|
Enemy Engaged: Comanche vs. Hokum Interview by Leonard "Viking1" Hjalmarson December 16, 1999 |
||||
|
Q. One of the biggest improvements in Apache-Havoc post patch was the flight modelling. Even retreating blade stall was modelled, pushing the model beyond anything seen before in a PC simulation. Will C-H improve on the fm even further, perhaps adding translational lift? A: Apache-Havoc's flight models were fairly comprehensive but there will be a few improvements for Comanche-Hokum. One of the most noticeable features will be the ability to taxi around airfields. The Pilot will now be able to manoeuvre the aircraft whilst landed and perform rolling takeoffs. Auto-Rotation is also a feature that will be making an appearance. Incidentally, translational lift was modelled in Apache-Havoc. Q. What kind of research is necessary to accurately model these platforms? Is information difficult to come by? A: Comanche Hokum simulates all the forces acting on the aircraft and resolves them to produce realistic behaviours. Every force is modelled, from the wind resistance on the fuselage down to the reduced lift generated by a retreating blade. When all the forces have been modelled correctly it becomes a matter of tuning the flight characteristics. This is where research material comes in, and good beta testers !
 Q. Who actually tests the flight models as they near completion? A: We have a really good group of beta-testers some of whom are fully qualified pilots. We rely on their feedback to get the flight dynamics right. Q. Tell us what new vehicles/platforms we'll see in the missions. A: We have added some more helicopters and transport aircraft. We are hoping to add some more tanks as well. New helicopters:
New aircraft:
|
 Q. Damage modelling is critical to many of our readers. Which systems are modelled for damage in C-H? A: Damage affects avionics components, weapons systems, rotors, undercarriage, stabilisers etc. Q. Is damage to our chopper modelled graphically for particular areas on the airframe? A: Damaged rotors are shown but no airframe damage. Q. What kinds of weapon systems are modelled for the Comanche? For the Havoc? What level of realism are you aiming for here? A: Comanche:
Hokum:
The level of realism is the same as A-H except we now take account of the penetration angle/weapon effectiveness (for example tanks have more armour at the front).
Q. Are these choppers evenly matched when they go head to head? A: I'd rather take my chances in the Comanche but the Hokum does have the ejector seats. On the other hand the Comanche is more stealthy but the Hokum is more manoeuvrable ... Go to Page Five.
|
|||
|
Copyright © 1997 - 2000 COMBATSIM.COM, INC. All Rights Reserved. Last Updated December 15th, 1999 |
||||