Red Star Simulations

About Us

Our Goal

Red Star Simulations was founded by two pilots with a shared goal: to deliver the most realistic flight experience possible in DCS World. Our modules are built with a pilot-first approach, with a primary focus on accurate and authentic flight dynamics.

Our Team

Our developers, 3D modelers, and texture artists work closely alongside experienced pilots to ensure every aspect of each aircraft is represented as accurately as possible.

Focus

Red Star Simulations specializes in 1st through 3rd generation fighter and attack aircraft, bringing these iconic platforms to life with high fidelity and attention to detail.

About the Pilots

Our pilots each bring over 30 years of flying experience, including civilian aviation (up to airline operations), paramilitary aircraft, and military fighter and attack jets. Their real-world expertise directly informs and validates the development of our modules.

Current Project: MiG-17F "Fresco"

The MiG-17 is a first-generation jet fighter developed as a successor to the MiG-15, addressing its stability and high-speed handling limitations. Originally designed as an interceptor against Western bombers, the aircraft’s compact size, stability, and exceptional maneuverability quickly made it highly effective in close-range dogfights even against newer and faster adversaries. Over more than two decades of service, the MiG-17 proved itself in numerous conflicts worldwide, including the Taiwan Strait conflicts, the Vietnam War, the Six-Day War, the War of Attrition, and the Yom Kippur War.

The MiG-17 was produced in multiple variants and manufactured under license in several countries. Many operators further modified and upgraded their aircraft to meet evolving operational requirements, resulting in significant variation between individual airframes. As a result, it is rare to find two MiG-17s configured exactly alike.

Our module focuses on the MiG-17F (Lim-5) variant, a day fighter equipped with a ranging radar integrated with the ASP-4N gunsight, 23 mm and 37 mm cannons, and wing-mounted ordnance. In addition, we are modeling regional upgrades inspired by Egyptian operated aircraft, including Sakr rocket systems and belly-mounted bomb configurations, reflecting the adaptations used in Middle Eastern and North African conflicts during the 1960s and 1970s.

The MiG-17F is a smooth and highly maneuverable early jet fighter, offering stable and predictable handling throughout much of its flight envelope. However, operating near its limits requires skill and precision, rewarding pilots with strong “stick-and-rudder” technique. Its early-generation jet engine further adds to the experience, combining simplicity with demanding energy management.

The MiG-17F module is designed to capture the essence of the golden age of jet aviation—an aircraft that rewards pilot skill and delivers an authentic, engaging flying experience.

Status

The EFM flight model is over 95% complete. The remaining items currently in development include:

- Spin behavior and recovery characteristics

- Engine surges and flameouts under specific flight conditions

Systems development is ongoing and approximately 70% complete. As the majority of our work is now systems-focused, progress has accelerated significantly over the past quarter, advancing from roughly 45% to 70%, with several core systems already implemented and integrated into DCS.

The SFM model for AI is complete. Despite the limitations of SFM, the flight dynamics are well-tuned and representative of the MiG-17F. AI behavior has been refined to reflect that of a trained pilot, providing a capable and engaging opponent—one that should not be underestimated

All projected timelines are estimates and remain subject to change.

For the latest updates, please visit our Facebook page.

https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=red%20star%20simulations

FAQ

Will the module be available to the public?

The MiG-17F Lim5 went thru the rigorous Eagle Dynamics approval process and will be an official DCS module.

Are there actual MiG-17 pilots helping with the project?

We have consulted with several current U.S.-based MiG-17F airshow pilots as subject matter contributors to the module, including Will Ward, Randy Ball and FighterJet Inc team, and Jason Somes. Their input has provided helpful real-world perspective and validation throughout development.

In addition, the project benefits from insights provided by retired MiG-17 military pilots, pilots who have flown against the MiG-17, and experienced maintenance personnel with direct operational knowledge of the aircraft.

Are there plans for any other MiG-17 variants?

An East German fighter-bomber conversion of the MiG-17F is under consideration, as is a Lim-6 variant. However, any development would occur at a later stage and only if it can be carried out alongside another project.

MiG-17PF variant may be cosidered at a later time, but any development would occur only if it can be carried out alongside another project.

Due to lack of data on the AS version, there will be no MiG-17AS version.

Can I sign up for Alpha or Beta testing?

A significant portion of Alpha testing is focused on flight dynamics; therefore, being a qualified pilot is a requirement. All Alpha testers are already part of the testing team.

Beta testing is currently underway, and several positions have been filled. Should testing requirements expand, additional Beta pilots may be recruited.

For any inquiries or additional information, please contact us through our Livery Discord:
https://discord.gg/VmmaZajD

What is the next plane Red Star Simulations is looking into making?

At this time, our full focus remains on completing the MiG-17F module, and no final decision has been made regarding our next project.

However, we are actively exploring future possibilities and have begun researching several potential planes, including gathering infomration on some of them. Our focus generally leans toward “red” (Eastern Bloc, East and South Asian) first through third generation aircraft, though we are not limited to this direction, and certain British and French aircraft are also of interest.

Welcome to Red Star Simulations