Eagle Dynamics has teased its upcoming “2026 and Beyond” video with a new promotional image, setting the stage for a full video premiere on 30 January. This teaser arrives alongside the weekly newsletter, which details significant updates for the DCS: MiG-29A Fulcrum and new features for Heatblur Simulations’ A-6E Intruder.
2026 and Beyond Teaser
The teaser image, released by Community Manager NineLine in the DCS Discord server, offers a glimpse into the platform’s future content. The “and Beyond” video series is an established annual tradition for Eagle Dynamics, serving as a cinematic showcase for upcoming modules and core features planned for the years ahead.
The teaser image confirms the presence of several highly anticipated third-party modules. Notable airframes include the Aerges F-104 Starfighter and the Eurofighter Typhoon, a collaborative effort between TrueGrit and Heatblur Simulations. The Panavia Tornado is also visible, representing the IDS variant currently in development by AviaStorm in collaboration with Heatblur Simulations.
In addition to modern jets, the teaser highlights the expansion of the Pacific Theatre with the A6M5 Zero and new naval assets. Ground warfare also receives attention, with the image showcasing the new M1 Abrams model and an AH-64D TADS view focusing on updated infantry models, features likely tied to the upcoming Combined Arms 2.0 update. The teaser also shows the presence of a Mirage F1. As the F1EE is already available in the simulator, this appearance likely represents the modernised F1M variant currently in development by Aerges.
Perhaps the most significant detail is a silhouette at the bottom of the image. Community analysis suggests the aircraft’s distinct nose and canopy shape point to a Dassault Rafale, a module that has been the subject of long-standing speculation since earlier last year.
Heatblur F-14B(U) Development Update
In a separate announcement, Heatblur Simulations has provided a substantial update on the F-14B(U), a modernised variant of the F-14 Tomcat featuring the avionics upgrades that brought the aircraft into the 2000s. Development continues at pace, with many key systems now in a usable state and limited internal testing ongoing for the past few months.
The front cockpit receives a completely new Sparrowhawk HUD, providing significantly improved situational awareness over the legacy HUD. Features include integration of the RWR, multiple target designators, detailed target and navigational data, and higher refresh rates. Screenshots released by Heatblur show the Sparrowhawk HUD displaying three targets, with the radar in TWS AUTO mode.
For the RIO, the Programmable Tactical Information Display greatly expands operational capabilities, replacing the classic fishbowl TID from the original F-14, and can now be repeated on the ECMD when required, improving flexibility and crew coordination by allowing video feeds to be viewed simultaneously with the radar display. Images show the PTID displaying LANTIRN pod imagery, with a new weapons display now appearing on the ECMD panel.
Navigation also receives a fundamental overhaul with a modernised system built around the Embedded GPS and INS system, providing enhanced navigation accuracy compared to the current F-14’s implementation. The RIO cockpit now features a Control Display Navigation Unit in place of the old CAP panel. This is a significant upgrade from the legacy system, which was limited to just three navigation waypoints beyond fixed points like the initial point and home base.
Additional capabilities currently in development include new weapons and systems such as JDAMs and DFCS, which will move the B(U) beyond a quality-of-life upgrade to a substantially different experience. Heatblur is also bringing features from the F-4E Phantom II to both the existing F-14A/B and the B(U), including the in-game browser, interactive kneeboards, and interactive manual with explain-me-switch functionality. JESTER will be taught to operate the new systems, with quality-of-life improvements planned for the AI RIO across both Tomcat variants following the B(U)’s release.
In the Heatblur Discord server, members of the Heatblur Simulations team and IronMike confirmed that the F-14B(U) will be a separate module due to the extensive development work involved. No timeline or release date has been announced for the aircraft. Cobra847 also confirmed that a new F-14 pilot model, upgraded helmets, and “a few other things” are planned for release for the existing F-14 as well.
MiG-29A Development Update
Following the Early Access release of the MiG-29A, Eagle Dynamics reports that development is now focused on sensor refinement and error correction. A key update addresses the SPO-15LM RWR, which previously failed to receive signals while the onboard radar was transmitting. After re-evaluating technical data and pilot testimony, the team determined this behaviour is software-controlled rather than a hardware limitation, and adjustments are underway.
Work also continues on the Radar/IRST Cooperative mode and the Track-While-Scan Feature. Visually, the external model is receiving updates including detailed service hatches, countermeasures dispensers, and new missile rails.
Heatblur A-6E Intruder Development Update
Heatblur Simulations, following the release of the A-6E AI asset for DCS, has shared a new look at the A-6E Intruder, specifically focusing on the Terrain Clearance Mode. The developer revealed how the Pilot’s Analog Display Indicator functions when driven by the radar in this mode.
The display provides a pictorial representation of the terrain ahead using discrete bands to represent range contours from 0.25nm to 8.5nm. Pilots can select specific bands for coding to maintain clearance height, using an “Offset Impact Bar” as a visual reference. The system also features an “Altitude Curtain” which moves relative to the horizon line to represent radar altitude.
Further details are available in the full newsletter.
