GRAHAM WARWICK /WASHINGTON DC
Bids have been submitted for the Canadian Forces' Boeing CF-18 advanced distributed combat training system (ADCTS) procurement, with a Bombardier/L-3 Communications team competing against Boeing teamed with CAE.
A decision is expected by early next year, says Andy Morris, executive vice-president of marketing and strategy for CAE's military division. The requirement is for six networked high-fidelity cockpit simulators, 10 part-task trainers and 15 years service, including instructors.
CAE supplied the Canadian Forces' existing CF-18 simulators, while L-3, which owns Link Simulation & Training, has agreed to acquire Bombardier's Military Aircraft Services business, which supports the CF-18. L-3 is also bidding to buy Bombardier's Military Aircraft Training business.
Meanwhile, in the USA the Flight School XXI programme is due to be decided in September. The winner will build and operate simulators for a range of US Army helicopters, providing a 12-year training service.
In Europe, two competitions are under way to supply simulators for the NH Industries NH90 tactical transport and naval frigate helicopters. While NHI is conducting a competition to supply training devices for all NH90 customer nations, the German army plans a private finance initiative training centre for the helicopter.
Source: Flight International
