
Now lets get in the air.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Flinesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2FNAV01.jpg&hash=b37f6ddb7744f0f5f1ae43aa465daf8b94d12592)
As you can see in the image above our steer point carrot is telling us that the steerpoint (2) is off to our right hand side. Also note in the lower right of the HUD that we are
32 nm from our current steerpoint which is
2. So I will bank to the right to intercept the steerpoint.
Also notice that our current HUD mod is
NAV (Navigation) mode. More on that later... but that is important when we are flying our steerpoints as it configures our HUD for specifically Navigating the F-16.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Flinesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2FNAV02.jpg&hash=dc332ef25cc350a84f5061f8e9a842d9caeab212)
I have turned to intercept steerpoint 2 in the image above and we are 28 nm from it. We can also see the Steerpoint Box noting the geographic location. Once we are over/near that steerpiont we will need to select the
s key to cycle to the next steerpoint which will be 3 in our case.
You will continue to do this until you reach your target area..... also realize that if you make a target say Steerpint 14, you will need to cycle all the way up to it and it will give you a barring to the target. This is great for attacking targets that we already know the location of and that are stationary ground targets.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Flinesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2FNAV03.jpg&hash=faf895e61d29a0e500d35745352a17f39d5b22ab)
You can see in the right MFD / HSD that we are heading for the active steerpoint 2 at our 12 o'clock and is solid. My current view range is set to 30 nm and the airfield I just took off from (Steerpoint 1) is at my 6 o'clock. Our F-16 is the blue plane in the center.
AUTOPILOTThis autopilot is basic and there is no FMC on the F16. The F-16 will not follow a flight plan, it will follow the active steerpoint. So you will need to pay attention to where you are at and change the active steerpoint accordingly. Now let's climb to say FL150 (15,000 feet) and level off.
Let's say we are at our intended altitude and our wingman is in place and we have a long flight in front of us. It will be a good time to engage the auto-pilot and go through our systems and monitor the A/A radar for potential threats.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Flinesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2FAP01.jpg&hash=3753a6d6ae939bd3c792c1baedc1da6466e81861)
To the left of the left MFD and just below the Master Arm switch we will see 2 switches in the MISC Panel (ROLL HDG SELECT) and ( PITCH HOLD).
Now we want the F-16 to maintain our current altitude and follow the active steerpoint which is steerpoint 2.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Flinesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2FAP02.jpg&hash=71df2af97463a73ab42871d7c3afc0d97a6a2eef)
We need to place the (ROLL HDG SELECT) into the 6 0'clock setting by right clicking on it and then the ( PITCH HOLD) into the 12 o'clock position by left clicking on it. This will keep our F-16 level at the current altitude and following the active steerpoint. REMEMBER to watch the distance to steeerpoint so you can hit the
s key to switch to the next steerpoint.
Once you are close to target you will need to move both switches back to the neutral position by doing the opposite of what you did to enable them.
Give this a try as this is the very basic in flying a flight plan to your intended target. I will post more soon.
Dismissed!
PE
^Outstanding. Got it.
Does TrackIR work okay with BMS?
I realize it probably doesn't have x/y/z and tilt head movement but if the basic look around is functional and doesn't make anything look weird, that would be nice.
Yes it does work. If you send me your email in a PM I can send you my profile, which has been pretty popular with the crowd on the Benchmark forums.
So Panzer is not using a HOTAS? That is actually encouraging as that means Falcon BMS is manageable just by keyboard and joystick. And it looks like he's using more of the clickable cockpit.
I played a bit of Falcon 4 AF in the past and it's not as complicated as DCS A-10. probably catering to the simulation peripherals available back then.
Quote from: jomni on January 02, 2014, 03:19:27 AM
So Panzer is not using a HOTAS? That is actually encouraging as that means Falcon BMS is manageable just by keyboard and joystick. And it looks like he's using more of the clickable cockpit.
I played a bit of Falcon 4 AF in the past and it's not as complicated as DCS A-10. probably catering to the simulation peripherals available back then.
This is a totally different beast than Falcon AF.
Well yes, it's more complicated than AF because there are more systems modelled, but Jomni is correct; it is not as detailed as DCS A-10C either.
A non-HOTAS setup works fine. You just have to remember more keyboard shortcuts. ;) And in a furball or high risk environment a HOTAS allows you to keep your head where it needs to be; on-screen. But without one the sim is still playable for sure.
