Aermacchi’s M311 basic and M346 advanced/lead-in fighter trainers will be eqipped with a new-generation embedded training simulation (ETS) system in a bid to further reduce pilot training costs, writes Luca Peruzzi in Paris.

Presented as an engineering demonstrator at the Paris air show, the new ETS system is designed to provide a realistic in-flight simulation of operational scenarios, including sensors, defensive aids and weapons. The system will offer tactical symbology on cockpit displays using throttle and stick commands, says Pierclaudio Iaia, chief project engineer for the M346 programme.

Aimed at refining technical requirements for the ETS system to be integrated with the M346’s core mission avionics by Selex Sensors & Airborne Systems subsidiary Galileo Avionica, the demonstrator included an embedded virtual avionics card system supplied by Israel’s BVR Systems. This provides a set of simulated avionics including sensors, weapons and electronic warfare equipment, a synthetic environment and an advanced datalink.

The definitive version of Aermacchi’s ETS is to begin development flight testing next year, with system qualification expected during 2007, says Iaia.

Building on the experience gained with an ETS already in service on the Italian air force’s MB339CD trainer, the new system will also feature the capability for real-time interaction between co-operating air and ground forces using a datalink.

Student pilots will gradually interact with frontline aircraft and operational scenarios during the training syllabus, reducing the time spent with an operational conversion unit.

By introducing the system on the developmental M346, Aermacchi aims to halve this time, saving millions of euros for Eurofighter Typhoon-equipped air forces, says Iaia.

Source: Flight International

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