# AN/ASQ-228 ATFLIR – Targeting Pod Basics The **AN/ASQ-228 ATFLIR** is the Hornet’s primary targeting pod in DCS World. It provides infrared and electro-optical imaging, laser designation, laser spot tracking, and precision coordinate generation. Mounted on the **left cheek station**, the pod is essential for precision-strike missions and is especially useful in night ops, low visibility, and beyond visual range (BVR) targeting. --- ## 🔍 What the ATFLIR Can Do
CapabilityDescription
**FLIR + TV Imaging**IR (thermal) and EO (TV) modes
**Zoom**2 zoom levels + 3 fields of view (WIDE, MEDIUM, NARROW)
**Laser Designation**LTD/R for guiding laser-guided munitions
**Laser Spot Tracking (LST)**Track another unit’s laser spot for buddy lasing
**Coordinate Generation**For JDAMs and JSOWs
**Tracking Modes**Area track, point/auto track, INR (Inertial Hold)
--- ## 🔭 Zoom Levels and Field of View ATFLIR has **two zoom levels** and **three fields of view** (FOV), but zoom behavior depends on the FOV setting:
FOVDescriptionZoom Level Support
**WIDE**Broad view, large area scanningOnly Zoom Level 1
**MEDIUM**Moderate zoom for ID and trackingZoom Levels 1 and 2
**NARROW**High magnification, precise trackingZoom Levels 1 and 2
- You switch FOV using the RAID/FLIR button. - Zoom level is toggled using **radar elevation** while the FLIR page is SOI. --- ## 🖥️ Sensor Imaging Modes
ModeUse Case
**IR (FLIR)**Best for night ops or thermal contrast
**TV (EO)**Best in daylight or clear weather
**BH/WH**Toggle black-hot/white-hot in IR mode for contrast preference
Use the **IR/TV** OSB to switch modes. IR is the default when the pod powers on. --- ## 🎯 Compatible Ordnance ATFLIR is required or strongly recommended for these weapons:
WeaponTypeNotes
**GBU-12/16/10**Laser-guided bombsRequires laser designation (LTD/R)
**AGM-65E**Laser MaverickRequires buddy or self-lasing
**AGM-65F**IR MaverickUse FLIR to identify and lock before handoff
**AGM-154A/B/C (JSOW)**GPS glide bombUse pod to generate precision coordinates
**JDAM (GBU-38/32/31)**GPS bombSame as above — designate or manually enter coordinates
> While JDAMs/JSOWs do **not require** the pod to guide during flight, the pod is essential for finding, designating, and accurately feeding targets to these weapons. --- ## 🎛️ Pod Controls Summary
FunctionHow to Use
**TDC Slew**Move the pod crosshairs
**TDC Press**Designate, change zoom level
**SCS Toward FLIR DDI**Give pod TDC priority
**LTD/R Boxed**Arms the laser designator
**TRIG Boxed**Enables manual lasing (requires trigger press)
**LST**Enables search for buddy laser
**UFC → LSTC / LTD/R Code**Set or change laser codes
--- ## ⚠️ Limitations and Tips - Laser has effective range of **~8–10 nm** but accuracy drops beyond 6 nm. - Clouds, dust, smoke, and terrain can block the laser or FLIR image. - Maintain good aircraft trim when slewing the pod — sudden rolls or Gs can break lock. - Use **Area Track** for static targets and **Auto Track** for movers or exact aimpoints. --- ## 🧾 Final Notes The ATFLIR is a vital part of the Hornet’s CAS and strike toolbox. It’s not just for lasing — it’s your **long-range eyes**, your **night vision**, and your **precision coordinator** for standoff weapons like JSOWs and JDAMs. Mastering pod control will drastically improve your lethality and flexibility in multi-role operations.