Cockpit Camera: Beaker's Delta Show

We've had many requests over the years for live, uncut, cockpit footage. Now, in full 1080p, you can "ride along" with the team during a live show. Watch as our Lead Solo, Beaker, flies the Delta portion of the flight demonstration at the Virtual-Aerobatics.com Anniversary Airshow. This footage is a live screen-capture of Beaker's cockpit view, and includes the imperfections that challenge us on every flight. Want to learn more, or join the action? Visit www.virtualblueangels.com for more information. (Video edited by Grab)
www.virtualblueangels.com/
virtualblueangels/
FAQ:
Q: What simulator is this?
A: DCS: World with a custom aircraft module.
Q: What is that aircraft? Can I have it?
A: The F/A-18C Hornet we fly is a custom-made aircraft module that is only available to team-members due to external restrictions and privacy concerns.
Q: Why did you edit the audio?
A: To increase immersion and cover some miscellaneous noises in the original recording.
Q: What are the pilots saying?
A: Our live communication, or "comm," is a nearly-identical representation of the real Blue Angels radio procedures that enables us to fly precisely and consistently.
Q: Why are there only 5 aircraft? I thought there were 6 aircraft in Delta?
A: While the Delta formation usually consists of 6 pilots, for this show we were faced with the realistic contingency of a five-ship formation due to personnel reasons.

[@ThreeNineLine]

Man! That rejoin that begins around the 4:30 mark scared me. I thought...sheesh he's gonna plow right into those guys! However you didn't. :) It shows just how amazing it is that these guys can control their flight paths like this with such confident precision. Really makes me appreciate the fidelity and finesse of even their rejoin maneuvers now! Well done...extremely well done VBA!

[@CheeseburgerFrags]

God I felt like an idiot, I thought this was real for a good 2 mins

[@Van2808]

This is our favorite kind of comment! Hope you enjoyed it.

[@robertmantell6872]

Lol I was unsure myself until I read your comment

[@vikingfaen]

Felix 4 minutes in and i realized the same, i need glasses.

[@Shinobi117]

Me tooooo

[@nitrix8505]

Well technically ur a cheeseburger so u don’t have a brain......... I accept that

[@eric27325]

I had the opportunity to talk to Beaker the other night in a TS3 channel and he helped me set up my PTT button on my throttle. He is a really nice guy. Thanks again Beaker!!

[@ThreeNineLine]

This always amazes me. The quality of the footage and of course your precision simulation flying is unrivaled! Superb stuff!

[@zackperezski709]

You guys are great!! This is so realistic! Please do a full show because thid group is amazing!!

[@TeeKeh24]

I know this channel isn't very active anymore, but I wish it was. This is amazing!! Love to see more cockpit footage like this

[@shadowblade145]

Beautiful flying, I'd love to see more of this.

[@Van2808]

We hope to deliver! We might have included the rest of the show, had I remembered to start recording before takeoff. Oops!

[@zeitzeph]

Conor Bryan We use the simulator DCS: World, it is free however you will need to purchase Flaming Cliffs 3. Everything you need to get started with the application processes can be found on our website, virtualblueangels(dot)com/forum/index.php?topic=11.0

[@darrellparkhill]

For years I have always believed that I was a good - if not GREAT - sim pilot; my friends and family think the same: that I am really good at my hobby. After watching this, I realize that I am an asshole for believing such a fallacy... Bravo Zulu on a FANTASTIC vid. Amazing work guys!

[@RWJOwnsUsAll]

Five dislikes? You guys are amazing keep it up VAB!

[@saburusakai]

OMG, I am fraking impressed. I've seen the Blues back to when I was a kid in F-4Js, then A-4Fs, and a bunch of times in the 18s. Photographed them several times, and they look just like this......and SOUND just like this when you hear recordings of the coms. I am so bloody impressed, and I am not easy to impress. I'm into this stuff, and wow.

[@TeeKeh24]

Unbelievable!!! Way to go guys! Would love to see more videos

[@taynisongirigorie7501]

you guys are so good man i cant stop watching you guys!

