Creating a new weapon is a fairly painless process consisting of two basic steps. First, you need to create the actual weapon data. Next, you need to create a picture of the weapon for the FIGHTERS Anthology ToolKit's Arming screen (this is referred to as an Object Icon). While this example illustrates the procedure for the FIGHTERS Anthology ToolKit, it is nearly identical for the other ToolKits.
Step 1 - Creating Weapon Data
Edit the AIM-9M Sidewinder stock ordnance record. Change the Internal Name to AIM-9P. This is the name FIGHTERS Anthology ToolKit will use when the ordnance is displayed. Change the Object Name to AIM9P. This is the internal FIGHTERS Anthology ToolKit name for the weapon, and the name you enter must not duplicate any other existing weapon. Change any other details desired. Now click the Save button to save the custom weapon.
Step 2 - Creating the Weapon Icon
Edit the Object Icon graphic for the AIM-9M Sidewinder. Note that there will always be a "$" prefix. The Object Icon graphic name consists of a dollar sign prefix followed by the Object Name (the one you entered while editing the weapon itself). Now, in the View Image window (where the icon is now displayed), click on the blue disk button to "Save As". Call the BMP file you'll be saving anything you like, but it's not a bad idea to leave the default. Exit the Object Icon window as we're through here for now. Note: you can make changes to the image itself using your favorite paint program (JASC's Paint Shop Pro shareware is highly recommended). Just make SURE you do not change the palette in any way, or you'll end up with an ugly purple border around your otherwise perfect custom weapon icon. Click on the Graphics menu and select Import. From the Open File dialog, select the BMP file you previously Saved. Ok, now click on "Object Icon" in the list beneath the Select Art Type caption. Make sure Store Palette is set to No (not used for icons). Now, enter a destination name. This MUST be the prefix "$" followed by the Object Name that you used for your custom weapon (in our case $AIM9P). Since the source BMP already contained a $ in its name, you'll need to remove the duplicate $ the ToolKit provides (oops!). While not required, a description will help you identify the custom icon since it will appear in the ToolKit selection views. Once you've finished entering the required parameters, simply click on the Convert button (the red tool box). Next click Save to save the custom icon.
Now all you need to do is build and install a new custom library and you'll be able to enjoy a new weapon that you created.