Question 1

What are the requirements to join Virtual CSG-8?

Accepted Answer

Like most DCS groups, we do have a few requirements to join.

1. You must be 18 years old.
2. You must own at least one of these plane modules for DCS World: F/A-18C, F-14, or F-16C
3. You must own the Persian Gulf and Syria terrain modules for DCS World
4. If you are planning to use a naval aircraft, you must own the Supercarrier Module for DCS World
5. You should be proficient in whatever controls you're using. Most of members have HOTAS setups but that isn't required.

To fly in our official weekly operations you need to pass a basic Case I qualification (pattern moreso than landing skill), and a short Basic Type Rating to make sure you are proficient in several of the weapon systems frequently used in our operations, and capable of performing necessary functions.  You will be provided the file and a mission briefing in advance of your checkride so that you can practice on either your own time or with the help of another member. You may attempt this multiple times if needed. If you struggle, we want to help you learn.

If you wish to fly as a RIO you need to NFO qual. It's a similar process to the BTR in that you just need to demonstrate that you know how to effectively operate necessary functions in the RIO cockpit.

Question 2

When does Virtual CSG-8 fly?

Accepted Answer

Our official missions are on Saturdays at typically start between 8:00-9:00PM CST. They last roughly three hours depending on what number you are arriving back at the boat. Occasionally we run longer missions on Saturday.

If you can't regularly make the mission, don't worry! While we do expect our pilots to make their best effort to attend our operations, we ask that you attend some sort of event every 60 days (exceptions can be made per your CO/XO/CAG, otherwise we only have mandatory RSVPs. You'll often find our members flying in DCS on most days of the week in our Discord, or playing a multitude of other games together.

Question 3

What modules/aircraft does Virtual CSG-8 fly?

Accepted Answer

We exclusively fly the F/A-18 Hornet and F-14B Tomcat on carrier based operations, and the F-16C viper in land based operations, in our official missions.

Once you choose your squadron, you'll be locked in to that airframe until you pass your Lieutenant Junior Grade (LTJG) checkride and fly six missions with us. After that point, you are allowed to cross qualify in the other aircraft by passing that aircraft's LTJG checkride.

F-14 pilots and F-14 RIOs have separate checkrides, so don't worry about needing to know both seats by heart.

Question 4

Do I need to pass a mandatory training course before I can fly with Virtual CSG-8?

Accepted Answer

No.

However, there is a minimum proficiency (Basic Type Rating) that we expect of members before they can fly in missions. Which, in our eyes, is still a new player friendly expectation.

This is not to say we don't have training, and that you can't ask someone to help you learn something almost any day of the week. We just don't believe in making you treat DCS like a job before you can actually do missions. Yes, we want you to be proficient in your chosen jet but you'll learn on the operations and flight leads are always willing to help you out.

Question 5

Where can I find more about CSG-8's Rules and SOP?

Accepted Answer

If you'd like to know more about our rules, you can visit the Rules and SOP page here.

CSG-8

Virtual Carrier Strike Group 8

FAQ

What are the requirements to join Virtual CSG-8?

When does Virtual CSG-8 fly?

What modules/aircraft does Virtual CSG-8 fly?

Do I need to pass a mandatory training course before I can fly with Virtual CSG-8?

Where can I find more about CSG-8's Rules and SOP?