[@DABLACKB1RDonline]

Cheeky comment

[@Flightgearsim]

Best virtual aerobatic formation I've seen. So realistic! Congrats!

[@AmJaxineer]

While I really enjoy playing FSX and p3d, its really need to see you all doing well, but also enjoy looking at the reflections in the cockpit rear view mirrors and how the pilots head follows where you're looking. Job well done guys

[@JayDKBGames]

WOW I am blown away for a brief moment (even though I knew better) I thought this was the real thing. Excellent flying guys really good stuff.

[@timwitt94]

You guys definitely got me! Thought this was real!

[@bowser515]

Excellent flying!!! I can't wait for DCS: F-18c to arrive.

[@AviaScorp]

Thanks Beaker VBA, thoroughly enjoyed the video. Awesome stuff.

[@lah1218]

Wow this is pure skill... Amazing tbf

[@the_disabled_gamer2832]

OMG you guys are absolutely phenominal, great job and you all have amazing pilot skills to be able to do this is the sim, WOW...Subscribed immediately !

[@MarvinBoydCo]

Gorgeous flying boys well done

[@ltspectergc009]

This is unreal. You guys are pro.

[@TheMicroproductions]

Absolutely stunning, fellas!!! Very well produced. The graphics are remarkable and the flying is top notch.You might have created another DCS customer. Plus, I'm getting tired of doing all this flying on my on my own! ;)

[@Van2808]

Let us know when you pick up DCS!

[@GlowingAmraam]

Impressive flying guys. :)

[@GoodNamesWereUsed]

This is beautiful.

[@soirr4221]

Great work guys! Previously Aka "Talon-Virtual Blue Angels" #3 pilot. Great to see you all doing well!

[@bigd-1-channel514]

Outstanding job Gentlemen. I used to do the #5 Slot just for my own entertainment in FS2002 & FS9

[@aerialshorts8300]

Very amazing! I am very impressed! You guys rock!

[@goblin2ten]

This is awesome... great stuff guys

[@granteilers]

Beaker... I think I know him from the virtual Roblox blue angels. Could be a totally different person though.

[@VirtualBlueAngels]

Different Beaker :-)

[@granteilers]

VirtualBlueAngels I see. You guys should upload more.

[@SnipingClutch]

Great Video Beaker most don't realize the focus it takes to flying these demo teams, great aspect. Thanks for sharing. FSXBA #2 "P-MAN"

[@Buzmanni]

Beautiful.

[@yankees14211]

Amazing! You guys should do another one for the diamond manuevers!

[@Van2808]

I think we will!

[@ZiadHatahet]

Great job!

[@jacobexley2835]

Omg soooo cool but just a request, could you do a ground POV on some of the manuevers?

[@VirtualBlueAngels]

Jacob Exley This might help give some context! youtubedoubler.com/?video1=SSS0jScg8rE&start1=2547&video2=nSkSz3egxMQ&start2=6&authorName=

[@xX_Gravity_Xx]

Amazing flying, so glad DCS supports new aircraft instead of replacing everything, cant wait for RAZBAM's F-15E though, that would completely change multiplayer

[@Scoggs117]

Beautiful man! Would love to see the full show from your point of view in the future! Please?!?

[@Van2808]

I'll see what I can do!

[@Scoggs117]

Thanks! The solo positions are my personal favorite to watch. And this is a far fetched idea and I would think a challenging one due to synchronization of the two cameras, but a split screen of spectator perspective and cockpit would be really cool. Great work too(to all the team), I wish I had 1/8th of the talent you guys do. I have trouble holding formation in level flight lol

[@Kirrrri02]

amazing

[@PhillMagGamerDad]

So I'm a little out of touch with what the VBA are doing nowadays. Are you guys still using this mod, or have you switched to the DCS official F18C Hornet?

[@Hanfkrokette]

And im assuming you guys are not gonna share the Hornet Mod nor the Pilot mod are ya? ;_;

[@MarkiusFox]

I was never able to get through a formation roll when I was flying in Flaming Cliffs 2 without botching it up and having to break out of formation. Practice practice practice. Maybe when I get a new PC to run DCS: World and a few other things, I might try and come back to virtual aerobatics.

