QinetiQ Links Air Force Training Simulators in Three Countries

QinetiQ and Boeing say they have successfully linked the US Distributed Mission Operations Network aircrew training system and another nation’s simulation facilities for the first time.

The leaders of Team ACTIVE (Aircrew Collective Training Through Immersive Virtual Events), established to deliver the 30-month Mission Training through Distributed Simulation Capability Concept Demonstrator (MTDS CCD) programme, say they connected flight simulators distributed throughout the US, UK and Europe, delivering realistic operational training to diverse military aircrews.

Tornado, Typhoon, E3 Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) and Forward Air Control simulators in the UK were linked to A-10 aircraft simulators in Germany; F-16 and F-15 aircraft simulators, and AWACS simulators at in the US.

The participants were able to plan, brief, execute and debrief the mission, and review their learning experience, within the same virtual environment.

The UK Ministry of Defence initiated the MTDS CCD programme to lower risks and capture requirements for any future MTDS capability.

Team ACTIVE, established to deliver the MTDS CCD programme, is led by QinetiQ and includes Boeing, cueSim, Rockwell Collins, Aviation Training International Ltd. and HVR Consulting.

By Elizabeth Clifford-Marsh