BAE Systems is planning to provide virtual reality sessions to train next-generation pilots at its new state-of-the-art military training facility in Lancashire.
The global defence and aerospace company’s Training and Simulation Integration Facility (TSIF) in Warton is in the process of creating an augmented reality environment that aims to offer a fully-immersive, 3D experience for engineers and pilots to hone their training and aircraft maintenance skills.
Developed in collaboration with Williams Advanced Engineering – which works on Formula One-derived technology – the £2.3 million training facility is expected to feature a twin-seat cockpit VR simulator that can be “reconfigured to resemble a range of training and fast jet cockpit environments”.
BAE says its human-machine interfaces will also include wall-to-wall interactive displays – allowing trainees to “virtually” tour the aircraft and make use of “synthetic” training aids designed to enhance the learning experience.
The firm adds that VR training for its military aircraft – such as the Hawk and Typhoon – could potentially reduce “reliance on expensive physical tools and increase the rate of learning”.
“This new facility represents a fresh blueprint for the future training of pilots and engineers,” Steve Timms, of BAE Systems, said.
“Such an innovative application of virtual reality and simulation technologies offers a wealth of advanced, more affordable techniques for the training of teams on the maintenance and design of advanced fast jets – and this is just the beginning of possible applications for that technology in the sector.”