Falcon 4 can be played without a HOTAS and the game is not bad once you learn it. There are other sims today that are more in-depth and at the time there where non outside of Falcon 4..... however, the Dynamic Campaign of Falcon 4 is unmatched today imho. Most of the Avionics are straight forward and a lot of the systems like the DED are not used as much. There are pretty straight forward ways in prosecuting targets, however in some cases you have different methods to accomplishing the task. Setup your procedures and follow them..... staying alive is another matter ;)
After going through 2 HOTAS, I have resigned myself to buying a used one or waiting to the next incarnation. For now, I am running on a in between L3D.
PE
In 2013 I learned Blackshark and A-10C, my goal for 2014 is to learn Falcon BMS...with the help of this thread. Thank you! :)
I remember these tutorial videos for Falcon 4 BMS where Krause goes through the systems of the F-16. They are from a couple of years ago but should still be relevant. If I remember correctly they are pretty good, however some of the videos may talk about areas that you need to be familiar with. I can keep doing the write up if you like.....
Also, keyboard reference for the Keyboard profile preset layout in the control settings and not the BMS profile.
REFERENCE
Keyboard Reference (http://www.foinikas.org/ftp/public/Falcon%20BMS/Docs/Falcon%20BMS%20Manuals/Keystrokes%20Keymap.pdf)
F-16 Cockpit Layout (http://falcon4.wdfiles.com/local--files/avionics%3Acockpit/cockpit_layout.jpg)
TUTORIAL VIDEOS
Falcon 4 BMS Tutorials Cockpit Orientation, Navigation, and Formation Flying (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RWPEGNZB09Y&list=PL3E09AA94FF0EACEC&index=13)
Falcon 4 BMS Tutorial: Taxi and Takeoff (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EfonZq26E0g&list=PL3E09AA94FF0EACEC&index=11)
Falcon 4 BMS Tutorial: Instrument Landing System (ILS) and Landing Basics (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fKDilEfzh_8&list=PL3E09AA94FF0EACEC&index=7)
Falcon 4 BMS Tutorials: RWR Radar Warning Receiver (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQ-ekHiVwsw&list=PL3E09AA94FF0EACEC&index=4)
Falcon 4 BMS Tutorials: FCR, AIM-120, AIM-9, HMCS, Dog Fight Mode (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LiUYrtpW7ww&list=PL3E09AA94FF0EACEC&index=1)
Falcon 4 BMS Tutorials: FCR, CCIP, CCRP, DTOSS, Lofting bombs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ka74bFkdhCI&list=PL3E09AA94FF0EACEC&index=2)
Falcon 4 BMS Tutorials: AGM-88 HARM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=COf0Hnr019g&list=PL3E09AA94FF0EACEC&index=3)
Falcon 4 BMS Tutorials: Data Link (http://http:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XWyvJ99L2k4&list=PL3E09AA94FF0EACEC&index=5)
Falcon 4 BMS Tutorials: Targeting Pod (TGP), and Laser Guided Bombs (LGBs, GBUs) (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIO3OGNlXJ0&list=PL3E09AA94FF0EACEC&index=6)
Falcon 4 BMS Tutorials: Controls and Data Cartridge (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2BQVD-SbEcY&list=PL3E09AA94FF0EACEC&index=8)
Falcon 4 BMS Tutorials: AGM-65 Maverick (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y1RJHLZ26pc&list=PL3E09AA94FF0EACEC&index=9)
Falcon 4 BMS Tutorials: Non-Computed Pop-Up Attack (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1dPd1KGnww&list=PL3E09AA94FF0EACEC&index=10)
Falcon 4 BMS Tutorial: Bombs with HAD in SEAD Missions (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1RyDEgPK1sc&list=PL3E09AA94FF0EACEC&index=12)
Falcon 4 BMS Tutorial Going Defensive, Missile + AAA Evasion and Defense (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AyCeAVsaDWs&list=PL3E09AA94FF0EACEC&index=14)
Falcon 4 BMS The Split S Defensive Manuever for Missile Defense (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jw9oFT-7dXM&list=PL3E09AA94FF0EACEC&index=15)
Falcon 4 BMS Tutorials: Be A Good Wingman (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xE7P4E7X__s&list=PL3E09AA94FF0EACEC&index=16)
Falcon 4 BMS DOGFIGHT! BFM ACM Practice 1v1 Guns Only (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYAicA8qbAE&list=PL3E09AA94FF0EACEC&index=17)
Falcon 4 BMS DOGFIGHT! BFM ACM Rolling Scissors over Tree Line (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0H9sJo5QJS8&list=PL3E09AA94FF0EACEC&index=18)
PE
I'm basically a ground attack guy, I appreciate the availability of targeting pods in BMS. In AF, I can only lock on blips in the ground radar but not really sure what they are.
