The DCS: F-14 module is about to get a big boost with its second F-14 variant joining the party. Heatblur has now confirmed that the F-14A will be coming to DCS World Open Beta on November 18th. Exciting news!

Flying the engines of the F-14A

Jumping backwards from the F-14B to the much more problematic F-14A offers up some interesting new simulator experiences. The F-14B and its GE F110-GE-400 engine was a much improved type with none of the engine issues that plagued the earlier A model. Fans of the jet have been flying that B model since launch well over a year ago. Now the A model joins the party bringing with it the infamous TF-30 engines. In a closed door Congressional Hearing in 1984, U.S. Navy Secretary John F. Lehman Jr., was reported to have said the following:

[The TF-30] in the F14 is probably the worst engine-airplane mismatch we have had in many years. The TF30 engine is just a terrible engine and has accounted for 28.2 percent of all F14 crashes.

U.S. Navy Secretary John F. Lehman Jr.

And now… we get to experience this engine in all of its flawed glory. Past updates from Heatblur have alluded to just how much work went into making sure that the TF-30’s quirks were simulated. We’ll be putting that to the test very soon with Heatblur announcing that the jet would be available on November 18th – that’s a Wednesday and thus no surprise as an open beta launch window.

While you wait for the 18th, enjoy these stunning screenshots from the DCS: F-14A including some fantastic schemes for the F-14. Have a look and check out Heatblur on Facebook for more news on their upcoming release of the F-14A.

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