High G-force training contract awarded

Thales and AMST will work on a project to improve RAF pilot safety under a contract from the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced on 14 March.

The work will see the joint delivery of a new high G-force training service for fast-jet pilots that will improve pilot safety and offer a cost-effective training solution. 

Latest generation fighter aircraft are capable of performing advanced manoeuvres with rapid, multi-axes motions. This delivers significant advantage and superiority in the air, but exposes pilots to new combinations of high acceleration and rotational motion. Being able to manage the resulting level of G-force is critical to pilot safety. 

Thales will provide the design, build and operation of the training service at RAF Cranwell which is set to open in 2018. AMST will provide the design, technical and engineering capability for a human training centrifuge which allows pilots to build and maintain their ability to withstand high G in a safe environment. 

Peter Hitchcock, vice-president in charge of avionics activities, Thales, said: ‘The relationship between Thales and AMST is built on our complimentary capabilities and we are delighted that this has been recognised by the UK MoD in the award of this contract.’

Richard Schluesselberger, CEO, AMST, added: ‘Together, AMST and Thales will provide the RAF with the optimum and above all, safest and most effective High G training.’