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
Ok, so let's go over something we did not previously from the briefing and that topic is the mission times. These times are pre-planned for you and work in conjunction with other missions for elements in your flight that could be counter acting for you or you for them. In the mission above we where preforming a SEAD mission, however we are the only element in our group. There are sometimes different elements that may preform a SEAD and then a ESCORT and the pre-planned times are important because we want to get their before the strike package arrives or if we are striking a target, we want to allow time for our other elements to do their job.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Flinesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2FT-1.jpg&hash=02d6be25465a22244e6b1a2174e64af6ab5b049e)
So in the briefing above we are to Reach Steerpoint 2 @ 08:24:37 which is bearing 315 @ 31.7nm and we should be @ 245 IAS.
Time on Target is: 08:35:00 (Which is Steerpoint 5)
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Flinesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2FT2.jpg&hash=a9ed689285fc1710a35598401286ef14278e01e9)
As you can see above the current time is 8:13:16 (Displayed in the DED) and we are going to arrive at Steerpoint 2 @ 081633 (08:16:33) and that is way ahead of schedule. You will also notice that we are doing 488 IAS as well and our takeoff time should have been 08:19.
From Steerpoint 2 we should reach Steerpoint 3 in 65.6nm @ 08:32:49 heading 321 at around 390 IAS (this is variable).
If we looked back at our flight plan Steerpoint 5 is where our target area is and we will need to be there @ 08:35:00 to prosecute targets.
There are many things that can keep you off balanced and off time and the main so keep in mind the briefing screen. Also, the altitude from me varies based on what target I am striking and what the flight path is, so that is up to you.
Also take note of the threat analysis.
TIP: USE THE AWACS to get a picture up ahead, they will let you know where the closest bogies are and their position. Remember situational awareness is key.
PE
When you get a chance, can you make a post regarding setting up and uploading data cartridges before take-off? Thanks!
One thing I failed to mention was you can push the (5) Key on the ICP to bring up your Crus information in the DED.
This gives you the following
* System Time
* Destination TOS (Time on Station)
* ETA
* RQD G/S: This is the required ground speed to reach the current steerpoint at the pre-planned time.
To return to the default DED screen, just press the rocker switch under the 8 9 key on the ICP to the left toward RTN .... which is the Return.
PE
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on January 03, 2014, 03:25:46 PM
When you get a chance, can you make a post regarding setting up and uploading data cartridges before take-off? Thanks!
Using Krause's Data Cartridge should suffice until you customize it to the way you like it.
::: DATA CARTRIDGE :::http://www.krauselabs.net/dump/dtc.ini
Save the above to C:\Falcon BMS 4.32\User\Config
Rename it to yourCallSign.ini
Once you download this, place it in the correct area and rename it to your callsign you can access the DC from Briefing Screen.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.linesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2Fdc.jpg&hash=dd972abe96c0b5920cab70511ca471d5c65bf3e1)
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.linesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2Fdc2.png&hash=82f34a73ba3943a74573ce8bc628f29068f5aeef)
TARGETSYour flight plan will automatically will be placed into the DC, as well as when you mark target steerpoints like we did previously.
EWSThere will be 4 different ways you can customize how your countermeasures are released. The DC above has them done for you.
His settings are multi release for 3 and 4.
You can select it once inside the cockpit on your left panel in the cockpit to which pre set you want to use 1-4.
MODESThis is how your MFDs are setup initially/Default when you enter the cockpit or customized by modes. You can customize them depending on the mode you are in A/G Mastermode, A/G Mastermode etc.... His settings are they are all pre-defined the same and you can change any of the MFD settings once in flight anyway.
COMMSLooking at his ini you will only need to change Preset #15 to the tower. Just go into the COMMS section of the DC and click over Preset# until you get to 15 and then click on the SET TOWER button on the right and click SAVE, the default should already be selected for you. When you go into the sim your COMMS will already be set to the tower.
I believe the comms for 1-14 are already preset in game so you want 15 to be the tower and the default comm when you first get into the sim.
The MAIN THING before take-off in the DC is just making sure you Tower COMMS is set. The TARGETS you can set by doing recon and setting them from that screen and your flight plan steerpoints are already included in the DC. Once in the Cockpit you can select which MODE (Countermeasures) from above you want to use depending on your situation.
