Originally Posted by Wags - ED Team
DCS: F/A-18C Hornet FAQ
Q: When will the Hornet be released?
A: We will announce the Hornet’s Early Access release date at the same time it becomes available for Pre-Purchase (sorry, no more best-estimates). The Pre-Purchase date will depend on when on when we feel we have stable build of the Hornet that provides the key Early Access features of a PFM flight model; functional engine, fuel, electrical, hydraulic, radio, lighting, caution/advisory, flight control, emergency systems; and the sensor and weapon systems as detailed here: https://forums.eagle.ru/showpost.php?p=3285514&postcount=13
Q: What weapons and sensors will be included?
A: Please consult the detailed list here: https://forums.eagle.ru/showpost.php?p=3285514&postcount=13
Q: Will carrier operations be included?
A: Basic carrier operations will be available at Early Access launch, but they will first be reliant on the carrier operations based on what we have currently for the Su-33. During the Early Access period, more detailed and realistic carrier operations of Case I, II, and III will become available.
Q: What squadrons will be available?
A: At least initially, our focus is on US Navy Hornets. This applies to skins, sensors, and weapons.
Q: Will the Hornet be released with DCS World 2.5?
A: DCS World 2.5 will be available prior to the release of the Hornet.
Q: Prior to release, what’s the best way to get a head start learning this aircraft?
A: In addition to the videos we are providing, we suggest a careful read of the F/A-18 NATOPS. https://publicintelligence.net/u-s-navy-f-18-natops-flight-manuals/
Q: Can I become a Hornet beta tester?
A: Please see our post here: https://forums.eagle.ru/showthread.php?t=50779
Q: Will the Hornet come with a new, highly-detailed Nimitz-class aircraft carrier with new features and functionality never seen before in DCS World?
A: These will be two separate modules, but we plan to provide a bundle deal that includes both. We currently plan a less-detailed version that will be a free part of DCS World.
Note: There is nothing else we can really say about the new carriers at this time.
Q: Will the Hornet release with a manual?
A: The Hornet will release with a Hornet Early Access Guide that will instruct you on how to fly and employ the aircraft. As new features and functions are added during the Early Access phase, the guide will be updated to reflect this.
Upon release of the final product, the full manual will be released.
Q: Will the Hornet be able to share datalink information with the A-10C?
A: Once we implement Link-16, this is something we will certainly explore using the A-10C gateway datalink capability. The A-10C uses SADL, not Link-16.
Q: Will the Hornet be able to communicate with the JTAC?
A: Yes, but this will come after the initial Early Access release.
Q: Will a cockpit-view pilot be provided?
A: Yes, but probably not for the initial Early Access release.
Q: Will nuclear weapons be available for the Hornet?
A: No
Q: Will there be an option for a Hornet with no pylons?
A: Yes, but probably not for Early Access release. That will come later.