FSX Ryan ST-M (Floats) "Royal Air Force"

Immerse yourself in a vintage aviation experience by adding this float-capable Ryan ST-M repaint in Royal Air Force markings to your simulator. This particular update, prepared by B. Lechner for the Golden Age Simulations payware package, offers a classic look reminiscent of training aircraft used by several military services in the late 1930s. Designed for Microsoft Flight Simulator X enthusiasts looking to expand their historical hangar, this repaint retains the authentic lines of the ST-M while introducing a polished RAF scheme.

Background of the Ryan ST-M

The ST-M (Sport Trainer-Military) was developed by the Ryan Aeronautical Company, founded by T. Claude Ryan. Best known for earlier designs linked to famous aviators, Ryan continued refining light trainer concepts. The ST-M line saw service as a reliable platform for flight instruction, benefitting from its responsive controls and low operating weight. Select variants were eventually equipped with floats, making them exceptionally versatile for short takeoffs and landings on coastal or lakeside bases.

Classic RAF Style

This repaint reflects the Royal Air Force livery that some Ryan trainers were known to carry. Its distinctive markings and subtle panel lines aim to capture the spirit of mid-20th century trainers. Although not as common as landplane trainers, float-equipped aircraft were occasionally utilized for water operations, extending the ST-M’s operational flexibility.

Features of This Repaint

• Royal Air Force Textures: A detailed paint layer, treating the ST-M’s fuselage and float rigging to period-accurate colors.
• Subtle Weathering: Light scuffs and shading to showcase service usage, adding extra realism to the overall aesthetic.
• Fully Compatible with the Payware Model: Designed for the Golden Age Simulations Ryan ST-M (floats). Please note that the original payware package is not included and must be obtained from authorized outlets such as SimShack.

Installation Procedure

1. Extract the contents of the downloaded ZIP into a temporary directory.
2. Locate your “Microsoft Flight Simulator X\SimObjects\Airplanes\Ryan ST-M” folder, then place the texture._RAF folder inside it.
3. Open your aircraft.cfg file and insert the following entry after the previous livery lines, incrementing [FLTSIM.XX] with the correct numeral.

[FLTSIM.XX]
title = Ryan ST-M -- R O Y A L A I R F O R C E --
sim = Ryan ST-M
model =
panel =
sound =
texture = _RAF
kb_reference = ST_ref
kb_checklists = ST_Check
atc_id =
ui_manufacturer = Ryan
ui_type = ST-MS-2 Float
ui_variation = RAF
ui_createdby = Golden Age Simulations
description = ST-M

Notes on Usage

Applicability:

Works with the dedicated float-plane configuration included in the payware edition of the Ryan ST-M from Golden Age Simulations.

Exclusions:

This package contains textures only; it does not include the core payware model. You will need to purchase that separately from official stores (e.g., SimShack).

Credits and Thanks

Special thanks to Golden Age Simulations for developing the original aircraft model and to B. Lechner for creating this repaint. All rights remain with their respective owners and creators.