You will not use the DCS mission editor for this. You need a dedicated pipeline:
Compatibility & Performance
Unlike mods for aircraft skins or cockpit textures, map mods in DCS are notoriously complex. They require not only 3D modeling and texturing expertise but also an intimate understanding of the engine’s terrain shaders, elevation data, and object placement logic. Most map mods are installed via the OvGME mod manager or manually dropped into the Saved Games/DCS.openbeta/Mods/terrains folder. However, compatibility remains a hurdle: each major DCS update risks breaking map mods due to changes in core terrain APIs or shader behavior. Furthermore, map mods are strictly restricted to the Open Beta branch for multiplayer use, as the stable branch rarely supports unofficial terrain without errors. dcs world map mods
A classic choice focusing on the Strait of Hormuz . You will not use the DCS mission editor for this
These mods do not add new territory but drastically improve the visual fidelity of existing maps: CGTC (Caucasus Ground Texture Cosmos) Most map mods are installed via the OvGME
The Orbx Kola Map frequently receives community-driven lighting and seasonal texture adjustments.
These add life to the world by populating ports and roads with realistic vehicles and ships. 🛰️ Navigating Your Map