PE
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
Ok, so let's go over something we did not previously from the briefing and that topic is the mission times. These times are pre-planned for you and work in conjunction with other missions for elements in your flight that could be counter acting for you or you for them. In the mission above we where preforming a SEAD mission, however we are the only element in our group. There are sometimes different elements that may preform a SEAD and then a ESCORT and the pre-planned times are important because we want to get their before the strike package arrives or if we are striking a target, we want to allow time for our other elements to do their job.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Flinesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2FT-1.jpg&hash=02d6be25465a22244e6b1a2174e64af6ab5b049e)
So in the briefing above we are to Reach Steerpoint 2 @ 08:24:37 which is bearing 315 @ 31.7nm and we should be @ 245 IAS.
Time on Target is: 08:35:00 (Which is Steerpoint 5)
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Flinesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2FT2.jpg&hash=a9ed689285fc1710a35598401286ef14278e01e9)
As you can see above the current time is 8:13:16 (Displayed in the DED) and we are going to arrive at Steerpoint 2 @ 081633 (08:16:33) and that is way ahead of schedule. You will also notice that we are doing 488 IAS as well and our takeoff time should have been 08:19.
From Steerpoint 2 we should reach Steerpoint 3 in 65.6nm @ 08:32:49 heading 321 at around 390 IAS (this is variable).
If we looked back at our flight plan Steerpoint 5 is where our target area is and we will need to be there @ 08:35:00 to prosecute targets.
There are many things that can keep you off balanced and off time and the main so keep in mind the briefing screen. Also, the altitude from me varies based on what target I am striking and what the flight path is, so that is up to you.
Also take note of the threat analysis.
TIP: USE THE AWACS to get a picture up ahead, they will let you know where the closest bogies are and their position. Remember situational awareness is key.
CRUS INFORMATION IN THE DED
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Flinesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2FF4%2F1%2FDED1.jpg&hash=50e717cc81fc45a9eafb0d308f4471ff80a2fd2d)
You can push the (5) Key on the ICP to bring up your Cruise information in the DED.
This gives you the following
* System Time
* Destination TOS (Time on Station)
* ETA
* RQD G/S: This is the required ground speed to reach the current steerpoint at the pre-planned time.
To return to the default DED screen, just press the rocker switch under the 8 9 key on the ICP to the left toward RTN .... which is the Return.
PE
Quote from: PanzersEast on January 03, 2014, 04:24:52 PM
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
Everybody says this. A well coordinated strike with all different packages can overwhelm the enemy. But when I fly, this rarely happens in a dynamic combat environment. You will eventually break the time table, go different routes because of various threats (and opportunities) not considered by your mission planners. :) Other AI elements on the other hand will go for the target and time table and eventually die in the process.
While the dynamic campaign is great as it is a living battlefield, one disadvantage is that it is really brutal due to the AI blindly following their plans and the loss will have effects on future missions. Because of the way the AI acts, casualty rates on both sides are horrendous (and maybe too unrealistic). The war will be over in a matter of hours or a few days.
Quote from: jomni on January 03, 2014, 05:14:43 PM
Quote from: PanzersEast on January 03, 2014, 04:24:52 PM
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
Everybody says this. A well coordinated strike with all different packages can overwhelm the enemy. But when I fly, this rarely happens in a dynamic combat environment. You will eventually break the time table, go different routes because of various threats (and opportunities) not considered by your mission planners. :)
lol, yea like I stated above I usually get planned head-long into fighter activity or am having to go defensive on SAM launches... and from playing around in the Israeli Campaign, there is activity everywhere and just surviving is the main thing regardless of time table.
PE
Which reminds me, the number one tip for Falcon 4 campaign play is to actually not follow your plan and play smart. :)
Quote from: jomni on January 03, 2014, 05:21:04 PM
Which reminds me, the number one tip for Falcon 4 campaign play is to actually not follow your plan and play smart. :)
I think the biggest thing is situational awareness. Going through your flight plan and adjusting, identifying and marking potential threats prior to take off, continually scanning for threats, talking to AWACS, adjusting altitude, using your wingman effectively, etc.... and a lot comes with experience.
If you want to survive, you have to have good situational awareness or you may take one up the tail pipe!
But, I have flown to targets where other strikes had occurred before.... I could see smoke rising up.
PE
I am moving these tutorials over to my revamped site thus fulfilling part of my New Year's Goal.... I'll be posting more Tutorials, Reviews etc.... all over there.
http://www.linesofcommand.com
PE
Hi guys, long-time FBMS online flier, nice thread, you guys flying this online?
How's it going fellas?
