A development team almost as legendary as the aircraft they model, FlyingIron Simulations has started 2022 off with a bang, dropping a bombshell announcement. “Mean, rugged & powerful” is how they describe their latest creation, the US Navy's Grumman F6F Hellcat. Known as the most lethal naval aircraft, not only in the American fleet but across all allied aircraft, downing more than five thousand enemy Aircraft. With stats like these, the aircraft undoubtedly earns its place in the Microsoft Flight Simulator world.

If the images above from FlyingIron aren't alone enticing, here’s their provided feature list:

• Incredibly detailed 3D Modeling & Artwork, with precise & intricate detailing of complex features such as the radial engine, gear bays & wing joints.
• 10+ Historical Liveries, painstakingly detailed & textured.
• The authentic roar of the R-2800 Double Wasp Engine - professionally recorded from a real F6F Hellcat by the same production team that recorded their Spitfire sounds. 
• Wing-folds, Catapult Launches & Carrier Landing capabilities. Put your flying skills to the ultimate test!
• Detailed simulation of all aircraft systems, including electrical & pneumatic systems.
• Detailed simulation of the R-2800 Double Wasp Engine & its many cooling systems.
• Automated Flap system
• FlyingIron Tablet UI Integration
• + Much more!

In typical FlyingIron Fashion, their visual prowess is once again demonstrated in the textures, distinctively perfectly imperfect, as is the real aircraft. Every grime streak, bolt, and rivet are modeled and textured. Needless to say, the hand-drawn authenticity in the decals and artwork and every scratch and stain, it's all there.

As mentioned in the feature list, FlyingIron is leaving little to be desired across the board. Jam-packed with solid features, the team has assured their customers and followers that the aircraft will sound as incredible as it looks. With hundreds of real-world samples from the F6F Hellcat itself, one must be prepared to hear the very same growl and rumble that struck fear into the hearts of all who opposed this machine.

All of this does not mean the most important aspects are forgotten, which tends to happen with developers. Systems and flight models have not by any means been forgotten, nor neglected amongst the eye candy. The developers are currently working extremely hard, to ensure users will almost feel the same privilege as the pilots who once flew her did.

FlyingIron has not provided any release dates as of yet, however looking at the intricacy and exceptional detail, one thing is for sure, every extra minute spent on this already outstanding model will only make it increasingly more immersive. 

For more information, stay tuned and feel free to view their website here.