Over on their Facebook page, FlyingIron Simulations has put out an announcement seeking new beta testers for their in-development Spitfire L.F. MK IX for X-Plane 11.
They expect beta testing to commence on the 15th. If you are interested, leave a comment on their Facebook post and they will select a couple of candidates to join the beta testing team. They are looking for a couple of ideal criterion as listed below:
- Individuals with extensive knowledge of the Spitfire & its operations
- Real-World Flight Experience, ideally in a tail-dragger
- Our long-time supporters and owners of the P-47 will have a higher chance of being chosen as a thank you for your support
It is not a necessity to meet all of the criteria above, however, if you think you fit any one of them and have an interest in beta testing the Spitfire you’re eligible to join the beta team.
In addition to this, FlyingIron Simulations have released some new previews of the Spitfire L.F. MK IX along with a list of how progress is coming along so far. In their post, they mention that systems modelling is now mainly complete meaning the aircraft is definitely on the horizon of release as its being brought into the beta stage.
You can view the complete update list at the end of this article. We’ll endeavour to keep you up-to-date on the future progress of FlyingIron Simulations’ Spitfire L.F. MK IX.
Progress Update
- Systems modelling is now mainly complete (2000+ lines of code so far)
- Integration of Multisound Events – sounds are being replaced with multi-sound events, to increase realism and create a more immersive, dynamic experience. Instead of hearing the same sound over & over, sounds are being programmed with multiple variations. For example, when a switch is pressed, instead of repeating the same single switch sound, it will randomly play one of the 5-10 sounds/variations assigned to that switch.
- Particle FX are being refined & tweaked – we are aiming for a truly ‘next-gen’ particle system that raises the bar for aircraft. So far we have:
- Engine Exhaust Detonation/Flame FX (dynamic – affected by speed, altitude, temps, manifold pressure etc.)
- Fuel Flooding / Over-prime / Startup Flameout FX (dynamically affected by fuel pressure & prime state)
- Heat Blur FX (Dynamic – Tied to Oil & Radiator Temps)
- Smoke FX (Dynamic – tied to Engine damage state and temperature state)
- Dynamic Failure system is now largely complete and is a big improvement upon the P-47. Instead of using simple timers & checks, the Mk IX has a complex damage tracking system, that is calculating the state of the aircraft systems each frame and dynamically influenced by the relevant factors. As an example, running the engine past its temperature limits will gradually accumulate heat damage, accumulating faster & faster the harder you push your engine, and will need to be brought back to acceptable limits by you via a balance of engine management, altitude, radiator management, airspeed management and so on. Overall the system is much more complex than the P-47 & other payware aircraft and creates a significantly more realistic flight experience.
- Ground Elements in development
- Radios
Thanks for all your feedback! Based on the results we have implement both a modern, cockpit integrated Radio + Transponder Unit, as well as the period-accurate preset based radio, where each preset can be tuned and a freq saved via the VR/GUI Panel. The modern radio will also be optional, with the option to toggle it off via the GUI panel for those that wish to fly without it. (Pictured: WiP of Modern Radio – Transponder not yet modelled) - Paint-Kit
Painters Rejoice! The UV Mapping for the Mk IX has been done with painters in mind, and as you can see below, the UV maps are very accessible and easy to paint. The paint-kit will be available from Day 1.
