FAQs
Do you fly every week?
Yes, Task Force Trident flies weekly with the rare exception of special holiday standdowns. We play a "mission" either a deployment operation or Field Training Exercise every Sunday @1900 EST and each squadron host a squadron training during the week.
What level of attendance is expected?
To maintain proficiency and to allow effective planning by the mission-making and leadership team we expect line pilots to attend 50% of events on a monthly basis. Generally, there are 8 events per month (4 squadron trainings & 4 Sunday operations); therefore, we expect pilots to make 4 events per month.
If you cannot commit to this attendance level you have the option of reserves in which the only requirement is to attend 1 operation OR training per 90-days.
How long does it take to join and start flying?
The training pipeline is very pilot dependent and how fast you complete it really depends on your skill level in the aircraft and your willingness to get on and fly with the instructors. It can be completed in a week or less for highly competent and dedicated pilots but we allow up to 30-days (extensions can be requested).
I am brand new to DCS, can I join?
Yes; however, the community is not structured around teaching brand-new pilots all aspects of the jet. Therefore, if you are brand new to the game or to an aircraft you are welcome to join and we are happy to help you; however, YOU as the pilot must commit the time to learning the aircraft and cannot expect the team to do the leg work.
I'm new to the unit, what can I join?
Pilots in training are welcome and encouraged to join their squadron trainings that occur weekly and can participate in any Field Training Exercises (FTXs).
Do I have to cold start my jet?
Yes. The expectation is all pilots have the knowledge of their jet necessary to cold start their aircraft and all jets start cold during operations and trainings.
Do I have to air-air refuel?
Yes. The expectation is all pilots with air-air refuel capable aircraft maintain the ability to tank; however, the frequency of tanking is heavily dependent on aircraft type and mission parameters. Tanking is a requirement to graduate our training pipeline.
You are "milsim" do I have to say yes sir or use ranks?
NO, while we are MILSIM the MILSIM focus is around operational excellence and high standards for training and operations and there is no expectation that ranks are used or yes sir/no sir, you will find a generally casual atmosphere outside of events with lots of banter.
What maps do I need?
Deployment maps rotate and are generally played on for 4-6 months followed by an extended Field Training Exercise (FTX) on a free map OR on Nevada. We highly encourage all pilots to purchase Nevada then inquire about the current or upcoming deployment map upon joining. Notice of new maps are given months in advance to allow pilots to take advantage of sales.
Can I switch between aircraft?
Yes, you can transfer between aircraft; however, after your first transfer you are locked into that squadron for 90-days. Moreover, when transferring you must complete the appropriate training for that aircraft.
I want to do more, is this allowed?
YES! We highly encourage pilots to get involved in the Staff Shops and help the community outside of simply showing up and flying and any pilot at any point in time can inquire about joining a Staff Shop.
Do you only have pilots? What other roles are there?
On top of our active duty squadrons, we have the auxiliary squadrons. This includes the C-130, CH-47, and OH-58. Outside of these aircraft we also have slots for Combined Arms players, JTACs, and ATC/AWACS.