[@XiongMoua]

Amazing!

[@hawaiidispenser]

Million thumbs up.

[@TheMicroproductions]

The fact that this vid has gotten 10 downvotes by random haters makes me feel better about my vids and the downvotes they get. If you feel the need to downvote this, you have other issues to deal with. Well done VBA. Keep on truckin.

[@Van2808]

Thanks!

[@SFPV]

I want to try this at your place!

[@Mastercluster]

Awesome guys i always enjoy watching aerobatic flights no matter if in sim or real. ive seen a cpl other guys trying formation flight in dcs but most of them are not on a professional level most because they dont have a proper flight plan & briefing also a lack of trust to his next wingman (which can be seen here very good the pilots focus is always to his wingman so he can stay in formation) maybe if possible can you share some information how to plan and brief properly such flight, that would be great! oh and thx 4 sharing this =)

[@jwahoski6248]

When will you return for more content!!!?!?!?

[@LeadIGhosTchannel]

What you using guys to create effect like you was talk on military radio ?

[@VPS_Choki]

can you do a joystick cam i really want to see how you keep the speed perfectly

[@thatboydre7585]

Plz do more vids!!!

[@sajonezzerotwo7620]

Very nice flying and skill guys. I am wondering where did you get F/A-18 cocpit? Is it from another simulator or its from Eagle Dynamics production? Our squadron is waiting for F/A-18C Hornet module for a long time so I would be glad for getting some extra info. Thank you.

[@fergie89]

It was made 100% in house by Beaker and Helmet, and is not part of any other sim or Eagle Dynamics production.

[@sajonezzerotwo7620]

James Leslie Roger that. Thank you guys and good luck!

[@harshlens]

Is this a module that will be purchasable in the future ?

[@dennismallari6923]

Thanks Guys your the best of the best! Wish we could buy the sim with your mod!

[@navalax]

That was awesome. I always wanted to see this from POV, and hear how the comms works in formation flying. One question; did you edit the voices after recording, or is it a voice addon or something so others sound like that to you, through teamspeak or something? Because that is something I would very much like to get my hands on ^_^ Great vid and great flying - very professionally done. Thanks!

[@Van2808]

They're edited, Grab just used a filter to remove most of the bass I think, that alone makes it sound more like a radio. Thanks for the kind words!

[@gabehorno]

You guys should do the corkscrew manoeuvre

[@Plydrms]

Intense concentration..I'd like to try my hand at it. I fly formation AI with the Sludge F-18 and lots of carrier approaches; IFR and visual....any try outs??

[@aviatorlogic]

Do you have DCS: World?

[@pockocmocvidz7513]

This is beautiful :) !!

[@igorlyakhovich170]

Hey awesome flying is there a mod for F18?? Or is it for members only really want to fly one lol keep up the fantastic work guys. Respect and Salute

[@jacobzeebra4731]

you need to do it in vintage props.. just for the fun

[@AverageSubscriber17]

What happened to the #3 jet when landing?

[@rap1800]

What HOTAS do you use?

[@carrierlandinghdlegacyhorn2686]

Please teach me how the throttle changes during a loop

[@ItsMeMikey998]

You’re constantly moving the throttle position to stay in formation the entire time. On the Boss’s end he’ll add throttle before the loop and so will his wingman so that they won’t stall on top.

[@Scoggs117]

Always wondered, what do the lights mean on the right side of the glare shield? Also how is smoke activated in the real aircraft? Is it on the HOTAS? ...and I guess one more thing, is the audio from another show? It seems like the speed calls are off in some shots. Edit; I am really interested in joining but don't feel up to par. Any recommendations on how I should practice and what I would need to learn to be successful in the VBA?

