FSX USAF F-86 Sabre FU-236

Experience a historic jet fighter within Microsoft Flight Simulator X through this complete freeware rendition of the iconic United States Air Force North American F-86 Sabre, specifically representing tail number FU-236 (Bureau Number 49-1236). Originally assigned to the 4th Fighter Interceptor Group’s 334th Fighter Interceptor Squadron, this Sabre was downed by a MiG on October 24, 1951 over Korean airspace. The airframe known by these insignia is now exhibited at Wright-Patterson AFB, although the airframe on display carries the Bureau Number 49-0167. Created with high detail by Kirk Olsson, this package includes customized textures by Mark Rooks (RDG Aircraft) and a 2D/3D cockpit panel designed by Bob Chicilo. View historical notes and reference pictures of the actual aircraft to gain insight into this Cold War-era fighter’s storied past.

Technical Highlights and Characteristics

• Accurate Visualization: Kirk Olsson’s focused approach replicates the external lines of the F-86, capturing the subtle shape of its swept wing along with the distinct tail markings.
• Enhanced Virtual Cockpit: Bob Chicilo’s panel provides a blend of 2D and 3D instrumentation. Each gauge strives to match period-style readouts, enhancing flight immersion.
• Authentic Animations: Fuselage features include a functional tail hook (mapped to jettison wing tanks), plus wing folding that transitions the jet into a realistic parking stance on the apron.

Historical Context

The North American F-86 was a groundbreaking jet that ushered the USAF into the transonic age. In the Korean War, it engaged the Soviet-designed MiG-15 in famed dogfights over “MiG Alley.” Tail # FU-236, belonging to the 4th FIG, exemplifies these high-speed engagements. Although it was shot down, its legacy endures through this particular restoration, now displayed with the FU-236 paint scheme at Wright-Patterson. The historical information within this package honors not only the aircraft itself, but also the pilots who flew it.

Installation Procedure

1. First, extract all downloaded contents to a location of your choosing, such as your desktop.
2. Locate the folder named F-86 Sabre FU-236 and place it into the primary “Aircraft” directory within the simulator. Typically, for Microsoft Flight Simulator X, this resides at:

   C:\Program Files\Microsoft Games\FSX\SimObjects\Airplanes\

3. Make sure the aircraft folder contains six essential components: the Aircraft.cfg, .air file, sound, model, panel, and texture folders.
4. Open the provided gauges folder and move its contents into your FSX “Gauges” directory, typically found at:

   C:\Program Files\Microsoft Games\FSX\Gauges\

   Consult Bob Chicilo’s enclosed documentation for additional guidance on gauge usage and configuration.

Upon successful installation, confirm that the aircraft folder resides in the correct directory with all files unzipped. Always back up any original files before adding or replacing anything in your simulator.

Additional Notes

Support a Mercy Flight Organization

Consider assisting a local mercy flight group. The developer is a volunteer pilot dedicated to these missions, so any involvement helps keep them operating.

License Conditions

This entire add-on is freeware. Users are prohibited from profiting from these files in any form. Mark Rooks (RDG Aircraft) includes historical documentation to preserve these stories of aviation heritage.

Package Disclaimer

The developer and contributors cannot be held responsible for any damages or issues arising from the use of these files. Installation and usage are at the user’s own risk.

Enjoy exploring the skies in this classic Sabre, and keep the memory of its Korean War heritage alive.

Mark Rooks (“Fire Ball”)