Aussies develop Hawk simulator
Date: 15 September 2005
BAE Systems Australia has developed a simulator to support the South African Air Force (SAAF) Hawk Mk120 lead-in fighter training aircraft currently in production.
Known as the operational flight trainer (OFT), the new simulator draws on the company's experience in developing the tactical weapon system training systems (TWSTSs) for the Royal Australian Air Force.
The OFT is a replicated cockpit with an ejection seat and a control loading system that gives realistic feedback to the pilots. A large visual display system with four projectors produces blended terrain, sky and target information, and pilot training in the OFT can be controlled in a repeatable fashion, monitored and recorded.
Instructors have the ability to introduce aircraft malfunctions and emergencies to assess pilot responses and also generate training scenarios, which may involve air-to-air combat or ground attack missions. A live facility provides comprehensive debriefing for students to maximise the benefits of training evolutions conducted on OFT.The first OFT is now being set up on a SAAF base, while a second destined for the Indian Air Force is currently being designed and developed. Meanwhile, the company intends to continue development and offer ground-based training systems to other Hawk users worldwide.
Jane's DSEi 2005 News Briefs
