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FS Aircraft Preview Dassault Rafale M
by Bruno Mérelle
(Previewed July 2010)
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I've recently had the opportunity to preview the Rafale M
being developed by Bruno Mérelle (alias "Thor's Hammer" in the forums). When asked
why he selected the Rafale Bruno replied, "I guess it is just the harmonious shape
of the plane, and not because it's French. I could have perfectly chosen
the Spifire, one of my other favorite planes." [I have to agree -- the
Rafale is a beautifully sculpted airplane. ~ FS] (Updates will follow as they become available.)
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But Bruno's interest in the subject goes back to at least 2001 when he started
working on a Rafale made by another
developer
for a modification of the Battlefield 1942 game. "While the results
were quite good (image at right) for Battlefield they were below FS standards."
Shortly after FSX was released Bruno began work on an improved version.
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According to Bruno the model has been redone several times since then with
very little remaining from the original. In addition to the exterior
model Bruno is also developing the instrument panel, VC, and 3D gauges.
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Four external models will be used depending on the fuel tank configuration:
no external tanks (title image), a single 1275 litre tank (right), three 1275 litre tanks, two 2000
litre tanks (below), and three 2000 litre tanks (above). When you change weights under
payload the external loads will appear and disappear.
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"I chose to separate the folders following the external tanks scheme.
I made this decision to be able to have a different flight models following
aerodynamics and limitations controlled by flight avionic when carrying heavy
stuff." For the flight model, "I hope to be assisted by Bee Gee, our most
talented French flight model maker."
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Work in Progress video (October 2010) at YouTube.
And another video (June 2011) with a teaser at the end.
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This preview page was originally presented in July 2010. Work has continued as
evidenced from the video's above. Here are a couple new of images from September
2011. With the outbreak of war in Libya this year, and air support provided to
rebel forces by NATO, the Rafale has been in the news and
videos quite often.
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Although the VC is not completed yet this Rafale M for FSX is scheduled for public
release at the "6ième Mondial de la Simulation" event the weekend of September 30
at the "Musée de l 'Air et de l'Espace", Le Bourget. (Image via
FAF)
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All images by Bruno Merelle and FAF.
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