In this video, the pilot undertakes Mission 1 of the “Inherent Resolve” campaign in DCS World, flying the F/A-18C Hornet to reacquaint themselves with the aircraft through low-level transit, weapons delivery, and coordination with AI wingmen against insurgent targets. Despite some challenges with formation flying, fuel management, and weapon accuracy, the mission is successfully completed, serving as a valuable and instructional flight to rebuild the pilot’s skills.
In this video, the pilot embarks on Mission 1 of the “Inherent Resolve” campaign in DCS World, flying the F/A-18C Hornet. The campaign is designed for all skill levels, making it an ideal choice for the pilot to reacquaint themselves with the aircraft after some time away. The mission begins with a briefing that sets the context of combating ISIL forces, emphasizing the United States’ commitment to a comprehensive counterterrorism strategy. The pilot expresses enthusiasm for flying the F-18, describing it as a versatile and forgiving multi-role jet, despite anticipating some mistakes due to rustiness.
The mission starts with a low-level transit to a weapons range, where the pilot follows two Mirage jets. Early on, the pilot struggles with maintaining formation and managing the aircraft’s controls but gradually settles into the flight. The pilot highlights challenges such as managing fuel consumption at low altitude and dealing with AI wingmen’s unpredictable flying behavior. The video also touches on the pilot’s apprehension about air-to-air refueling, a complex task they hope to avoid during the campaign.
Once at the weapons range, the pilot conducts a show of force and prepares for an attack on a suspected insurgent camp. After visually confirming the target, the pilot marks it with a smoke bomb and successfully drops a BDU-45 bomb, coordinating with allied forces for a follow-up strike. Despite some issues with cockpit controls like the autopilot disengage switch, the pilot manages to complete the attack run and observes the ensuing destruction, marking a successful engagement.
The mission continues with an assignment to target a convoy near a lake. The pilot plans to use rockets to destroy the convoy, while the wingman is tasked with cluster bombs. Although the pilot misses some timing cues and struggles with weapon delivery precision, the combined efforts result in the convoy being largely neutralized. Throughout the mission, the pilot remains cautious about fuel levels and keeps the aircraft’s lights off to maintain a low profile in the combat zone.
In conclusion, the video serves as a relaxed and instructional flight, allowing the pilot to regain proficiency with the F/A-18C. The mission is described as straightforward but effective for rebuilding skills, with the pilot acknowledging mistakes and areas for improvement. The video ends with the pilot returning to base and expressing optimism about progressing through the campaign and becoming a more competent Hornet pilot in future missions.