New upgrades to the Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division (NAWCTSD) visual/aero assessment system have been delivered to the US Naval Air Systems Command by AVT Simulation, the company announced on 11 December.

The upgrade includes a modernised, integrated visual/aero testing suite that supports continued research for aerial refuelling training. AVT delivered four new high resolution projectors with flexible mounting structures and an auto-alignment system to an existing 200x60 degree display screen. A new four channel MetaVR image generator with a full North American terrain database and the air refuelling database models was also added. The models include the Navy F-18 Buddy Tanker, the USAF KC-135 tanker with its Boom Drouge Attachment (BDA), and various wingman aircraft.

AVT integrated these visual system components with the air refuelling simulation computers and software developed under a previously awarded contract. The combined visual/simulation system was then integrated with an existing Navy F-18 cockpit hands on throttle and stick (HOTAS) controls and cockpit. 

This upgraded capability will allow continued navy research of real image displays and air refuelling visual and aero modelling techniques and capabilities.

Walt Chambers, chief scientist, AVT Simulation, said: ‘Air refuelling is a high proficiency skill unique to military operations and pilots need to perform it safely every time. 

‘It is an expensive and hazardous task to train and practice with operational aircraft. Research on the best methods of applying technology improvements to simulator training of this task offers significant cost and lifesaving opportunities led to our work in this area.’