Hey tc, long time no hear.
I hope you kept the v1.1.1.1 for a bit. XRay planted an idea for next week top run through the older missions in a sequence while he is enjoying his vacation. Looking forward to it myself - but I do have to work my day job.
Also looking forward to the new v1.2.xxx stuff - like you say - fixed ships in missions, hopefully the ability to go from one mission to another w/o downing the server. Some changes in the current 1.2.xxx don't agree with my mission units so I'm waiting for the next update.
Glad you like the Track IR - money well spent, and it really brings out the visuals in the flying. Don't leave home base w/o it.
Just waiting for Eno to give a "Server's Up" message to go and try my new 'Back To School' mission. It has a twist that I hope everyone will enjoy

WC