The problem on both runs was that I assumed my old X45 profile would work flawlessly with FF3, but apparently the weapon release button on my HOTAS wasn’t mapped to the proper command (spacebar) with the FF3 install. I’ll need to review and re-program my X45 to assure all the previous commands will work with FF3.
As I turn away from the target back to the south-east once again I watch with satisfaction as the bomb impacts the large building, crumbling it and setting it ablaze.
The TGP pod continues to track the burning target area until the gimble limits are reached and it breaks lock.
Pulling off to the south-east I look down at the fuel gauge and see I’m down to 1800 pounds. Considering that I have one GBU left, 4 CBUs and a full load-out of AMRAAMs I figure I’m still packing a lot of firepower and would rather use it than take it home with me.
Calling up AWACS I ask for a steer to the nearest tanker and the controller immediately responds with a vector to the tanker, 120 degrees for 40 miles. I query Troll 2-2 for his fuel status and he responds with a call of 3000 pounds, apparently he has been much more frugal with his throttle usage.
The tanker gives me the tanker frequency of 124Y and I plug the new frequency into my TACAN equipment taking care to also select “BACKUP” on the TACAN control knob so that the TACAN will take the frequency from the left sub-panel manual entry instead of the up-front controller (UFC). The TACAN frequency can also be entered via the UFC, but I’m not quite sure how to do that yet.
We also have to select TCN on the HSI display setting so that the TACAN data will show on the HSI instead of steer-point data.
The new tanker model is outstanding and FF3 adds support for probe and drogue capable aircraft as well (notice the drogue housings on the wingtips).
