DCS: MiG-29A Fulcrum | Sensor Cooperative Mode

Video Description

In this DCS: MiG-29A Fulcrum video, we’ll look at some of the changes using the radar and infrared sensors in cooperative mode. These changes are implemented in the current version of our Fulcrum. Cooperative mode can be enabled from the switch COOP on the left console. Move the switch forward to enable. Let’s first look at COOP mode in Radar mode, or RAD, on the Weapon Control System panel. With COOP and Radar mode selected, note that the radar will only operate in Medium Pulse Repetition Frequency, or PRF, mode. If you wish the radar to be the lead sensor, then set the DUMMY switch to the up, ILLUM position. After locking a target with the FCR, the target track is also passed to the IRST, and it will operate in the support mode. When in support mode, it can become the lead sensor in the event of FCR target track is lost. The IRST will then remain the lead sensor until FCR acquisition is restored. After the FCR is restored, the FCR becomes the leading sensor again. Note that you will need to hold the lock button down for two to three seconds to achieve a sensor lock. We’ll now set the WCS switch to the Infrared, or IR, selection. The IRST will be the lead sensor for IR, Close Combat, Helmet, and Optical WCS modes. If the IRST is the leading sensor, then set the ILLUM/DUMMY/OFF switch to the DUMMY position. When in IR mode and the COOP switch is enabled, the IRST will be the lead sensor, and when locked to a target, the radar will center on the IRST target and provide range and closure rate every three seconds when the target is greater than 6 km away. When laser range is acquired, the FCR will also acquire the target, and it will operate in support mode, ready to become the leading sensor in case IRST lock is broken. In IR mode, the FCR can be forced to become the lead sensor by pressing the Lock button again, but only until the laser range is acquired. Note that if R-27R or ER missiles are selected, then after pressing the Lock button again or the range laser appears, the FCR becomes the leading sensor to allow radar-guided missile guidance. Moving to Close Combat mode, that also has the IRST as the lead sensor, and enabling COOP mode, the radar is placed in support mode. When Helmet and Optical modes, both the IRST and radar will attempt to lock onto a designated target. The first to track it will be the lead sensor, with the other as the supporting sensor. Note that when in Helmet or Optical modes, the radar’s range is the same as Close Combat mode 10 km. Last, let’s talk about Gun mode with COOP enabled, that is automatically selected when selecting the gun. Selection of the lead sensor depends on the availability of laser ranging. When locking a target and no laser range is available, then the FCR will be the lead sensor. If laser range is available, then the IRST will be the lead sensor. If the gun is activated with no IRST or radar lock and range, then the funnel is used.