Thrustmaster has launched the HOTAS Warthog Mk II, an updated version of its long running military flight simulation controller for PC.
The new model keeps the same general design as the original Warthog while focusing on internal improvements. It is available from September 16, 2026, with a suggested price of $599.99 in the United States, £449.99 in the United Kingdom, and €549.99 in Europe.
Like its predecessor, the HOTAS Warthog Mk II carries official U.S. Air Force licensing and is designed to closely recreate controls found in military aircraft. The package combines a full size Viper style flight stick grip with an A 10C inspired dual throttle unit.
Thrustmaster has not radically changed the exterior design. Instead, the company has concentrated on improving the sensor system and overall durability.
Hall Effect system gets an internal redesign
The biggest technical change is a revised version of Thrustmaster's H.E.A.R.T. Hall Effect sensor technology.
Hall Effect sensors detect movement magnetically rather than relying on conventional contact based mechanisms. Thrustmaster says the redesigned system is intended to provide smoother movement and improved long term durability.
That should be especially relevant for players who use flight controls heavily in military simulators, where precise movement and repeated inputs are important.
| Feature | HOTAS Warthog Mk II |
|---|---|
| Price | $599.99 |
| Platform | PC |
| Licensing | Official U.S. Air Force |
| Stick design | 1:1 scale Viper grip |
| Throttle design | A 10C inspired dual throttle |
| Sensor technology | Revised H.E.A.R.T. Hall Effect |
| Construction | Primarily metal |
| Total weight | 6.56 kg |
| Stick buttons | 19 |
| Hat switch | 8 way |
| Maximum controls | Up to 128 inputs |
The flight stick grip remains a 1:1 scale recreation of the Viper control layout, while the throttle section includes separate controls for two simulated engines.
A locking mechanism also allows the two throttle levers to move together when needed.
Existing Thrustmaster grips remain compatible
One of the more practical updates is continued compatibility with Thrustmaster's existing grip ecosystem.
The Mk II supports the company's other compatible flight stick grips, which means players already invested in Thrustmaster hardware should not need to replace everything when upgrading the base.
That compatibility is important because high end flight simulation setups are often built gradually, with separate pedals, grips, throttle units, and control panels added over time.
The Warthog Mk II is designed to fit into that existing setup rather than forcing a completely new system.
Heavy metal construction remains part of the appeal
The controller weighs 6.56 kg before packaging, reflecting its extensive use of metal components.
That makes it significantly heavier than many entry level flight sticks, but the weight is deliberate. A heavy base can help keep the controls stable during aggressive inputs, especially in combat flight simulators.
The stick itself includes 19 buttons and an 8 way hat switch.
When combined with the throttle and control panel, the setup can support up to 128 programmable inputs. That gives players enough controls for complex military aircraft without constantly reaching for a keyboard.
The Warthog Mk II is therefore aimed at a very different audience from simpler flight sticks designed for occasional Microsoft Flight Simulator use.
Its layout is better suited to titles involving combat aircraft, detailed systems management, and large numbers of mapped commands.
The Mk II focuses on refinement rather than reinvention
Thrustmaster has kept the basic Warthog formula largely unchanged because the original became a well known option among serious flight simulation players.
The Mk II instead improves the areas most likely to matter over long term use, including sensor smoothness, durability, and compatibility with existing hardware.
At $599.99, it remains a premium accessory and is unlikely to appeal to casual players who only want basic flight controls.
For dedicated simulator fans, however, the combination of metal construction, military inspired controls, Hall Effect sensing, and a large number of programmable inputs gives the Warthog Mk II a clear purpose.
The new model is available now for PC through Thrustmaster and selected retailers.
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