[@Van2808]

The lights are modifications added by the Blue Angels that indicate the status of some added systems, including smoke oil pressure, and inverted fuel pump status. Smoke is activated using the chaff switch on the throttle, which is re-wired for that purpose. The audio in this video is straight from my recording made while we flew the show. Keep in mind that the speed calls are (with the exception of a few) not from me, but Boss. You don't have to be perfect to join our team, we're more interested in personality, aptitude, and dedication! Basic formation flying skills are expected, but we're not looking for complex aerobatics. General airmanship is better, and a variety of flight sim experiences at various levels of intensity has proven to be the best preparation, but that's something you either have or you don't. The Virtual Aerobatics server is a good place to find people to fly with in DCS, and you can always practice instrument flying or landing patterns. Regardless, you won't know unless you try! Put in an application and find out!

[@Scoggs117]

I think I will, however just got laid off from my job so I am going to have to wait to apply. Hopefully soon!

[@Van2808]

Very sorry to hear that, but best of luck bouncing back! Feel free to send an application when everything's back to normal.

[@JSFilmTent]

What did you use to edit your sound with? The comms sound amazing!

[@RotorBrake]

I cant get that accuracy out of my cheap joystick. Trying to hold that precisely and im all over the place. What setup are you guys using.

[@VirtualBlueAngels]

Paul Johnson Most of us currently use the Thrustmaster HOTAS Warthog and Saitek Pro Combat Rudder Pedals.

[@rodneybuckland4140]

+VirtualBlueAngels how to set this up for the forecefeedback?

[@tommeier1888]

+Rodney Buckland warthog and these pedals don't have force feedback

[@tobbelelelele6700]

My biggest question is how do you controll that airspeed so good i almost always overshoots or i am dropping to much speed please answer.

[@USNavalAirForces]

+Tobbekarate Constant throttle inputs while in formation, energy management on rejoins.

[@tobbelelelele6700]

+USNavalAirForces Ok ill think about it while I am in formation thank you

[@DessertUnicorn]

+Tobbekarate you should look up the Russian knights they have footage of the pilots input on throttle and the stick, would love to see that from blue angels but they don't have any footage like that.

[@MrFelixdodd]

fantastic graphics - what is the name of this game?

[@Van2808]

Check the description, we put some frequently asked questions in there for you.

[@joaolcorreia]

Holy crap! Amazing! Do you pilot F18 in real life?

[@klupeeteable]

João Correia no they dont

[@mammoth505]

the jet nozzles are white on the inside. They should be black. That was the dead give-away. But you had me until then.

[@lucas93_TV]

Tous les Hornets font les mêmes mouvements que notre avion A.This is fun

[@eduardotorresspook7305]

Genial...Amazing.....congratulations

[@omarionjohnson9605]

Nice

[@Plydrms]

..just wondering, why DCS world and not FSX?

[@westernate]

The netcode is a lot better in DCS and the aircraft physics are more realistic.

[@Plydrms]

I would really enjoy a short video watching the stick and throttle movements, maybe in a separate window? Do you think that the control inputs and amount of movement are relatively similar to the real F-18 in the actual demo?....you guys are the shit!

[@dshelleyfl25]

if you could marry an activity............ You can actually get this right and feel good about it later lol

[@martinkolar7263]

Is This FSX?

[@VirtualBlueAngels]

+Martin Kolář It's DCS World with private modifications. Thanks for watching!

[@FlightSimulatorXATC]

This my friends is fucking awesome!

[@danduli4]

Is this F/A-18C Hornet combat capable ?

[@Van2808]

Not really. It can carry stores, release weapons, and use external fuel tanks, but it doesn't have the real Hornet's substantial avionics weapons functionality.

[@danduli4]

BeakerVBA Me and some mates are really intrested in flying this beauty, is there any way to get it :3 ? Awesome video hope to see more !

[@Van2808]

danduli4 Sorry, the only way to get this jet is to be a team member. We're under some restrictions that prohibit release. Thanks so much for your support!

[@Nosman1218]

more!!

[@cadenorris4009]

I freaked out because I thought this was FSX, but then I realized it was DCS.

[@ItsMeMikey998]

FSX doesn’t have smooth animations from the HUD. That’s the biggest difference. Also mirrors.

[@justinmyers8753]

are those freeware

[@zeitzeph]

No, they are not.

[@dshelleyfl25]

Fly Navy Great video.

