BAE Systems has successfully completed an upgrade to the UK Royal Air Force (RAF)’s synthetic simulator software.
The upgrade was carried out by the company’s Aircrew Training & Synthetic Services team at its facility in Warton, Lancashire, UK.
Work under the upgrade included the delivery of an urgent operational requirement to the Typhoon Simulators’ Emulated Deployable Cockpit Trainers (EDCT) at RAF Coningsby and RAF Lossiemouth.
UK Defence Procurement Minister Philip Dunne MP said: "Simulators provide vital training for our pilots ahead of their deployment on operations and making that training as relevant to our air crew as possible gives them an edge over their adversaries.
"That’s why these new software updates at RAF Coningsby and RAF Lossiemouth, which allow pilots to recreate environments in Iraq and Syria, are so important; they help our people undertake the best possible preparations for the fight against Daesh and keeping the UK safe."
Using the upgraded software, RAF pilots will be able to simulate sorties over current operational areas.
The software upgrade will help the pilots become familiar with the geographical area, conditions and layout before deployment.
BAE Systems Aircrew Training & Synthetic Service engineer Mark Williams said: "This update to the UK’s synthetic training devices forms an integral part of our ongoing commitment to support the UK training programme and RAF operational requirements.
"We are delighted with the positive response it has received, which demonstrates not only the strength of the relationship between BAE Systems and our customer, but the expertise of our people in adapting quickly to changing requirements and delivering urgent operational support."
The training upgrade was delivered to the RAF along with a de-brief facility.
Image: A pilot using a simulator. Photo: courtesy of BAE Systems.
