L-3 Link Gets USAF Contracts for E-3, F-16 Simulator Support
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Helmet-Mounted Display
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L-3 Link Simulation and Training received 2 US Air Force contracts to provide training and simulation support for the E-3 AWACS and F-16 fighter aircraft.
Under the 1st contract (F42630-00-C-0024), worth $14.4 million, L-3 Link will support the E-3 contractor training and simulation services (CTSS) program.
Under the 2nd contract (F33657-01-D-2007), the company will provide a helmet-mounted display to simulate “out-the-window” imagery on currently fielded F-16 trainers. The contract value was not disclosed…
L-3 Link’s advanced helmet-mounted display (AHMD) replaces current flat panel displays for F-16 simulators. Once training begins, pilots are able to view out-the-window imagery and systems symbology across a 360° field-of-regard. The AHMD also supports night vision goggle training and incorporates F-16 avionics symbology for the aircraft’s heads-up display.
L-3 Link will integrate AHMDs on F-16 trainers at USAF and Air National Guard installations beginning in March 2010 and will conclude deliveries in December 2010.
For the E-3 CTSS program, L-3 Link is providing E-3 flight crew training services under a contract initially awarded in 1999. Annual contract options could extend L-3 Link’s support of E-3 flight crew training through 2014.
E-3 flight crews are trained at an L-3 Link facility in Oklahoma City, OK that is adjacent to Tinker Air Force Base. Pilots, navigators and flight engineers initially undergo classroom instruction and computer-based training. Depending on their mission role, flight crew members next advance to train on either a navigator part task trainer, flight training device or 2 operational flight trainers. L-3 Link provides student instruction; develops courseware and training materials; performs logistics and maintenance services; and ensures that training materials and equipment remain concurrent with changes to the E-3 AWACS aircraft.
The program’s E-3 AWACS operational flight trainers enable aircrews to practice takeoffs, landings, instrument procedures, aerial refueling and emergency procedures. The operational flight trainers move on a 6-degree-of-freedom motion system that replicates the aircraft’s flight attitudes. Out-the-window computer generated imagery is projected across a 225º horizontal by 50º vertical visual system display.