Quote from: PanzersEast on January 07, 2014, 04:46:25 PM
I am moving these tutorials over to my revamped site thus fulfilling part of my New Year's Goal.... I'll be posting more Tutorials, Reviews etc.... all over there.
http://www.linesofcommand.com
PE
Nice. I will link this to my blog.
Quote from: Mower on January 09, 2014, 07:41:40 PM
Hi guys, long-time FBMS online flier, nice thread, you guys flying this online?
How's it going fellas?
Hey Mower! Nice to see you have found our looney corner! ;-)
Welcome!
Quote from: Mower on January 09, 2014, 07:41:40 PM
Hi guys, long-time FBMS online flier, nice thread, you guys flying this online?
How's it going fellas?
Welcome aboard!
I think most here do not fly on-line and I think most could be looking just to get into the sim and fly which they have not had time to learn the sim before.... just stream lined tutorials.
Quote from: jomni on January 09, 2014, 09:15:40 PM
Quote from: PanzersEast on January 07, 2014, 04:46:25 PM
I am moving these tutorials over to my revamped site thus fulfilling part of my New Year's Goal.... I'll be posting more Tutorials, Reviews etc.... all over there.
http://www.linesofcommand.com
PE
Nice. I will link this to my blog.
Thanks jomni, what is the link to your site?
PE
Quote from: PanzersEast on January 07, 2014, 04:46:25 PM
I am moving these tutorials over to my revamped site thus fulfilling part of my New Year's Goal.... I'll be posting more Tutorials, Reviews etc.... all over there.
http://www.linesofcommand.com
PE
May I suggest a separate page that only contains the Falcon 4 BMS article links? I suspect you'll be adding various different game articles on that same page in the future, interspersed with the F4BMS tutorials? I dunno how much you plan to mix there so thought I would offer the suggestion before there was a lot of them. ;)
Ah, good point. There are categories at the bottom of the page, however I made one just for Falcon 4.
http://www.linesofcommand.com/?cat=14
Cheers,
PE
Copy fellas, I will visit from time to time. Also if any questions arise I can assist in filling in some blanks. All the best.
Quote from: jomni on January 09, 2014, 09:15:40 PM
Quote from: PanzersEast on January 07, 2014, 04:46:25 PM
I am moving these tutorials over to my revamped site thus fulfilling part of my New Year's Goal.... I'll be posting more Tutorials, Reviews etc.... all over there.
http://www.linesofcommand.com
PE
Nice. I will link this to my blog.
http://jomnisgames.blogspot.com
My youtube channel...wip but some FBMS stuff.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd2IbsGbfY84wN1azCFqSFA
Damn. I just rediscovered this thread accidentally by doing a random internet search. Totally forgot it existed. PanzerEast, are you still flying. If you hop into the "Hey Flight simmers" read you'll see that I recently picked this up again and am finally laser focused on mastering it. I'm making really steady progress...very comfortable with cold start, take off, flight and landing. Practicing now deploying GP bombs in ccip mode and starting to get ready for GBUs by learning the TGP.
Would love for you to pickup and continue your training posts here, especially now that BMS is up to 4.33.3.
You can track my recent progress starting on page 4 here http://grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=19208.45 (http://grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=19208.45)
I'll continue to update my progress and post questions here from now on.
Check six!
Today I created a basic training mission with a simple flight plan out of Yechon airbase to the KOTAR bomb range. The template is easy to swap munitions for practicing different systems. This time, I loaded Gp bombs and CBUs and took on a TGP to play around with, as that is the primary system I'm working on learning now. Ran full startup from the ramp, took off, flew the circuit, blew some dirt up and then landed back at base. I'm really starting to get the hang of the basics. Very exciting and it's really a rewarding feeling.
Flying IL-2 got me stirred up to break open the Falcon again. Its has been a while, but still is the best. Just have to get back in the swing of things for cockpit and avionic management.... a lot of rust.
Quote from: PanzersEast on April 05, 2018, 03:11:23 PM
Flying IL-2 got me stirred up to break open the Falcon again. Its has been a while, but still is the best. Just have to get back in the swing of things for cockpit and avionic management.... a lot of rust.
Make sure you upgrade to 4.33u5.
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on April 05, 2018, 03:54:42 PM
Quote from: PanzersEast on April 05, 2018, 03:11:23 PM
Flying IL-2 got me stirred up to break open the Falcon again. Its has been a while, but still is the best. Just have to get back in the swing of things for cockpit and avionic management.... a lot of rust.
Make sure you upgrade to 4.33u5.
Thanks, just updated. Just need to read the release notes.