[@AdamB9098]

I will trade you my wife and 1st born child for that f/a 18 mod :)

[@chappy48]

Bet these dudes have no issues with carrier landings or mid air refueling lol.

[@Captin_balliztic]

Meeting with number 4 from this vid in real life. Turns out he’s my brothers close friend and he’s gonna let me fly is setup

[@samivwow]

dope

[@erolsayan8600]

wtf at the start I thought it was real lmfao

[@michaelporter1870]

Check out 7:38

[@AYWTF]

i thought this was real

[@Plydrms]

are you guys kids, or responsible grown ups?...lol this requires a LOT of practice in front of the sim.

[@Fyreswing]

oh god moar pls

[@gabehorno]

Who is that guy who keeps singing or something? Pretty annoying.

[@Mevans501]

That would be the flight lead. Kind of important for this kind of formation flying.

[@gabehorno]

Michael Evans but does he have to go "aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaand level off" every ten seconds?

[@Mevans501]

Bitchhunter94 Its a cadence that he uses to ensure the other 5 pilots can fly the maneuvers the same way the flight lead does. It is also what the real USN Blue Angels do as far as I am aware.

[@BMAndersen]

FAKE!...Nice flying though :)

[@xraylimamike4420]

No shit it's a simulator,

[@bruceshenkel6991]

Watched to almost to the end ,and then realized I was really dumb to think this was real....Shame on y'all......

[@VirtualBlueAngels]

Sorry for the deception. But thank you for the complement. We aim to emulate the dedication and professionalism of the real Blue Angels through our videos, screenshots, and live shows.

[@TigerMotionPictures423]

The same people that thought this was real is also the ones that believe in NASA cgi pictures

[@Dubyaa98]

In all honesty, you guys having access to an aircraft that would make millions in sales is not only selfish but bizarre. It is a video game, and in this case games are supposed to allow players to choose the environments they play in. You limiting the distribution of this aircraft to only yourselves is very selfish. You guys are not "gods". You are players just like me and many others. Just because you guys do not want some or any competition does not mean you cannot release the file to the public. Why am I enraged? Well because I am a huge fan of aviation. I've been flying for many years now, especially on Dcs world. It is a sort of jealousy as well. But my ultimate point in this argument is, aviationists such as myself want to fly the planes we see at air shows. We want to fly the things we cannot in real life. So please consider my argument. Your organization has skill, it has the name. If you are this good, you should not be concerned with competition. Thankyou.

[@pdxholmes]

Seriously? It's their own mod, one of their members made it. They don't have access to the WIP DCS: F/A-18 module. Why should they HAVE to give you access to a private mod? DCS will have an official F/A-18 soon and then you can quit complaining. The idea that any group has a responsibility to give you access to their private work is ridiculous.

[@Dubyaa98]

Matthew Holmes point is, millions of people are STILL waiting for the f/a-18 module. The module has NOT been confirmed to being released. IT IS, however, still vulnerable to delays and or a complete discontinuation of the project. My point is that these private mods should be released to the public. Not that they HAVE TO BE. My opinion is my opinion on the matter. You thinking you have some sort of superiority does not reinforce any type of argument.

[@Van2808]

Hi, I'm not on the team anymore, but I did most of the work on the Hornet. I understand your frustration, and I actually wish we were able to release it. On the contrary, I think it would help generate interest rather than competition. However, there are copyright/licensing issues involved in releasing, and it's far from a complete or releasable state. The time, work, and coordination required to put a release together is not possible right now. I respect your request, but please respect our right to make that determination and try not to jump to conclusions... we're not as bad as you make us seem!

[@Dubyaa98]

BeakerVBA This makes sense. Thankyou for your kind answer towards my words of frustration. I apologize for any negative emotion I projected.

[@eeyore5863]

BeakerVBA, don't you think for the people who love to see you guys fly, wouldn't it be nice to have a public mod to have for your fans to fly with you guys when ever you guys have public flights or when ever for anyone to who enjoy being a virtual blue angel?

[@gxgala]

This looks fake

[@aoyisu1653]

Its a simulator and its called DCS World and no its not fake