This part of the DCS AH-64D Apache guide introduces the AGM-114K Hellfire missile.
We provide detailed instructions on how to use the Hellfire missiles.
We explain how to aim the Hellfire at a target with a laser.
You will find out all the differences between LOBL and LOAL launch modes and types of trajectories.
The effective range of the Hellfire is approximately 8 kilometers.
The AGM-114K is operated mainly by the CPG.
In the LOAL mode, choosing the right trajectory is important depending on situation.
Typically the HI (high) or LO (low) types are used.
With HI trajectory, the climb rate is a bit steeper.
If the missile is fired at closer distances, it usually fails to lock on the laser beam.
The BACKSCATTER message may then prevent the missile from launching in LOBL mode.
a hill or a line of trees.
Arm weapons by pressing ARMAMENT A / S and ARM highlighted.
If you want to make changes to the prefs while still on the ground, press GND-ORIDE first.
Activate the Hellfire missiles with the Weapon Action Select M button.
The first missile ready for use will be highlighted in white.
Press the UTIL button.
ensure the laser is turned on.
The dot symbol next to the word LASER must be filled in.
see to it the missiles are set to the correct laser code you intend to use.
The default code A - 1688 always works then.
Detailed instructions on how to change the codes are provided later in this entry.
In this case, the TADS is looking too far down.
The meaning of the messages is described further in the entry.
If the helicopter or target is moving, turn on the Linear Motion Compensator LMC.
It aids tracking a moving target.
Press and hold the LRFD Trigger 2nd Detent laser beam.
The distance to the target will appear at the bottom.
Check that there are no Weapon Inhbit messages about usage restrictions.
Launch the missile while holding the laser trigger all the time.
HF TOF = 12 - Hellfire Time of Flight will show in the weapon status window.
It shows the remaining time in seconds until missile impact.
Note the status HI NORM and the Constrain Box which matches the TADS LOS Reticle with this trajectory setting.
Set the created point as the “acquisition” source.
From the list that appears, grab the point you have just created, in this caseT01.
With acquisition source set to the target map point (T01), fire the missile.
Watch the weapon status box.
First, the timer to impact will appear.
it’s possible for you to start illuminating the target with laser as soon as you are ready.
The last moment for this is theLASE 1 TRGT message.
If necessary, turn on the Linear Motion Compensator (LMC).
Keep the sight on target while keeping the laser trigger pressed.
Watch the TOF timer counting down.
At TOF = 0 the Hellfire will hit the illuminated spot.
Press the laser trigger to check the target distance.
LOAL mode and DIR trajectory are usually used when theBACKSCATTERmessage appears.
It means that the laser illumination beam is obstructed by some objects.
But it is not a prerequisite.
In DCS World it is not as accurately simulated.
Launch the missile without illuminating the target with a laser.
Pay attention to the weapon status box.
The pilot should now properly position the helicopter so that nothing interferes with the laser beam.
Observe the weapon status box.
Shortly, a messageLASE 1 TRGTwill appear to fire the laser and start target illumination.
Squeeze theLRFD Trigger 2nd DETENT.
Continue illuminating until impact.
You will need to skillfully control the laser and switch it to the next target at the right moment.
Such distance should provide enough time to switch to the next targets.
Designate the target with the laser and fire the first missile.
Watch the weapon status box.
FIRE MSLS(Fire Missiles) will appear shortly after.
At this moment, fire the second missile.
Illuminate the target until impact.
Watch the status box as theFIRE MSLSmessage will keep popping up whenever the next missiles can be launched.
After each hit you’re able to direct the next Hellfire to a new target.
InDCS WorldGeorge can distinguish the enemy from friendlies, but he is not perfect.
Turn on the TADS video on one of the MFD monitors to see what the CPG is aiming at.
switch on the George AI Helper interface (LCtrl V by default).
Press the George AI InterfaceLEFT SHORT(default “A”) to switch to Hellfires.
If CPG detects vehicles there, their list will appear on the left.
When the missile hit its target, the list will disappear.
It can designate a target for you.
If the mission includes its participation, Hellfires can work as “fire-and-forget” weapon.
After proper setup and communication with JTAC, just launch the missile.
JTAC will do the rest - it will illuminate the target until impact.
In theCOMscreen use theMANfunction and set the JTAC radio frequency specified in the mission briefing.
The JTAC laser code by default is 1688, which is Apache primary A channel code.
303 697 will change to 3030 6970.
Use theLRFD Trigger 2nd Detentlaser trigger and theSTOREbutton to create the point.
Set the new T0x point as acquisition source.
PressSLAVEto point the camera at the target.
PressSLAVEagain to set the camera free.
On the screen you will see the area indicated by the JTAC.
He cannot do it himself.
Continue exchanging messages with the JTAC untilLASER ON - LASING.
To do this, select SKR (seeker), the Hellfire missile sensor, as the acquisition source.
But that’s optional.
The Missile Constrain Box will change to large, indicating that that the missile is locked on target.
After firing the missile, you might turn back the helicopter and fly away.
JTAC will take care of the rest.
Or, you’ve got the option to watch the TADS screen and wait for the impact.
JTAC will announce the result of the attack anyway.
Changing the laser code
Press the CODE button.
The default change option is for your own LRFD designator.
On the screen’s sides you will see stored presets with various codes to choose from.
Just press the one you want, e.g.
Press the SET button to choose the LST code in the same way.
The 4-digit code can be entered on the keyboard unit and confirmed with Enter.
Note - not all number combinations will work!
Select a channel with the top button and then one of the presets.
Press CHAN to exit to the Hellfire Home Screen.
Press the desired channel button.
Choose from the available options.
It is the upper letter on the missile symbol on the MFD screen.
Restrictions - Why and when Hellfires cannot be used?
BAL LIMIT
Ballistic Limitis the most common case of inability to launch Hellfires.
In this case, the pilot must use the anti-torque pedals to turn the helicopter towards the target.
BACKSCATTER
Backscatteris a temporary disturbance in the operation of the laser beam.
In DCS, it generally does not have much impact on the gameplay and appears rarely.
It disappears within a second.
NO MISSILIESinforms you when you are out of Hellfires.
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