Update for the AJS-37 Viggen Guide

Merry Christmas everyone!

We're finally there. The first version of this guide was done about four years ago, which sort of feels like a lifetime by now.  A lot has changed since then; DCS has grown to unprecedented heights and I've tackled on projects I didn't think were possible. I've learned a lot along the way, and there inevitably comes a time where I have to improve existing documents. The Viggen guide represented one of the last first-generation of guides I did for DCS... and it really shows.

I had the choice between doing a few improvements here and there, or following the harder path of re-doing it all from near-scratch. I chose the latter. Needless to say, it was not a smooth ride at all. This gut-wrenching process forced me to stare at my mistakes, identify things I had flat out wrong... and while it was unpleasant, it was necessary and I think the final product will only benefit from it. I identified three main deficiencies:

• Readability
• Information layout
• Radar and sensor operation

In order to address these issues, I re-organized the tutorial sections and managed to scrap a lot of the repetitive procedures. I hope it will make the document easier to navigate through, even if it is a beefier one. Eventually, I realized I had to better explain important principles like QFE, fixes and flight planning.  I also had to add information about radar modes, Master modes and the CK37 Computer... which I had barely glossed over before. The document went from 140 to more than 500 pages. Needless to say, it was a tough, exhausting ordeal but I think it was worth it. Most important of all, you all deserve it.

Doing this whole guide overhaul rekindled my love for the Viggen. Every flight has imminent death clawing at the edge of your seat... and every attack is a mix between an exhilarating sense of speed and sheer terror. The Heatblur team's love for this swedish plane is contagious, and they deserve high praise for bringing such a cool, unique plane to life within DCS. Alright, let's not bore everyone and get to the good stuff already. 

Click here to see more!

Happy holidays to each and everyone of you. Stay safe, keep your chin up, and let's hope 2021 will be a better year.

Chuck