Also for the first time in years I decided to check out the Quick Mission button in the sim.

WAU. Very intelligent, usable options. The way it makes an actual mission setup and not just throws a bunch of aircraft into the same 100x100 mile stretch of sky was very impressive (and even make you mission commander), and I cant wait to use it more.

Yea UI is much improved generally in DCS and works well. I haven't any complaints. Also mission editor is much better and faster when placing units etc.